Fabulous Fiji - It feels good to be home!

Bula and Vinaka for joining me while I fondly reminisce about my recent Epic Journey to and through the delightful Fiji Islands. 35 nights in Paradise.

Day 1 -

I was late leaving my house to get to the airport. A 1 hour drive "if" there are no traffic issues, just happens to be one of my favorite drives on Maui. I try not to be late when driving from/to my home/home office, so I can relax and enjoy the panoramic vista of Maui's valley. Rolling hills, dotted with horses, grazing cattle and sheep, Norfolk pines and the stately West Maui Mountains surrounded by the sparkling crystal blue ocean on 3 sides and now, this time of year, much of the upper Haleakala Hwy is lined with the breathtaking purple blossoms of the Jacaranda trees. Leaving home to travel to far off destinations can be bittersweet. I have to pinch myself at the beauty before me. However, once I am on the big plane that will transport me to the Happy Smiley Fiji Isles, the subtle shift in gears begins. My breathing slows and I can feel my insides start to glow with soft remembering, anticipation, and I say my Fiji prayer, "Thank you for bringing me home, to Fiji, where my spirit and Fiji's are kindred in so many ways. Vinaka, Amene"

When I first step foot off the plane, and the fresh air caresses my face, I smell the softness and the exotic fragrance in the air, I know I am home. Those smells swiftly waft to my brain, where all of the wonders of my 50++ past trips to Fiji have been catalogued. YES! I love this first breath of fresh Fiji air. Moving right along, I stop to purchase 2 bottles of Fiji Rum from Duty Free. One bottle is for Panto, who use to be my driver, with Rosie's Tours, while I was "in town" in Nadi. Although Panto has moved on to be the main driver for the Intercontinental Natadola, we are still in contact and I bring him Rum, which he and his wife enjoy sipping together and "relaxing" :) The second bottle is for me to take with me while I travel in Fiji. I have been doing this for nearly 20 years. The older I get the worse the Rum tastes. This may have been the last year for me to hang on to this tradition. Once out of Immigration/Customs, Rosie's Tours is waiting to greet me with a flower garland (Salu Salu), big smiles and to whoosh me off the my first hotel, The Westin Fiji at Denarau Island .

The Westin use to be the Regent Fiji, back in the beginning of time (well, my time traveling to Fiji). The Westin has maintained it's understated elegance (Regent Fiji years) with the use of Fiji dark woods and many artifacts strewn throughout the lobby. The Regent was the first resort I stayed at my first time in Fiji in 1986. The swim up pool bar looks as inviting as ever and the general feel of the resort is lovely. And I do LOVE those Heavenly Beds! Although I did not go to the Spa this time, they have done a super job in creating a unique Spa environment with some excellent treatments. This was a quick stay for me as I was off early in the AM to Castaway Island Resort.

In 1986, I journeyed from the Regent Fiji to Castaway, just like I was planning on this trip. However, today we were driving to Denarau Marina to catch the ferry, Tiger cat 4. In 1986 the boat came right up to beach in front the Regent and picked us up to take us to Castaway. I enjoyed the 1.5 hour ferry ride in the Captains Lounge with A/C. I do enjoy my air conditioning mixed with fresh air :)

I've been to Castaway a few times over the last 20 years. I really like their current upgrades and colors in the Bures, etc. Castaway is small enough to give it the charm that is expected with small boutique resorts in Fiji, and big enough to have plenty to do to keep everyone happy. My Bure was extremely comfortable with great breezes (and Air conditioning as needed), comfy beds, nice views of the gorgeous ocean and beach (I was in an oceanview bure). I was especially impressed with the evening Dining experience and think that Castaway has really upgraded to new levels in the F&B department. I did not have time to indulge in the Spa, but I have heard good things about it and think the garden location offers serenity and privacy.

Overall, in my quick one night "site inspection", Castaway is a fantastic small resort, lovely views of the outer islands (One of them is where Tom Hanks filmed in "Castaway"), great ocean for playing and ocean recreation (including hobie cats), super friendly staff and management (that are a reflection of the owner of the resort), excels at balancing the great family vacation experience and those on a romantic holiday. The only problem is that I was not there long enough to really dig in and truly get to know the resort. I'm sure we will make my next visit to Castaway, a longer stay. On this trip, I was able to enjoy 3 resorts for extended stays. Keep your eyes peeled for JM Cousteau Resort (5 nights) , Taveuni Island Resort (9 nights) and Matagi Island Resort (4 nights).

Next: Mana Island Resort and Spa.

The short boat ride from Castaway to Mana gave me a chance to enjoy the ocean and views of the outer islands in the Mamanuca Island Group. There are lots of stunning reefs in this area and many shades of blues and greens. I love my Maui Jim Polarized sunglasses as it makes this fabulous scenery completely awe inspiring with my sunglasses on. Oh, what would life be without polarized sunglasses? Upon arrival at Mana, I was swooped away to be massaged at their new Spa. I was Wow'd as I entered the Spa area with 4 Spa Thatched Bures (bungalow treatment rooms) in a lily pond setting with gigantic towering trees providing shade. It was a gorgeous setting. My massage was quite good and all of the facilities were new and modern.

Mana's beaches and snorkeling were the best kept secret but the word is getting out. South Beach is on the windward side, so it tends to be a little cooler (because of the wind). The Honeymoon Bures are on this beach. I LOVE the Honeymoon Bures. The evening dining experience at South Beach Restaurant is my favorite. I thoroughly enjoyed the outside deck for the breakfast buffet on North Beach. For walking and snorkeling at high tide, Sunset Beach is incredible. My stay at Mana was only one night so I was not able to relax into the resort and get to know it better. However, I can say that Mana has some excellent values and nicely upgraded rooms, Bures and dining.

NOTE: We have some wonderful exclusive vacation offers to all of these resorts and most resorts/villas in Fiji. IF we can find space! It seems that Fiji is selling out all the way through September, October! Call us, yesterday, 1-800-588-3454 (in Hawaii), or email us at vacation@mccoytravel.com, so you don't miss the boat for your Fiji Vacation. If you are looking at 2010 or early 2011, for Fiji or Tahiti (even Hawaii), don't wait. We have a couple resorts/villas in Fiji that are sold out through March 2011! VISIT US AT http://www.Fiji-Islands.com or McCoyTravel.com

My Epic Journey in Fiji - 35 days

Bula Vinaka!

Now that I am back from my 35 days in Fiji, I've had some time to catch my breath, review my pictures, get a little caught up, and start from the beginning to share with you how incredible my epic journey in Fiji was. Yes, it was mostly a work journey, filled with lots of moving around and connecting with the Staff/Mgmt/Owners of resorts in Fiji. That is, afterall, what I do. But who can argue with the wonderful experiences, really neat people, dining delights (food is SO important), sensational eclectic beauty and overall knowledge that were mine, after 12 resorts, and 35 days? Add 5 more resorts that I sight inspected and I had a pretty busy schedule, overall. It all started with a 2.5 week plan to attend the annual Bula Fiji conference in Nadi, which included a few extra days in Fiji. I REALLY had wanted to be in Fiji longer, but these are busy times, keeping ahead of the economy, and I could not fathom how I could stay any longer. My staff had been to Fiji more than I had over the last 2 years, so we were kept up to date on all things Fiji. Now it was my turn. Little did I know what was to come. I can guarantee you that it was not only good for the company, but GOOD for me, and infused me with the pizzaz that my job requires! I love doing lots of fun activities, relaxing and doing nothing, sampling culinary delights, and watching how other guests are enjoying their stay at the various resorts I am staying at. And, I love taking photos of everything standing still. And if it is NOT standing still, I'll video it :)

The original plan was this........ 1 night Westin Denarau, 1 night Castaway, 1 night Mana, 4 nights Sofitel, 2 nights Namale, 3 nights JM Cousteau, 2 nights Vatulele and 1 night Intercontinental Natadola.

Stand by, as this is the beginning of the beginning, of my 35 days in Fiji. The next post will be about the Westin Fiji, Castaway Island Resort in the Mananuca Islands and Mana Island Resort and Spa, covering my first 3 nights in Fiji. Don't be surprised if you find yourself face to face with a little Coconut Culture poetry, photos, video and other misc meanderings which I am known for. Sota Tale (see you later) Moce (goodbye) Melisha (how they say my name in Fiji)

Oh, and don't forget, we hope to hear from you to plan your next Fiji, Tahiti, Hawaii or other fabulous vacation 1-800-256-4280 (we are here in Hawaii). Http://www.mccoytravel.com

Taveuni Sunset Honeymoon Villa Video

Bula from what feels like heaven in the Fiji Islands! I've been on the island of Taveuni for 9 nights (including tonight). All I can say (and there will be much more to come), is I'm smitten and never want to leave!! Tomorrow I move on to Taveuni Palms for 2 nights and then to Matangi for 4 nights where they are going to lovingly re-introduce me to scuba diving (it's been about 4-5 years since I have been diving). I've been in Fiji for 4 weeks and have been remiss with my reviews and sharing. Don't fret, I'll get around to sharing ALL of it with you SOON. In the last 4 weeks I have been to the following resorts: Castaway, Mana, Sofitel, Westin, 2 nights at Namale, 5 nights at JM Cousteau, 2 nights at the new Intercontinental Fiji at Natadola, 2 nights at Qamea, 9 nights at Taveuni Island Resort. After 4 weeks here in Fiji, I finally bought a wireless Cell card and have been on the go with pretty good access for posting my reviews, etc. Stay tuned if you would like to find out about all of the properties and areas I have visited AND some of the very EXCLUSIVE RATES/values we have for you at many of these incredible resorts. Many resorts ARE selling out in June-October so don't wait to give us a call in Hawaii at 1-800-588-3454 or email vacations@mccoytravel.com. Of course visit our website: http://www.fiji-islands.com. Enjoy my little video below and come back often for more of Fabulous Fiji including my jungle trek and waterfall adventure a few days ago. Vinaka for visiting! Sota Tale (See you later) Melissa

Melissa in Fiji Namale Resort and Spa

Bula from one of my original paradise resorts in Fiji, Namale Resort & Spa. Spanning back to 1991, I have been drawn back to Namale over and over again. More enchanting than ever, we are now able to offer Exclusive savings/amenities. Call us in Hawaii to book your Namale Resort Honeymoon or Vacation 1-800-588-3454 or email vacations@mccoytravel.com.

My next posting with be a more in depth review of Namale. I'm traveling in Fiji now! Watch for reviews on JM Cousteau, Namale, Vatulele, Intercontinental Fiji at Natadola, Qamea, Taveuni Island Resort....

Bora Bora - The Most Romantic Island on Earth -Exclusive 1-800-256-4280

Bora Bora offers the best of luxury, honeymoon experiences and family vacations. Nothing compares with the beauty of the 1,000 shades of blue in the Lagoon surrounding Bora Bora. Whether romancing away in your own overwater bungalow or frolicking on the beach, this MOST romantic island of love, will enchant you beyond belief. I am sharing my own pictures from recent trips, including March 2010. There are 1,000 reasons WHY to visit Bora Bora. The prices have never been better, nor the selection. Four Seasons Bora Bora, St. Regis Bora Bora, Intercontinental Thalasso, Bora Bora Pearl, Bora Bora Nui? Go to http://www.visit-tahiti.com/borabora/ and call us in Hawaii 1-800-256-4280 for Exclusive Platinum VIP offers.

If you are considering the other islands of Tahiti, Hawaii or Fiji, we will assist you in understanding the differences and help you make the right choice to fit your needs.

Trump Waikiki the new "IN" spot, by Melissa McCoy 1-800-256-4280

Aloha and E Komo Mai!

Trump Waikiki on Oahu, Hawaii was beyond expectation. A nice addition of Luxury in almost the heart of Waikiki, the Trump Waikiki is maintaining the Trump tradition of service, pampering, food and beyond. The Residences at Trump start at the Studio level to over the top 3 bedroom 2 story dream suites. I tried out "Trump" a few different ways on my stay there in February. I had to discover what it was like to sip champagne while soaking in the deep bathtub, with an oceanview, from my 1 bedroom suite :) And then I heard that little "room service" voice in my head, refusing to leave me alone until I called and ordered Eggs Benedict and fresh OJ. It's my preferred resort room service breakfast. Often times, when traveling with my best girlfriend Sue, we'll combine the champagne and eggs benedict for breakfast. Since I was traveling Solo and working hard to inspect all aspects of Trump Waikiki, I separated the two experiences. Well, it's difficult to drink champagne while soaking in the bathtub (with an oceanview) and eat eggs benedict!!! Speaking of bathtubs, I love the bathrooms at Trump. Groovy showers, deep tubs (only some units have ocean views from the bathtub), simple but elegant. And, as a bathrobe connoisseur,

I believe that Trump Waikiki has TRUMPED all others in Hawaii. Just so you have some insight about my bathrobe "interests", after the bellman has brought my things to the room, I head straight for the bathroom to see if the bathrobe is snugly, soft, luxurious..... so I know if I have something to look forward to later in the day. I do have one other hotel on Oahu whose's bathrobe might be tied for best. Maybe! At home, I usually wear "logo" bathrobes I have bought at places like Cousteau Fiji, Yasawa Island Resort and Qamea. But when I visit the resorts in Hawaii, I love the snuggle factor, soft to the touch, and good fit to enjoy while lounging in my air conditioned hotel room.

The gourmet kitchen (all units have them) glistened in my eyes with granite counters, Subzero refrigerators (all except the studios) and fantastic gidgets, gadgets and useful items that I might only dream of having in my kitchen at home. Although I only know how to cook a Caesar salad, when I dream about having a gourmet kitchen I also dream that I can cook! :)

There are so many things to talk about, but I'll leave you with 2 very important bits of information. The food at Wai'Olu oceanview bar was fun and frisky (mouthwatering) and the drink menu dazzled my libation gene. I have committed to return on a Friday night, to sample more Liquid Creations at Wai'Olu and watch the Friday Waikiki Fireworks. Last but not least, is how close the beach is to the Trump Waikiki. It's always a question in my mind since I am a sun goddess and I know that many of our clients some to Hawaii to enjoy the beach/sun. Trump provides you with a beach bag, towels and water and then you take a 5 minute walk to the beach where the "beach concession" has lounges/umbrellas for rent at a very very reasonable price. Waikiki Beach is NOT a quiet beach, it's very much about people watching, including surfers, stand up board surfers, hawaiian outrigger canoes, sailing catamarans and more. The ocean is 20 shades of blue, delightful to take a swim in.

I would like to ask you to call us, here in Hawaii, to reserve your Trump Waikiki vacation and let us help you with all of your Hawaii, Tahiti and Fiji travel plans. We have fantastic relationships with all resorts in these 3 destinations and visit many resorts regularly. Call us at 1-800-256-4280 on Maui. Or email your detailed request including your phone # to vacations@mccoytravel.com. Visit our Hawaii website at http://www.AlohaDestinations.com Here is the video tour I made while at the Trump Waikiki. Mahalo for visiting.. Melissa McCoy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Hrv9GLe534

The Fairmont Kealani in Wailea was divine!

As I sit here in my Signature "Kilohana" Suite, watching humpback whales come flying out of the water like giant torpedoes, I am once again in awe at how wonderful a stay at this hotel can be. All the rooms are suites at the Kealani, and I LOVE these suites (Signature) with the extra square footage in the suite, the bigger balconies and more views! I especially love laying in the comfy bed looking out to a perfect Wailea ocean and listening to the sound of the waves on the shore. I have been here for 3 nights with many of my staff and their families for our annual company weekend. We call it our McCoy Travel holiday party, always planned in January after the holiday rush before the winter rush (February - Spring Break). It's a perfect time of the year with cooler nights, less wind, flawless mornings and spectacular sunsets. Oh, and the whales!
We all enjoyed mouth watering dinner at Ko's on Friday night. It is great to have everyone together including the kids. We spent Saturday and Sunday lounging around the pools, swimming and listening to the humpback whales song under water and letting the stress of the last very busy 4 weeks just melt away. On Sunday morning, I rented a kayak and ventured out on the placid ocean hoping for a whale encounter of the close kind :) A mom and baby did come by fairly close to me and it was a thrill. Sea kayaking on sit on top kayaks in the morning hours here is stellar. I had 2 excellent turtle sitings and gave my upper body a good work out (my arms are sore today!).
Last night I enjoyed Nick's Fish Market and met fantastic people at the bar. Nick's is known for creative food and amazing service. It never fails, that I meet the most fun and wonderful people whenever I go in. I order the "original" escargot (it's not on the menu, you have to ask for it by name). Soaked in garlic butter with a pastry puff over the top. Yum Yum (I just got hungry again).
Well, it's time to head to the office. We say, a bad day on Maui is better than a good day anywhere else! Going to work, although we are so very busy these days, is a joy.
In the "old days" they use to say Maui No Ka Oi ( Maui is the best). Now they call Maui the Magical Isle. These both work for me and have for 35 years. From the ocean to the top of Haleakala at 10,000 feet, and everything inbetween, this is a lovely island in a stunning chain of Islands. The Islands of Aloha.