Category: What to do in Fiji

Top tips for taking great underwater photos

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

When you're not enjoying facilities at our 5 star Fiji resort, there's a good chance you'll be living it up at the beach. The glistening azure waters of Savusavu Bay and beyond offer incredible opportunities for you and your family to explore the vibrant marine life either snorkelling or scuba diving. 

If you want to show everyone back home some of the unique beauty of Fiji's oceans – as well as capture the kids in action with their snorkels – there's no better way than to dabble in some underwater photography. 

Here are a few of our top tips to help you take some great underwater pictures. 

What you'll need 

At the least, you'll need a waterproof case for your smartphone that will be able to protect it while you're taking snaps under the sea. You can choose between either a fitted case or a dry bag. The former is a hard shell that fits snugly over your phone such as the iThrough Underwater Case or the Optrix Pro. 

The alternate is a dry bag, a clear pouch that seals shut, allowing you to still access your phone. Just be sure to check the depth limitations before you take your device snorkelling, as some cases are only water resistant up to a depth of one metre. 

If you're interested in taking things to the next level, you can bring a waterproof camera, or an underwater housing for your existing camera. 

Before you dive in 

Make sure your device is fully charged, and that you have plenty of free storage available – there's nothing worse than spotting a beautiful fish, or some colourful coral and realising that you can't take the shot! 

Those thinking of bringing DSLRs should be comfortable navigating the various settings, as exposure and metering may work differently underwater.  

If you're interested in going scuba diving with your partner or your older children, but you don't have your licence yet, the Cousteau Dive Centre is here to help! We offer a wide range of scuba courses, for beginners to those seeking more advanced qualifications. 

When you're in the water 

For the best results, make sure you're close to your subject, whether it's your kids or a lazy crab scuttling along the rocks. You're going to need to use your camera's flash to get the most out of your shots, as the water can reduce your subjects' contrast and colour. 

Get down on a level with the marine life, or even better, get beneath them and shoot your photos upwards on an angle. Try to avoid taking photos looking downward on the back of marine life – this means you will miss out on the fish's (or your family's!) eyes. 

To freeze the movement of fast-moving fish underwater, you'll need a shutter speed of about 1/125 seconds, although you can use slower speeds for still subjects if necessary. 

As the ocean can be a difficult environment for cameras to gain accurate focus, it's a good idea to use the centre-weighted or spot-focusing modes on your DSLR if possible. If you use flash, make sure you leave your white balance settings on Auto for the best results.  

Dreaming of swimming in the Fijian sea? 

If you're ready to try out some of our tips for yourself on an all-inclusive family holiday to Fiji, the team at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort can't wait to help you book your stay. To find out more about our packages for family holidays, get in touch with us today. 

3 spa treatments to try on your Fijian holiday

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

There's nowhere quite like Fiji for taking a step back, slowing down and relaxing. Maybe it's something about the azure waters stretching as far as the eye can see, the swaying of palm trees or the golden sand between your toes. 

At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we know how important is it to be able to unwind and breathe easy on your Fiji getaway, whether you're here on a romantic couples holiday or you've got the whole family in tow. That's why we offer our world-class spa facilities just a stone's throw away from the beach in our bures, with a range of blissful treatments to help you loosen those knots and rejuvenate your skin.

About our spa treatments 

While you're here in Fiji, you can experience the unique blend of 'liga mana', meaning 'gifted hands', and 'vuda', meaning 'Mother Earth'. Our massage technique is inspired by traditional Fijian practices, while the natural oils and products we use are derived from the bountiful local ingredients.

For winding back the years 

Our Koko Rapture treatment uses an organic cacao base that has been fermented and sun-dried to activate its powerful skincare properties. It's applied using a banana leaf wrap, allowing your skin to benefit from this anti-oxidising and anti-aging treatment while you enjoy a reflexology massage for your hands and feet. Finally, a gentle, rhythmic massage helps to improve lymphatic circulation. 

For the ultimate facial 

The Vakacegu treatment, which translates to 'peace be with you', is a facial treatment unlike any other. It combines deep cleansing and exfoliation as well as a tension-releasing facial massage to truly rejuvenate your skin. Using only the purest local ingredients and oils, the Vakacegu involves a pH balancing facial mask in addition a nourishing hair treatment oil to restore softness and texture. Finally, a soothing scalp massage helps to send you off feeling like you're walking on air.

For full-body rejuvenation

If you've been feeling a little run down with the stresses and strains of everyday life, the Maucokona treatment is for you. Meaning 'complete', or 'fulfilled', Maucokona is a regenerative treatment that draws inspiration from traditional Fijian tribal practices to leave you feeling re-energised and relaxed.

It begins with a body massage, integrating pressure points and rhythmic techniques to ease muscle aches and pains as well as native aromatic oils specially chosen for your needs. The treatment helps to encourage better circulation, relieving tightness and detoxifying the body.

Ready to plan your blissful retreat to Fiji? Don't hesitate to get in touch with out team at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort about arranging your dream holiday today. 

5 water sports to try on your family holiday in Fiji

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

 

Ready to have some fun on the water in Fiji?

Whether it’s your first time visiting Fiji, or you’re heading back for yet another holiday, the beauty of the ocean is something that never ceases to inspire. It’s also a magical place for children to play in the waves and catch a glimpse of another world. 

At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we have a deep connection to our environment, and love helping our guests to enjoy the waters of Savusavu Bay and beyond. Here are some of our top water sports and activities that you can try on your next luxury family holiday in Fiji.

1. Snorkelling 

You and your kids will love taking a leisurely swim in the crystal clear waters off Vanua Levu. Because the resort is surrounded by a marine reserve, we have access to some incredible snorkelling spots – many of which are right by the edge of our pier! 

For a little adventure, you can also talk to one of our staff members about visiting one of the snorkel sites just a short boat ride away where you can see even more soft corals and marine life!

2. Sailing 

If you love the ocean breeze in your hair and the wind in your sails, you can head out on one our our Hobie boats. At the tiller of one of these lightweight sailboats, you can enjoy the calm waters of Savusavu Bay at your leisure. 

3. Kayaking 

Another great way to explore Savusavu Bay is from one of our double kayaks. Whether you chose to share with your kids, or let them work together to try and master their own craft, you’re bound to have fun out on the water. Prepare for a splash or two!

4. Paddleboarding

This international craze has come to Fiji, so grab your board and paddle and head to the beach! If your kids are older, they can have fun trying to find their balance on their own boards – a valuable lesson in balance and coordination! 

Little ones can also sit on the front of their parent’s board, just prepare for a bit more of a workout.

5. Fishing 

Reel ’em in on a fishing trip with the whole family. Our staff can arrange a chartered fishing trip where you and the kids can try your luck at landing a whopper. If you’d prefer not to head out deep sea fishing, you can opt to stay a little closer to shore – just let our friendly team know! 

Ready to book your family holiday in Fiji? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to start planning your dream trip. 

Planning the perfect proposal on your Fiji holiday

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

When you propose to the love of your life, you're going to want it to be perfect. You don't get a second chance to pop the big question, so why not make it a memorable moment with the beautiful Fiji as the backdrop? 

There's no better time to get down on one knee than during a luxury couples holiday on the blissful shores of Vanua Levu island, which is why we're bringing you some inspiration from Fiji to help you prepare the perfect proposal.

Before you go 

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If you've picked out a ring before you board your flight, one of the biggest challenges is getting the ring to Fiji without your other half finding it. With all the bustle of packing for a trip, going through airport security and finally arriving at your suite at the Jean-Michel Cousteau resort, it's easy to lose track of where you are stowing your precious cargo and whether your partner might be able to stumble upon it. 

Often the shape of the box is a dead giveaway, so consider swapping it – the secret engagement ring case designed by Andrew Zo is an ingenious invention that hides the sparkler in a slim case that you can pop into your wallet. Voila!

The adventurous proposal 

Now that you've arrived in Fiji (surprise hopefully still in tact), it's time to choose the right setting. If you and your partner love to explore and discover new sights, one of our guided excursions could be just the ticket for your proposal opportunity. 

Here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau resort, we offer a number of complimentary excursions, one of which is our Rainforest and Waterfall Tour. Together, you'll go on a short hike through the lush rainforest to arrive at a secluded waterfall. With the water cascading down and birds singing in the trees, it makes for a magical location to ask a very special question.

The private island proposal

While you can enjoy a range of deluxe commodities at the resort, we have a special experience to offer that is found just a short boat ride away. Sail across azure waters to the secluded Naviavia Island, where you can steal your love away to the golden shores of your very own private island. 

Yours for the morning, or the entire day, Naviavia is truly a little piece of paradise that you'll have all to yourselves. With a packed picnic to enjoy, as well as beach necessities to enjoy snorkelling and lazing on the sand, all you have to worry about is how you're going to pop the question.

The romantic dinner proposal

Take advantage of our world class spa facilities during the day to unwind and soothe some of those pre-proposal jitters before booking your spot at the best seats in the house. 

As one of our most special dining experiences, you can reserve the pier for a romantic dinner experience unlike any other. With Savusavu Bay and the distant horizon as your stage, you can enjoy a delicious meal created by our Executive Chef, Raymond Lee, with a dedicated server to attend to you throughout the evening.  

Whether you gather up your courage after a toast to your wonderful holiday, or you want to conceal the ring in a champagne glass, we'd be happy to help facilitate this exciting moment! 

Dreaming of a wedding in Fiji?

Fiji is not only a stunning place to pop the question, it's also a beautiful place for a wedding. If you come to the end of your romantic couples vacation and you've left a piece of your hearts on the shores of Savusavu Bay, we'd love to welcome you back for your wedding day. For more information, don't hesitate to reach out and talk to our helpful team.

3 fun family activities for your Fiji holiday

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

Are you ready for a well-deserved holiday? We have some fantastic news for you: the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort in Fiji can offer everything you could want from a family vacation. 

At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort we pride ourselves in being the best resort in Fiji, whether you are after pure relaxation or want to make the most of the crystal clear waters and range of resort activities. 

To provide some inspiration for your next family holiday, take a look at three of our complimentary activities in Fiji. 

A warm #fiji welcome to you! #jmcfiji #fijitourism #sustainabletravel #ecotourism

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1. Immerse yourself in the culture

Fiji's history is filled with a variety of myths and legends, all riveting to hear. Join one of the elders in the evening to learn about the ancient stories of gods, cannibals and indigenous wildlife. Children and parents alike are set to be pulled into the gripping storyline of more than 3,000 years of folklore. 

2. Stay active and fit

Set the right tone to your holiday by staying active, even out in the Pacific. Regardless of whether you go to the gym five times a week or enjoy the occasional run, at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we know how important it is to maintain a balance of relaxation and staying fit.

Add to this the fact that children tend to be balls of energy, and the resort's diverse sports facilities are even more attractive. Enjoy a semi-competitive game of tennis or take the little ones on a leisurely paddleboarding tour along Savusavu Bay – there is something for every level of fitness.

3. Explore the ecosystem

For our more environmentally-conscious guests, we are happy to recommend the "Eco Tour". Jean-Michel Cousteau's own marine biologist, Johnny Singh, can help you discover the coastal ecosystem, plant mangrove seedlings and take in Fiji's scenery. 

And if you feel like some quality time with your partner away from the children, you always have the option to sign them up to the complimentary Bula Club. There, they will be taken care of and experience the holiday of a lifetime while you too enjoy everything the Pacific gem has to offer. 

If you would like to know more about what a family holiday at our 5 star Fijian resort could entail, please feel free to reach out to our friendly team. 

5 must-dos for your Fiji honeymoon

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

There is nothing quite like a honeymoon in Fiji. At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we are proud to be the ideal location for a luxury couples holiday in Fiji, where you can enjoy the time as newlyweds in pure delight. 

Let us introduce you to five must-dos for your ultimate romantic honeymoon getaway.

1. Dive into history

Learn about Fijian history from a local elder.

Fiji has a rich history filled with myths and legends that reach back thousands of years. Learn about some of the indigenous folklore at a traditional Fijian storytelling with one of the elders from the local community on Vanua Levu. 

A complimentary activity at the resort, it's an experience that is guaranteed to bring you, as a newly wed couple, closer together. 

2. Discover a tropical waterfall

If you and your partner enjoy the thrill of adventures together, then you will love hiking through the tropical rainforest on a day excursion. Cool off by diving into a natural freshwater pool right next to a hidden waterfall at the end of your walk. 

Jungle, water and your loved one all in one location – it doesn't get much more exciting than that.

3. Enjoy a private beach

If there is one single time in your life that you and your spouse get to celebrate each other in complete privacy, it's on your honeymoon. Instead of doing so on one of Fiji's many, gorgeous beaches, why not steal away to your own private island for the day? 

Naviavia, a hidden gem just off the coast of the resort, is the ideal spot for complete tranquillity. Our chefs will prepare a delicious picnic to take with you, so all you need to think about is how you want to spend the day on your own island.

4. Indulge in local cuisine

For the ever-curious couple, the Savusavu farmers market offers everything the culinary heart desires. Step into the hustle and bustle on a Saturday morning and explore the colours and tastes of Fiji with your spouse as you wander from one stall to another. 

5. Get pampered together

Indulge in spa treatments together and forget the rest of the world as you spend time with your spouse. The Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort has world-class spa facilities, where you and your partner can lay back and relax as you enjoy traditional Fijian therapies such as a Bobo massage, Fufunu scrub or Vakacegu facial. 

Your honeymoon is the ultimate time for luxury, relaxation and indulgence. For the perfect romantic getaway, enquire with our staff today. 

Fun family activities to do on your Fiji holiday

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

 

Whisking the family away on a luxurious Fiji holiday can be both fun and relaxing. And while your young ones might be whirlwinds of energy, at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort we also understand that you might need some quiet relaxation time.

Because of this we created the Bula Club, where your children are well taken care of while you enjoy some rest. However, for those days you want to be active with the entire family, we have a myriad of fun, family-friendly activities:

Take the kids for a paddle boarding adventure.Take the kids for a paddle boarding adventure.

1. Nakawaga waterfall

Fiji’s jungle is filled with hidden gems, including the Nakawaga waterfall. A result of fast-flowing rivers, the water shoots through the volcanic terrain, making for a stunning sight after a hot and humid walk through the forest.

Both parents and kids will love splashing around in the cool water – it’s a fun day activity that’ll stay in your memories even after you return home.

2. Paddle boarding

If your family likes to be active, you can enjoy exploring the shoreline of Savusavu Bay together as you go paddle boarding together. Test your balance and introduce the children to the breathtaking scenery while having the excitement of physical activity.

Coucou beauté ! #turtle #namena #fiji #fijifinds #gopro

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3. Namena Marine Reserve

Splash around with your family at the Namena Marine Reserve and dive or snorkel in the epitome of Fiji water experiences. The crystal-clear water offers spectacular insight into the underwater world, where you can discover trevalis, sharks and turtles.

The experience of riding the currents with the Jean-Michel Cousteau Dive Masters is not only a beautiful experience but an unforgettable one at that.

4. Glass bottom boat

If your children aren’t ready to go diving just yet, we also have an option to discover the marine life while remaining dry. Watch as the diverse sealife passes by from the comfort of our glass bottom boat cruising through the bays.

The colours and lively temperament of the local sea life will get the children excited and leave you marvelling at the wonders of nature.

5. Flora Tropica Gardens

With more than 300 species of palm trees from around the world, the sheer volume of tropical flora at the gardens will amaze you. The young ones can delight at the sound of birds that are attracted by the many different flowers and fruit trees.

Guided tours will give you an insight into the stunning gardens that are spread across five acres of creek flats and hillsides. Both adults and children will go away from this activity with a new appreciation for the varied shrubs, orchids, water lilies, heliconias and over 40 fruit trees on show.

6. Traditional Fijian stories

For a more cultural experience, we recommend taking the family on a storytelling adventure. At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, you have the opportunity to sit with one of the local elders and delve into 3,000 years of history and myth.

Sucked into the ancient legends and folklore of the Islands, the whole family is in for a treat during this exciting adventure.

A warm #fiji welcome to you! #jmcfiji #fijitourism #sustainabletravel #ecotourism

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7. Savusavu’s hot springs

The local town of Savusavu is known for many things, including its weekend market and hot springs. Amidst the stunning shore, these particular springs showcase the geothermal activity of Fiji that has lasted through the centuries.

Don’t be fooled though, while the locals come to cook at the quietly simmering pools, the springs were actually geysers in the late 19th Century!

Treat yourself and the family to an all inclusive holiday at a 5 star Fiji resort that caters to your every need. Get in touch to make a booking with our friendly staff at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort today.

Catch the fish of your dreams at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

 

There are few things more relaxing in life than casting a line into the serene blue waters of the Fijian coast, lying back and waiting for a fish to take the bait. After all, your holiday is all about recharging your batteries, and fishing in Fiji is one of the finest ways to escape from the hectic realities of modern life.

At Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji, you can charter a boat and head out into the sumptuous seas of Savusavu, where you’ll have the opportunity to catch your own dinner. The waters of Savusavu are among the best in all of Fiji for fishing, so you’re practically guaranteed a bite – here’s what you need to know.

The waters of Savusavu are among the best in all of Fiji for fishing, so you’re practically guaranteed a bite!

Fishing for a winner

Savusavu is located on the northern Fijian island of Vanua Levu, and it’s here that you’ll find the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji itself. The resort represents the perfect place to bait up your rod, framed by swaying palms on the sun-kissed shores of the island. You can bring along your own equipment if you like, but don’t worry if you’ve left it at home – we have plenty here that you can borrow. Usually, we’ll troll for fish (dragging baited hooks behind the boat), but you can cast if you have brought along your own rod.

Typically, we run two fishing trips per day. One will leave at first light when the fish are looking to feed, and the other in mid-afternoon, as our finned friends sun themselves near the surface. Additionally, we run two different types of fishing trip – a gentle cruise around the bays, or a deep-sea fishing venture where you’ll really get the chance to hook a whopper. Because the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji has long been dedicated to conserving the environment, our fishing trips are designed to see you catch open water species rather than the reef fish that live near the shore.

The sailfish is one of the ocean's fastest swimmers - can you catch one?The sailfish is one of the ocean’s fastest swimmers – can you catch one?

Fiji’s finest fish

On your fishing trip, you’ll be aiming to snare such fish as walu, yellowfin tuna and the hard-fighting mahi-mahi – a great prize for any sea angler. Arranging your fishing trip on the calming South Pacific is simplicity itself. All you have to do is give the Dive Centre or Activities staff 24 hours notice before you intend to head out, and we’ll do the rest.

Be sure to get in touch with us to arrange your trip to paradise – we look forward to welcoming you.

3 reasons to go kayaking when staying at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

 

When you make the choice to come and stay with us at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji, there’s a good possibility that you’ll get the chance to try something that you’ve never done before. This is perfectly fine – after all, taking a well-deserved holiday is all about trying new things, discovering something different.

Kayaking is one such activity, and there really is something to be said about serenely paddling your way across the sparkling blue waters along the shoreline of Savusavu Bay. Here are three simple reasons why you should give kayaking a try – we look forward to seeing you out on the water!

1. It’s beautifully relaxing

What’s the main reason you chose to stay a few days at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji? One of them must be that you wanted a break from the hustle and bustle of the daily grind, and a few days in a South Pacific paradise is just the ticket.

There are several ways to unravel the knots and unwind at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji.

There are several ways to unravel the knots and unwind at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji, and taking to the water in a kayak is just one of them. Just sitting in your kayak and letting the sapphire surface slip underneath as you watch the sun sink into the sea is an experience sure to fill you with a sense of complete calm – and one rarely replicated anywhere else.

2. Keep up your exercise

Sure, a holiday is a time for relaxing, enjoying your time away from work and eating exciting new foods, but it doesn’t mean that you have to put your fitness routine on hold. Kayaking offers a fantastic workout, especially for the upper body. It doesn’t matter whether you’re paddling gently from the shore, or having a more energetic runout a little further away – your arms, shoulders and back will really reap the benefits of a day out on the kayak.

Several core muscles, so often neglected when in the gym, will also be called into action, and the cardiovascular benefits cannot be discounted either. You’ll also be having awesome fun as you do it!

3. A real sense of adventure

When people think of an adventure holiday, they often imagine plunging down rough whitewater on a flimsy raft, or leaping off a high bridge with a length of elastic tied to their feet. It doesn’t have to be that way. You could simply be exploring new areas on calm waters with your kayak, watching wildlife that you’ve never seen before in your life – now that’s a real adventure!

At Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji, we offer a guided kayaking tour for our guests, where you’ll explore the beautiful coral, flora and fauna of Savusavu Bay – contact our friendly team to find out more.

Three unusual Fiji attractions away from the beaten track

Posted on by Anita Mitchell

There are few holiday destinations that can rival Fiji for things to see, do and make. The blue skies, golden sun, white sands and swaying palms have long attracted families and couples alike, each of them eager to explore the wonders of these islands. At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we know that Fiji's 300 islands are home to a treasure trove of secrets, many of which are just as interesting as the main attractions. With so many activities in Fiji to seek out, it can be hard to know where to start – here are three of Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort's favourites!

Feast your eyes on a fire-walk

Easily accessible via a pleasant boat ride, Beqa Island is home to the indigenous Sawau tribe. Today, firewalking is practised all around the world, but it was the Sawau people who originated the traditional artform of walking barefoot over fiery coals. Therefore, to witness the local Sawau warriors participate in a fire-walking ceremony, all the while chanting in their native tongue, is something to be savoured. The coals themselves are plucked from a 'lovo' (an earth oven), so you can be certain there is no fakery involved!  

To witness the local Sawau warriors participate in a fire-walking ceremony is something to be savoured.

Absolutely crabulous

After a spot of diving in Savusavu Bay, it's well worth your time making the short trip to the island of Qamea. The lush, verdant hills of the island are home to the Lairo mud crab, a species endemic to these parts – and delectable, too. You won't have to pay extortionate prices to sample this tasty crustacean though, as on Qamea, you can hunt your very own. Between November and January, the bright full moon of the early summer is the signal for the Lairo mud crab to head to the beach to breed. The crab are plentiful, so embrace your hunter-gatherer spirit and try to catch one – then have it for breakfast the next morning!

Make the most of mud

Fiji is an archipelago just bursting with geothermal activity – after all, it is found within the Pacific Ocean's infamous 'Ring Of Fire'. Over in the Sabeto area, you'll find mud pools naturally heated by the bowels of the Earth, so don't be shy – jump right in! The warm mud is reputedly excellent for the skin, and there are plenty of pools for you to choose from. They are well signposted, but out of the way enough so as not to be crowded – and they're completely free, too.

To book your next Fiji holiday, be sure to get in touch with the friendly, helpful team at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort – we'll organise everything!