Kadavu Iguana

One of our Matava members of staff saw a local villager wandering by with a couple of Kadavu Iguanas and persuaded him to part with them. We were delighted to release them and snap off a few pics before they disappeared into the foliage...

 

These Iguanas are so well camoflaged, they can literally disappear right in front of your eyes....

Great Place - TripAdvisor

We stayed 5nights at Matava, going home on Nov. 17. I have nothing but praise.

Matava was perfect for us, but do your homework to see if it's for you. If you want blowdryers, boutiques, pools and fancy, skip this. Kadavu is gorgeous, and Matava provided us with everything we needed. The setting is stunning, and our bure felt very private. The showers were nice and warm, good pressure and I had enough water. Food was absolutely amazing. Bed was comfy and a mosquito net was provided.

There was no a/c, but we didn't miss it. The breezes were more than fine to cool us off.

We had an oceanview bure (bulubulu) and it was perfect. I didn't see the inside of a honeymoon bure, but was glad I didn't have to trek up all those steps every time I wanted something, though the views are spectacular from there.

If you're on the fence over which bure to get, please be assured that the oceanview is very nice.

The wonderful folks at Matava take excellent care of you. My brother called them and told them I was celebrating my 50th birthday, and they surprised me with a beautifully decorated birthday cake and singing.

If you've read any other reviews, you know Maggie is an absolute hoot. George is too. All the staff were friendly and helpful. Loved, loved the meke!! (fyi a spa is in the works)

We don't dive, but love to snorkle and kayak. There was tons for us to do, and we had the place to ourselves in the day. We signed up for the adventure package incldg 1 day kayak. Loved all of it!

Waya Island is a very short kayak away, with gorgeous beaches, some of the best snorkeling I have ever done, and privacy.

I could go there every day of my life and be an extremely happy woman! If this is your style, for God's sakes go! Do not miss it!

Great Place - Review of Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort, Kadavu Island, Fiji - TripAdvisor

Once in a lifetime holiday! TripAdvisor

My Husband and I stayed at the Matava November last year and I am counting down the time until we can get back there. I was certified as a scuba diver there and my teacher was brilliant! One on one training - what more could you ask for!

The food was "to die for" and being a foodie didn’t expect such wonderful & new culinary delights!!

Our Hostess with the mostess “Maggie” was so warm, friendly & funny I would go back just to spend another week with her! Love Ya Mags!!.

The Directors Richard, Adrian & Stuart well who could ask for better people to get to know and enjoy such wonderful company with! Bula Guys!!

The accommodation was peaceful and comfortable and all the staff were fantastic! As a first time diver I couldn’t ask for a better place to learn to dive! Can’t wait to see you all again soon!
XOXOXOX JULIE & DAVID XOXOXOX

Review
Review of Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort

Dawn over the Great Astrolabe Barrier Reef

The view from Matava Eco-Adventure Resort if you fancy an early start !

Matava is fully operational after Cyclone TOMAS

Matava - Fiji's Premier Eco Adventure Resort is 100% fully open after the cyclone passed Fiji on Tuesday 16th March 2010

 

KADAVU, FIJI ISLANDS - 17 December 2009 - On Monday 15th March 2010 Fiji was hit by a Category 4 Tropical Cyclone, TC TOMAS. The cyclone passed over the northern islands and well to the East of Kadavu Island.

Although the resort experienced high winds and heavy rain, no damage was done to the resort at all, apart from the loss of some thatch from the corner of the roof of the dive centre.

The guests and staff spent the whole day playing cards, board games and reading books safely in the Main Bure while Maggie served breakfast, lunch and dinner as normal. We even had some divers toughen up and go shore diving in the 'teeth' of the bad weather on Monday and Tuesday and get some great pics of critters on The Critter Junction dive site!

By Tuesday 16th March we were once again fishing, diving and trekking as normal, in glorious sunshine with not even a slight breeze!

The cyclone passed well east of Kadavu and was over in a couple of days of strong winds and grey weather.

Due to flight safety reasons, Pacific Sun did postpone its flights for a couple of days, but have now fully resumed services to Kadavu from Nadi.  All flights to and from Kadavu from Nadi International Airport are currently fully resumed and we have have had clients fly in and out of Kadavu today (Wednesday 18th March 2010).

We appreciate your patience in these matters, and rest assured that we are all fine and 100% fully operational at Matava - Fiji's premier Eco Adventure Resort.

Here is a pic taken by Adrian this morning from the deck of Mango, one of our Honeymoon Bures:


Richard, Adrian, Jeanie, Stuart & The Team @ Matava

Hostels that we find outstanding

A collection of hostels that we find outstanding. Check it out:

Lazy Fish – www.lazyfish.co.nz – New Zealand
The Lazy Fish has been around for a long time now (two decades?) but it still is one of the nicest places you can find. Tucked away in the beautiful Marlborough Sounds it is only reachable by boat and with its love for details is creates a great atmosphere.

Izhcayluma – www.izhcayluma.com – Ecuador
Nestled in the Valley of Longevity this unique place combines it all: rich nature, cosy accommodation, great food and a beautiful pool. You can tell that the owners have set up their dream hostel.

Matava - www.matava.com – Fiji
Few getaways in Fiji can boast secluded splendour combined with the adrenalin rush of adventure like Matava. This place is unique. You can not beat the combination of this eco-oriented far out place and world-class diving at the Great Astrolabe Reef.

Dolphin Bay Divers – www.dolphinbaydivers.com – Fiji
No roads, no cars, no discos, no dress code – this amazing place caught our attention due to its unbelievable setting. You are at the beach and in the jungle at the same time, sharks swimming up right to your tent…The diving is magic!

The Tree House – www.treehouse.co.nz – New Zealand
The tree House is set in a subtropical garden next to a great forest and right at the water of Hokianga Harbour. The owners are chilled people and it is easy to get sucked into this easy lifestyle. It is the place to chill out.

Poc-Na Youth Hostel – no internet site – Mexico
The pirate hangout on Isla Mujeres: Right at the beach it features this unsurpassed Bacardi island feeling. It is basic, not to say rustic, but it certainly is one of the greatest places to meet fellow hard-core travellers.

Cat’s Hostel – www.catshostel.com – Spain
This beautiful hostel in Madrid adds some sophisticated European style and flavour to the international hostelling scene. Cat’s is so stunningly beautiful that you never want to leave – you just need to hang out around the central patio and take it all in. And then you go out and party hard.

Red Lantern House – www.redlanternhouse.com – China
This Chinese courtyard hostel is a great introduction to the country. While not exactly ion Beijing downtown this family-run business preserves the charm of a splendid era. Stuffed with Chinese ornaments you feel like Tintin on a mission…

Arnott’s Lodge – www.arnottslodge.com – Hawaii
Be prepared for some big adventures while on Big Island – the place to stay is Arnott’s Lodge in Hilo (Yes, the owner is one of the cookie guys). Set in a lush tropical garden Arnoot’s provides everything a budget-minded traveller could wish for. They organise outstanding day trips.

NotSoHostel – www.notsohostel.com – USA
Charleston, South Carolina, may not be on the backpacker trail, but it does have an outstanding Hostel. The NotSoHostel provides some Southern architecture and hospitality. The fantastic veranda and porches are especially cosy.

Sell, Buy or Rent a Hostel

Fiji Ecotourism Association

The Fiji Ecotourism Association (FEA) was established 10 years ago but has been non-active at times. There are approximately 60 community managed ecotourism projects to date that include accommodation, tours, National Parks, marine areas, etc, around Fiji.

The association has grown from a conservation driven organisation to now helping regional communities develop ecotourism projects and adding value through environmental education, economic contribution, community resource ownership, etc.

The major activities are marketing and promoting ecotourism programs, encouraging regional involvement, protecting environmentally sensitive areas, assisting human resource training, etc.

The association also works with some NGOs, the ecotourism unit within the Ministry of Tourism, local marine coastal areas and the USP. Future challenges for the association are monitoring current ecotourism projects, encouraging and supporting future projects.

Fiji (MAD) Sport Project - 14 days Adventure Trip - BootsnAll World Adventures

On an Intrepid (MAD) project make A Difference to a Community using the universal language of sport. When booking your trip, choose between rugby, netball, soccer, swimming or tennis coaching and take your passion for the sport to children and adults in schools and clubs at all levels. Based in Lautoka, this 14 day project is extremely rewarding and your knowledge, enthusiasm and skill can make a real difference to hundreds of people who may never have had any sports coaching in their lives. As well as coaching sessions you will also have the opportunity to train with local teams and clubs to improve you own skills and really get involved with the local community. After a hard week?s coaching Fiji you can chill out in the sea or relax on the beach in this beautiful and friendly island archipelago.

Itinerary

Day 1 Nadi/Lautoka

Arrive in Nadi to meet the rest of your group and your leader before transferring to your base in Lautoka, the second largest city in Fiji. Set against a backdrop of sugar cane fields, the town may be relatively big, but it's still laidback.

Day 2 Lautoka

Spend the day exploring Lautoka's sights and getting to know the area. It's a day of rest as well, so you'll have ample time to lounge by the pool and plan your coaching timetable with your leader.

Days 3-13 Coaching

Enjoy the daily routine of coaching as you get to know the local community and your fellow team members. Coaching timetables will depend on what sport you have selected but you will generally conduct 1-2 hour sessions, 3 times a day. Your morning and afternoon sessions will most likely be with school kids but you may find yourself pushing yourself in the evenings with local clubs.

Day 14 Nadi

Celebrate a great two weeks of coaching and new friends made - both in your team and locally. Return to Nadi where the journey comes to an end.

Fiji (MAD) Sport Project - 14 days Adventure Trip - BootsnAll World Adventures

Kayaking - Fiji - Northern Yasawa Islands

Fiji - 8 Days Desert Island Dreaming Begin this spectacular trip with a boat transfer from Lautoka to base in the Blue Lagoon and then paddle a loop among four of the northern Yasawa Islands. Spend two nights as honored guests in a traditional village and then paddle to a secluded uninhabited island to camp for one night. Take in all the highlights – including spectacular sunsets, limestone caves, white sandy beaches surrounded by swaying coconut palms, and snorkel among exquisite coral reefs. A week away in this tropical paradise will seem like two. Overview
Duration		8 Days
Season		May - November
Area		Northern Yasawa Islands
Nearest City		Lautoka
Trip Type		Sea Kayaking
Physical Condition Required		Fair
States/Countries Visited		Yasawa Islands, Fiji
Distance Traveled		10-20km per Day
Minimum Age Limit		14
Paddling Skill Level Required		Beginners to Intermediate
Fully Guided		Yes
Guest Capacity		10-12
Kayaks Supplied		Doubles and Singles
Kayak Brands		Dobbe Doubles, Tasman Twins, Dusky Bay, Quality Kayaks, Dagger, Nimbus
Support Vehicles		Escort Boat on Day 1
Accommodations		Hotel before and after kayaking. Camping while kayaking. Thermarests and tents supplied.
Showers Available		Cold Water, 4 Nights
Layovers		1 Day
Transportation to Start Site		Large Twin Catamaran, Marine Certified
Dining		SSV prides themselves on the presentation, variety and taste of their meals. They use fresh fruit and vegetables, and delight in offering a wholesome menu. If you have special dietary needs, just let SSV know in advance.
About Liquor		BYOB
Additional Activities		Short day walks and snorkeling. Diving can be organized for the last morning of the trip.
Average Price Per Person		$1,675.00 Currency Converter (Rates shown are in US Dollars. Rates and terms are subject to change without notice.)
Additional Rate Info		$1925 AUD: All trip costs are per person in Australian dollars. Note: US cost provided is only a guideline based on current exchange rates. Rate includes all meals, except in Lautoka, twin share accommodations, local boat transfers, village and camping fees. No single surcharge unless specifically requested.
Find Out More		Check Availability | Request Info
Website		www.southernseaventures.com

Itinerary

Day 1: Pre-Trip Briefing - Overnight Hotel
Arrive Nadi. Take a taxi to the Waterfront Hotel (Lautoka). Approximate cost is $30 Fijian. Flight arrivals vary so a briefing will be held at 8:00pm at the bar of the Waterfront Hotel. If your flight arrives after this, please advise flight details so SSV can arrange an alternate time. SSV will issue watertight bags to carry your personal gear during the kayak trip and give a trip briefing for approximately an hour so it is a good idea to eat dinner before. Your guides are preparing for the trip during the day but will leave a phone number at the front desk if you have any problems. Dinner on Day 1 and breakfast the next morning are not included in the trip cost.

Day 2: Boat Transfer & Sea Kayaking
After breakfast the boat transports you approximately 72 kilometers out to Tavewa Island and the Blue Lagoon in the Yasawas. The combination of reefs, close island grouping, and shallow waters create the stunning aqua colors for which this area is famous. Your Fijian hosts will make you comfortable at their island home, providing a dining bure and grassy campsites. After customizing the kayaks and getting acquainted with expedition gear, there will be an instructional paddling session before a short excursion in the lagoon. Watching the sunset from the beach in front of the tents is a great way to end the day followed shortly after with a wholesome tropical dinner.

Day 3: Sea Kayaking
Day trip to nearby Matacawa Levu. Pack a picnic lunch and explore the uninhabited shoreline of the island looking for a good spot to snorkel. If conditions are favorable, you could visit the local school. Return to Tavewa for dinner.

Day 4: Sea Kayaking
Load the expedition craft and weather permitting, paddle 15km to Navotua. With favorable tides, you'll have lunch where fringing reefs run directly off the beach. After rounding the point of Nathula Island, head for the small village of Navotua. The villagers of Navotua are particularly friendly, and the special warmth and reception received in this village has made it SSV's favorite spot. Personal escorts will show you through nearby plantations and the village, where you can observe the making of mats and perhaps the building of a Fijian bure (hut). If the winds are too strong you will only paddle what is comfortable and then transfer to an accompanying boat to cover the remaining distance. This is a long day of paddling so a local boat is used to carry equipment and food.

Day 5: Sea Kayaking
Paddle 6-8km to Sawa-I-Lau and back, a scenic island with sharp limestone peaks and salt water caves that make for fascinating exploring. Round out the day with afternoon entertainment provided by the village and an invitation to join the chief for a social kava party in the evening. (Kava is non-alcoholic drink with mild, numbing effects.)

Day 6: Sea Kayaking
Paddle back to Tavewa, exploring the many inlets and bays of Nathula en route (15km). Time permitting, snorkel off the back of the island. Tonight, enjoy the last island dinner together, listening to the rustling of the coconut palms. Savoring the flavors of the South Pacific is a great time to reflect on the trip and dream about your next adventure!

Day 7: Boat Transfer - Overnight Hotel
An early morning snorkel is the goal - to take advantage of your last day in “paradise”. Then it is time to clean up and load up the transfer boat for the journey back to Lautoka. Arrive in Lautoka late afternoon and accommodations are at the Waterfront Hotel.

Day 8: Departure
Trip concludes. (Breakfast is not included on this day.)

Package Includes

• All Meals Except in Lautoka
• Twin Share Accommodations
• Two Hotel Nights
• Local Boat Transfers
• Village and Camping Fees

Notes

2008 Departure Dates
May 4-11
May 18-25
June 1-8
June 15-22
June 29-July 6
Jul 13-20 Special family departure
July 6-13
July 20-27
August 3-10
August 17-24
August 31-September 7
September 14-21
September 28-October 5
October 12-19

Kayaking - Fiji - Northern Yasawa Islands

Rivers Fiji - Fiji White Water Rafting

The Rivers Fiji management team has been in the whitewater rafting business for more than 25 years and is excited to share their enthusiasm for the exploration of wild rivers in Fiji with you.

Whether you're an experienced whitewater veteran or a complete novice, they have a variety of options to accommodate a range of skill and interest levels. From class I to class IV whitewater, aboard inflatable kayaks and whitewater rafts, explore some of Fiji's most spectacular terrain by floating in relative comfort along two of the country's premier liquid pathways, the Upper Navua Gorge and Wainikoroiluva.

Kayak through lush mangrove forest ... Snorkel incredible coral reefs. Their Beqa Island Sea Kayaking Adventure provides the perfect addition to paradise. Rivers Fiji is committed to sustainable tourism practices and work very closely with neighboring riverside villages. Guides grew up along the rivers they explore and know their environment better than anyone.

The entire staff at Rivers Fiji looks forward to sharing both of these beautiful and unique river journeys with you during your visit to paradise, the Fijian Islands.

Rivers Fiji - Fiji White Water Rafting

Fiji Multi Sport Vacations

Dedicated to the proposition that all vacations are not created equal!
So you have your room with a view. Now what? For Fiji Adventures guests, this is where their real vacation begins. Throw open the door, strap on your most comfy walking shoes, your fanny pack, grab a mask and a snorkel, and explore Fiji from top to bottom, mild to wild, any and every way you like it.

Since 1998 Fiji Adventures has been the specialist for fun and adventure to Fiji. Not content to simply book their guests’ airfare and resort stay, the company began a bold investigation on several of the 330 islands that make up the Fijian archipelago. The result is over 60 innovative and unmatched itineraries you can experience like no other traveler will.

The Fiji Adventures Experience
The “usual and customary” tropical vacation experience entails a lie on the beach, a drink in the hand. A Fiji Adventures experience is always atypical, and unique. While you can “let go” under the gifted hands of traditional bobo massage therapist while listening to the waves break gently on the reefs, your trip will be interspersed with a true exploration into the heart and soul of the islands. With a group of indigenous guides that make each moment a truly memorable one.

Trips include active honeymoons, pure adrenalin adventures, soft adventure, diving, surfing, sailing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, zipping the rainforest canopy, game fishing, even wild boar hunting and shark feeding are available if the mood strikes you. Pre-packaged adventures are for your convenience, but specially created itineraries to fit your personality and dreams is one of Fiji Adventures’ specialties.

FUN Trips for Fun Guests
Fiji Adventures thinks guests say it best …

Every adventure was more than I expected, and just what I needed.
Bernie Freidt, North Dakota

Bula! We had a blast. We definitely loved having such a structured 6 days thanks to Fiji Adventures. Everything went as you planned for us, just wonderful!
Amanda and Jeremy Fowler, California

I just wanted to write and let you know that my friend Hannah and I had an absolutely amazing time in Fiji. Thank you so much for all of your help with the organisation of the trip. The resort was fantastic and all of the tours and sightseeing was amazing. So much so that we both fell in love with place.
Anna Chu, Sydney, Australia

I am back from my vacation and just wanted you and your team to know that I had a fantastic time!! Everything went so smoothly I can hardly believe it. I travel a lot and have been to many places around the world including much of Europe, Mexico and the Caribbean and have never enjoyed a vacation as much as this one. The resort was just incredible!! Fiji is my new favorite vacation spot and I plan to return next year. No doubt about it!
Cheryl Archer, California

It was a trip of a lifetime. I have never had a more thorough experience visiting anywhere.
Chris Bettin, Colorado

Fiji Adventures - Fiji Multi Sport Vacations

Homestay adventures at Fiji Villages

Experience the world's cleanest air, finest beaches and discover why the Fijian's are recognised as the friendliest people on earth - stay with villagers families at their villages for a fraction of the cost of staying at a hotel! Cheap travel are all part of the Fijian Village Homestay experience.

You will have the opportunity to participate in all areas of the Fijian's lives from traditional kava ceremonies to sit down meals, from walks or horse riding to magnificent waterfalls to traditional mat making; you can observe traditional spearfishing in the coral reef or go horse riding on unspoilt beaches. We guarantee that most of the Fiji Holiday offered to you by our villages are not available anywhere else in Fiji. If you have children they will have the time of their lives with the Fijian children eagerly welcoming them into their play. The sense of community that you will experience during your stay will remain with you for ever and we are confident that "once bitten" you will return again to your new family next time you visit Fiji.

Fiji Holidays and independent travel advice to help plan your holiday to this exotic south pacific destination. Fiji Village Homestays offers one of the most unusual but wonderful vacation spots for travellers - from families to honeymooners to single women to couples looking for a wedding with a difference.

You can fly Virgin Blue, Qantas, Virgin Pacific, Air New Zealand, Air Pacific then book your stay with us. You will have the opportunity to participate in all areas of the Fijian's lives from traditional kava ceremonies to sit down meals, from walks or horse riding to magnificent waterfalls to traditional mat making; you can observe traditional spearfishing in the coral reef or go horse riding on unspoilt beaches. We guarantee that most of the traditional activities offered to you by our villages are not available anywhere else in Fiji. If you have children they will have the time of their lives with the Fijian children eagerly welcoming them into their play. The sense of community that you will experience during your stay will remain with you for ever and we are confident that "once bitten" you will return again to your new family next time you visit. lote tuqiri South Pacific Travel, Sunflower Airlines, Astral travel, Fiji Budget travel, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, Kadavu, Viti Levu, Beqa, The Fijians are recognised as the friendliest people on earth - stay with villagers at their villages at cheap backpacker rates or holiday packages instead of of staying at a hotel and discover their unique tribal culture! Consider these village option... Naroro, Naiseuseu, Korovisilou, Malevu. Matacawalevu, Nadrau, where you can enjoy Fijian adventure, kayaking, rafting, Honeymoons, cheap packages, backpackers, back packers,

We offer cheap holiday packages and sights like, Wainikoroilova, Matacawalevu, Malevu, Nadrau, Wainitonuve, river, Wainuta waterfall, Wainuta, travelling, resort, fun stuff, hiking, snorkelling, diving, island hopping, fishing, ativities, kids club. We also offer island hopping, hiking, retreat, resort, crusoes retreat, holiday, tourists, natives, pacific, ocean, accommodation, Vacations, Honeymoons

Our villages provide inexpensive gateways to Frigates Passage - a famous surfing strip off Waidroka Bay; diving and snorkelling at Beqa Island; line fishing and snorkelling off the Coral Coast; the historic Tavuni Hill Fort with a 2,500 year old killing rock; the beautiful beaches of the Yasawa Islands; remote inland adventures and treks acoss Viti Levu as well as much, much more.

Fiji Holidays - Homestay adventures at Fiji Villages:

Reality Fiji

Writer: Caitlin Cherry
For: NZ Sunday Star Times
Date: May 14, 2000

Most of us who travel to Fiji only see the tourist version - we stay at resorts and sit beside the pool drinking coloured cocktails.

Few get a chance to really experience Fijian culture. New Zealander Anthony Norris of Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions, has spent many months working closely with the locals on the remote Fijian island of Kadavu, to ensure the small groups they take kayaking around the island get a chance to experience the real Fiji.

Kadavu has no television, few roads and life is dictated by the tides.

The island is almost entirely surrounded by one of the worlds largest reefs - the Great Astrolabe, which protects the waters around the island from the massive Pacific swells, and makes sea-kayaking a pleasure.

Tamarillo takes groups of up to 12 people for an 7-day trip kayaking around Kadavu and nearby Ono, staying in small, simple resorts and in local villages. I took the trip with 2 Americans, an Australian and three other New Zealanders.

The first two nights were spent on Ono, at a small palm-fringed resort called Jona's Paradise. With a small coral reef right by the shoreline, the snorkelling there is amazing. This is where we had our kayaking training, and got a chance to walk with our Fijian guide Petero to the top of the island to see the lay of the land.

We began our kayaking trip on the third day - hugging the coastline we paddled around the southern coast of Ono, stopping for lunch at a beautiful bay where an old man, called Taito, with lots of stories to tell, lives on his own in the small bure he built himself. The support boat carrying our luggage arrived before us, and lunch was ready when we pulled onto the shore.

In the afternoon we kayaked for another couple of hours to the village of Naqara - all the children from the village were there to welcome us as we pulled in to the shore. Naqara is a very traditional village - which meant we had to change into more modest attire, covering our shoulders and legs.

After a lesson from Petero on village etiquette, we headed into the village meeting house.

Our guides offered the villagers a kava root on our behalf, which was ground up to make a huge bowl of kava - and the ceremony began. The taste of kava can be hard to get used to, but it is fairly rude to refuse it - at least not the first time. The four New Zealanders heartily drank every bowl until our mouths went numb.

We then were called away to another room, where the most incredible feast had been put on for us - prawns, stuffed crabs, fish - it is impossible to describe, except to say it was one of the most delicious meals I have ever eaten.

After dinner we returned to the meeting house for more kava and a Taralala - or dance - to music from three guitars. We all danced until the kava ran out in the early hours of the morning.

After a comfortable night in a bure, a delicious breakfast, and a fond farewell to the people of the village, we headed back around the Ono coastline, stopping for some more incredible snorkelling, another tasty lunch and plenty of strong (real) coffee. We then crossed the channel to Kadavu in the support boat.

We spent the night at another small palm-fringed resort - Alberts Place - and in the morning began the trip around the island of Kadavu.

This day was the highlight of my trip - as we rounded the eastern tip of the island we saw two humpback whales, a mother and her calf, just a few metres from our kayaks.

The view from a kayak is totally unique - you get to see the beautiful coastline, cruise through the mangroves, kayak over incredible coral reefs - I saw a reef shark, two rare sea turtles and more shades of turquoise than I knew existed.

We spent the next night at a resort called Matava - which runs diving expeditions out past the Astrolabe reef - and hires out all the equipment needed. It also has a bar - which was a welcome relief for many of the people on my trip.

The moment we arrived at Matava a marathon session of touch rugby began on the beach with some of the local Fijian lads from the area. This was of course followed by another incredible feast.

In the morning we set off in our kayaks on a day trip to the village of Nacamoto. When we arrived another incredible feast was laid out for us - crabs, prawns, eggplant - again impossible to describe - except to say I was in ecstasy.

All of us stuffed ourselves yet again, so we all keeled over for a nap, before taking a scenic walk, over the hills back to Matava, led by one of the villagers.

It was a chance to see more incredible views of the island and the roaring Pacific swells smashing onto the reef in the distance.

After a dip in a river swimming hole in another village along the way, we returned to Matava for our final night on Kadavu.

The following morning we took a boat trip to Kadavu's one small grass airstrip and flew back to the mainland, and Nadi's Tokatoka Resort.

Now this is the Fiji that I knew before - poolside bar, fancy cocktails, hundreds of middle-aged Australians wearing slacks and polyester summer dresses. But it all just seemed so tacky after the experience of the previous days.

What we experienced on Ono and Kadavu is not something a traveller could not do on their own.

Tamarillo have worked very hard to develop relationships with the locals on the two islands - so that we are welcomed into their homes, and looked after as if we were family.

Sea-kayaking with Tamarillo is an expedition for people with a sense of adventure - who want to really experience ALL that Fiji has to offer.

I would do this trip again in a flash.

Prime paddling

Writer: Sarah Daniell
For: NZ Sunday Star Times
Date: 5 Sept, 2004

I'm sitting cross-legged in a village meeting house and before me, on a woven mat, is a plate of cake and a jug of lemon tea.

" Kana vaka levu, eat plenty," says Iokimi, an old Fijian guy next to me. "We don't like it when tourists come here and just pick at the food.

"It is not so much an invitation to eat, but an order and I'm not going to argue. We are, after all, in Kadavu (kan-da-vu),which comes from two words: Kana, to eat, and davu, to lie down. Eat and lie down. It could be a philosophy for life.

The genteel afternoon tea party seems oddly juxtaposed with this traditional village scene at Waisomo, in Ono Island in Kadavu, Fiji's southernmost island group. But as we discover over the next five days, it is as much a part of the welcome ritual as drinking kava.

The cakes are cooked, like everything here, over fire. Not for these gastronomes the agony of whether to go for fan or conventional bake. And for five days the food is (with the possible exception of the sea slug cooked in coconut cream) magnificent. In fact, Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions, our hosts, could easily change its name toTamarillo Culinary Adventures.

Anthony Norris, a peripatetic New Zealand adventure guide, discovered Kadavu in 1996 while on a reconnaissance for sea kayaking tours. He set up Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions - the only kayaking business in the area - and was later joined by Marina Mantovani of Italy, and Ratu Joseva, a paramount chief in Kadavu.

Tamarillo has been providing adventures for people of all ages and abilities since 1998. On one trip, the eldest guest was 75 years old while the youngest was 3.

Martinis-by-the-McResort-pool it is not. Kadavu is the real deal. This is largely due to the locals' staunch adherence to traditions and culture. Tamarillo has valiantly risen to the occasion with their sympathetically-designed and well-paced tours and Norris, who explored Fiji's other islands before settling on this quintessential paradise, chose well.

Kadavu is surrounded by the Great Astrolabe Reef was named by explorer Dumont d'Urville who sailed by in 1834 in his boat, the Astrolabe.

The reef, the third largest in the world, protects the white-coral beaches (and kayakers) from the pounding Pacific swells, and its biological diversity makes it a top scuba diving and snorkelling destination. There are whales, reef sharks, sea turtles and magnificent coral.

Kadavu has rainforests, spectacular beaches, mangroves, lagoons, islets, waterfalls, and lovely people. There is one airstrip, transport is by boat, there is no electricity (but there are generators) and - joy of joys -very few telephones.

Despite the best efforts of a wildly gusting south-east wind, our 15-seater plane touches down safely at Vunisea, the "capital" of Kadavu. We then clamber into a boat and motor for nearly two hours to Jona's Paradise on Ono Island, where we will stay for two nights.

Our bure (with ensuite) is beachfront and that night, after feasting and drinking vodka with freshly made lemonade, we fall asleep to the perennial lullaby of the waves.
We are in a state of blissful acclimatisation at Jona's Resort, reading, trekking to the top of the island for a panoramic view of the primordial landscape and the sunset, eating and lying down.

We have our first taste of village life at Waisomo, then on day three we head for the water like baby turtles thrown to the elements, alone in the big blue.

Except we're not alone, of course. There are eight in our group plus four Fijian guides - Petero, Ephrami, Qase (pronounced Gus) and Katherine; one New Zealand guide, Jacqui Pryor; plus Norris and Ratu in the support boat, which carries our luggage, fresh coffee and food so that we may eat and lie down.

My kayaking guide is Petero, which is fortunate for me, less so for him. He steers, I set the pace - or so the theory goes. You don't need the Iron Man gene to be able to kayak successfully, but a basic level of fitness is helpful. We stick close to the shore, gliding between rocks and a spectacular frigate bird soars overhead.

The first leg augurs well. We paddle over glittering water in 20 shades of blue and flying fish skid across the bow of my kayak. It's about 40 minutes to our morning tea stop where we have a snorkel. Petero, ever the gentleman, spears a fish for lunch - a ritual he repeats each day, afterwards cooking the fish over fire on the beach.

We lie around on mats and do the Fijian slap dance (whacking mosquitoes) before beginning the next leg of the trip to the beach owned by Taito, a Fijian with tales of omens and butterflies.

Taito lives in nearby Naqara village but frequently retreats to his bachelor pad beach-cave - surely the most romantic piece of beach-side real-estate in the Pacific.

The day Taito met Norris back in 1998 started out as any other day. He awoke, did his chores and caught a fish for lunch. Suddenly, a swarm of butterflies materialised and swooped in, covering his arms and dancing around him. Butterflies symbolise good fortune, says Taito and it was a sign that he would meet someone special that day. So he set two extra places for lunch. As you do.

Meanwhile, Norris, who was on a kayaking recce with a friend when he rounded the west side of Ono, saw the idyllic beach and Taito waving them in. When they landed on the chalky white sand, Taito said, "I've been expecting you." They've have been friends ever since.

That night we are guests at Naqara, where village protocol is observed reverentially. First there are speeches and a gift of kava root is presented from Tamarillo. There is cake, tea, followed by kava (it is polite to accept two cups) and a mind-boggling spread of local delicacies including stuffed land crab, shrimps, fresh fish,eggplant, rice and salad.

We are all tired, but it's a fitful sleep to the sound of what must be a hundred barking dogs, followed by a pre-dawn chorus of crazed roosters. Throughout the night and into the morning I entertain not very pretty fantasies involving slug-guns, sling shots and neck-wringing.

In the morning, the villagers farewell us from the beach and we head off to confront a bitching head wind. The waves have picked up and we engage in a little involuntary surfing. It's fun and certainly challenging, but just when I think I might bail out and holler for the support boat, our next stop appears up ahead. Timing is everything.

Joe Nalewabau owns a beachfront property and 46 acres of tropical gardens and forest called, appropriately, Somewhere Special. His prescient legacy is more like the Garden of Eden.

Nalewabau is a bespectacled, elegant man, who spends 12 to 16 hours a day toiling in the tropical heat of his sanctuary(so much for eating and lying down) and likes to talk philosophy. He proudly shows me his orchards, vegetable gardens, frangipani trees, avocado trees, coconuts and mangoes.

We wash off the salt under a cold outside shower and have lunch before bidding Nalewabau farewell and starting the day's final run. We must have been as fair a sight as any a vessel under sail: six double kayaks rafted up, with sarongs and a tarpaulin to catch the wind. And better still: no paddling required.

Just 40 minutes later, we make Jona's Paradise before crossing the channel to Albert's Place in the support boat.

The food at Albert's is cooked in the traditional lovo which is similar to a hangi. Just when you think the food can't get any better, it does. There is also a magnificent chicken curry, fresh whole fish, vegetables and rice. We drink bizarre Duty Free concoctions and dance and sing before collapsing under our mosquito nets.

We are grateful for a leisurely kayaking pace the next day, but manage a snorkel. Exhaustion and hang-overs give way to a sense of childish wonderment at the "Nemo" land of coral gardens and coloured fish. Afterwards we have stuffed roti and bhuja on the beach before setting sail for Matava Resort.

Matava should be spelt with an "aah" at the end, because on first seeing this place, with its beachfront bures, exotic gardens and sense of relaxed and unpretentious luxury, you can't help but sigh. There are hot showers, a small library, an outside dining room and more importantly, a bar selling cold Fiji Bitter.

The day we arrived, someone caught a yellow fin tuna and that night dinner is sashimi and a smorgasbord. The food at Matava Resort is legendary, as is the maitre d' - Maggie who is elegant, entertaining and hilarious. Our last two nights here are the ideal finale to a fascinating and challenging week.

We've travelled for a week and never once got in a car; there have been no ringing telephones, no newspapers, no six o'clock news. In the summer months in Kadavu, says Petero, the mango trees drip with fruit. It sounds like the perfect time to return, to eat and lie down.

Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions

Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions has been guiding sea-kayaking journeys and study programs around Fiji's Kadavu Island group since 1998.

Kadavu Island offers a remote and unspoiled environment for sea-kayaking, snorkeling, trekking, cultural interaction and learning experiences.

People from all over the world, from 3 to 73 years old, have travelled through these beautiful islands under the friendly and experienced leadership of Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions.

The trips take place in a sparsely-populated region, where a vast barrier reef surrounds an area of lagoons, coral passages, islets, bays, beaches, and rainforest-covered hills.

Here it's possible to see flying-fish, dolphins, turtles, whales (seasonallly), as well as all kinds of tropical and marine birdlife.

As well as sea-kayaking, snorkeling and trekking are important parts of the expeditions. Tamarillo's guides know the best places for all these activities, and are able to take small groups of people to places seldom seen by others.

A range of expeditions is available for groups and individuals. Travelers can book places on scheduled departures (see: 'dates & details' for the full list); groups can book private trips; and student groups can undertake customised study programs.

As well as Fiji sea-kayaking journeys and study programs, Tamarillo Tropical Expeditions offers:
- Italy walking tours;
- New Zealand sea-kayaking and study programs.

Misty Gorillas of Kadavu - New Research

One fact usually overlooked by visitors to Kadavu Island are the rarely seen primates that inhabit the inaccessible jungle covered interior mountains.

The original black & white movie 'King Kong' was filmed on the island's South West shore in the shadow of Mt Delainabukelevu, the island's extinct volcano. A nearby world famous surf break is also named after the movie and surfers from around the world come to surf the left hand reef break - King Kong.

Though never seen near the coast, some villagers with plantations on the upper mountain slopes occasionally see evidence that the gorillas have raided their plantations for fruit.

A new scientific mission has been launched to try to track down and research these secretive animals. Head scientist Dr Jouve binhad and his team of researchers and biologists arrived this week on their research ship and set up their base camp anchored off Matava Resort.We will bring more news if their attempts prove successful.

Misty Gorillas of Kadavu - New Research

One fact usually overlooked by visitors to Kadavu Island are the rarely seen primates that inhabit the inaccessible jungle covered interior mountains.

The original black & white movie 'King Kong' was filmed on the island's South West shore in the shadow of Mt Delainabukelevu, the island's extinct volcano. A nearby world famous surf break is also named after the movie and surfers from around the world come to surf the left hand reef break - King Kong.

Though never seen near the coast, some villagers with plantations on the upper mountain slopes occasionally see evidence that the gorillas have raided their plantations for fruit.

A new scientific mission has been launched to try to track down and research these secretive animals. Head scientist Dr Jouve Binhad and his team of researchers and biologists arrived this week on their research ship and set up their base camp anchored off Matava Resort.We will bring more news if their attempts prove successful.

Fiji Dive, Culture and Conservation Programme

Fiji Dive, Culture and Conservation Programme

This programme is perfectly suited to scuba diving enthusiasts, beginner or qualified, looking to further their skills and use their diving experience to give something back. At the same time, you will learn all about Fijian culture and be able to relax on the numerous beaches that Fiji is renowned for.

The Programme

This 6-week programme is split into 3 main sections – Cultural Experiences, Scuba Diving and Conservation. However, the programme finishes with a few days relaxing on one of Fiji’s most popular beaches, so you have a holiday week too.

Scuba Diving Course
During the first 2 weeks you will receive your scuba diving training, which will enable you to join the conservation programme and partake in the diving at other points during the programme.

Your training will require you to complete 1 scuba course – either the PADI Open Water Course or the Advanced Open Water Course. If you have already completed these qualifications, you have options for other courses or extra dives instead.

Culture Experience
Also during the first 2 weeks, you will stay with a traditional Fijian village and learn all about the way of life of these amazing friendly people. You will spend half of your time on the scuba courses, with the remainder of your time spent with the village people, in a complete cultural immersion programme.

Conservation Project
The project aims to build an MPA (Marine Protected Area) in Savusavu Bay, Vanua Levu Island. A marine protected area is a place where corals, fish and other marine eco-systems are allowed to flourish without risk of being altered or harmed by man. The research you undertake will support the work of the infamous Jean Michelle Cousteau MPA located nearby.

Location

Savusavu, Vanua Levu, Fiji (locations will vary according to schedule). Fiji is a tropical Island Nation situated in the South of the Pacific Ocean.

Accommodation and Meals

During the programme, you will be accommodated in a mixture of different forms of accommodation, from hostels to a private rented house. Please see further information for more details. Rooms will be shared, based on a mixed or single-sex basis (group determines who they wish to share with.)

Most meals are included during the programme, however, please check the full itinerary for further details. During the conservation programme, volunteers will need to purchase their own lunch each day, which can be done on the way to the dive site each morning. You should budget £2 approximately each day for this.

Relaxation week
The final 4 days of the programme are spent relaxing on the Coral Coast at one of the top backpacker resorts. Accommodation is provided, with up to 6 volunteers staying in a dorm-style lodge.

Meals are not provided during these last few days, so you will need to budget about £6 each day.

This programme is perfectly suited to scuba diving enthusiasts, beginner or qualified, looking to further their skills and use their diving experience to give something back. At the same time, you will learn all about Fijian culture and be able to relax on the numerous beaches that Fiji is renowned for.

The Programme
This 6-week programme is split into 3 main sections – Cultural Experiences, Scuba Diving and Conservation. However, the programme finishes with a few days relaxing on one of Fiji’s most popular beaches, so you have a holiday week too.

Scuba Diving Course
During the first 2 weeks you will receive your scuba diving training, which will enable you to join the conservation programme and partake in the diving at other points during the programme.

Your training will require you to complete 1 scuba course – either the PADI Open Water Course or the Advanced Open Water Course. If you have already completed these qualifications, you have options for other courses or extra dives instead.

http://www.realgap.co.uk/Fiji%20Dive,%20Culture%20and%20Conservation%20Programme

Fiji Special from Don

We just couldn't let Don pass us by without highlighting some of his photography work here on Kadvau and Matava, as well as around the world.

"Here are some of the beautiful photos of my trip to Fiji with my diving buddy, Martin. His underwater photography is presented in the underwater section. We were so glad to be in this part of the world and for the chance to meet so many wonderful people."

He was kind enough to send us a hard back photo book for the Main Bure and all the staff to see.

Thanks Don, and we wish you all the best in your new Photo Career!

http://members.iinet.com.au/~don.limbh/index.html

The Team at Matava

“I holidayed at beautiful Matava,

coverd in tress ( as opposed to lava),

I learnt to dive & emerged alive,

And finished the day with Kava”

That all said I've had a wicked holiday here! A massive thank you to evryone for everything, Chris and I had the best time. The food was beautiful, the nature stunning, the laughter salutorious, the service fablulous & welcoming, the atmosphere magical. We have been transmorgrified from uptight city kids to chilled mer-people. We are for Scuba! You are champions. Vinaka you legends!”

Chris & Caitlin,
UK