Scuba Diving in Fiji | Taveuni Accommodation | Taveuni Resort

Snorkeling in Paradise

Taveuni Resort — Wed, 10 Mar 2010 23:48:30 +0000

If you enjoy snorkelling and you are looking for the best soft corals in the world, then Paradise Taveuni is your destination. Not only does Paradise offer more snorkelling sites than anywhere in Fiji, but it also home to one of the top 5 soft coral dive sites in the world – the Legendary Rainbow Reef.

The Somosomo Strait (Fijian for ‘good water’) has strong tidal currents, which provide a constant flow of nutrients, idyllic for soft coral growth and diverse fish life. Taveuni is world renowned among divers and snorkellers for this reason.

Paradise Taveuni is the only resort on the island offering snorkelling on pristine Vuna Reef, the legendary Rainbow Reef and straight off shore from the private marina, directly in front of the resort.

Every day, snorkelers from all over the world, choose Paradise Taveuni, to experience the extraordinary formations of hard and soft corals and abundance of fish life including anemone fish, maori wrasse, lionfish, reef sharks, rays, turtles and much, much more. With a variety of deep wall drop off’s and shallow drift snorkelling, there is something here for everyone – from beginner to advanced.

So what type of snorkelling can you expect in Taveuni?

Well, if you love underwater fauna, Taveuni is paradise and you will experience some of the best snorkelling in the world. Where else can you experience schools of barracudas, beautiful trevallies, manta shrimps, lion fish, manta rays, turtles, blue ribbon eel, Christmas tree worms, and off course mountains of colourful soft corals.

So what types of snorkelers usually stay with us?

Well, usually snorkelers that are looking for a unique underwater opportunity allowing them to enjoy some of the top sites in the world.

Here in Paradise, we believe snorkelling is more than an activity, it is a way of life. Our dive team are fanatics … and each day they look forward to sharing their passion for their underwater world with our Guests.

From beginners to underwater photographers, each snorkelling site in Paradise Taveuni offers a complete range of marine life, depth and colours.

Quick Facts about Paradise Taveuni as a Snorkelling Destination

* Paradise Taveuni offers the largest number of snorkelling sites in Fiji.

* Rainbow Reef has been considered “the best soft coral reef in the Pacific” by one of the most experienced divers of all times – Jacques Cousteau.

* Our Dive Team only work with small groups providing dedicated and exclusive snorkelling to our Guests.

* Paradise Taveuni offers over 20 different snorkelling sites on both Vuna Reef, Rainbow Reef and directly in front of the resort. We are discovering more all the time. You won’t snorkel the same site twice – unless you want to.

* Paradise Taveuni offers spectacular shore snorkelling and you are guaranteed to see resident moray eels, blue ribbon eels, lion fish, anemone fish, soft corals and a multitude of other tropical reef fish on any shore site.

Snorkelling Sites

Paradise Reef (house reef)

This is the reef located right in front of Paradise. In one direction, it is a labyrinth of lava flow covered in stunning hard and soft corals, swarming in tropical reef species, shallow and bright – a photographers dream! In the other is a fantastic training site with a variety of terrain to make the most of your learning experience. We utilise this site for our night snorkelling as well as any time during your stay. All our local species are represented here and the colours are stunning.

Dolphin Bay (nearby Paradise)

Located just a bay north of Paradise, this drift snorkel is on the island wall. Resident Eels and Lionfish make this a popular site. Large fish like Snapper and Trevally make regular appearances adding spectacle to one of our favourite sites.

Coral Gardens (nearby Paradise)

Nicknamed Nirvana and only a few minutes by boat from the Resort, this is one of our best sites. Three fingers of lava once streamed into the ocean and are now covered with a variety of hard and soft coral species. Rays, Sharks and big schools of Barracuda are the keepers of the Coral Garden. Schools of Trevally, Snappers and Tunas abound. It’s an overdose of everything!

Steve’s Corner (nearby Paradise)

This site reveals a huge variety of soft corals feeding in the current. Turn the corner and come up shallow to enjoy a large archway swim-through guarded by the resident Anemone Fish and filled with Ghost Coral. Sharp-eyed divers will also spot the juvenile Blue Ribbon Eels here.

Tomasi’s Delight (nearby Paradise)

This site is situated close to Paradise. A steep slope of hard corals hides many small treasures – Dwarf Lionfish, Cowries and Nudibranchs have all made their homes here, as well as an array of Featherstars and Sea Cucumbers.

Orgasm (Vuna Reef)

Vuna Reef at its finest! This wall snorkel faces open ocean and it is here that we have seen some of our favourite regulars: Sharks, Rays and Napoleon Wrasse. Drift by schools of Spanish Mackerel or giant Tuna from the deep. All this in only 60f /18m, a truly awe-inspiring site that never seems to disappoint us.

Incredible Reef (Vuna Reef)

On the inner side of Vuna Reef, this site explores a large wedge-shaped area cutting into the Reef wall. Schools of pelagics glide past as smaller reef fish swarm in the shelter of the wedge. This site certainly lives up to its name!

Fish Factory (Vuna Reef)

Stunning hard plate corals, lots of ambient light, multicoloured patches of soft coral, giant clams and swarms of reef fish at a depth of less than 60f/18m make this a popular site for photographers, beginners and the experienced.

The Great White Wall – Top side only (Rainbow Reef site)

The Soft Coral capital of the world offers an astounding wall of pure white soft coral. This site is definitely the world famous Rainbow Reef’s top draw. A dazzling myriad of colour and life inhabits the reef top. If that’s not enough, you will see Manta Rays glide past with ethereal grace.

Jack’s Place (Rainbow Reef site)

Situated on the Rainbow Reef, this site offers an immense coral bommie covered with vibrant colours of soft coral and fish. The site is a haven for Spanish Dancers, Box Fish and White Tipped Reef Sharks.

Nuku Reef (Rainbow Reef)

Drift along this gently sloping reef and marvel at the small critters that reside here – Christmas tree worms, clams and sea anemones are all in abundance, along with their resident clown fish and trigger fish.

Fish Factory (Rainbow Reef)

Snorkel along this steep wall and meet many fish feeding in the current – parrot fish, Spanish mackerel and angle fish are all resident here. The sharp-eyed can also spot stone fish and leaf scorpion fish hiding in the wall crevices.

Rainbows End (Rainbow Reef)

Soft coral heaven! Beautiful purple, yellow and red soft corals make sure Rainbow’s End lives up to it’s name. Add in lionfish, Moorish Idols and hundreds of anthias and this is a true explosion of colour.

The Dive Shop displays information on tides, conditions and sites chosen for the day.

Please don’t hesitate to suggest a site to visit. The Pro Dive Taveuni Crew will be happy to oblige if conditions are right.

Talk to our friendly & experienced PRO Dive Taveuni Crew for further information on snorkelling in Paradise!

Learn to Dive in Fiji

Taveuni Resort — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:20:14 +0000

Learn to dive in Parardise

Ever thought about learning to dive? Do you want your scuba diving lessons in tropical waters and with a safe PADI Dive Operator? Then Get your PADI scuba certification in Paradise now!

If you’ve always wanted to learn how to scuba dive, discover new adventures or simply see the wondrous world beneath the waves, this is where it starts. With your PADI Instructor, you will cover the fundamentals of scuba diving, including dive equipment and techniques. During this diving course you will complete five confined water (in our amazing oceanfront, horizon edge pool) dives and knowledge development sessions.

So why learn to Dive with us and with PADI? Well: Easy Answer! The PADI Open Water Diver course is the world’s most popular scuba course, and has introduced millions of people to the adventurous diving lifestyle. This is first certification level and can serve as a step-up to many types of exciting and adventurous types of diving! And believe us… learning to dive in Fiji and with Pro Dive Taveuni is simply so much fun…

As a certified PADI Open Water Diver you have the freedom to dive with a buddy independent of a professional. If you already tried a PADI Discover Scuba Diving experience or are PADI Scuba Diver certified, you may get credit from these courses to the open water programme. Your underwater adventure can begin as soon as today with our E-learning system… so you can learn even before you arrive to Taveuni (prettty cool don’t you think?)

The fun part about this course is that learning to dive is incredible. You breathe underwater for the first time (something you’ll never forget) and learn what you need to know to become a certified diver. During the course, you’ll make at least five pool dives and four dives at local dive sites under the supervision of your PADI Instructor, and you will discover why Taveuni is simply the GEM of Scuba divers worldwide.

Virtually anyone who is in good health, reasonably fit, and comfortable in the water can earn a PADI open water diver certification. During your course, your PADI Instructor will ask you to demonstrate the ability to swim 200 meters/yards without swim aids or 300 meters/yards with mask, fins and snorkel and complete paperwork, to get you on your way to scuba. If you are between 10 and 14 or have a child between these ages, there’s a PADI junior open water diver program available.

Crystal waters directly in front of the resort are perfect for training

Knowledge development establishes the principles and basic information that all divers need to have fun diving safely. It’s divided into 5 bite sized segments that you’ll complete primarily on your own time or in the classroom alone by using the PADI Open Water manual and video to guide you. For each segment your instructor reviews and elaborates on the material, applying what you’re learning to your specific needs and the local dive environment. A short quiz at the end of each section in the manual confirms that you have picked up the information that you need from that section.

So what are you waiting for… ? Contact us now and book your scuba diving holiday in Taveuni… simply the best underwater time of your life!

Click below to start your E-learning today

TAKE YOUR PADI SCUBA CERTIFICATION ONLINE

Purchase a PADI eLearning course for yourself and complete the classroom portion at your own pace – anytime, anywhere. Then, when you arrive in Paradise for your Dive Vacation, you are ready to complete the FUN PART! Diving in Paradise!

What does it cover?
The PADI Open Water Diver Course online provides the knowledge development portion you need. You develop the remaining skills by actually diving with our PADI Instructor in Paradise.

How does it work?
After enrolling, PADI’s eLearning system presents you with interactive presentations that include videos, audio, graphics and reading. Short quizzes let you gauge your progress, and review and correct anything you might happen to miss. This lets you move through the program efficiently and at your own pace.

What does it cost?
The PADI Open Water Diver Course online is $120 (US) non-refundable. The fee covers your knowledge development training and gives you unlimited access to an electronic version of the PADI Open Water Diver Manual (course textbook).

Paradise will charge an additional fee of FJ$610 for the in water portion of your certification and PADI ertification, payable on check out from the Resort. No need to purchase any dive equipment, unless you want to, as Paradise supplies mask, snorkel and fins FREE to all in-house Guests. You can hire any extra dive you may need – we have a large range of styles, brands and sizes.

How long do I have to complete the eLearning course?
The eLearning course will be available for one year from the time of course registration.

Dive Rates

Taveuni Resort — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 00:37:29 +0000

Dive Rates

Taveuni is the only destination in Fiji that offers all types of diving.

Dive In Paradise with your own Equipment:

Single Boat Dive FJ$125
Double Boat Dive: FJ$250

Shore Dive: FJ$60 or free with a Pro Dive Package
Double Shore Dive: FJ$120

Night Dive: FJ$140

Rainbow Reef Double Dive: FJ$290 (minimum 2 divers)

Pro Dive Mini Dive package: FJ$560 – 5 boat dives + FREE shore dives
Pro Dive Package: FJ$1250 10 boat dives + 1 night dive + FREE unlimited shore dives

Dive in Paradise using our equipment:

Single Boat Dive: FJ$140
Double Boat Dive: FJ$280

Shore Dive: FJ$70 or free with a Pro Dive Package
Double Shore Dive: FJ$140
Night Dive: FJ$170

Shore diving is FREE in Paradise

Rainbow Reef Double Dive: FJ$320 (minimum 2 divers)
Pro Dive Mini Dive package: FJ$670 – 5 dives+ FREE shore dives:
Pro Dive Package: FJ$1400 – 10 boat dives + 1 night dive + FREE unlimited shore dives

PADI Courses
Learn to Dive or improve your skills in Paradise. We offer a large range of PADI Dive Courses available to arrange on arrival.

Discover Scuba Diving FJ$190
3 hours duration, introductory theory and skills with 1 ocean dive. You must be 10 years or over.

Refresher Course FJ$190
3 hours duration, refreshing basic skills with 1 ocean dive. You must be a certified diver.

Open Water Course FJ$660
3-4 days duration, theory, exam, dive skills, 4 ocean dives, 200 mtr swim and treading water. You must be 10 years or over.

PADI Scuba Diver Course FJ$580

Chart your PADI course for a colorful collection of awesome dives..!!

2 days duration, theory, dive skills, 2 ocean dives and treading water

Adventure Diver Course FJ$290
1-2 days duration, theory and any 3 advanced course dives. You must be an Open Water diver

Advanced Diver Course FJ$580
2 days duration, theory, Deep dive, Navigation dive, Drift dive, Boat dive, Night dive or Underwater Naturalist dive. You must be an Open Water Diver

Rescue Diver Course FJ$650
3 days duration, theory, exam, dive rescue skills and practical scenarios. You must be an Advanced Diver with a First Aid Certificate and have 20 dives logged

Emergency First Response FJ$200
2 days duration, theory and exam

Specialty Courses Tier 1 FJ$300
Boat, Peak performance buoyancy, drift, underwater naturalist, AWARE coral reef conservation, Project AWARE. Length of time and number of dives depends of what specialty dive you wish to do, theory (AWARE coral reef conservation, Project AWARE only) and ocean dives

Specialty Courses Tier 2 FJ$560
Deep, night, navigation, search and recovery. Length of time and number of dives depends of what specialty dive you wish to do, theory and ocean dives

Dive Master Course FJ$1520
Minimum 2 weeks duration, theory lectures, 8 exams, waterskills, stamina exercises, skill circuit, open water assessments. You must be 18 years or over, rescue certified with current First Aid Certificate, doctors medical certificate, 20 dives logged with 60 dives logged required for certification.

Master Scuba Diver FJ$2540

Referral Course FJ$580

PADI Speciality dives takes you on an underwater adventure to depths that will stir your soul...!!

Partial course completed FJ$150 per day

PADI certification FJ$70

All course rates do not include PADI certification.

Please note all prices on this page are in Fijian Dollars, include Fiji taxes and are valid to March 2011.

Taveuni Dive Sites

Taveuni Resort — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 02:03:11 +0000

Taveuni is the Soft Coral capital of the world

With over 40 dive sites accessible from Paradise, you will find something for every type of diver – from beginner to advanced.

The following dive sites are visited on a regular basis by our Paradise divers and we are discovering more all the time.

For your convenience, we have classified our dive sites into levels of experience.

Level 1: Beginner diver. Maximum depth 18 metres, gentle with no current

Level 2: Intermediate diver, depths range from 20-25 metres, some current, some surface waves at times

Level 3: Advanced diver, depths up to 30 metres, expect current and exposed surface conditions at times

Our shore dives, directly off the Paradise oceanfront, are spectacular. Shore diving is FREE in Paradise when you take any Pro Dive Package.

Paradise Reef. (shore / house reef) Level 1
This is the reef located right in front of Paradise. In one direction, it is a labyrinth of lava flow covered in stunning hard and soft corals, swarming in tropical reef species, shallow and bright – a photographers dream! In the other is a fantastic training site with a variety of terrain to make the most of your learning experience. We utilise this site for our night diving and you can snorkel it any time during your stay. All our local species are represented here and the colours are stunning.

Dolphin Bay is a secluded and protected bay and just a 2 minute boat ride north of Paradise Taveuni resort.

Multitudes of tropical fish are found in Paradise

Dolphin Bay. Level 1

Located just a bay over, this drift dive is on the island wall. Resident Eels and lionfish make this a popular dive. Large fish like snapper and trevally make regular appearances adding spectacle to one of our favourite sites.

Coral Gardens. Level 1
Nicknamed Nirvana and only a few minutes by boat from the Resort, this is one of our best dive sites. Three fingers of lava once streamed into the ocean and are now covered with a variety of hard and soft coral species. Rays, sharks and big schools of barracuda are the keepers of the Coral Garden. Schools of trevally, snappers and tunas abound. It’s an overdose of everything!

Steve’s Corner Level 1
This dive site reveals a huge variety of soft corals feeding in the current. Turn the corner and come up shallow to enjoy a large archway swim-through guarded by the resident anemone fish and filled with Ghost Coral. Sharp-eyed divers will also spot the juvenile blue ribbon eels here.

Tomasi’s Delight. Level 1
This dive site is situated close to Paradise. A steep slope of hard corals hides many small treasures – dwarf lionfish, cowries and nudibranchs have all made their homes here, as well as an array of featherstars and sea cucumbers.

Vuna Reef, the pristine southern reef of Taveuni is only a 4 minute boat ride from Paradise Taveuni resort. No other dive operators dive these amazing dive sites. Many of the sites are comparable, and some say better than, the famous Rainbow Reef. We dive Vuna Reef on request and usually every second day. Other days are spent at Rainbow Reef. If you choose to experience a double dive on Vuna Reef, you will enjoy your surface interval back at the resort.

Lion Fish

Orgasm (Vuna Reef). Level 2

Vuna Reef at its finest! This wall dive faces open ocean and it is here that we have seen some of our favourite regulars: sharks, rays and napoleon wrasse. Drift by schools of spanish mackerel or giant tuna from the deep. All this in only 60f /18m, a truly awe-inspiring dive site that never seems to disappoint us.

Tavoro Cave (Vuna Reef). Level 3
This deep wall dive has got it all. A spooky cave at 90f/27m, swim – throughs, and lots of life. The topography of this site is striking: a sheer wall with plenty of gullies.
Look up into clouds of reef fish, look down to reef sharks, and look out to barracuda, tuna and turtles. A dive not easily forgotten!

Yellow Fin Wall (Vuna Reef). Level 2
Drift along this section of Vuna Reef and enjoy a fabulous vista of soft corals. Keep a watch in the blue for the namesakes of this site – large yellow fin tuna that speed gracefully past in the company of other pelagic fish and turtles.

Amazing visibility in Paradise

Cabbage Patch (Vuna Reef). Level 1
Sheltered within Vuna Lagoon, dive down to an almost lunar landscape. A shallow dive perfect for novices, cruise around the huge cabbage-like corals that sit on brilliant white sand and marvel at the marine life that finds a home amongst them.

Incredible Reef (Vuna Reef). Level 3
On the inner side of Vuna Reef, this deep dive explores a large wedge-shaped area cutting into the Reef wall. Schools of pelagics glide past as smaller reef fish swarm in the shelter of the wedge. This site certainly lives up to its name!

Pinnacles (Vuna Reef). Level 3
This deep seamount stands a little off Vuna Reef and attracts Manta Rays in season and other large visitors as well as smaller schooling species. Soft corals are abundant and bright thanks to the sea current passing by.

The Stairs (Vuna Reef). Level 2
On the top of the reef, you are greeted by hard plate corals of all colours, and clouds of fish, including titan trigger fish, parrot fish and wrasse. From here, dive down through a swim through covered in soft corals and out onto an inverted wall swathed in pure white soft coral. Back up the stairway, under the arches enveloped in white and purple soft corals. All types of reef sharks and barracuda often visit this site. A favourite amongst our Dive Team!

Fish Factory (Vuna Reef). Level 2
Stunning hard plate corals, lots of ambient light, multicoloured patches of soft coral, giant clams and swarms of reef fish at a depth of less than 60f/18m make this a popular site for photographers, beginners and experienced divers.

The Rainbow Reef is a 20 minute boat ride from Paradise Taveuni resort. It is in the Somosomo Strait located between the 2 islands of Taveuni and Vanua Levu. It is considered one of the most famous dive sites in the South Pacific. The Great White Wall is a popular scuba diving site. It is named because of the white coral inhabiting the area between 15 and 65 meters.

The Great White Wall - one of the Top 10 dive sites in the world

The Great White Wall (Rainbow Reef site). Level 3
The soft coral capital of the world’s signature dive offers an astounding wall of pure white soft coral. This site is definitely the world famous Rainbow Reef’s top draw. A coral encrusted swim – through leads onto the wall from the reef top. A dazzling myriad of colour and life inhabits the reef top. Manta rays glide past with ethereal grace. On exiting the water from this site an awed silence lasts for a while before an excited chatter that lasts for days starts among divers. Not to be missed!

Purple Wall (Rainbow Reef site). Level 3
This is one of the truly stunning sites on the Rainbow Reef. It deserves its billing as one of the worlds top dive sites. A solid wall of purple soft coral and more species than can be counted. You will not want to leave!

Jack’s Place (Rainbow Reef site). Level 2

Situated on the Rainbow Reef, this dive site offers an immense coral bommie covered with vibrant colours of soft coral and fish. The site is a haven for spanish dancers, box fish and white tipped reef sharks.

Rainbow Passage (Rainbow Reef site). Level 2
In terms of fish life and soft corals, the sheer abundance on this Rainbow Reef site is incredible. The top of the reef starts at 40ft/12m and gradually slopes to 70ft/21m. Covered by some very unique soft corals not found in similar form or in this abundance anywhere else in Fiji. Well, the name speaks for itself!

Annies Bombie (Rainbow Reef). Level 2
A submerged reef with many big coral bommies including the large ‘Annies Bombie’. Weave through the coral and enjoy the schools of fusillias, bandits and anthias – and the occasional leopard shark

Clarity and colours in our underwater Paradise

The Zoo (Rainbow Reef). Level 3
An extreme marine experience! Schools of barracuda are common here, swimming above the white tip reef sharks resting on the sand. Moral eels, groupers and small reef fish are plentiful and lucky divers will glimpse the graceful bronze whaler sharks patrolling the deep blue waters.

Nuku Reef (Rainbow Reef). Level 2
Drift dive along this gently sloping reef and marvel at the small critters that reside here – Christmas tree worms, clams and sea anemones are all in abundance, along with their resident clown fish and trigger fish.

Fish Factory (Rainbow Reef). Level 2
Dive along this steep wall and meet many fish feeding in the current – parrot fish, spanish mackerel and angle fish are all resident here. The sharp-eyed can also spot stone fish and leaf scorpion fish hiding in the wall crevices.

Rainbows End (Rainbow Reef). Level 3
Soft coral heaven! Beautiful purple, yellow and red soft corals make sure Rainbow’s End lives up to it’s name. Add in lionfish, Moorish Idols and hundreds of anthias and this is a true explosion of colour.

The Paradise Dive Shop displays information on tides, conditions and dives chosen for the day and the next day.

Please don’t hesitate to suggest a dive site to visit. Our Dive Team will happy to oblige if conditions are right.

Our friendly & experienced Dive Crew will be happy to offer you further information on diving in Paradise!

Fascinating Christmas Tree Worms

Discover Taveuni Holidays

Taveuni Resort — Sun, 21 Feb 2010 01:15:52 +0000

HOT’10 DIVE SPECIAL

Taveuni Resort — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 06:37:34 +0000

Love to dive? Well you are going to love our HOT’10 DIVE SPECIAL!

HOT’10DIVE SPECIAL: FJ$4410 for 2 adults

5 nights in Paradise in a Tropical Bure with outdoor shower in a private tropical garden
All meals
10 boat dives + 1 night dive + FREE unlimited shore dives
A large selection of complimentary resort activities for your enjoyment

The longer you stay, the less you pay!

HOT’10DIVE SPECIAL: FJ$6210 for 2 adults

10 nights in Paradise with a FREE upgrade to an Oceanfront Bure with Jacuzzi
Dive in Paradise and discover 'luxury diving'
1 night FREE
All meals
10 Boat dives + 1 night dive + FREE Unlimited shore dives + 4 FREE afternoon boat dives
FREE Paradise Massage – 30 minute relaxation massage in the Paradise Spa
FREE Mountain Trek guided hike
Romantic Dinner for 2 – on any night and location of choice
A large selection of complimentary resort activities for your enjoyment

Please note: rates are in Fiji dollars, exclude Fiji taxes and for 2 adults.

Contact Terri in Paradise to book this great dive vacation package today

Romantic Reviews

Taveuni Resort — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 00:51:26 +0000

Romance in Paradise

Bula! We couldn’t have had a longer journey to get here. London is a long way away. We can’t begin to explain just how worthwhile it was. Each and every staff member here deserves a gold award for not only being the nicest people, but for the outstanding service and the way they make you feel at home. The Resort looks and feel like Paradise every minute of the day. No married couple is meant to forget their Honeymoon and we truly never will, thanks to every single one of the true beauties in the world, environment and people alike. You are all so wonderful. Don’t ever change. A thousand times, Thank you for everything. Maikeli – you are a living legend, a God among men. Seriously dude, you rock.
Fiji Honeymooners – Anna & Kyle Stenson, UK.

To the Paradise Team, Thank you for our wonderful stay. Not only did the resort cater to the needs of a couple in need of a romantic getaway they took great care of and entertained our four children while we relaxed & recharged. The location is gorgeous, the staff friendly & well trained. Thank you for your hospitality. Paul & Candice Lingard, Australia.

It is our understanding you guys read this at your monthly meeting. With that being said we would like to say “Bula” to everyone. Thank you for your dedication and service for our every need while we were enjoying our Fiji Honeymoon. As you read this now we are back in the real world working. Reflecting back on our stay Feroz summed it up best when he parked the car and said ”Welcome to Paradise!” Each guest has a set of expectations. It’s the little things that make a difference. From the foot rub from Mere, turn down with flowers on the bed and in the bathtub, Thomas coming to get us for dinner, to water served after diving and much more. The property is beautiful and the views breathtaking. Most importantly, it is the people that make a difference. Will miss this place dearly and think of you often. We hope to come back soon. Fiji Honeymooners – Tim and Audrey, USA

What made Paradise Taveuni very special were the people. Whilst it is an extraordinarily beautiful place, one rarely meets people anywhere in the world as magnificent as fabulous extended family of Archie, Kini, Pini, Suli, Mere & all. Tomasi created a theatrical dinning experience each time he looked after us. The highlight among many amazing experiences was the lovo feast. The skill of the family was astonishing – the dancing, singing & playing! The food was great, too. Thank you Terri, Muriel, Allan, Carl for making the experience possible for treating each guest in a special way! No thanks at all for me having to work out for weeks to shed the extra kilos put on so easily at the sumptuous, all too frequent meals. We’ll be spreading the world – weary Westerners there is a place to remind us of the value of relaxation, family & valuing people first. Many thanks, Peter & Robyn Phillips, Australia.

Share a couple cocktail in Paradise

To all the wonderful people at Paradise, thank you, thank you, and thank you. It has been a very relaxing and memorable 2 weeks that we have spent here in this wonderful place. We even managed to experience a slice of heaven for a day and then return to relax in this special part of the world. We have dived, snorkeled, toured, fished and been looked after by staff. A special mention must be made us feel part of the family – Tomasi, Kata, Kini, Pini, Perina, Mere, Archie, Manasa, Wilson, Toutou & the serenaders are what make this place special. Thanks to Muriel (vice commodore) & Karl for the great fishing & diving operations – and it was even better coming 1st equal in the first major fishing competition at Paradise. Last, but no means least – Allan (horse) & Terri for letting us share your dream – Thank you & very well done for creating such a hospitable place. We will be back…… John & Anna Johnstone, USA.

From the moment we arrived you welcomed us with open arms. Your warmth and love is amazing
Your hospitality and love for this place is more than words can say. Hearing the beautiful harmonies and traditional Fijian songs each night that are song from the heart made each day more of a memorable experience. Luke your organization of the staff are amazing right down to your perfection to deal. To Terri and Allan you have created an amazing place in such a small time. It is just Paradise!! In all our travels we’ve never experience more of an amazing and memorable place. Who said you could not find Paradise? Its right here.
Ann-Maree and Chad, USA.

To all the staff at Paradise – thank you so much for a wonderful stay! I can’t think of anything more you could offered in the way of hospitality, experiences food, diving…..The only thing that surprises the beauty of Paradise is the team that has cared for us for us for the last 8 days. You have all captured my heart. I cannot find words enough to express the incredible week we have spent with you. You anticipate our every need. A magical setting, wonderful hospitality. We look forward to seeing you again soon. Special thanks.
Judi & Bill Gallagher, New Zealand.

Bula Allan, Terri and fantastic staff. Wow, what a beautiful place. It’s a credit to you all from the moment we arrived. We have felt welcome. It just got better. Your staff are brilliant they have there job and shows through there happiness to help you no matter what your needs are. The outlook here is brilliant where the land meets the water. Its been the most relaxing holiday we will be back. You guys have made us feel like a family and that’s fantastic. Keep up the good work. Miss you already. Linda & Gary Denman, Australia.

To all our friends at Paradise Taveuni, thank you all for making our stay with you so very special! From the word go we simply knew we’d made the right decision and only wished we’d arrived sooner! From the fishing trips with Archie, Snorkel adventures with Joe. We will leave ever so slightly sad but with warmer hearts as than those with which we arrived. Every single moment of our time here has been absolute bliss and huge part of that has been down to the people here and just a hint of that good old Fijian spirit!! The Lovo night was a perfect way to end our visit. Please pass on our thanks to all involved. The dancing was such fun and those beautiful melodies voices will stay with us forever. We hope to see you all again I the not too distance future. Until then our warmest regards and best wishes to you all. Danielle & Andy Youngs, Australia.

After reading about it’s legendary reputation we deviated from our trip to Australia and took all available days at this most beautiful place with it’s heart warmling people and extraordinarily friendly staff. A decision we are now so happy about. Not only did we learn to dive and saw the most beautiful aquatic life ever – it was a glimpse into the culture of Fiji with it’s beautiful and for us city dwellers- so natural and friendly people. Even a start time here has given us so much to aspire to and look forward to. We are counting the days already to come back! With many thanks to everyone. Peter and Rosemary Bissinger, Vietnam.

We had a great time here. Loved the diving and beautiful setting. We enjoyed the cave tour and Lavena coastal walk with wonderful guide Maikeli. Thanks to him we never went hungry on each of these trips. Thanks to all the staff for taking such good care of us. We don’t want to leave. We look forward to returning soon to visit the while. Steve & Robin Dorrepaal, Canada.

Paradise is lovely. The Fijian staff are so friendly and accommodating. We have enjoyed the outdoor shower immensely and all of the special touches – fresh blossoms in the bure each day, glasses of water ready after diving . Yes, we noticed and appreciate those things – I could list more…umbrella handy, lantern in the evenings, serenaders. The dive staff were great as well. We think Wilson is one of the best dive masters/guides we’ve dived with (over 360 divers for me and 400 for Peter) – so I think that’s saying a lot. Toutou was also good and such a cheerful happy person! Thanks to Luke who was most helpful. Allan, it was good to meet & the children. All in all – a memorable visit for us and since we are both getting the old, we got a lot of pictures! Farewell to Paradise! Thanks to all – don’t forget to have movie night for the staff. Peter and Jeanine Mellem, USA.

Paradise is the perfect Fiji Honeymoon destination

Thank you so much for taking us in, when Garden Island Resort would not take us and shut down. It certainly was a win for us! Every aspect of the resort and dive has been well thought out and just a class operation. We thoroughly enjoyed getting to know each and everyone involved with the day to day operating of the resort and the diving and dive guides were all terrific and unforgettable. Rick and I feel very fortunate to have spent none days here and we will definitely leave here with wonderful memories. Vick & Rick Eveleth, USA.

Vinaka Vakalevu. We were thrilled with our whole experience here. Everything was more than we could have hoped for. The dive team was especially brilliant. A huge thank you to Wilson, Toutou & Archie for all our days under the seas. You all made it a truly beautiful experience. You have a little piece of heaven here. The rest of the resort staff is not to be missed, where the thank yous are concerned. The food was great & our bure was always spotless & ready to use for us whatever time of day. We will see you again soon…..and will be counting the days…. Lynne & Stan Armstrong, Canada

To all our new friends. Thank you so much for a beautiful stay in Paradise!! It was everything we had hoped and more. We use to have a favourite holiday destination in Coffs Harbour – but our stay in Paradise has changed that. Paradise Taveuni is now our favourite!! To all of the staff – a huge thank you – you made us feel like part of the Paradise Family. Terri & Allan you are geniuses!! Hope to be back soon…..Vinaka Vakalevu. Eddie & Cheryl Johns, Australia.

Bula! We will never forget our 1st trip to Fiji via Taveuni is definitely Paradise. We would like to thank all the staff at Paradise who make this a truly wonderful experience, you have all made us feel like family. We love you & miss you and you will stay in our hearts forever. What a marvelous experience! We looked very long & hard for a holiday that would be relaxing & rejuvenating, we found it here at Paradise. The memories will linger of the warmth & friendliness of the staff. You were all so welcoming and looked after us so joyfully & graciously. We especially enjoyed the walk to the village and the cannibal cave tour. Thank you very much for making this an exceptional holiday. Continue to look after each other to keep the Paradise magic. Warm wishes. Carmel & Phil Fox, Australia.

Bula! Have a wonderful 2009 all the staff of Paradise. Thank you so much for making the start of 2009 such a special celebration. We loved the meke & the children were adorable. After our stay here, we are blissfully relaxed & looking forward to the start of 2009. Everything at the resort is exceptional (Big Thanks to Kelly at Taveuni Palms for the booking). Wonderful diving (cheers Toutou, Carl & Archie). Top tunes from the frog charmer Band. All the staff are extremely friendly& attentive – Big hugs & kisses to Winnie, Tomasi, Perina, Terri & Allan. Paradise has a wonderful ambience & we look forward to a return trip. Steve & Sharon Standard, New Zealand.

What an unbelievable ‘piece of paradise.’ we stumbled upon your resort and now couldn’t imagine holiday anywhere else. The resort is breath taking, the grounds, bures and the views will stay with us forever. The dive team is the best we ever had. They made every dive memorable and we learned so much ‘under the water‘. They take such pride and care of the coral – it is hopeful to last a life time. The staff is truly amazing – their smiles and generosity did not go unnoticed. They truly made the stay remarkable. We have made friends and it’s hard to pick one exceptional person because they are all so special. I have to say Fiji Night and our kava ceremonies will stay in our hearts forever. It let as we had been welcomed into their families. What beautiful individuals they are. Maikeli is a gem. A truly wonderful person. Very knowledgeable and so willing to share his tradition. He made our activities & tours so fantastic. Terry & Allan you have a wonderful place and you have made it an amazing holiday. Jessica & Thomas are the sweetest little children and so very lucky to have been raised here in the wonderful setting. We will cherish each memory & picture of your family. We are so sad to leave – which is a loss for us. I am always ready to go home after weeks holiday, but in Paradise two weeks wasn’t enough. I hope you will enjoy memories of our dive group as much as you have touched our lives. Vinaka. Thank you so very much. Jim & Shannon Austin, Canada.

Getaway with your love to Paradise

To all of you at Paradise Taveuni, this has been an ultimate experience of our around tour trip so far. After spending almost an hour on a bumpy road (with experienced driver!) we arrived the paradise of the earth. We had a warm welcoming by Maikeli, Allan and Kini and then we were escorted to our Bures; Papaya and Niu . We got a fantastic foot massage (nothing is better than that after a looong flight from Canon, Mexico via Los Angeles, and the rest of the day we relaxed by the pool and did some snorkeling outside the resort. The day ended with Fiji Night, with excellent food and a Kava Ceremony which we get invited to. Nice Fijian Music as well with excellent musicians! Cuisine – variated both in sorts and volume, and always with the little extra from Paradise Taveuni! The service has been excellent, we always got what we wanted, when and where we wanted it! No other place in the world have we been met with this kind of personalized service, we felt like family. Diving & Snorkeling: we went fishing & diving in Steve’s Corner, Fish Factory, the stairs, Fish …, and orgasm. Really fantastic!! Thanks to Archie, Toutou and Sam for taking me snorkeling on the sites, I really had a great time with you guys on the reefs! I’ll miss you. Thanks to Toutou & Charlie for the diving. The last dive was the ultimate, stopped counting sharks after reaching 10, a huge sea turtle spotted as well as about 50 barracudas swimming around. We were the only ones at Vuna Reef! Thanks to Kini for excellent service, always with a smile, teaching us Fijian words and sulu tying. We will always remember you. Thanks to the Sunset Boys for breathtaking sunset music, just outside our bures. You are always singing and playing with a smile on your faces and the goodnight song was really nice! Thanks Maikeli, Suli, Sepo, and Pete. To Tomasi for your kind service during dinner, and the turn down service. You are all special people, you always made us feel good when you were there!. To Luke for serving us really good cocktails by the pool and after dinner and for nice chat. To Maikeli for the snake show and the trip to the waterfalls and dateline. To Shelly for the excellent massage, nice Fijian atmosphere – and the massage was perfect! Everybody should try that!!. Thanks to Allan and Terri for letting us stay here in Paradise with excellent bures and facilities inside and outside. The Jacuzzi and the outdoor shower is amazing. We have traveled a lot but never been to a place like Paradise Taveuni – regarding the friendly staff, excellent snorkeling and relaxing Spa facilities. This was the best place ever and we really do hope to come back again. Paradise Taveuni offered what we really were looking for; personalized secluded, and enormous friendliness! Snorkeling and diving – Top of the World. We will strongly recommend your resort! Elise, Helene & Tom Gundersen, Norway.

Snorkelling in Taveuni

Taveuni Resort — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 23:07:31 +0000

Experience the exotic beauty of the underwater world first hand! Our friendly Pro Dive Taveuni crew will assist you in choosing snorkelling gear from the dive shop.

Snorkelling gear – mask, snorkel and fins – are complimentary for all in house Guests of Paradise.

The Pro Dive crew will point you in the right direction

for an exciting adventure tour within the crystal clear waters of Paradise.

Snorkelling Safari

Experience a guided snorkeling tour of the warm tropical waters of Paradise.

Our local guides will escort you to the departure point, where you will embark on a voyage of discovery. Drift along at a leisurely pace and take in the splendour of life underwater, whilst you snorkel back to Paradise.

Dependant on the tides and currents around the clear waters of Paradise, your guides will lead you on a snorkel journey, pointing out fascinating corals, fish life and shells along the way.

Snorkelling Safari 1 ½ – 2 hours. Departs at various times due to the weather and tide conditions. Complimentary activity.

Taveuni Guided Tours

Taveuni Resort — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 04:55:38 +0000

Nothing beats local knowledge and the tour guides of Paradise are delighted to share the secrets and stories of their beloved Taveuni with you. To get the most out of you adventure holiday, a guided tour is a must.

Guided Walk

Set off with our local guide for an educational & leisurely walking tour of the local area. The 2 hr walk visits a village ruins, a deserted cemetery, the nearby black sand beach & the southern reservoir. Learn about the people of this beautiful Fiji island along the way. The 4 hour walk towards the south includes a tour of Vuna, the local village with Masi (Tapa) production and mat weaving. Wander through the endless coconut trees within the nearby Tarte family Plantation on the way back to Paradise.

Your guide will point out features of interest including vegetation of Fiji and its traditional uses. Complimentary activity.

Southern Taveuni Half Day Tour

Set off from Paradise and visit the famous ‘Southern Blowhole’, the only one in Taveuni. Water on the incoming tide can shoot up to 50 metres into the sky. A sight not to be missed during your stay on the island!

Then we visit Vuna Village where they prepare and produce Tapa and woven mats. This is the educational part of your journey. Learn how the locals produce this unique paper.

Visit a small operational Copra Mill and learn how this age-old method of producing dried coconut for oil is still in use today. Take home a bottle of organic virgin coconut oil, said to heal and prevent many ailments.

Morning or afternoon adventure tours are available. $160 for 1-2 people and includes Guide and refreshments.

Cannibal Cave Tour

A short drive from Paradise is followed by a brisk 10-minute walk & you arrive at a hidden underground cave. This mysterious Fiji cannibal prison is made from lava rock, and you descend part of the way on hands & knees. Wonder at the ancient legends of the cave & look for old bones from days gone by. Discover mud pools within the cave that were once used for their healing properties.

This is an eerie journey into the lost culture of the remarkable Fiji islands. Your guide will point out the many local fruit trees along the way. An essential part of your adventure holiday! $50 per person includes torch, knee pads & guide

Bouma National Heritage Park Guided Tour

Set off with our local guide for an 8-10 hour adventure tour of the magical Bouma Parklands. A scenic coastal drive begins with your guide pointing out landmarks along the way.

Once at Bouma, discover the beauty of the Tavoro Waterfalls. A 10 minute walk to the first and most famous waterfall of Fiji, and then it is up to you to decide whether to go onward to the second and third falls.

Next, experience the wild and scenic coastline at Lavena. The flat 3 hour return Lavena coastal walk along the well-maintained trail is suitable for all ages. End your walk with a refreshing swim up – river to a stunning double waterfall crater.

FJ$310 for 1-2 people includes lunch, refreshments & local Guide.

A Day in the Rainforest!

Get ready for one of the most scenic rainforest trails in Taveuni. Your guide will educate you on the fauna in the area and of the traditional uses and names of the flora. Ideal for bird watchers! Discover plants and birds that exisit only in the Taveuni Rainforest ecosystems. Bring your binoculars and find the rare and beautiful Orange Dove – amongst others.

6 hour trip is $160 per person and includes refreshments and guide

Cultural Activities

Taveuni Resort — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 04:45:27 +0000

We offer a large selection of complimentary Resort activities in Paradise. Ensure you take advantage of all we offer to allow you to learn more about the Fijian people, the way they live and their fascinating culture.

Snorkelling

Snorkel in Paradise

Paradise Taveuni offers the very best snorkeling in Fiji, right at resort’s private marina. The only Resort in Fiji with a deep water frontage, Paradise has exceptional underwater flora and fauna only a step away from the resort’s private marina and snorkeling platform. You will discover a large selection of tropical fish and colourful soft corals that Taveuni is renowned for. Our friendly Pro Dive Taveuni crew will assist you in choosing snorkelling gear and point you in the right direction for an exciting adventure within the crystal clear waters of Paradise. Mask, fins and snorkel are complimentary during your stay.

Snorkelling Safari

Our local guides will escort you to the departure point, where you will embark on a voyage of discovery. Allow 1 – 2 hours to explore the amazing underwater world. Your Guide will point out lion fish, moray eels, clown fish, colourful christmas tree worms and so much more. Wet suit hire is recommended to protect you from the Fiji sun.

Please note that House Guests are offered complimentary use of mask, snorkel and fins. There is an extra charge for wet suit hire at FJ$20 per day. Snorkelling from the boat incurs additional charges.

Snorkelling Information in Paradise

Try scuba diving for free in Paradise

SCUBA Pool Splash

Have you ever wished to feel what it’s like to breath under water?

Try a SCUBA dive in the safety of the horizon edge swimming pool with our PADI Instructors. If you enjoy the experience, why not sign up for a PADI Open Water Course and learn to dive in Paradise.

Sulu Tying Demonstration

Modern Fiji’s national dress is the sulu, which resembles a skirt. It is commonly worn by both men and women. The type worn by both men and women is the ‘Sulu va Taga’ pronounced Sulu vah Tanga which is a wrap around piece of rectangular material which is elaborately decorated with patterns and designs of varying styles this is for more casual and informal occasions. Many men, especially in urban areas, also have Sulu va taga which is a tailored sulu and can be tailored as part of their suit. Many will wear a shirt with a western-style collar, tie, and jacket, with a matching Sulu va taga and sandals, this type of sulu can be worn to a semi formal or formal occasion. Even the military uniforms have incorporated the Sulu va taga as part of their ceremonial dress. Perfect to wear by the pool, around the resort and especially to Fiji Night! Let our Fijian staff show you the many intricate ways to tie the colourful Sulu (sarong).10 minutes.

Learn to tie a Fijian Sulu

Learn To Speak Fijian

The official language of Fiji is English while the national indigenous language is Bauan which is only one of the many dialects that exist in the Fiji Group, each of the fourteen provinces have their own dialect, though there is a clear distinction between the dialects.

Other languages spoken in the country are Hindi, Cantonese, Rotuman, Gilbertese (Rabi Island), and Tuvaluan (Kioa Island). The Fiji Islands are traditionally linked to their island neighbours Rotuma, Tonga and Samoa, and this is evident in the culture and dialects of the Northern and Eastern provinces being Cakaudrove, Bua, Macuata, and Lau. The Fijian Language uses the Roman Alphabet as in English however readers need to be careful interpreting Fijian words in this, and similar articles. The following conventions exist:

The letter “c” is pronounced like the English “th” sound in “then”. Therefore, “Laucala Bay” is spoken as Lauthala Bay. Each letter “d” is preceded with an “n” sound. Nadi (the airport town) is pronounced Nandi. Each “b” letter is preceded with an “m” sound. The town Ba is pronounced mBa. The letter “q” is pronounced as an “ng” (better “ng” + “g”) sound as in the English word “finger”. Beqa is pronounced mBeng-ga. The letter “g” by itself is sounded as an “ng” sound as in the English word “sing”. The letter “r” is rolled as in Spanish. In Fijian words, each vowel is given its full weight and never shortened, skipped or slurred.

Join our Fijian staff for an introduction and fact-finding lesson giving you the basics of the Fijian Language. 30 minutes.

Frond Weaving

Weaving using various materials was a craft generally mastered by the women but also aspects of weaving were mastered only by the men, various types of weaving practiced were and still are; basket weaving, coconut rope weaving, coconut leaves weaving. Make a basket, dinner plate, sunglasses and so much more. Lots of fun! It’s amazing what you can do with a Coconut Leaf! 1 hour

Frond weaving is fun

Kayaking

Take one of the Resort kayak’s and head north to Dolphin Bay or south to Vuna Reef and discover the beauty of the Taveuni coastline. The waters of Paradise are particularly calm in the morning and perfect for an early morning paddle.

Feed the hundreds of tropical fish each day

Fish Feeding

Feed the beautiful tropical reef fish that inhabit the surrounding waters.

Coconut Lesson

Learn some interesting facts about coconuts, how to open them the Fijian way and an easy dish you can prepare at home. 30 minutes

Guided Cultural Walk

The 4 hour walk towards the south includes a tour of past the Indian school, Vuna, the local village with Masi (Tapa) production and mat weaving. Wander through the endless coconut plantations along the way. Your guide will point out features of interest including vegetation and its traditional uses.

Visit the local village

Coconut Tree Climbing

Watch as the limber staff scale even the highest of trees on the resort. Sample the tropical tastes of fresh coconut juice. 15 minutes

Snake Show

The Resort pets – Fijian Boas – are up close and personal. Touch a snake and have your photo taken. 30 minutes

Paradise staff preparing the Lovo for our Guests

Bury The Lovo

Learn how the staff prepare, bury and cook the Fijian delicacies under the Lovo fire. Enjoy the Lovo Feast that evening. 30 minutes

Garden Tour

Our Grounds staff will take you on a short walking tour of the Resort gardens giving you local knowledge of the flora and fauna within the Resort. Learn about the local plants and trees with Fijian names given in most cases. 30 minutes

Fiji Library

Located at the Tour Desk you will find a selection of Fiji interest books for your use during your stay. Ranging from Fijian history to fish identification you are welcome to make use of these books at any time. See our helpful Managers.

Enjoy a book from our book exchange

Book Exchange

Located by the Tekiteki Bar, you are welcome to take a book and replace it with one of yours. You will find magazines, travel handbooks, children’s books and a selection of novels. Help yourself.

Board Games

You will find a selection of games to pass your time including Backgammon, Chess, Checkers, Dominos and playing cards.

Jogging / Power Walking

Keeping fit in Paradise is easy to do with our large range of activities, however if jogging and running is what you desire, take off along the main road along the back of the Resort The public roads are safe to run on (and a little dusty) during the day and you can head north to Nobognio Farm to get more of a hilly workout or south to Vuna Village keeping a flat pace most of the way. Keep an eye on your footing, wear good running shoes, take some water with you and it’s best to set off either before breakfast or after 4.00pm. Let our Security Team know where you are going to ensure your safety.

Need a jogging partner? Ask Terri to join you for an afternoon run.

Experience a 'Paradise Sunset'