One of the remarkable and truly wonderful characteristics of the islands of Fiji is that everywhere you go people smile and wave. Welcoming you with open arms and hearts, the Fijians are keen to introduce you to their ways, and if you're not careful, to Kava, their rather potent local brew! Viti Levu is the main island, but this is just a stepping stone to the real treasure, the tiny atolls that lie in the ocean around her.

A short hop across from Viti Levu, Yasawa Island takes only thirty-five minutes to reach by air. If, like me, you choose the small daily charter plane, take heed when told to travel light. You may want to skip lunch as well, as when you arrive at the airport you'll find it's not just the bags that get weighed. This should give some indication of the size of the craft, but trust me, it's still a shock to see an aeroplane with only ten seats, and one of those is for the pilot.

Step off the plane at Yasawa and you'll be greeted with cries of 'bula' -not only from the delegates sent from Yasawa Island Resort to greet you, but also from the local children who quite often come to see the planes land and take off. As you're swathed in gorgeous fresh flower lei and handed a cocktail brimming with fruit, you know you're about to have the time of your life.

The only resort on the island, Yasawa Island Resort employs mainly from the six local villages. The resort prides itself on working together with the community and the environment to provide a magical experience for everyone, but at no-one's expense. Because of this everyone is happy - and it shows.

There are only 18 bungalows, or bures, in total and each of these personifies luxury. Dotted along the thick white shag pile carpet of beach, each bure has it's own private area with sunbeds and palm shade. Glory, I hear you sigh, but it gets better. By day, if lazing on the beach or beside the free-form pool becomes tedious, you'll find there are numerous activities that can be arranged. Maybe deep sea fishing, snorkelling or a visit to the caves where the original Blue Lagoon movie was filmed.

All wonderful - but take my word that nothing beats being whisked by boat to a deserted part of the island and left on your own with walkie talkies, sunbeds and sunshade and a huge hamper full of the most divine food you could ever taste. When you've had enough, call base and someone will come and collect you. For me, few things in life are on a par with an experience like the Yasawa Island Resort.