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IT TOOK TWO PLANES, A CAR AND A BOAT TO GET GARY ALLEN TO THIS LUXURIOUS FIJIAN RESORT, AND THE PARADISE HE FOUND THERE WAS WELL WORTH IT.
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In its idyllic setting off the island of Taveuni, Qamea Resort and Spa is indeed a fantasy island. Flying from Nadi to Taveuni Airport takes one hour and fifteen minutes in a small commuter plane. The flight passes over lots of islands to land at the one-hut-airport on Taveuni. Villagers smile and wave as you pass by during the 25-minute drive from the airport. Then it’s a quick 10-minute boat ride to your resort paradise. The resort layout is like that of a traditional Fijian village in a natural jungle setting. The songs of tropical birds are carried on gentle South Pacific breezes and help explain why this particular resort is a popular honeymoon destination. The bures are surrounded by native plants for privacy and are all footsteps away from the warm, clear waters. What next?
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The interior of a honeymoon bure at Qamea Resort and Spa.
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The discovery scuba dive for non-certified divers was fantastic as the instructor was very precise and assured us of a safe and enjoyable dive. Both knowledgeable and experienced, he took us just off the resort for a 30-minute dive after a brief lecture and pool instruction. The colours of the fish and corals are electrifying and he pointed out various sea animals that came into view. If you’re a certified diver this is a bucket list resort as the surrounding dive spots are world famous. For non-divers, the snorkeling can be just as rewarding. A resort boat will take you on a short ride to a place called cabbage patch where beautiful green coral leaves are in a natural garden with a plethora of colors and fish.
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Guests heading to the spa for treatments.
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The resort spa is designed to make you feel like you’re in the middle of a rainforest. As you lie on the table getting massaged with natural coconut oils, there are no human sounds to be heard, just the native birds talking and the soothing sounds of the lapping waves. The resort also arranges an excursion to the Bouma Waterfalls. A resort boat takes you to this pristine heritage site where you begin a short, moderate walk to the first of several waterfalls. At a natural lagoon with a 15-metre waterfall you can take a swim and a five-metre jump if you’re inclined.
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A romantic dinner on the beach with offers spectacular dusk views.
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Rates
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The boutique Qamea Resort and Spa starts from $630 per bure per night (based on a six night stay) including breakfast, lunch and dinner daily plus your choice of a free add on romance, diving, spa or adventure package. This rate is valid through to 31 March 2012. Visit www.qamea.com.
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Relax in private in the garden jacuzzi of a honeymoon bure.
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Getting there
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Air Pacific, Fiji’s national airline has been connecting the world with the South Pacific for 60 years. Air Pacific flys daily from Sydney to Nadi, from A$468 return per person excluding taxes, and Brisbane, from A$448 return per person excluding taxe, and three services per week from Melbourne, from A$608 return per person excluding taxes. For more information or to book your flight call 1800 230 150 or visit www.airpacific.com.
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A deep blue sky as the sun sets over the waters off Taveuni.
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