Tropical Paradise

Navutu Stars Resort, Yasawa Islands, Fiji. Images supplied by Navigate Oceania.

Have you ever dreamed about owning your own tropical paradise – or even just visiting one for that matter? London-based Italians, Maddalena Giovanna Morandi and Manfredi De Lucia did and now they own the very beautiful Navutu Stars Resort in Fiji’s Yasawa Islands. This ultimate, eco-luxury tropical island sanctuary with three pristine white beaches, energy-autonomous living with solar power, organic gardens and fresh spring water from natural bores, is now a member of Auckland-based Navigate Oceania – a gorgeous collection of 27 member properties throughout New Zealand and Fiji. I don’t know about you but with winter only a sneeze away, I rather fancy the idea of hiding away in one of Navutu’s nine gorgeous bure (grass huts). I can think of no better way to while away the wintry hours than reading in a hammock under a coconut palm, snorkelling in crystal-clear turquoise waters, sipping cocktails beside the pool, being massaged with sweet-smelling tropical oils and generally tucking into anything that comes out of the Navutu restaurant – especially when it looks like the dish pictured above. It’s an indulgent idea. Sadly I can’t do it this winter as I’m writing a travel guide and motoring all over New Zealand. But is there really anything stopping you? If you’re still undecided, keep in mind that Conde Nast Traveler voted it among the Sexiest Resorts in the World. www.fijinavutustarsresort.com www.navigateoceania.com