“Proper Fiji, not the Disney version of Denaru”

Wananavu is not the most posh resort that you will find in Fiji, a place synonymous with luxury but it is certainly one of the warmest welcomes that you will find. It oozes charm, character and relaxation and provides excellent value for money. I booked direct for the best deal. We also felt li... more

Wananavu is not the most posh resort that you will find in Fiji, a place synonymous with luxury but it is certainly one of the warmest welcomes that you will find. It oozes charm, character and relaxation and provides excellent value for money. I booked direct for the best deal. We also felt like we had experienced a slice of the local culture and hospitality rather than going to a hotel that we felt could be anywhere in the tropics. In comparison, we spent a night before flying out at the Westin Denarau, and whilst it was perfectly nice. It didn't feel particularly Fijian. Location: The drive from Nadi is pretty breathtaking. Unlike hotels on other islands, you can rent a car and take yourself rather than having to catch another flight. The hotel is near to Raki Raki, a small town in the North of Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji. This is not an area populated with hotels and so outside of the hotel the tourist amenities are limited. But don't let that stop you. Raki Raki is a great town, with a vibrant market (wonderful street food), some interesting little shops and local bakeries. Service: Every member of staff (without exception) was attentive, friendly and helpful. With it being a small hotel, you quickly get to know one another. Because it is a small place, there aren't people waiting on you at every corner, so you will generally need to go and get your drinks from the bar but that was fine by us. Facilities: Being a small hotel, don't expect lots of extra facilities, but I can attest to the pool being a delightful spot for a cooling swim and a cheeky G&T. The beach area was also a calming place for a read from the swinging hammocks. Though it isn't the sweeping sands of many a brochure, we loved it's cove-esque intimacy. We had massages and facial while we were there and that service was again excellent. It's in a small enclave at the top of the hotel site, no extras such as jacuzzis etc, just a treatment room but the treatments themselves and expertly delivered by a very friendly lady. The prices are also very reasonable. Food and Drink: We did not opt for the all inclusive option as we tend to have breakfast (which is included in the room rate) late and then skip lunch on holiday. All the additional food and drink was really very reasonably priced and it all worked out in the end. Try the coffee rum in particular, it s delicious end of the night tipple. The food itself was generally really delicious. The chef made different dishes every night so there was variety. I am a vegetarian and I was never lacking in options. Much like the hotel as a whole, it was good quality without being overly flashy. The Diving: OUT OF THIS WORLD! There is a very professionally run diving centre on site and the location of Wananavu provides for the most magnificent diving experience. The array of soft corals in particular was breath taking and the rock formations are spectacular, making for a fish filled and colourful experience. I could go on, but I won't. You need to experience Wananavu for yourself.

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