Bucketlist travel is a luxury and I readily admit I have been afforded some amazing adventures. Posts like these are not meant to put me up on my “#badass” pedestal, but I do like to share some of my over the top experiences aa they awakened my soul and reminded me this big blue marble we call Earth is still a remarkable place filled with nooks and crannies that are worth exploring…
Accommodations in Fiji range from family friendly to nothing short of “fantabulous,” but if you are going to visit and you’ve been saving up for something big, here’s a thought for your bucket list: why not book your own private island?
Having already hosted high-profile CEOs and such celebrities as Pink and Paris Hilton, the Wadigi Island Resort is likewise available to the public to rent and my stay was nothing short of “FANTABULOUS”
With rates starting at just over $2,000 per couple and approximately $1,000 per person thereafter for parties up to six, this resort in the Mamanuca Islands, west of the main island of Nadi, boasts a breathtaking private paradise. If you split the cost six ways, you’d be paying $1,608.87 per night (a minimum stay is three nights), which includes taxes, food, drinks and more.
I experienced this vacation of a lifetime after a 10-minute private helicopter ride from the Nadi International Airport; a spectacular way to begin this unique adventure.
With the feel of a sprawling beach house, the resort rests high atop a cliff. Each of the three deluxe yet unpretentious suites offers decadent ocean views overlooking blue and green coral waters. Hosts and owners Jim and Tracey Johnston quickly become like family with a special talent for making me feel at home. How do they do this? With a full private island staff consisting of two gourmet chefs, hostess, maid and boat captain.
The beach house lacked nothing in amenities. I Enjoyed the infinity pool, in-room soaking tubs and seemingly endless miles of beach, as well as a private lagoon that is perfect for water sports. Snorkeling is available for the beginner or advanced visitors, as are kayaking, windsurfing, water-skiing and wakeboarding.
My long boat captain was available to take me island hopping, and among the options is Monuriki Island, where the Tom Hanks movie “Cast Away” was filmed.
The real magic of Wadigi Island Resort is that it does not feel like a hotel or resort at all. It quickly takes on the personality of your home away from home. Snacks, meals and cocktails seem to simply make themselves available as Jim and Tracey are in constant communication with each guest from the moment they book. While many want to enjoy the full Fijian eating experience, the resort will cater to any and all dietary needs and special requests.
As for getting there, while many imagine Fiji as a destination too far, this constellation of over 500 individual islands does not demand overwhelming travel — it is actually less than 10 hours from LAX.