Heaven On The Earth

Tucked away on Fiji’s second island, Vanua Levu, is a holiday spot that has something for everyone, as Nicky Dewe discovers

- Nicky Dewe

Breakfast times are busy at the Jean-Michel Cousteau resort. The restaurant is a hive of activity as children and parents buzz around the buffet helping themselves to plates of fresh fruit, cereals and toast. Hot meals come sailing out from the kitchen and there’s the clattering of dishes, laughter, chatting and the usual hub-bub that happens during a family dining experience.

Then suddenly, everything falls quiet. Now, it’s just grown-ups relaxing around the central pool. On the elegant loungers that are purpose-built for two, couples recline, talking or reading, in uninterrupted bliss. So what’s facilitating this unlikely scene of parental peace and tranquillity?

The Bula Club, that’s what. Yes, more than just a beautiful five-star eco-resort with luxurious bures set in lush tropical gardens, this place has a special secret up its sleeve. This next-level kids’ club pulls in worn-out parents from far and wide.

Located on the country’s second largest island, Vanua Levu, getting here is a 50-minute flight from Nadi to the picturesque town of Savusavu. Known as “the hidden paradise of Fiji”, it’s a magical place with something for every type of holidaymaker.

But back to the needs of the smaller traveller… a quick visit to the Bula Club beckons and you’ll see why no-one’s resisting. It is, in essence, a resort within a resort. It has its own pool – which unlike the adult version can be entered via hydro-slide; there’s a giant tree house; a tyre swing; bikes to ride; and all the other playground favorites. Most importantly, it’s run by the most caring and attentive staff, whose skills range from playing tag to baby whispering and everything in between.