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A truly magical place! If you want off-the-beaten-track, away from the mad rush of 21st century life, this is the place. Arriving by boat, you'll be serenaded by the staff, and from then on, you're made to feel like part of a large extended family. The staff are outstanding - warm, friendly, funny, knowledgeable and genuinely concerned that you are enjoying yourself. We went to Oneta for the incredible snorkelling on the Astrolabe reef, and we were not disappointed. It's stunning - and we visited two difference sites every day we were there apart from the day we went on the hike to the waterfall.
The meals are wonderful and eaten communally at a long table, with manager Richard and staff Anne & Russi, and provide a great chance to get to know them, and fellow guests.
Our accommodations in "Vesi" were very comfortable - the bures are spacious and feature private outdoor showers surrounded by tropical plants (makes the bathroom at home look pretty boring!). The grounds are beautiful - and lovingly maintained by Jonani, who also gave us a great tour one afternoon. The resort grows many of their own vegetables and fruit and it was fun to see where it all came from, as well as find out more about the native trees and plants.
There is plenty to keep everyone busy - from snorkelling, to diving, to kayaking to hiking, to local village visits, or a day retreat at your own private island. Or you can relax in a hammock with a book - or join the staff at 5 pm in a game of volleyball. Saturdays there a traditional Kava ceremony, followed by a lovo (ground oven cooked meat, fish and vegetables) - all accompanied by wonderful singing from the staff. Music is very much a part of Fijian culture and we always enjoyed hearing them sing. Our last night at the resort we fell asleep to the distant sound of singing from the staff quarters - it was lovely.
We've been to many places over the years, and nowhere has the staff been so welcoming, so genuinely happy; they laugh, sing, joke amongst themselves and with the guests and you're always greeted with a cheerful "Bula!" Much of that is due to manager Richard's deep understanding of and respect for Fijian culture, and owners' Liz & Martin's obvious dedication to making Oneta a truly unique experience, and in doing so, supporting the surrounding Fijian communities as well. Vinaka to Richard, Anne, Russi (Richard #2), Messa, Nu, Bill, Meli, Vo, the 2 Jonanis, Lizzie, Api, Sam, Seko, Annie, Ben, Te, Bose, Is, and everyone else - and apologies if I've misspelled your names. ~ Paddy & Richard - via 