Welcome to the Pacific
The South Pacific offers travellers a range of experiences. Whether you are a mainstream tourist or are looking for a unique ‘off the beaten track’ experience, this area has something for everyone. Rich in history and culture, the breathtaking beauty of this area attracts visitors from all over the world.
Fiji Islands
Located in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is made up of over 300 tropical islands and attracts over 300,000 Australian tourists annually to its multitude of beach resorts. Fiji caters for families, bridal parties, honeymooners, couples and singles just looking for a relaxing getaway! Active sports such as white water rafting, kayaking, golf, scuba diving and snorkelling are popular.
Get a taste of Fiji with our snapshot of ten islands which might take your fancy in Fiji. But if none of those appeal, never fear, there are three hundred more Fijian islands to choose from when you’re planning to travel to Fiji. Consider the following or browse our enormous range of Fiji hotels to get some more ideas:
Denarau Island
Fiji’s new five star island, featuring several major international chain hotels, offers quintessential Fijian luxury with beach front rooms and five huge swimming pools to relax with your family and friends. Add to that kids clubs, plunge pools and wonderful views out to the volcanic islands and you have the ultimate luxury holiday.
Viti Levu
Flights to Fiji arrive at Nadi on the west coast of Vitu Levu. The beaches may not be quite as impressive but it's here that you'll catch a taste of real Fijian life. Go there to enjoy great local restaurants, nightlife and the dramatic highlands in the Fijian island’s interior.
The Mamanucas
If you are looking for the place where all the postcard pictures of Fiji come from, the popular Mamanucas, featuring islands such as Malolo Island, Castaway Island and Treasure Island, are the place to go. Heaving with hotels, dive operators and thousands of tourists, a quiet getaway it is not, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find the perfect fantasy island holiday. Sonaisali Island resort, Plantation Island resort and Matamanoa Island resort are just some of the luxury resorts perfect for a Fiji wedding or a holiday with kids.
Yasawa Islands
Free from internet, banks, roads and cruise ships, the pristine archipelago of the Yasawa Islands in the west of Fiji is for some, the ultimate escape. With access via catamaran only from Nadi, it’s popular with backpackers and luxury travellers for its natural untouched beauty. One of Yasawa Islands is Turtle Island. The private island only accommodates 14 couples and has some of the most breathtaking panoramic views all from the comfort of your luxurious Fijian villa.
Ovalau & the Lomaiviti Group
Discover Fiji’s rich colonial past in the Lomaiviti islands. With Unesco World Heritage Site at Levuka and plenty of local villages, you’ll get a real taste of Fijian life.
Vanua Levu
With the soft corals offshore and the Wasali Nature Reserve within its bounds, Fiji’s second largest island is popular with divers and adventure lovers. The Vanua Levu Island is home to the uber-luxury resorts Namale Resort & Spa and Jean Michel Cousteau Resort near the town of Savusavu.
Diving in Fiji
Diving is almost mandatory in Fiji where over 300 islands are on offer. Check out some of the best spots:
Taveuni
Situated within the Vanua Levu group of Fiji islands and known as “the soft coral capital of the world”, Taveuni is a place of big reef fish and incredibly colourful soft corals. It is home to the highly rated sites of ‘Rainbow Reef’ and the famous ‘Great White Wall’.
Bligh Water
The ultimate live-aboard diving experience, Bligh Water lays claim to be Fiji’s best world class dive destination. Surrounded by the picturesque islands of Koro, Wakaya and Namena in the Koro Sea, Bligh waters is a treasure trove of tropical ocean life.
Kadavu Island Kadavu Island is the best place to experience true Fijian culture without compromising good diving. Renowned for the famous ‘Astrolobe Reef’, you'll find mantas playing over vast fields of pristine hard corals. It's easily the best diving in southern Fiji.
Viti Levu If you are looking for a shark feeding dive then Viti Levu is the place to go. Experienced divers and thrill seekers head to these dive sites which are the easiest to access when you arrive in Fiji’s main land.
Beqa Lagoon Close to Fiji’s main island Nadi, Beqa Lagoon offers a convenient diving resort with a good variety of marine life. It's popular for less experienced divers and those with only a little time on their hands.
Getting around Fiji
Flights to Fiji arrive at Nadi International Airport, after which you will need to transfer to your hotel or island if you are leaving the mainland.
You can fly to the larger Fiji islands like Vanua Levu, otherwise you will have to book a boat, such as the catamaran transfer we offer to Denarau. On the smaller Fiji islands such as Kadavu, the only transport available is on local boats or resort owned catamarans.
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the so-called "Fijian winter" or "dry season", from May to October. This time of year is more pleasant with lower rainfall and humidity, milder temperatures. Consequently these six months make up the high season, when airfare and accommodation costs are at their highest. Expect costs to peak in June and July.
Visa Requirements
Australian ordinary passport holders travelling for tourist purposes will usually be granted an entry visa on arrival at any designated point of entry into Fiji for a maximum period of 4 months. An extension of two months can be granted on application for a fee. Passports are recommended to be valid for at least six months from the expected date of departure from Fiji. Further conditions apply to those under 18 years of age. Travellers should also be able to show documentary evidence confirming their ability to financially maintain themselves for the duration of stay in Fiji, as well as return/onward airline tickets and entry documents for their next destination. For further information and to confirm that you are eligible to travel to Fiji without a visa, travellers are recommended to contact a Fijian mission on the details below.
The Cook Islands
Described as a little slice of heaven on earth, the Cook Islands consists of around 50 small islands and offers tourists a largely undeveloped and unspoilt environment for pure relaxation.
Silica white beaches, crystalline seas and clear blue skies attract travellers who are looking for a peaceful sanctuary where sunbathing and swimming are the order of the day.
Visa Requirements
There is no entry visa requirement for Australians travelling to the Cook Islands for vacation purposes. Australian passport holders are required to have a current passport with no less than 6 months validity and a return air ticket.
The Kingdom of Tonga
The Kingdom of Tonga has never been colonised by a European power and is still, to this day, ruled by one of the last few remaining absolute monarchies anywhere in the world. A unique island culture, Tonga’s friendly people are unlike any other. There are many sights and activities related to Tongan culture, including sacred tombs, dancing displays and craft workshops. Tonga is a perfect holiday destination for nature lovers. Humpback whales migrate here to spend six months of every year resting, mating and giving birth in the protected bays, and you can take a trip to watch and hear them sing. You can also enjoy surfing and swimming in the clear blue ocean.
Whatever you do, relax into the Tongan pace of life – with the maximum road speed of 40km per hour, the pace is slow, very slow and patience is required!! Tonga is as much about exploring as it is relaxing on a beach, and you will soon take on the attitude of ‘go with the flow’. The locals are warm, friendly and helpful.
Tonga consists of 3 main island groups:
1. Tongatapu which is the main island where the capital, Nuku’alofa, is located. This island boasts rich archaeological sites and sightseeing tours and although has the majority of the country's accommodation, this still amounts to only a handful of beach resorts. The tiny offshore coral islands within Tongatapu Lagoon have a couple of beautiful boutique resorts ideal for beach holidays and offer excellent snorkelling and day cruises to visit other uninhabited island with exquisite beaches.
2. the Ha’apai Group – a scattering of 50 small islands, many of which are completely uninhabited; and,
3. the Vava’u Islands are located furthest to the north and reputedly the best place in the South Pacific to witness the migration of humpback whales. Both the Ha’apai Group and Vava’u Islands are accessible from Tongatapu by air.
Apart from excellent snorkelling, Tonga boasts world class sailing and game fishing amongst the many activities available to tourists.
Visa Requirements
A visa is required for Australian citizens to visit Tonga. Visa can be obtained on arrival and are valid for 31 days.
Source: The Village Travel
Samoa
Samoa was the area renowned author, Robert Louis Stevenson, chose to retire to. It is scenically the most varied destination within the South Pacific region.
Samoa comprises two separate and independent countries – Samoa and American Samoa. Each island offers a different holiday environment. Unlike its neighbours, Fiji and the Cook Islands, Samoa has basic infrastructure and few tour companies. Banks and shops are few and far between outside the main town of Apia. However, there are excellent golf courses as well as highly regarded surf breaks and fishing spots for avid anglers. The traditional culture of Samoa remains important and Samoan food is unique and delicious.
Source: The Village Travel Samoa Travel Guide
Samoa has a very low GDP with employment scarce and salaries low and for travellers it has become one of the cheapest destinations to visit in the South Pacific with tourism being a major source of income. It's relative underdevelopment and a conservative and traditional observance of both its Polynesian culture and Christianity means this is great destination to meet people and learn the Samoan way of life. Strangely, it is also a place where petty theft is prevalent so be especially careful with your possessions. Upolu is the main population centre in Samoa, a high volcanic island 1,100 sq-km in size with much of its interior covered in tropical forest and its coast dotted with traditional villages.
Mountainous Upolu Island is the main destination for a holiday in Samoa as well as having the largest population making it a great option for exploring the Samoan way of life. The country's capital, Apia , is located on the beach-less north coast and is probably the most picturesque of all the South Seas towns with a lovely harbour setting, great restaurants and a lively night scene. The sprawling town has plenty of historical charm including Robert Louis Stevenson’s old home in the hills, now a museum, and a beautiful waterfront making it a pleasant base for a sightseeing holiday. The south coast of Upolu is a lot more rural with plenty of traditional villages along the coast. There are waterfalls and rain forest hikes to enjoy and plenty of stunning secluded beaches – this is where the beach resorts can be found as well as good snorkelling lagoons and some excellent surfing breaks.
Adjacent Savaii Island is even less developed, with more traditional villages and a scattering of small beach resorts. Savaii is the largest of the Samoan islands with dormant volcanoes and a landscape dominated by its recent volcanic activity. There are some wonderful sites to enjoy including blow-holes, lava tubes and barren but fascinating lava fields. Most tourists stay along the north-west coast in and around Manase Beach which is a 40-minute drive from the wharf at Salelologa. The majority of tourists catch the regular passenger ferry between Upolu and Savaii which takes 1-hr 30mins. By contrast, American Samoa has lost its traditional identity and adopted the American way of life. Despite this cultural loss, the rich tropical rainforests have been thoughtfully preserved under the guidance of the National Parks system although tourism remains almost non-existent with hotels aimed mostly at business travellers. Instead, the country earns a high income source from its US army bases and Asian dominated tuna factories. Five Interesting Things to Know about the Samoa Islands
1) Samoa changed its road rules in 2009 (Samoa cars now drive on the left side of the road) and also changed its time zone in 2012 to coincide with Australia and New Zealand - it now lies 12 hours ahead of GMT
2) Over half of American Samoa is protected by National Parks to preserve the tropical rainforest - but there are few walking trails and even fewer tourists visiting the islands.
3) Each evening, around 6pm, all Samoan villages place a curfew on movement whilst prayer serviced take place - you can't walk about or even drive a car through a village, even if it is on the main road!
4) Talofa is the common greeting and will be offered in passing on the streets, fa is goodbye
5) If asking a local for directions, be careful: yes may mean no, left can mean right and south is probably north
English is spoken fluently at all resorts although in the villages many people are reluctant to converse in English, which is often broken. The weather is warm and balmy year round with temperatures seldom falling below 25 degrees Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu’s colonial name was the New Hebrides – although what these sunny Pacific islands have to do with the original Scottish Hebrides is anyone’s guess. Vanuatu is a particularly popular short-haul destination for Kiwis, but families, couples and honeymooners of all nationalities will enjoy these wonderful islands. For those who want to get away from screaming kids, for whatever reason, then there are a number of child-free hotels. The Vanuatu people are particularly friendly and love visitors, although their own cultural values remain very important in rural areas. Vanuatu shares much of the same cuisine as other island nations in the region, but is particularly noted for its meat – the local steaks are highly recommended.
New Caledonia
New Caledonia is a perfect blend of Gallic and Pacific. You can combine trips to the elegant shopping districts and fine dining restaurants with sunbathing on pristine white sands. Perfect for honeymooners – who can resist the combination of French romance on a beautiful island paradise – New Caledonia is also a prime destination to enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving. But anyone will enjoy the beaches and food, and if you’re in search of solitude you can sail off to some of the remoter islands. Try learning a little bit of French before you go to enjoy this fantastic destination to its fullest potential.
New Caledonia Islands Travel Guide
New Caledonia is a French Territory lying between Fiji and Australia with one large island (Grand Terre is the largest of the South Pacific nation islands), and four small islands. New Caledonia is not the most popular South Pacific destination to visit unless you're French speaking, but its unique appeals are slowly gathering popularity amongst Australian and New Zealand holiday-makers. With direct flights from Brisbane and Sydney on Air Calin / Qantas, the later on a daily basis, and a handful of weekly flights from Auckland on Air Calin / Air New Zealand, New Caledonia makes a great beach escape with a splash of the Mediterranean lifestyle. The weather is warm and balmy - year round temperatures seldom falling below 22 degrees Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit.
Noumea is where most tourists stay, or at least spend a few days wining and dining, and strolling along the beach promenade taking in the sunshine. The Isle of Pines, a 20-minute flight from Noumea, offers fabulous beaches and a holiday atmosphere, whilst the Loyalty Islands offers a splash of adventure and throwing in some of the South Pacific's most beautiful beaches along the way. New Caledonia Travel Guide
The capital of Noumea has the majority of the country's large hotels, most notably around the beaches of Anse Vata. The main island of Grand Terre has rather limited accommodation with just a handful of small beach resorts mostly in the northern half of the island and several mountain retreats quite close to the international airport, as well as town hotels and pensions aimed at the local business market. The second most popular island to visit is isle of Pines where you'll find a handful of small beach resorts as well as more affordable guesthouses. The Loyalty Islands has more limited accommodation with locally owned tribal accommodation being popular with backpackers and adventurous travellers. Grand Terre / Noumea Town
The main island of New Caledonia is Grand Terre, a huge island with high mountains and Nickel mines down its spine. With remote tribal villages on the east coast and dry farmland on the west coast, Grand Terre is an island of vast spaces. Apart from the beautiful capital of Noumea, it is too devoid of interesting sights to make it a worthwhile holiday destination for overseas tourists although there are great scuba diving reefs to explore for those on a diving holiday. Noumea, on the other hand, is sophisticated and exciting with great restaurants and casinos, boutique shops and plenty of hotels, most notably along the beach suburbs of Anse Vata. Offshore are a collection of beautiful coral islands that make for a fun day out snorkelling the lagoons, spotting dolphins, game-fishing for marlin and wahoo and visiting uninhabited islands for a BBQ lunch.
Isle of Pines
The Isle of Pines is where to go to get away from the hustle and bustle of Noumea life and to soak up the sun on a beautiful sandy beach. With less than a dozen resorts, accommodation choice is limited but there's enough for most types of holiday-makers and there's a good choice of tours and decent snorkelling lagoons to keep the active busy. The Loyalty Islands
Few overseas travellers make it out to The Loyalty Islands which is a shame because here you'll get a true sense of the South pacific with friendly locals, tribal villages and glorious white sand beaches. A lack of accommodation and tourist infrastructure and unreliable flights are its main drawback for tourists, although those with a sense of adventure will find this to be a truly romantic destinations.
Five Interesting Things to Know about New Caledonia
1) A barrier reef surrounding the main island of Grand Terre is the second largest in the world with six sites covering almost 15,000 km2 protected as a UNESCO World Heritage of Humanity site. 2) The traditional people of New Caledonia are Melanesians and follow the kanak tribal culture.
3) The Loyalty Islands have the regions best beaches but only a handful of places to stay.
4) Locals refer to Grande Terre as "Le Caillou" or the rock
5) New Caledonia has one quarter of the world's Nickel and is the largest producer of the metal with mining towns in the north of Grand Terre.
New Caledonia Travel Facts
French in the national language in New Caledonia and English is spoken only by a few people, although most in the tourism industry have practical knowledge. The weather is warm and balmy - year round temperatures seldom falling below 22 degrees Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit. The country is free from malaria, yellow fever and most other diseases endemic in tropical countries. Mosquitoes are present and can be annoying during the wetter months (Dec to April). Water is safe to drink. Electricity is 220 AC voltage as per France and uses to round pin plugs as found in Europe. The currency is the Central Pacific Franc (CFP) which is fixed to the Euro - most resorts set room rates in Euros and this is the currency we have used for all quotations.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia is one of the best known destinations of the South Pacific, partly because of the alluring tale of Mutiny of the Bounty and the exotic paintings of Paul Gauguin. With its palm trees, crystal waters, volcanoes and lush forests, all your South Sea fantasies are made real. You can visit here on a cruise, but French Polynesia is best experienced on a longer visit, where you have time to relax and enjoy the amazing sights and stay in an overwater bungalow. The destination is famous for luxury and is one of the most desirable places in the world for honeymoons. The food is great too – thanks to the French influence, you can enjoy fine wines and European cuisine with a local flavour, although you should try the barbecued sucking pig at indigenous-style buffets.
The French Polynesia islands are one of several island nations in the South Pacific under French administration and known as an overseas collectivity. Although the national language is French, basic English is spoken by many hotel staff to help you get by. The islands are more commonly known as Tahiti named after the largest island and main population centre. The weather is warm and balmy - year round temperatures seldom falling below 22° Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit especially during August when French nationals have their long summer holidays. French Polynesia Travel Guide
French Polynesia is a vast collection of islands in the south-west Pacific split into five distinct arcipelago's. The Society Islands is the most populated of these archipelago's and consists of Tahiti Island, Moorea and Bora Bora. Tahiti Island is the main centre and population base with popular holiday destination Moorea lying just off its west coast. the famous and stunning lagoon island of Bora Bora lagoon is les than an hour flight to the north west. More than 80 per cent of tourism is based between these three islands. Of the other archipelagos. the Tuamotu Group is popular as a scuba diving destination and the Marquesas for adventure travel. Tahiti Island
Tahiti Island is the main island of French Polynesia with bustling Papeete Town and Faa'a International Airport on the west coast. Tahiti features beautiful mountains and tropical rainforests, with several unusual black sand beaches and world class surfing breaks. The island makes a convenient stop before moving on to other islands. Moorea Island
Moorea is a 10-minute hop from Tahiti and has a laid back holiday atmosphere. There are several nice beaches, great shark dives and fantastic sightseeing including the famed beauty of Cooks Bay, plus plenty of affordable accommodation making it a popular spot with families. Bora Bora
Bora Bora lagoon is famous around the world as being one of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific. The island is truly stunning with picturesque high mountains falling dramatically into a protected turquoise lagoon which are littered with stunning luxury overwater bungalows and is one of the most popular romantic holiday destinations in the South Pacific. The lagoon is also one of the best spots for snorkelling and scuba diving with lots of reef fish, small sharks and manta rays.
Other Society Islands
The other Society Islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti are less frequently visited by tourists although there are several small luxury resorts and guesthouse style pensions scattered around the islands. The lifestyle in the outer islands is more Polynesian in nature although getting around can be both timely and costly.
Outer Islands - The Marquesas & Tuamotu Group
The most visited of the outer islands is the Tuamotu Group consisting of over 75 atolls to the east of Tahiti with some world class scuba diving sites, though generally for more advanced divers. Most dive sites are around the fast flowing passages of the huge atolls where colourful reef fish and pelagics, especially sharks, can be found in abundance. The remote and very traditional Marquesas lie a 2hr flight to the north of Tahiti and here is remote wilderness, a rich Polynesian culture and some breathtaking sightseeing.
Five Interesting Things to Know about French Polynesia
1) Tahitians are famous for their exotic dance performances and high tempo drum beatings. 2) French post-impressionist artist Paul Gauguin lived between Tahiti and The Marquesas for most of his later life where he painted the exotic Tahitian people in their daily surroundings.
3) Bora Bora is regularly named as the most exotic honeymoon destination in the world.
4) Full body tattoos, often including the face, are still worn by some Tahitians
5) More than 30 resorts in French Polynesia offer overwater bungalows, and with an average of 60 overwater bungalows per resort, that's a lot of options you have.
Tahiti Travel Facts
Getting around is very easy with an excellent domestic airline network operated by Air Tahiti but unfortunately it is also very expensive. There is a good passenger ferry connecting Papeete and Moorea which takes just an hour and departs several times a day. A passenger ferry also visits the outer islands including Bora Bora, but times can be prohibitive and seas sometimes rough - for example, the ferry takes 18hrs to reach Bora Bora from Papeete.
French Polynesia is free from malaria, yellow fever and most other diseases endemic in tropical countries. Mosquitoes are present and can be annoying during the wetter months (Dec to April). Water is safe to drink.
Electricity is 220 AC voltage as per France and uses to round pin plugs as found in Europe. The currency is the Central Pacific Franc (CFP) which is fixed to the Euro - most resorts set room rates in Euros and this is the currency we have used for all quotations.
Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands, with their ancient Melanesian culture, are a beautiful and otherworldly place to visit. Now relatively peaceful, the islands have a turbulent history of slaving, cannibalism, war and ethnic tension. But, you’d hardly guess this when canoeing on placid rivers which wind their way through verdant jungles, swimming with dolphins, enjoying the beautiful and unique atolls, or snorkelling or diving to see the enormous range of fish and other sea life that dwell beneath the blue waves. Those with an interest in botany will particularly enjoy the spectacular range of orchids, while you can also visit active volcanoes.
Niue Island
The South Sea Islands are all relaxing destinations, but tiny Niue must be the ultimate place to turn up and chill out. There are no touristy developments, just a few hotels and guest-houses, and the locals want to keep it that way. There are fewer than 100 hotel rooms in total, so your chance of being caught up in a crush of fellow visitors is incredibly remote – in fact, you’re unlikely to even have to share a swimming cove or a whale. if you're lucky enough to swim with one - Niue is one of only three places in the world you can do this.
Niue Island Holidays & Hotels Guide
The world's smallest independent nation, Niue, is a raised coral atoll island in the middle of the vast South Pacific Ocean. Holiday-makers arrive mostly from New Zealand, stay a week or two ... literally ... as there's only a weekly flight ... and leave with fond quirky memories and a relaxed air about them.
Don't search for beaches … there aren't any. The most raved about experience is its large number of limestone caves close to the coast which you can explore on foot or by snorkelling or diving. This middle-of-the-ocean getaway is a dream vacation spot for divers, cavers, explorers, and adventurers. It is also one of only three places in the world where you can get in the water and swim with humpback whales which visit from May to October each year on their annual migration.
Niue Holidays Overview
This remote little island is just 260 km² and is often referred to as the "Rock of Polynesia", "the Rock" for short by the inhabitants and is found 2,400 km northeast of New Zealand in a triangle between the Samoan Islands to the northwest, Tonga to the south-west, and the Cook Islands to the southeast. All Niueans are citizens of New Zealand, and the 14 tidy, colourful villages house Niue's less than 1500 residents. A coral reef surrounds the island, broken only on the central western coast, near the capital city of Alofi.
With the limestone eliminating all sediment, visibility is as much as 80 metres, and Niue is almost universally ranked as one of the very best dive spots in the world! Snorkellers, swimmers, and divers can all explore caves, chasms, and caverns surrounded by the local marine life. There are hundreds of these, some still being formed by the sea, so the odds are it will just be you and the sea. Some of the more hidden chasms were the exclusive spots for ancient royals, others have never even been explored; there are very few spots left on earth where you can say you were the first to see it.
Every year from mid-summer to mid-fall schools of Humpback whales swim into the waters surrounding Niue to calve and nurse their young. They play so close to shore, sometimes as little as 50 metres out, you might be awakened by them slapping the seas with their massive dorsal fits. Niue is one of only three places in the world where you can get in the water and swim with these gentle giants, but remember to respect their waters and keep watch at a distance. You can also spot good-size pods of spinner dolphins, permanent residents of Niue; the dolphins roam wherever they like, but they're creatures of habit so have a little patience and you should be swimming with them in no time. The sea gets very deep quite close to shore, so you can actually deep-sea fish from the cliffs if you want to, or try it the ancient traditional way from a canoe. Skipjack, Yellow fin Tuna, red Bass, Mahi-mahi, Wahoo, and black, striped, and blue marlin are among the catch you can expect to reel in.
Looking for adventure without getting wet? You can walk/hike all over the island and never get lost. All tracks are well marked with signposts and information, and each has a surprise for you at the end – could be a coral pinnacle, an amazing cave to explore, or a tropical rain forest. Whatever it is, you can be sure it looks so perfect you'll think you're in a movie set … but it's all natural and all Niue. Niue Hotels
Don't be fooled by the traditions and unspoilt beauty of this island, there is a 9-hole golf course, and a wide selection of accommodations, to suit every budget and taste. From an excellent full-service resort-like hotel to quaint cottage units, guest houses to camping options for you backpackers, you will find a place to stay that will suit your needs. Some accommodations have swimming pools, many have air conditioning, and all are charming and tidy. Niue Travel Information
There is one airport on Niue, the Niue International Airport located south of the capital city of Alofi. It is serviced by Air New Zealand (only), flying to Niue once each week from Auckland. You can hire a car, bicycle, motorbike, or a minibus from one of the four island rental agents.
The South Pacific Islands - Melanesia, Polynesia & Micronesia
The South Pacific islands are scattered in a huge ocean larger than all the other oceans put together but its landmasses are tiny. The region comprises of around 30 island nations, some mere dots on the atlas. The largest island nation is Papua New Guinea (PNG) followed by New Zealand which are both quite considerable land-masses, but it's then followed by Fiji whose collective islands compressed would be smaller than Wales! In terms of cultural identity, the South Pacific Islands are split into three regions: Polynesia, lying in the west and including Samoa, Cook Islands and Tahiti but also extending north to Hawaii and south to New Zealand; Melanesia, in the east and including Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands; and Micronesia in the north-west and including Kiribati, Guam and the Federated States of Micronesia.
The Polynesia Islands, South Pacific
The Polynesia Islands cover the largest expanse of ocean in the South Pacific. These remote islands were colonised by a great sea-faring race that migrated from south-east Asia around around the time of Christ, before which they remained untainted by human civilisation. Polynesia Islands Travel Guide
Polynesia is a very romantic destination to visit with scattered islands, plenty of coral islands and atolls as well as large volcanic islands that have either been eroded over time giving them a rugged appearance or are still in the making - literally. Apart from New Zealand and Hawaii, which are both mega tourist destinations and generally regarded as not being within the South Pacific holiday market, French Polynesia (better known simply as Tahiti after its largest island) is the most famous destination being the star performer in the film classic Mutiny on the Bounty (although the actual mutiny took place in Tonga). Being a French colony, it is graced with wealth and boasts some the worlds most glamorous resorts with much of the accommodation being in overwater bungalows. It is also home to Bora Bora made famous in James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific. Other famous authors to have written about Polynesia include Somerset Maugham (Rainmaker - American Samoa) and Robert Louis Stevenson who lived and died in Samoa. Paul Gauguin, famous French artist, lived and died in The Marquesas.
Of the holiday destinations, the Cook Islands is the most popular Polynesian island to visit amongst New Zealanders and Australians and has several beautiful beach resort areas on Rarotonga plus the beautiful atoll of Aitutaki which rivals Bora Bora in its beauty. Samoa offers a rich Polynesian culture and is probably the most intact of the larger destinations making this a good spot for adventure; whilst Tonga is renowned for its archaeological sites and for the humpback whales which visit in great numbers from May to October each year - Tonga and Niue are two of only three countries in the world where you can swim with these massive mammals.
Polynesia is also home to some tiny island nations: The northern Cook atolls are seldom visited other than by the occasional government official from Rarotonga. Tahiti has three island groups that tourists seldom venture to with the Gambier and Astral islands occasionally visited by passing yachties. Niue is the smallest nation in the world whilst Tuvalu, virtually flat and with its highest point being just 5 metres high, is rapidly succumbing to sea level rise. Tokelau, a tiny atoll and dependency of Samoa, is virtually unknown; whilst Rotuma, north of Fiji, even though larger, is even less well known. Add to these the two mountainous islands of Wallis & Futuna and if you regard yourself as an explorer, then these are some exceptional islands to add to your bucket list. History of the Polynesian Islands
These Polynesian people sailed from island to island in an easterly direction from the Philippines, through the Melanesian islands of Solomons, Vanuatu and Fiji and colonising Tonga, Samoa and Niue. Over time and on reaching the Cook Islands they migrated south to New Zealand and from The Marquesas, north to Hawaii - the last island eventually settled by the human race was Easter Island a mere 800 years ago.
Polynesians have retained this great affiliation with the sea - the majority of the population live in coastal areas and use wooden outrigger canoes for fishing the abundant lagoons they are surrounded by. A strong relationship remained between the islands and its people, with both war and trade being common. Tonga established itself as the champion rulers of Polynesia and the only island nation never to have been colonised by either another Polynesian island or the European settlers that arrived with the turn of the 17th Century.
Polynesian language is closely related with many common words. The people are generally large in size with the Tongans being amongst the heaviest of all humans - their skin is light brown in colour being much fairer than Melanesians and their hair worn long. Polynesians also wear body tattoos, sometimes covering the entire body, and it is from this region that the tattoo originated.
Fiji Islands
Located in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is made up of over 300 tropical islands and attracts over 300,000 Australian tourists annually to its multitude of beach resorts. Fiji caters for families, bridal parties, honeymooners, couples and singles just looking for a relaxing getaway! Active sports such as white water rafting, kayaking, golf, scuba diving and snorkelling are popular.
Get a taste of Fiji with our snapshot of ten islands which might take your fancy in Fiji. But if none of those appeal, never fear, there are three hundred more Fijian islands to choose from when you’re planning to travel to Fiji. Consider the following or browse our enormous range of Fiji hotels to get some more ideas:
Denarau Island
Fiji’s new five star island, featuring several major international chain hotels, offers quintessential Fijian luxury with beach front rooms and five huge swimming pools to relax with your family and friends. Add to that kids clubs, plunge pools and wonderful views out to the volcanic islands and you have the ultimate luxury holiday.
Viti Levu
Flights to Fiji arrive at Nadi on the west coast of Vitu Levu. The beaches may not be quite as impressive but it's here that you'll catch a taste of real Fijian life. Go there to enjoy great local restaurants, nightlife and the dramatic highlands in the Fijian island’s interior.
The Mamanucas
If you are looking for the place where all the postcard pictures of Fiji come from, the popular Mamanucas, featuring islands such as Malolo Island, Castaway Island and Treasure Island, are the place to go. Heaving with hotels, dive operators and thousands of tourists, a quiet getaway it is not, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find the perfect fantasy island holiday. Sonaisali Island resort, Plantation Island resort and Matamanoa Island resort are just some of the luxury resorts perfect for a Fiji wedding or a holiday with kids.
Yasawa Islands
Free from internet, banks, roads and cruise ships, the pristine archipelago of the Yasawa Islands in the west of Fiji is for some, the ultimate escape. With access via catamaran only from Nadi, it’s popular with backpackers and luxury travellers for its natural untouched beauty. One of Yasawa Islands is Turtle Island. The private island only accommodates 14 couples and has some of the most breathtaking panoramic views all from the comfort of your luxurious Fijian villa.
Ovalau & the Lomaiviti Group
Discover Fiji’s rich colonial past in the Lomaiviti islands. With Unesco World Heritage Site at Levuka and plenty of local villages, you’ll get a real taste of Fijian life.
Vanua Levu
With the soft corals offshore and the Wasali Nature Reserve within its bounds, Fiji’s second largest island is popular with divers and adventure lovers. The Vanua Levu Island is home to the uber-luxury resorts Namale Resort & Spa and Jean Michel Cousteau Resort near the town of Savusavu.
Diving in Fiji
Diving is almost mandatory in Fiji where over 300 islands are on offer. Check out some of the best spots:
Taveuni
Situated within the Vanua Levu group of Fiji islands and known as “the soft coral capital of the world”, Taveuni is a place of big reef fish and incredibly colourful soft corals. It is home to the highly rated sites of ‘Rainbow Reef’ and the famous ‘Great White Wall’.
Bligh Water
The ultimate live-aboard diving experience, Bligh Water lays claim to be Fiji’s best world class dive destination. Surrounded by the picturesque islands of Koro, Wakaya and Namena in the Koro Sea, Bligh waters is a treasure trove of tropical ocean life.
Kadavu Island Kadavu Island is the best place to experience true Fijian culture without compromising good diving. Renowned for the famous ‘Astrolobe Reef’, you'll find mantas playing over vast fields of pristine hard corals. It's easily the best diving in southern Fiji.
Viti Levu If you are looking for a shark feeding dive then Viti Levu is the place to go. Experienced divers and thrill seekers head to these dive sites which are the easiest to access when you arrive in Fiji’s main land.
Beqa Lagoon Close to Fiji’s main island Nadi, Beqa Lagoon offers a convenient diving resort with a good variety of marine life. It's popular for less experienced divers and those with only a little time on their hands.
Getting around Fiji
Flights to Fiji arrive at Nadi International Airport, after which you will need to transfer to your hotel or island if you are leaving the mainland.
You can fly to the larger Fiji islands like Vanua Levu, otherwise you will have to book a boat, such as the catamaran transfer we offer to Denarau. On the smaller Fiji islands such as Kadavu, the only transport available is on local boats or resort owned catamarans.
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the so-called "Fijian winter" or "dry season", from May to October. This time of year is more pleasant with lower rainfall and humidity, milder temperatures. Consequently these six months make up the high season, when airfare and accommodation costs are at their highest. Expect costs to peak in June and July.
Visa Requirements
Australian ordinary passport holders travelling for tourist purposes will usually be granted an entry visa on arrival at any designated point of entry into Fiji for a maximum period of 4 months. An extension of two months can be granted on application for a fee. Passports are recommended to be valid for at least six months from the expected date of departure from Fiji. Further conditions apply to those under 18 years of age. Travellers should also be able to show documentary evidence confirming their ability to financially maintain themselves for the duration of stay in Fiji, as well as return/onward airline tickets and entry documents for their next destination. For further information and to confirm that you are eligible to travel to Fiji without a visa, travellers are recommended to contact a Fijian mission on the details below.
The Cook Islands
Described as a little slice of heaven on earth, the Cook Islands consists of around 50 small islands and offers tourists a largely undeveloped and unspoilt environment for pure relaxation.
Silica white beaches, crystalline seas and clear blue skies attract travellers who are looking for a peaceful sanctuary where sunbathing and swimming are the order of the day.
Visa Requirements
There is no entry visa requirement for Australians travelling to the Cook Islands for vacation purposes. Australian passport holders are required to have a current passport with no less than 6 months validity and a return air ticket.
The Kingdom of Tonga
The Kingdom of Tonga has never been colonised by a European power and is still, to this day, ruled by one of the last few remaining absolute monarchies anywhere in the world. A unique island culture, Tonga’s friendly people are unlike any other. There are many sights and activities related to Tongan culture, including sacred tombs, dancing displays and craft workshops. Tonga is a perfect holiday destination for nature lovers. Humpback whales migrate here to spend six months of every year resting, mating and giving birth in the protected bays, and you can take a trip to watch and hear them sing. You can also enjoy surfing and swimming in the clear blue ocean.
Whatever you do, relax into the Tongan pace of life – with the maximum road speed of 40km per hour, the pace is slow, very slow and patience is required!! Tonga is as much about exploring as it is relaxing on a beach, and you will soon take on the attitude of ‘go with the flow’. The locals are warm, friendly and helpful.
Tonga consists of 3 main island groups:
1. Tongatapu which is the main island where the capital, Nuku’alofa, is located. This island boasts rich archaeological sites and sightseeing tours and although has the majority of the country's accommodation, this still amounts to only a handful of beach resorts. The tiny offshore coral islands within Tongatapu Lagoon have a couple of beautiful boutique resorts ideal for beach holidays and offer excellent snorkelling and day cruises to visit other uninhabited island with exquisite beaches.
2. the Ha’apai Group – a scattering of 50 small islands, many of which are completely uninhabited; and,
3. the Vava’u Islands are located furthest to the north and reputedly the best place in the South Pacific to witness the migration of humpback whales. Both the Ha’apai Group and Vava’u Islands are accessible from Tongatapu by air.
Apart from excellent snorkelling, Tonga boasts world class sailing and game fishing amongst the many activities available to tourists.
Visa Requirements
A visa is required for Australian citizens to visit Tonga. Visa can be obtained on arrival and are valid for 31 days.
Source: The Village Travel
Samoa
Samoa was the area renowned author, Robert Louis Stevenson, chose to retire to. It is scenically the most varied destination within the South Pacific region.
Samoa comprises two separate and independent countries – Samoa and American Samoa. Each island offers a different holiday environment. Unlike its neighbours, Fiji and the Cook Islands, Samoa has basic infrastructure and few tour companies. Banks and shops are few and far between outside the main town of Apia. However, there are excellent golf courses as well as highly regarded surf breaks and fishing spots for avid anglers. The traditional culture of Samoa remains important and Samoan food is unique and delicious.
Source: The Village Travel Samoa Travel Guide
Samoa has a very low GDP with employment scarce and salaries low and for travellers it has become one of the cheapest destinations to visit in the South Pacific with tourism being a major source of income. It's relative underdevelopment and a conservative and traditional observance of both its Polynesian culture and Christianity means this is great destination to meet people and learn the Samoan way of life. Strangely, it is also a place where petty theft is prevalent so be especially careful with your possessions. Upolu is the main population centre in Samoa, a high volcanic island 1,100 sq-km in size with much of its interior covered in tropical forest and its coast dotted with traditional villages.
Mountainous Upolu Island is the main destination for a holiday in Samoa as well as having the largest population making it a great option for exploring the Samoan way of life. The country's capital, Apia , is located on the beach-less north coast and is probably the most picturesque of all the South Seas towns with a lovely harbour setting, great restaurants and a lively night scene. The sprawling town has plenty of historical charm including Robert Louis Stevenson’s old home in the hills, now a museum, and a beautiful waterfront making it a pleasant base for a sightseeing holiday. The south coast of Upolu is a lot more rural with plenty of traditional villages along the coast. There are waterfalls and rain forest hikes to enjoy and plenty of stunning secluded beaches – this is where the beach resorts can be found as well as good snorkelling lagoons and some excellent surfing breaks.
Adjacent Savaii Island is even less developed, with more traditional villages and a scattering of small beach resorts. Savaii is the largest of the Samoan islands with dormant volcanoes and a landscape dominated by its recent volcanic activity. There are some wonderful sites to enjoy including blow-holes, lava tubes and barren but fascinating lava fields. Most tourists stay along the north-west coast in and around Manase Beach which is a 40-minute drive from the wharf at Salelologa. The majority of tourists catch the regular passenger ferry between Upolu and Savaii which takes 1-hr 30mins. By contrast, American Samoa has lost its traditional identity and adopted the American way of life. Despite this cultural loss, the rich tropical rainforests have been thoughtfully preserved under the guidance of the National Parks system although tourism remains almost non-existent with hotels aimed mostly at business travellers. Instead, the country earns a high income source from its US army bases and Asian dominated tuna factories. Five Interesting Things to Know about the Samoa Islands
1) Samoa changed its road rules in 2009 (Samoa cars now drive on the left side of the road) and also changed its time zone in 2012 to coincide with Australia and New Zealand - it now lies 12 hours ahead of GMT
2) Over half of American Samoa is protected by National Parks to preserve the tropical rainforest - but there are few walking trails and even fewer tourists visiting the islands.
3) Each evening, around 6pm, all Samoan villages place a curfew on movement whilst prayer serviced take place - you can't walk about or even drive a car through a village, even if it is on the main road!
4) Talofa is the common greeting and will be offered in passing on the streets, fa is goodbye
5) If asking a local for directions, be careful: yes may mean no, left can mean right and south is probably north
English is spoken fluently at all resorts although in the villages many people are reluctant to converse in English, which is often broken. The weather is warm and balmy year round with temperatures seldom falling below 25 degrees Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit.
Vanuatu
Vanuatu’s colonial name was the New Hebrides – although what these sunny Pacific islands have to do with the original Scottish Hebrides is anyone’s guess. Vanuatu is a particularly popular short-haul destination for Kiwis, but families, couples and honeymooners of all nationalities will enjoy these wonderful islands. For those who want to get away from screaming kids, for whatever reason, then there are a number of child-free hotels. The Vanuatu people are particularly friendly and love visitors, although their own cultural values remain very important in rural areas. Vanuatu shares much of the same cuisine as other island nations in the region, but is particularly noted for its meat – the local steaks are highly recommended.
New Caledonia
New Caledonia is a perfect blend of Gallic and Pacific. You can combine trips to the elegant shopping districts and fine dining restaurants with sunbathing on pristine white sands. Perfect for honeymooners – who can resist the combination of French romance on a beautiful island paradise – New Caledonia is also a prime destination to enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving. But anyone will enjoy the beaches and food, and if you’re in search of solitude you can sail off to some of the remoter islands. Try learning a little bit of French before you go to enjoy this fantastic destination to its fullest potential.
New Caledonia Islands Travel Guide
New Caledonia is a French Territory lying between Fiji and Australia with one large island (Grand Terre is the largest of the South Pacific nation islands), and four small islands. New Caledonia is not the most popular South Pacific destination to visit unless you're French speaking, but its unique appeals are slowly gathering popularity amongst Australian and New Zealand holiday-makers. With direct flights from Brisbane and Sydney on Air Calin / Qantas, the later on a daily basis, and a handful of weekly flights from Auckland on Air Calin / Air New Zealand, New Caledonia makes a great beach escape with a splash of the Mediterranean lifestyle. The weather is warm and balmy - year round temperatures seldom falling below 22 degrees Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit.
Noumea is where most tourists stay, or at least spend a few days wining and dining, and strolling along the beach promenade taking in the sunshine. The Isle of Pines, a 20-minute flight from Noumea, offers fabulous beaches and a holiday atmosphere, whilst the Loyalty Islands offers a splash of adventure and throwing in some of the South Pacific's most beautiful beaches along the way. New Caledonia Travel Guide
The capital of Noumea has the majority of the country's large hotels, most notably around the beaches of Anse Vata. The main island of Grand Terre has rather limited accommodation with just a handful of small beach resorts mostly in the northern half of the island and several mountain retreats quite close to the international airport, as well as town hotels and pensions aimed at the local business market. The second most popular island to visit is isle of Pines where you'll find a handful of small beach resorts as well as more affordable guesthouses. The Loyalty Islands has more limited accommodation with locally owned tribal accommodation being popular with backpackers and adventurous travellers. Grand Terre / Noumea Town
The main island of New Caledonia is Grand Terre, a huge island with high mountains and Nickel mines down its spine. With remote tribal villages on the east coast and dry farmland on the west coast, Grand Terre is an island of vast spaces. Apart from the beautiful capital of Noumea, it is too devoid of interesting sights to make it a worthwhile holiday destination for overseas tourists although there are great scuba diving reefs to explore for those on a diving holiday. Noumea, on the other hand, is sophisticated and exciting with great restaurants and casinos, boutique shops and plenty of hotels, most notably along the beach suburbs of Anse Vata. Offshore are a collection of beautiful coral islands that make for a fun day out snorkelling the lagoons, spotting dolphins, game-fishing for marlin and wahoo and visiting uninhabited islands for a BBQ lunch.
Isle of Pines
The Isle of Pines is where to go to get away from the hustle and bustle of Noumea life and to soak up the sun on a beautiful sandy beach. With less than a dozen resorts, accommodation choice is limited but there's enough for most types of holiday-makers and there's a good choice of tours and decent snorkelling lagoons to keep the active busy. The Loyalty Islands
Few overseas travellers make it out to The Loyalty Islands which is a shame because here you'll get a true sense of the South pacific with friendly locals, tribal villages and glorious white sand beaches. A lack of accommodation and tourist infrastructure and unreliable flights are its main drawback for tourists, although those with a sense of adventure will find this to be a truly romantic destinations.
Five Interesting Things to Know about New Caledonia
1) A barrier reef surrounding the main island of Grand Terre is the second largest in the world with six sites covering almost 15,000 km2 protected as a UNESCO World Heritage of Humanity site. 2) The traditional people of New Caledonia are Melanesians and follow the kanak tribal culture.
3) The Loyalty Islands have the regions best beaches but only a handful of places to stay.
4) Locals refer to Grande Terre as "Le Caillou" or the rock
5) New Caledonia has one quarter of the world's Nickel and is the largest producer of the metal with mining towns in the north of Grand Terre.
New Caledonia Travel Facts
French in the national language in New Caledonia and English is spoken only by a few people, although most in the tourism industry have practical knowledge. The weather is warm and balmy - year round temperatures seldom falling below 22 degrees Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit. The country is free from malaria, yellow fever and most other diseases endemic in tropical countries. Mosquitoes are present and can be annoying during the wetter months (Dec to April). Water is safe to drink. Electricity is 220 AC voltage as per France and uses to round pin plugs as found in Europe. The currency is the Central Pacific Franc (CFP) which is fixed to the Euro - most resorts set room rates in Euros and this is the currency we have used for all quotations.
French Polynesia
French Polynesia is one of the best known destinations of the South Pacific, partly because of the alluring tale of Mutiny of the Bounty and the exotic paintings of Paul Gauguin. With its palm trees, crystal waters, volcanoes and lush forests, all your South Sea fantasies are made real. You can visit here on a cruise, but French Polynesia is best experienced on a longer visit, where you have time to relax and enjoy the amazing sights and stay in an overwater bungalow. The destination is famous for luxury and is one of the most desirable places in the world for honeymoons. The food is great too – thanks to the French influence, you can enjoy fine wines and European cuisine with a local flavour, although you should try the barbecued sucking pig at indigenous-style buffets.
The French Polynesia islands are one of several island nations in the South Pacific under French administration and known as an overseas collectivity. Although the national language is French, basic English is spoken by many hotel staff to help you get by. The islands are more commonly known as Tahiti named after the largest island and main population centre. The weather is warm and balmy - year round temperatures seldom falling below 22° Celsius. December to April are very humid being the wetter summer months. June to October are cooler and the most popular months to visit especially during August when French nationals have their long summer holidays. French Polynesia Travel Guide
French Polynesia is a vast collection of islands in the south-west Pacific split into five distinct arcipelago's. The Society Islands is the most populated of these archipelago's and consists of Tahiti Island, Moorea and Bora Bora. Tahiti Island is the main centre and population base with popular holiday destination Moorea lying just off its west coast. the famous and stunning lagoon island of Bora Bora lagoon is les than an hour flight to the north west. More than 80 per cent of tourism is based between these three islands. Of the other archipelagos. the Tuamotu Group is popular as a scuba diving destination and the Marquesas for adventure travel. Tahiti Island
Tahiti Island is the main island of French Polynesia with bustling Papeete Town and Faa'a International Airport on the west coast. Tahiti features beautiful mountains and tropical rainforests, with several unusual black sand beaches and world class surfing breaks. The island makes a convenient stop before moving on to other islands. Moorea Island
Moorea is a 10-minute hop from Tahiti and has a laid back holiday atmosphere. There are several nice beaches, great shark dives and fantastic sightseeing including the famed beauty of Cooks Bay, plus plenty of affordable accommodation making it a popular spot with families. Bora Bora
Bora Bora lagoon is famous around the world as being one of the most beautiful islands in the South Pacific. The island is truly stunning with picturesque high mountains falling dramatically into a protected turquoise lagoon which are littered with stunning luxury overwater bungalows and is one of the most popular romantic holiday destinations in the South Pacific. The lagoon is also one of the best spots for snorkelling and scuba diving with lots of reef fish, small sharks and manta rays.
Other Society Islands
The other Society Islands of Huahine, Raiatea, Tahaa and Maupiti are less frequently visited by tourists although there are several small luxury resorts and guesthouse style pensions scattered around the islands. The lifestyle in the outer islands is more Polynesian in nature although getting around can be both timely and costly.
Outer Islands - The Marquesas & Tuamotu Group
The most visited of the outer islands is the Tuamotu Group consisting of over 75 atolls to the east of Tahiti with some world class scuba diving sites, though generally for more advanced divers. Most dive sites are around the fast flowing passages of the huge atolls where colourful reef fish and pelagics, especially sharks, can be found in abundance. The remote and very traditional Marquesas lie a 2hr flight to the north of Tahiti and here is remote wilderness, a rich Polynesian culture and some breathtaking sightseeing.
Five Interesting Things to Know about French Polynesia
1) Tahitians are famous for their exotic dance performances and high tempo drum beatings. 2) French post-impressionist artist Paul Gauguin lived between Tahiti and The Marquesas for most of his later life where he painted the exotic Tahitian people in their daily surroundings.
3) Bora Bora is regularly named as the most exotic honeymoon destination in the world.
4) Full body tattoos, often including the face, are still worn by some Tahitians
5) More than 30 resorts in French Polynesia offer overwater bungalows, and with an average of 60 overwater bungalows per resort, that's a lot of options you have.
Tahiti Travel Facts
Getting around is very easy with an excellent domestic airline network operated by Air Tahiti but unfortunately it is also very expensive. There is a good passenger ferry connecting Papeete and Moorea which takes just an hour and departs several times a day. A passenger ferry also visits the outer islands including Bora Bora, but times can be prohibitive and seas sometimes rough - for example, the ferry takes 18hrs to reach Bora Bora from Papeete.
French Polynesia is free from malaria, yellow fever and most other diseases endemic in tropical countries. Mosquitoes are present and can be annoying during the wetter months (Dec to April). Water is safe to drink.
Electricity is 220 AC voltage as per France and uses to round pin plugs as found in Europe. The currency is the Central Pacific Franc (CFP) which is fixed to the Euro - most resorts set room rates in Euros and this is the currency we have used for all quotations.
Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands, with their ancient Melanesian culture, are a beautiful and otherworldly place to visit. Now relatively peaceful, the islands have a turbulent history of slaving, cannibalism, war and ethnic tension. But, you’d hardly guess this when canoeing on placid rivers which wind their way through verdant jungles, swimming with dolphins, enjoying the beautiful and unique atolls, or snorkelling or diving to see the enormous range of fish and other sea life that dwell beneath the blue waves. Those with an interest in botany will particularly enjoy the spectacular range of orchids, while you can also visit active volcanoes.
Niue Island
The South Sea Islands are all relaxing destinations, but tiny Niue must be the ultimate place to turn up and chill out. There are no touristy developments, just a few hotels and guest-houses, and the locals want to keep it that way. There are fewer than 100 hotel rooms in total, so your chance of being caught up in a crush of fellow visitors is incredibly remote – in fact, you’re unlikely to even have to share a swimming cove or a whale. if you're lucky enough to swim with one - Niue is one of only three places in the world you can do this.
Niue Island Holidays & Hotels Guide
The world's smallest independent nation, Niue, is a raised coral atoll island in the middle of the vast South Pacific Ocean. Holiday-makers arrive mostly from New Zealand, stay a week or two ... literally ... as there's only a weekly flight ... and leave with fond quirky memories and a relaxed air about them.
Don't search for beaches … there aren't any. The most raved about experience is its large number of limestone caves close to the coast which you can explore on foot or by snorkelling or diving. This middle-of-the-ocean getaway is a dream vacation spot for divers, cavers, explorers, and adventurers. It is also one of only three places in the world where you can get in the water and swim with humpback whales which visit from May to October each year on their annual migration.
Niue Holidays Overview
This remote little island is just 260 km² and is often referred to as the "Rock of Polynesia", "the Rock" for short by the inhabitants and is found 2,400 km northeast of New Zealand in a triangle between the Samoan Islands to the northwest, Tonga to the south-west, and the Cook Islands to the southeast. All Niueans are citizens of New Zealand, and the 14 tidy, colourful villages house Niue's less than 1500 residents. A coral reef surrounds the island, broken only on the central western coast, near the capital city of Alofi.
With the limestone eliminating all sediment, visibility is as much as 80 metres, and Niue is almost universally ranked as one of the very best dive spots in the world! Snorkellers, swimmers, and divers can all explore caves, chasms, and caverns surrounded by the local marine life. There are hundreds of these, some still being formed by the sea, so the odds are it will just be you and the sea. Some of the more hidden chasms were the exclusive spots for ancient royals, others have never even been explored; there are very few spots left on earth where you can say you were the first to see it.
Every year from mid-summer to mid-fall schools of Humpback whales swim into the waters surrounding Niue to calve and nurse their young. They play so close to shore, sometimes as little as 50 metres out, you might be awakened by them slapping the seas with their massive dorsal fits. Niue is one of only three places in the world where you can get in the water and swim with these gentle giants, but remember to respect their waters and keep watch at a distance. You can also spot good-size pods of spinner dolphins, permanent residents of Niue; the dolphins roam wherever they like, but they're creatures of habit so have a little patience and you should be swimming with them in no time. The sea gets very deep quite close to shore, so you can actually deep-sea fish from the cliffs if you want to, or try it the ancient traditional way from a canoe. Skipjack, Yellow fin Tuna, red Bass, Mahi-mahi, Wahoo, and black, striped, and blue marlin are among the catch you can expect to reel in.
Looking for adventure without getting wet? You can walk/hike all over the island and never get lost. All tracks are well marked with signposts and information, and each has a surprise for you at the end – could be a coral pinnacle, an amazing cave to explore, or a tropical rain forest. Whatever it is, you can be sure it looks so perfect you'll think you're in a movie set … but it's all natural and all Niue. Niue Hotels
Don't be fooled by the traditions and unspoilt beauty of this island, there is a 9-hole golf course, and a wide selection of accommodations, to suit every budget and taste. From an excellent full-service resort-like hotel to quaint cottage units, guest houses to camping options for you backpackers, you will find a place to stay that will suit your needs. Some accommodations have swimming pools, many have air conditioning, and all are charming and tidy. Niue Travel Information
There is one airport on Niue, the Niue International Airport located south of the capital city of Alofi. It is serviced by Air New Zealand (only), flying to Niue once each week from Auckland. You can hire a car, bicycle, motorbike, or a minibus from one of the four island rental agents.
The South Pacific Islands - Melanesia, Polynesia & Micronesia
The South Pacific islands are scattered in a huge ocean larger than all the other oceans put together but its landmasses are tiny. The region comprises of around 30 island nations, some mere dots on the atlas. The largest island nation is Papua New Guinea (PNG) followed by New Zealand which are both quite considerable land-masses, but it's then followed by Fiji whose collective islands compressed would be smaller than Wales! In terms of cultural identity, the South Pacific Islands are split into three regions: Polynesia, lying in the west and including Samoa, Cook Islands and Tahiti but also extending north to Hawaii and south to New Zealand; Melanesia, in the east and including Fiji, Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands; and Micronesia in the north-west and including Kiribati, Guam and the Federated States of Micronesia.
The Polynesia Islands, South Pacific
The Polynesia Islands cover the largest expanse of ocean in the South Pacific. These remote islands were colonised by a great sea-faring race that migrated from south-east Asia around around the time of Christ, before which they remained untainted by human civilisation. Polynesia Islands Travel Guide
Polynesia is a very romantic destination to visit with scattered islands, plenty of coral islands and atolls as well as large volcanic islands that have either been eroded over time giving them a rugged appearance or are still in the making - literally. Apart from New Zealand and Hawaii, which are both mega tourist destinations and generally regarded as not being within the South Pacific holiday market, French Polynesia (better known simply as Tahiti after its largest island) is the most famous destination being the star performer in the film classic Mutiny on the Bounty (although the actual mutiny took place in Tonga). Being a French colony, it is graced with wealth and boasts some the worlds most glamorous resorts with much of the accommodation being in overwater bungalows. It is also home to Bora Bora made famous in James Michener's Tales of the South Pacific. Other famous authors to have written about Polynesia include Somerset Maugham (Rainmaker - American Samoa) and Robert Louis Stevenson who lived and died in Samoa. Paul Gauguin, famous French artist, lived and died in The Marquesas.
Of the holiday destinations, the Cook Islands is the most popular Polynesian island to visit amongst New Zealanders and Australians and has several beautiful beach resort areas on Rarotonga plus the beautiful atoll of Aitutaki which rivals Bora Bora in its beauty. Samoa offers a rich Polynesian culture and is probably the most intact of the larger destinations making this a good spot for adventure; whilst Tonga is renowned for its archaeological sites and for the humpback whales which visit in great numbers from May to October each year - Tonga and Niue are two of only three countries in the world where you can swim with these massive mammals.
Polynesia is also home to some tiny island nations: The northern Cook atolls are seldom visited other than by the occasional government official from Rarotonga. Tahiti has three island groups that tourists seldom venture to with the Gambier and Astral islands occasionally visited by passing yachties. Niue is the smallest nation in the world whilst Tuvalu, virtually flat and with its highest point being just 5 metres high, is rapidly succumbing to sea level rise. Tokelau, a tiny atoll and dependency of Samoa, is virtually unknown; whilst Rotuma, north of Fiji, even though larger, is even less well known. Add to these the two mountainous islands of Wallis & Futuna and if you regard yourself as an explorer, then these are some exceptional islands to add to your bucket list. History of the Polynesian Islands
These Polynesian people sailed from island to island in an easterly direction from the Philippines, through the Melanesian islands of Solomons, Vanuatu and Fiji and colonising Tonga, Samoa and Niue. Over time and on reaching the Cook Islands they migrated south to New Zealand and from The Marquesas, north to Hawaii - the last island eventually settled by the human race was Easter Island a mere 800 years ago.
Polynesians have retained this great affiliation with the sea - the majority of the population live in coastal areas and use wooden outrigger canoes for fishing the abundant lagoons they are surrounded by. A strong relationship remained between the islands and its people, with both war and trade being common. Tonga established itself as the champion rulers of Polynesia and the only island nation never to have been colonised by either another Polynesian island or the European settlers that arrived with the turn of the 17th Century.
Polynesian language is closely related with many common words. The people are generally large in size with the Tongans being amongst the heaviest of all humans - their skin is light brown in colour being much fairer than Melanesians and their hair worn long. Polynesians also wear body tattoos, sometimes covering the entire body, and it is from this region that the tattoo originated.