"A Most Excellent Romantic Hideaway"

Images Supplied by Navigate Oceania, Auckland, NZ.

So says Conde Nast Johansens (2008) – and who could argue that Fiji’s Royal Davui Island is anything less than stunning? This exotic private island retreat is all about beauty, tranquillity and exclusivity and while I may never stay there, it’s certainly pleasing to entertain the fantasy. For those who want to know the geography, Royal Davui Island rises out of the crystalline blue waters of Fiji’s Beqa Lagoon, 40 minutes by helicopter (of course) from Denarau; and its 16 exclusive villas have views over perfect white sand beaches and the sapphire blue ocean – and let’s not forget the Jacuzzi spa with a roof that slides open at the push of a button. Factor in gourmet dining and exotic spa treatments to complete the deliciously hedonistic picture. www.royaldavui.com www.navigateoceania.com

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

Going Bush

Treetops Lodge & Wilderness Estate, Rotorua. Photos supplied by Navigate Oceania Collection.

The last time I stayed at Treetops Lodge near Rotorua it was mid-winter 2005 and I had the entire lodge to myself. I was half way through writing the 4th edition of Frommers New Zealand and when I drove down the long, bush-lined driveway, it felt like I was driving into the depths of a Lord of the Rings set. That’s the beauty of Treetops – it feels like it’s a million miles from anywhere, yet it’s just 30 minutes from central Rotorua. Mind you, once you’re tucked up in one of the luxurious bush-clad suites, there’s almost NO inclination to go anywhere. I know I was hoping everyone would forget I was there! It’s one of my favourite New Zealand lodges. www.treetops.co.nz www.navigateoceania.com