A small slice of paradise...
For a five-star stay with all the charms of traditional Fiji, look no further than Navutu Stars.
A beautiful boutique resort nestled within the spectacular Yassawa Islands, a maximum of 20 guests stay on this most private of resorts at any one time.
Settle in to your traditional Fijian beach-front Bure - of which there are only nine on the whole island - then prepare to while away the hours on your day bed or hammock, or soak up the sun on your private loungers.
Highlights include the secluded lookout point, offering spectacular views of the sunset across the neighbouring islands, the open-air dining practically on top of the shoreline, and the beachfront bar (talking of which, you simply have to sample Sunia's Special cocktail, named after the delightful barman that created it. Just make no mistake: this is most definitely an après-dinner drink...)
But while the views are quite stunning, and the amenities first class, it's the small touches that really make your stay. Guests are greeted with a Fijian song and coconut drink, a welcome message written in petals across the bed - all followed shortly by a complimentary 30-minute massage to get you into real relaxation mode.
Staff are courteous, friendly and extremely helpful - readily available to assist guests at any given moment, without being over-attentive.
The food was amazing, with a surprisingly extensive menu for such a small resort - plus, the standard breakfast option will without a doubt, be the largest you have ever clapped eyes on (no honestly, it beggars belief!)
The crystal clear sea really does have to be seen to be believed, while if you're not a fan of ocean swimming, there's a seaside saltwater pool to help you cool off.
Granted, the Yassawa flyer boat takes a wee while to get there, stopping off at various other islands en route, but you can bask in the sun on the open deck and spend the time spotting the dolphins that swim alongside the boat.
If you're after a party island with raucous nightlife, then Navutu Stars isn't for you - utterly romantic in every aspect, the private island is really aimed at couples who want to escape from reality for a few days.
Honeymooners in particular could do little better than the tranquil private island, and they even host weddings if you're looking for to tie the knot with a tropical backdrop.
In short, I can't recommend it highly enough. Navutu Stars, vinaka!
Details: Navutu Stars Resort, P.O. Box 1838, Lautoka, Fiji Islands; 00679 6640553, navutustarsfiji.com
Prices for bures start at F$525 (around £170) per couple, per night. Special packages including stay 5 nights, pay for 4, or stay 7 nights, pay for 6, are available during the off-peak season.
