NEWS FROM THE YASAWAS - What's happening at Fiji's remote island resorts

IT'S ALL HAPPENING!

There is a buzz of activity in the remote Yasawa Islands, located off the west coast of Fiji, with significant investment occurring along the length of the spectacular 20 island archipelago.

The majestic ancient volcanic islands have long been the playground for more adventurous and independent travellers seeking out the untouched beauty of Fiji and experiencing the true Fijian culture first hand. Now dotted with over 30 resorts ranging from basic backpackers to more luxurious '3 coconut' properties specialising in honeymooners, the Yasawa's are seeing an injection of investment from new owners and management at many resorts.

As the tropical wet season gets into full swing with steamy days broken by tropical showers, many resorts are taking the opportunity to close up and focus entirely on renovations, refurbishments and new building projects. The end result - in April there will be a string of shiny, new accommodation and resort facilities to be explored and enjoyed throughout the Yasawa Islands! That creates the perfect excuse to book a pre-winter mini-break, or an escape from the cold of winter to balmy Fiji.

Just some of the changes and goss from the Yasawas:

• The owners at well known Barefoot Island Resort, on Drawaqa Island, have been busy over the past 12 months completing a brand new Sunset Deck and Bar area, as well as completing the first new 2 coconut dorm room. The new design is upmarket while in-keeping with traditional Fijian style, and will be used as the prototype for all dorms on the island to be upgraded. The Resort has also rebranded to become known as 'Barefoot Manta Resort' - aptly named after the stunning Mantarays that grace the ocean channel right off the beach of the resort.
• The rebrand at Barefoot Manta happened in association with the owners taking on a new resort, 'Barefoot Kuata' on Kuata Island in the south of the Yasawa Group. Currently a 1 coconut rating, there will new 2 coconut rated deluxe dorms and bures. The owners also have similar upgrade plans for the general resort facilities, with work already underway. New luxurious outdoor showers and a facelift of all facilities are just the first stages of a longer term upgrade plan. There are also now opportunities to scuba dive straight off the beach, or at spectacular locations nearby with a fully equipped dive centre now established at the resort.
• Speaking of re-brands, the former Otto and Fanny's Place on Tavewa Island is now known as 'Coconut Beach Resort'. The new owners are looking to upgrade the entire property to a 3 coconut rating, including a new restaurant, day spa and completely new room type. The resort is currently closed and will re-open in April.
• More new owners at Viwa Island Resort who have already commenced general improvement works and will be identifying additional new opportunities over the next two months while the resort is closed. Due to re-open in April.
• And new owners also at Nadi Bay Resort on the mainland - we are eagerly awaiting an announcement on their plans!
• Moving on from new owners and onto existing owners with big plans! 3 coconut Paradise Cove Resort on Naukacuva Island has unveiled their newly built 'Paradise Suites' which have been especially designed for honeymooners. Featuring private plunge pools and swinging day beds, the romance is sure to sizzle in these beautiful villas overlooking the ocean.
• Korovou Eco Tour Resort now offers ocean-side dining from under the shelter of a new roof purpose built over their verandah. With the spectacular views over the water from this verandah, dining is sure to take on an entirely new atmosphere at this resort. There are also renovations planned for the accommodation here, to be undertaken while the resort is closed during February/March. Due to re-open in April.
• Wayalailai Ecohaven Resort has also focused on improved dining experiences, with a brand new coffee shop built right on the beach for guests to enjoy.
• Oarsman's Bay Lodge is planning new bathroom blocks for it's 1 and 2 coconut accommodation, as well as new accommodation room types.
• And rounding out the list, Mantaray Island Resort on Nanuya Balavu Island has introduced a new Beachfront Luxury Villa room type which opened in mid-December 2014. Just meters from the beach, the villas can sleep up to 4 in air conditioned comfort.

Note: Awesome Adventures Fiji issues coconut ratings from 1-3 for all resorts it partners with throughout the Yasawa Islands. 1 coconut rating = basic but beautiful; 2 coconut rating = more modern rooms and amenities; 3 coconut rating = upmarket.

Yasawa Islands
Fiji is made up of over 300 islands set in crystal clear waters with palm-fringed white sandy beaches, tempting lagoons and colourful coral reefs. The majestic Yasawa Island group, just north of the well-known and luxurious Mamanuca Islands, off Fiji’s west coast, is the playground for Awesome Adventures Fiji. This chain of 20 ancient volcanic islands is undoubtedly one of the most stunning regions in Fiji. Four of the islands have dramatic elevations with summits just short of 600 metres above sea level. The pristine beaches and dramatic monoliths provide a beautiful environment in which to relax or enjoy the many activities on offer - amazing snorkelling, diving, local village visits, hiking, cave exploration and (depending on the season) even swimming with manta rays. The northern islands (including Nanuya Island) are home to the famous Blue Lagoon. As the name suggests, the water is the most inviting shades of blue you will ever see!

The Yasawa Flyer (or, the big yellow boat!) travels through these islands on a daily basis, delivering travellers to their island resorts.

Photo - The warmth won't be the only reason to escape to Fiji's Yasawa Islands this winter, with a flurry of investment and new developments at many of the island resorts. (Photo credit: Chris McLennan)