Fiji trip report

Just returned from 10 days in Fiji and thought I should post an overview. Travelled with my boyf - us, early 30's Australians, backpackers at heart but looking for a mixture on this trip as it was only a short holiday from work.

Spent the first and last 2 nights at Radisson Denerau due to obtaining a bargain rate through my job. The hotel was quite nice and the rooms were fairly large etc. No atmosphere in the resort to speak of and I definitely wouldn't stay in this region for a Fijian holiday. Worked for us with flight times though and we had a tasty Indian dinner at Indigo at the Port on our last night.

Caught the Octopus boat direct to Waya on day 2. Stayed for 3 nights in a beachfront bure and absolutely loved it. The island had a relaxed vibe and wasn't resorty in the proper sense of the word, but it was a bit more holiday-esque than the other cheaper islands. The bure was relatively basic - but perfect, and the open roofed shower was fun. Food was absolutely delicious and the communal tables made for easy chatting between guests. I liked the range of guests - couples, backpackers, families, singles - pretty much everyone you can think of! We dived here too, didn't see much more than you do snorkelling, but it was still enjoyable.
We wanted to stay longer but they were booked out so we head to Wayalailai. The Octopus boat dropped us off. We were initially disappointed with this island but really only because it was such a change from Octopus. The bures were a lot more rustic (electricity only for a few hours at night, no hot water and they were quite dark so it was hard to see even in the daylight). However the beach was lovely and once we adjusted to the fact that it wasn't Octopus we really enjoyed it. The accomm is owned by the local village and the villagers put on a great dance/singing spectacular one of the nights we were there. I was a bit disappointed that all the travellers staying there (during our time at least) were all about 18 and gap year-ers who really didn't seem the mingling type.

Once we were back on the mainland, we did a pretty enjoyable day trip through Southsea Cruises where we caught the Yasawa Flyer to Mana Is. and then spent about 5 hours on a ship called the Seaspray which included snorkel time at the island Castaway was filmed on.

Hope this helps!

Thanks ! Im off to Oarsmans in a couple of months plus staying 3 nights at Sofitel at Denearau, so Ill also have the contrast that you described.

Thanks for your report, especially on Octopus Resort. It brought back great memories from being there in 2006. Everything you said is just why we loved it too. Glad to hear that the food is still great as the chef they had at the time was leaving and we wondered if they would be able to maintain their high standards. We also did a day trip to Mana Island (no Seaspray) and had a great time. Mandja - looking forward to hearing about your trip.

Thanks for the trip report allob - I would have to second those comments having a similar experience recently myself. Having kava withdrawals now after all the welcome ceremonies I attended!