Good writer Jess Weale hops over to Fiji with Marriot Bonvoy’s Good Travel programme, where the promise of meaningful experiences and sustainable travel awaits.
Fiji is not just a tropical holiday destination, it’s a call to embrace a vibrant community and leave a positive impact. While you’re soaking up the sun in style, you’ll also be supporting eco-friendly initiatives that help to preserve the pristine beauty of this island paradise. The people are the heart and soul of this tropical oasis and they are genuinely hospitable. Their warm welcome makes you feel like you’ve found a second home. From the moment you arrive, the sense of community and friendliness creates an instant connection with the local culture.
Plus, it’s just so pretty!
The vibrant green landscape and azure blue of the Pacific Ocean takes centre stage, setting you up for an unforgettable journey. There’s a sense of ease, it’s like stepping into a world where time slows down. No wonder they call it ‘Fiji time’ which all of the locals seem to live a relaxed life on – I think we need to adopt this in New Zealand!
A Beachfront Paradise with Purpose
My first stop on this island odyssey was the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, a slice of heaven conveniently located in Denarau, just 20 minutes from Nadi Airport. The resort’s recent renovation brought new life to the property, creating spaces that encourage connection and camaraderie among their many travellers.
Nestled along the coast, the resort offers a beachfront paradise with pools, beachside restaurants and nightly fire dancing shows. The various restaurants and bars on the property serve artisanal cocktails and delectable dishes, all showcasing the rich flavours of locally sourced ingredients.
One highlight of the Good Travel programme was the introduction to their fully organic farm, the largest of its kind in Fiji. Led by Shahil, the farm manager, I learned about sustainable farming practices and had the chance to plant lemongrass using a ‘no-till’ method. This method not only produces high-quality produce but also preserves the delicate balance of the soil’s microorganisms, ensuring a thoughtful and sustainable approach for the entire resort.
The farm, a core project enhancing the local community, uses compost from both the farm and the resort’s restaurants, closing the loop on waste and nurturing the growth of healthy, locally-sourced produce. As a guest, you can also take part in a divine Farm to Fork experience, where you can enjoy breakfast or dinner on the farm, right next to where your food is grown.
The farm is not the only sustainable experience to note. Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort has implemented many smaller, yet impactful, actions that mean not only the staff and resort are taking part in sustainability, but also the guests. It does not hinder your travel at all if you’re wanting the luxury, laid back experience, in fact, you barely know you’re involved! The rooms have sensors when the doors are open which means the air-conditioning will automatically shut off, the taps and toilets have a restrained water flow (which you wouldn’t even notice, but saves a lot of precious water) and the rubbish bins have both waste and recycling options, in every room as well as throughout the resort.
You might also think you’d miss having a buffet breakfast, but not only does the option of freshly prepared food offer a more personal experience, it also saves the wastage that comes with the large amounts of buffet food that sit out for a long time uneaten.
As I left Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, I felt a deep connection to the land and people, knowing that my stay had contributed to a more sustainable and vibrant community.
Luxury, Nature and Marine Conservation
Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay is situated on the western coast of Viti Levu. The overwater bures, a marvel in themselves, set the stage for a premium and eco-conscious stay. This 5-star resort boasts adults-only bures, multiple swimming pools, water sports activities and an award-winning day spa, all surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty.
If you ever find yourself here, make sure to head to Fish Bar. This is without a doubt a ‘must-visit’ place to dine. With panoramic views, exquisite food and an almost Mediterranean feel, you won’t regret spending your evening here watching an enchanting, golden sunset.
Mereoni ‘Oni’ the sustainability manager, leads the Good Travel programme at the resort, dedicated to preserving the natural environment of Momi Bay. Guests are encouraged to participate in the mangrove planting experience, an initiative to foster marine life and combat coastline erosion.
I tried my hand at building a fish house – a structure made from coral rock, concrete and sand, designed to provide a safe haven for fish, coral and other sea life. After learning that ‘Ika’ was the word for fish in both Māori and Fijian, I aptly named my fish house ‘Ika Lodge’. This will be placed in the resort’s coral restoration area, fostering the growth of coral and diverse marine life.
In conversations with Oni, I gained insight into the impact of coral bleaching globally, emphasising the urgency of sustainable practices to protect our precious reefs. As I witnessed the dedicated efforts of individuals like Oni, it is disheartening to think these endeavours may be in vain if coral bleaching continues. Each small action matters, and it is crucial to address the root causes such as reducing carbon emissions by adopting sustainable practices to combat climate change.
Fond memories
When I first heard the locals say, “welcome home,” I didn’t fully grasp the depth of those words. Yet, as my journey unfolded, I discovered the true meaning behind this Fijian expression. Fiji is more than just a destination, it’s a community where the people care for each other, the land and visitors, like me. I look forward to seeing the growth of mine and others’ efforts in farming and mangrove planting, and the difference it will continue to make to the land and community.
As I bid farewell to this enchanting paradise, I leave with a stronger commitment to conscious travel. Fiji is not just a holiday spot, it’s a chance to embrace sustainability, foster connections and leave a positive impact on the communities you encounter.
Vinaka, Fiji – until next time.
To see more highlights of Fiji, visit Jess on Instagram – @jess_weale
