South Pacific

Rarotonga's finest beach is a blaze of white sand that stretches unbroken for kilometres. Shaded by palms rather than highrise hotels, it frames the azure waters of Titikaveka Lagoon. A very few, very fortunate travellers experience such beauty first-hand as the guests of Royale Takitumu Villas, Rarotonga’s most prestigious resort. Takitumu is set amid manicured lawns and tropical gardens, facing the crystal clear lagoon. A coral barrier makes these waters a haven for myriad tropical fish and a snorkeller's paradise. Royale Takitumu Villas has a deserved reputation for very personal service — nothing is too much trouble. The resort complex features ten spacious, beautifully appointed, one bedroom villas whose South Seas-style architecture blends with the very contemporary creature comforts within. Roofs overlaid with coconut thatch and with high ceilings ensure a cool interior at all times. Air conditioning, direct dial phone, spacious lounge, huge beds and bathroom with spa bath and bidet, plus a full kitchen and verandah, ensure that your villa is an island home par excellence.

Toberua Island Resort is an emerald set in a lapis lazuli sea. This two-hectare paradise is lush with palm trees, frangipani and hibiscus blooms. As a guest, you'll stay in one of 15 distinctive bures, all with en-suite bathrooms, huge beds and spacious lounge areas, and each one distinctively appointed with traditional Fijian furnishings and weavings. Toberua (pronounced "Tomberua") is the good life — this is your own island with no day trippers to interrupt the reverie. Fishing, excursions to uninhabited islands, snorkelling through the coral or observing reef life from a glass-bottomed boat, windsurfing, sailing or just swimming in the pool can fill your day. Scuba diving on the kaleidoscopic reefs is exceptional. Sample a cocktail or two and see why Toberua's bar is one of the finest in Fiji; there's a good range of imported wines, too. Dine under the stars and delight in seafood brought in by local fishermen and the island's tropical fruits. The result is a delicious mixture of international and local dishes. In keeping with the mood of Toberua Resort, there's little need for cash here — most of the activities are complimentary. Children are welcome, and baby-sitters are provided to ensure kids and parents alike have a perfect stay. After all, relaxation is what Toberua is about.