Fiji, June 2019.

After selling our business in September 2016, it was finally time for the holiday we had promised our sons and their girlfriends. The chosen destination .. Fiji.

The first three days were at the Westin Hotel on Denerau, near Nadi. Son Andrew and girlfriend Olivia were unable to join us for those days, due to exam commitments. Therefore it was left to Sue, Blair, Scott and Eva to enjoy the pleasures of Denerau.

The Westin is a nicely set out hotel, hugging the Denerau shoreline. It is not really a swim beach, but there are a number of swimming pools to cool down.

Dining at the hotel was quite expensive, so the first night we found a restaurant at Port Denerau. This is quite a large development with a number of shops and restaurants. We did dine at the hotel the next night, as there was a local performance to watch.

The next day, Scott and Eva did a day boat trip, and Blair and Sue tackled the Denerau Golf Course. With hire clubs strapped on to their golf cart, and plenty of golf balls, they were away. However, at the halfway stage, a replenishment of golf balls was required. Their is a stream meandering it’s way around the course, often directly in front of the ladies tee block. Say no more. Aside from the watery challenges, the course was in good condition, and sparsely populated. A cold drink in the 19th didn’t touch the sides!

After 3 enjoyable and relaxing days on Denerau, it was time to catch the boat to Paradise Cove. The resort is in the Yasawa Island Group, and we will be joined by Andrew and Olivia. They have now both completed their studies at Otago University.

We now have 5 days of rest and relaxation at this very impressive resort. The staff and facilities are excellent, and the food sensational. The meals are pre paid, with breakfast and lunch menus, and 5 course dinners. Dinner is accompanied by live music and continuous Kava!

The surrounding waters are very clear and warm, so snorkeling is a popular option. Each day there are a number of organised activities, including snorkeling in a channel area popular with Manta Rays.

Sadly, the 5 days race by, and it’s time to head home. Paradise Cove Resort has been wonderful, and we would have no hesitation in returning.Our final treat was a helicopter ride from the resort back to Nadi Airport. At 20 minutes and with incredible views, this was way better than the boat!