This is a place to really get away from it all. It's off the beaten track. About 11 hours by plane from LAX to Nadi (pronounced Nandy), then a 30 minute domestic flight to Nausori Airport in Suva, Fiji. From there it's a 20 minute taxi ride to a boat landing. After that, a 30 minute boat trip to the island.
Once there, you'll be greeted by the sound of a lali (drum) announcing your arrival. At the dock waiting are the smiling, singing and guitar playing staff of Toberua (pronounced Tom-berua).
There are 15 bures (bur-rays) on this island. With thatched roofs, ceiling fans (no A/C) and unscreened windows, they are very rustic looking. Beds are typically one queen size and two singles. The bathrooms are quite large, and have access from the back porch as well as the interior of the bure. Rooms are cleaned each day and flowers (usually hibiscus or frangipani) are left on the bed covers. The tradewinds at night coupled with the ceiling fans tend to sufficiently cool the interior.
Tomberua Resort is a place to relax and unwind. The mood is casual, laid back. With no televisions, no radios, and no telephones in the bures, it is not the place for everyone. People with electronically dependent teenagers may find it to be rather boring and tedious.
Activities include sightseeing at a typical village, bird-watching, snorkeling, diving, swimming in the pool, sunbathing, fishing, darts, shooting pool, and reading. Everything is low key. The idea is relaxation. If you're into an active nightlife, then this may not be the place for you.
The meals are quite delicious. Breakfast is generally buffet-style. Lunch and dinner are 3-4 course meals. The staff come around each day with a menu for you to select from. The chefs are willing to prepare special meals if necessary for vegetarians and others with dietary restrictions. There is a full bar which is open everyday from 8am. They are more than willing to prepare your favorite concoction. For people with small children, there are nannies available from about 8am until 8pm for a daily rate.
A word of caution. This is a tropical island. It can be hot and steamy. There are insects (primarily ants, gnats) to be expected. Also, some people may be freaked out by the presence of sea snakes. They don't always stay in the water.
That said, there are many guests that are repeat visitors. It's due in large part to the staff at Toberua Resort. The people are extraordinary, always willing to assist and seeming genuinely happy that you are visiting their island.
Many people from New Zealand and Australia vacation here. The guests are interesting and diverse. From wedding parties, honeymooners, children, young professionals to retirees, everyone is made to feel welcome. It's a special place.
Contacts are email
toberua@connect.com.fj and website
www.toberua.com Telephone: 679-3472-777
Fax: 679-3472-888