In undiscovered northern Fiji, lush tropical rainforests meet pristine coral reefs and coconut palm-lined beaches give way to azure lagoons – this is paradise for the keen adventurer or diver.

The Mamanuca Island Group runs to the north west of Viti Levu and consists of a string of sundrenched islands fringed with white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons of your Robinson Crusoe dreams.

Further north is the Yasawa Group, with its rugged coastline and powdery-soft white sands. Of Fiji’s 330 islands, only 100 or so are inhabited – the rest have been left untouched as nature intended. Most are not as yet developed for tourism – and have little or no infrastructure – but an idyllic few including Royal Davui in Beqa Lagoon and Vatulele have let the world into their secret.

Fiji undoubtedly offers breathtaking scenery and pristine palm-lined beaches, but its true charm lies in the warmth of its people, whose easy smiles are infectious and whose laid back approach to life will ensure you soon settle into ‘Fiji time’! From the moment you arrive, you will be greeted with Fijian song, and the ‘Isa Lei’ (Fijian farewell song) is assured to leave you with a tear in your eye and a smile on your face.

Fiji enjoys a warm tropical climate. May to October is the mild, dry season with temperatures ranging from a maximum of 29ºC to a minimum of 19ºC (Fiji’s winter time!) while the summer period from November to April sees temperatures rise to a maximum of about 31ºC (with the minimum being about 22ºC).

This summer period also tends to be more humid and tropical showers can be more frequent. Within Fiji, there are weather variations, with the lush north generally being the wettest region – and the Mamanucas and Yasawas being the driest. Given Fiji’s location in the tropical zone, you can expect an occasional shower at any time but this waters the plants and brightens the flowers! Travel within Fiji is usually by seaplane, light aircraft, helicopter or boat, although there are scheduled flights between the larger islands.

We highly recommend you split your time between at least two islands – and better still, between two different parts of the country. Alternatively, incorporate some cruising or sailing before retreating to your Fijian island hideaway. But whatever you decide, the warm hospitality of the world’s friendliest people in paradise, combined with Fiji’s uncrowded beaches, beautiful coral reefs, crystal clear waters, turquoise lagoons and tropical forests – will guarantee a dream holiday. Flying time to Fiji is approximately 23 hours via Los Angeles. English is the official language and is widely spoken.