This May, InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa invites guests to get swept up in the sweet hum of sustainability with its annual World Bee Day celebration, running all month long. In a standout fusion of eco-conscious luxury and immersive storytelling, the resort will host a series of golden, honey-themed experiences inspired by its thriving on-site apiary of over one million bees.
Nestled on the pristine shores of Natadola Bay, the resort has carved out a unique niche in the South Pacific – becoming one of the only Fijian resorts to make bee conservation a central part of the guest journey year-round. At the heart of this initiative is Natadola Bay Honey, a hyperlocal honey harvested from 21 active hives on property, now a signature part of the InterContinental experience.
“This program not only showcases the wonders of bees, but also reinforces our commitment to sustainability and the community,” says Lachlan Walker, regional general manager – Fiji & Pacific, IHG Hotels & Resorts. “Guests can dive into the bee project, from hive tours to honey spa treatments – it’s a celebration of nature, culture, and conscious travel.”
Curated honey high tea.
🌿 Honey with Heart: 1–31 May 2025
Timed to honour World Bee Day on 20 May, the month-long program underscores the global importance of bees and biodiversity. Guests are invited to don beekeeper suits during the Bee-Happy Experience, enjoy a curated honey high tea with ocean views, and relax with the signature Natadola Bay Honey Ritual in the award-winning spa.
Morning buffets will feature freshly harvested honeycomb, while the resort’s chefs and mixologists serve up honey-laced cocktails, artisan pastries, and edible stories that reflect Fiji’s native flora.
This is experiential luxury redefined – rooted in purpose, sweetened by nature, and proudly Fijian.
Extending the Buzz to Suva The month-long celebration extends beyond Natadola Bay to Fiji’s capital, with Grand Pacific Hotel Suva joining in through select culinary activations. Guests can enjoy a taste of InterContinental Fiji’s signature honey in the decadent Natadola Honey Almond Cake, as well as two specially crafted cocktails – the Golden Bula and the Suva Sunset Honey Punch – connecting travellers across both destinations through a shared commitment to sustainability.
In a heartwarming show of environmental action and cross-cultural collaboration, the Tanoa Hotel Group, along with students from New Zealand, planted 600 mangrove seedlings in Taiperia, Lautoka, on April 17 2025.
The initiative was part of an immersive sustainability program involving 16 students and three staff from St Cuthbert’s College in Auckland. Their visit to Fiji offered more than beautiful views and warm hospitality – it gave them a chance to contribute directly to protecting Fiji’s unique coastal environment.
“We’re proud to be part of something that supports both our environment and the next generation of leaders,” said Narend Kumar, Tanoa Group’s area general manager Fiji. “These students brought such energy and commitment. This planting is just one step in our wider vision for sustainable tourism and community care.”
Mangroves are more than coastal trees – they’re natural protectors. They guard against erosion, shelter young marine life, and are champions at absorbing carbon. The mangrove planting supports Fiji’s fight against climate change while also helping biodiversity thrive.
Tanoa’s sustainability manager, Roneel Chand, said the project also serves as a “living classroom” for visitors and partners. “We’re excited to collaborate with young people who are passionate about making a difference. It’s this kind of spirit that will carry Fiji’s sustainable future forward.”
In a true win for both the environment and local communities, the seedlings were purchased from a village in Rakiraki – supporting their eco-efforts while providing a sustainable source of income.
This is eco-tourism in action – and a reminder that even a small act, like planting a mangrove, can leave a lasting impact.
Teamwork for a greener Fiji – students from St. Cuthbert’s College, NZ join Tanoa Hotel staff in the mangrove planting effort in Taiperia, Lautoka.
Fiji Airways has landed in Cairns for the very first time.
The new, year-round service direct from Nadi brings Tropical North Queensland closer to the United States than ever before and provides seamless leisure opportunities for locals, creating the region’s first non-stop connection to Fiji with a flight time of just over four hours.
Traditional Fijian dancers led celebrations across Cairns Airport’s international terminal as the inaugural flight, FJ971, touched down shortly before 11.30am on Thursday, April 10th 2025.
To celebrate the launch, Fiji Airways is offering heavily discounted fares from Fiji to Cairns from $899 FJD Lite return, on sale for a limited time until Saturday 12 April*.
Fiji Airways CEO and managing director Andre Viljoensaid: “This new route is a major milestone for Tropical North Queensland travellers and Australians eyeing a Fijian escape; the 333 islands cater to all types of holidaymakers.”
“We’re thrilled to provide faster one-stop connections to North America, saving three hours and skipping extra stopovers for Aussies in the region. It’s a big boost in convenience and global connectivity. Plus, our full oneworld membership and AAdvantage® travel rewards program unlock even more benefits for frequent flyers including lounge access, priority boarding, and earning and redeeming miles across the extensive oneworld network.”
Cairns Airport CEO Richard Barker said Fiji Airways’ direct flights to Cairns would entice more international visitors to Tropical North Queensland.
“Our community has welcomed this exciting new connection with open arms. Fiji Airways’ service offers locals a great, new holiday option and will streamline visits to family and friends while also supporting tourism operators, strengthening trade channels and providing new education opportunities,” he said.
“Critically, this route aligns with Fiji Airways’ Dallas-Fort Worth schedule, operating on the same days, with a perfect and time-efficient connection via Nadi. This fast, one-stop connectivity to North America is a game changer. Destinations such as Los Angeles and San Francisco are now just 16 hours away, slashing nearly three hours of travel time and eliminating the need for additional stops in other Australian ports.”
The historic first flight from Cairns to Fiji is departed at 12.25PM (AEST), offering guests a seamless four-hour journey with Fiji Airways’ award-winning hospitality before arrival in Fijian paradise at 6.35PM local time.
Operating three times per week, Fiji Airways’ direct flights to Cairns further expand the national airline’s global network using the fuel-efficient Boeing 737 MAX 8. This modern aircraft is equipped with eight business class seats and 162 economy class seats, all designed for optimal comfort.
The direct Nadi-Cairns service will inject 53,000 seats into the market each year and generate an estimated $62 million boost to the Cairns economy over the first three years.
Minister for Tourism Andrew Powell said: “The Crisafulli Government is proud to support tourism growth in Tropical North Queensland.”
“We know these additional flights will bring more visitors to our beautiful region so they can experience all the great offerings we have – from mountain bike riding to snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef.”
Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen said TTNQ had been investing heavily into the North American market with inbound tour operators and travel agents looking forward to the opportunities presented by the shorter flying time to Cairns.
“The US is currently our second largest market with 85,000 visitors in 2024 and the new service via Fiji presents the opportunity to bring an estimated 52,000 additional US visitors annually injecting more than $160 million into the region’s economy,” he said.
“We are currently getting 16 per cent of Australia’s $2 billion US market so each market share percentage we can grow is an additional $2 billion for our economy. This improved access is just what we need to increase our market share which in the past has been as high as 22 per cent.
“TTNQ has been investing heavily in the North American market undertaking 20 trade and aviation campaigns to date including a campaign in partnership with Fiji Airways which will run to June 30 to drive bookings on the Cairns route.
“Our first 12 North American campaigns have achieved $21 million in direct sales with bookings from 30,800 passengers. Utilising the Federal funding from the International Tourism Recovery Program we have already achieved $54.9 million in publicity to drive awareness of Tropical North Queensland in North America.”
The Nadi to Cairns route marks Fiji Airways’ 27th direct international service and the airline’s sixth Australian destination, with direct flights from Nadi also operating to Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Canberra.
Cellar & Barrel, Fiji’s first speakeasy bar dedicated to fine wine, rare whiskey, and spirits, as well as crafted cocktails has opened at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort on Denarau.
With a distinguished collection of over 300 beverage labels from around the world, Cellar & Barrel is a premier destination for connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike.
Situated adjacent to Island 619 restaurant at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, the adults-only Cellar & Barrel encompasses two distinct spaces: a sophisticated walk-in wine cellar and an ambient whiskey and spirits speakeasy bar.
The Wine Cellar features an impressive variety of selections from both renowned ‘old world’ and innovative ‘new world’ wine-making regions, creating a sanctuary for wine enthusiasts. Guests are invited to indulge in the signature Cellar Elite experience, comprising an intimate wine-tasting session complemented by thoughtfully curated platters, guided by the resort’s certified in-house beverage team.
The Barrel Craft experience presents a refined speakeasy bar, characterised by an intricately designed chandelier inspired by the whiskey distillation process hung above a marble-topped table, and unique wall art assembled from framed belts. Personal whiskey lockers with glass windows form a distinguished “whiskey wall,” allowing patrons to store their preferred bottles with custom name engravings.
Embracing the philosophy that “every sip tells a story,” Cellar & Barrel boasts an international team of four highly trained mixologists from Ireland, Indonesia, Kenya, and Fiji, bringing a combined 40 years of experience. Tasteful whiskey-based cocktails and upcycled mocktails, display their craftsmanship that blends traditional methods with contemporary sophistication, honouring the richness of Fijian culture and culinary techniques. Use of local herbs and spices from the Sheraton Fiji Farm, along with homemade cocktail syrups, enhances the overall experience.
For an appetizing paired menu of small plates, Fijian flavours are favoured with global culinary techniques, enriching guest’s experience through exquisite authentic options prepared by the resort’s award-winning chefs.
Neeraj Chadha, Multi Property Vice President Pacific Islands, Marriott International, commented, “At Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, we aspire to set new standards in our services and continue to innovate our culinary experiences to meet the needs and expectations of our guests. Our diverse and certified beverage team are eager to showcase their individual beverage artistry to our guests including domestic patrons.”
Cellar & Barrell (C&B) can also host weddings, corporate gatherings, and social events, ranging from intimate experiences to grand celebrations. It complements the resort’s existing offerings, such as Tatavu Grill & Bar, which specialises in American-Fijian fusion and artisan gin cocktails; 28g Deli, a casual café celebrating Fiji’s coffee heritage; and Island 619, a poolside location featuring global flavours, themed buffet dinners and live entertainment.
Cellar & Barrell is open to resort guests and local residents.
Nine young women have joined Tanoa Hotels’ operational development program, gaining hospitality skills and career direction.
The women were recruited in March 2025 after Tanoa Hotels launched “Village Initiative”, its impactful outreach program, in Lomolomo village in Lautoka.
Recruits from Lomolomo village join Tanoa Hotels’ operational development program.
The program offers participants foundational training in hotel operations, preparing them for successful careers in the hospitality industry. Graduates will have the opportunity to work at any of Tanoa Hotels’ six properties in Fiji, plus Samoa and Tonga.
The Village Initiative honours the legacy of the late Mr. YP Reddy, the visionary founder of the Reddy Group, whose commitment to community empowerment continues to inspire Tanoa Hotels’ corporate social responsibility programs. Through this initiative, Tanoa Hotels is creating pathways for youth, fostering sustainable development, and strengthening its community-focused values.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s refreshed Day Sail itinerary will offer a multi-stop experience beginning June 1st 2025.
Set sail on a tall ship to gorgeous Kadavu Lailai Private Beach and reef in the Mamanuca Group plus an optional side excursion to the beautiful Treasure sand bar and reef.
Building on the success of its highly successful authentic Fiji excursion formula, Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s new itinerary is a must-do Fijian island experience where guests can enjoy the company’s own private tropical island beach with all its current inclusions, plus an expanded and enhanced program.
The Reef and Island Day Sail departs daily from Denarau Marina, Denarau for the spectacular Kadavu Lailai Private Beach with white sand, acres of coral gardens, and framed by a rich tropical rainforest full of fascinating indigenous flora.
Spend the day snorkelling and diving amidst Kadavu Lailai’s magnificent marine diversity, paddle boarding, kayaking or playing beach volleyball. Nature walks, guided snorkelling and glass bottom boat reef tours with Captain Cook Cruises’ resident marine biologist are on offer, as well as its ‘Build a Reef’ coral planting, monitoring and ‘Citizen Science’ programs. A fresh tropical BBQ buffet lunch, ice-cold beer, house wine and juices by the beach are included along with Fijian cultural entertainment with the dedicated crew.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji’s tall ship Spirit Of The Pacific.
Captain Cook has pioneered marine science tourism experiences in Fiji and are very excited about the expansion of their program through the refreshed itinerary. Each day two dedicated marine biologists from the company’s expedition team will guide the multitude of activities as well as provide optional talks and briefings throughout the day, both on board and on the island.
For those who wish to add an extra location to their experience, an optional excursion to nearby Treasure Sand Cay is on offer. With a maximum 30 passengers, the side trip provides the opportunity to snorkel and dive the rich coral diversity around the sand bar, plus go ashore for some beach relaxation.
Other optionals include spa treatments, Padi 5 Star diving, private shade cabanas, premium bar options and special celebration packages.
Coral frag planting.
Reef and Island Day Sail Experience inclusions –
* Sailing experience aboard tall-ship between Port Denarau and the gorgeous Kadavu Lailai Private Beach in the Mamanucas – one hour each way
* Morning and afternoon tea served onboard
* 5 hours of island and reef relaxation and activities including snorkelling, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, volleyball, nature walks and a kids club
* Fijian cultural entertainment
* On board and on island talks as well as guided snorkelling and glass bottom boat tours by 2 resident marine biologists
* Reef restoration by planting a coral frag in Captain Cook’s ‘Build a Reef’ coral planting, reef monitoring and ‘Citizen Science’ programs. Earn an eco-certificate and make a direct impact on the oceans
* Tropical BBQ lunch served with beer, wine and soft drinks on the island
* Optional side excursion to the beautiful Treasure Sand Bar
* Return land transfers from Nadi hotels.
Captain Cook Cruises Fiji marine biologists.
For Enquiries & Bookings: Captain Cook Cruises Fiji
Airline adopts award-winning AAdvantage® as its travel rewards programme
Fiji’s national airline, Fiji Airways, is officially oneworld® Alliance’s newest full member, bringing a full suite of oneworld benefits to customers around the world.
Fiji Airways will provide top tier customers with a full suite of oneworld benefits as a full member airline:
Access to a network of nearly 700 airport lounges globally, including recently opened oneworld branded lounges in Amsterdam’s Schiphol and Seoul’s Incheon airports
Priority check-in and boarding
Earning and redeeming miles
Earning Tier Points
“The introduction of Fiji Airways marks an important strategic step for our alliance as we connect even more people, places and experiences than ever before,” said Nat Pieper, CEO of oneworld. “Fiji Airways customers will benefit from oneworld’s global reach of more than 900 destinations, priority services and premium lounge access, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the oneworld family.”
Fiji Airways, with its hub at Nadi International Airport, serves 25 destinations in 14 countries and territories globally, including oneworld hubs in Hong Kong, Tokyo, Sydney and its newest global destination, Dallas Fort Worth, further connecting the airline into the oneworld network.
Fiji Airways has also adopted the American Airlines award-winning AAdvantage® travel rewards programme as their frequent flyer programme, ensuring its most frequent travellers can now enjoy all the benefits of oneworld Alliance as AAdvantage® members.
“Becoming a full member of the oneworld Alliance is a proud and momentous milestone for Fiji Airways. This achievement reflects our commitment to providing world-class service and expanding our global reach, while showcasing the warmth and hospitality of Fiji to the world, said Andre Viljoen, managing director and CEO of Fiji Airways. “As a full member, we are excited to offer our customers even greater benefits and seamless connectivity across the extensive oneworld network. We look forward to welcoming more oneworld customers onboard to experience the beauty of Fiji and the exceptional service of Fiji Airways.”
Taking to the skies on 1st September 1951, Fiji Airways now boasts a fleet of 23 state-of-the art aircraft, including its flagship A350-900s, offering customers warm and welcoming Fijian hospitality on all flights.
Fiji Airways continues to be recognised for its excellence, earning a Five Star Major Airline rating from APEX for the third consecutive year and multiple Skytrax 2024 awards, including Best Airline, Best Business Class Onboard Catering, and Best Cabin Crew in Australia/Pacific. As part of its oneworld integration, Fiji Link joins as an affiliate airline, further expanding the alliance’s reach with domestic services across Fiji and regional connections to Tonga, Samoa, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
New research suggests that millions of years ago, iguanas floated 8,000 km from North America to Fiji on vegetation rafts – masses of uprooted trees and small plants. The journey is thought to be a record – further than any other land-dwelling vertebrate has ever travelled on the ocean.
Fijian Crested Iguana. San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance photo.
The striking Fijian Crested Iguana, with its vibrant green colour and spiky crest, is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The Fiji Banded Iguana and the Lau Banded Iguana are listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
The Fijian Crested Iguana is currently known to be present on the islands of Yadua Taba (Bua), Macuata (Ra), Monuriki and Monu (Mamanuca Group), and on Deviulau and Waya in the Yasawa Group. There are unconfirmed populations on one or two other islands of the Mamanuca and Yasawa Groups. Their local names are Vokai, Vokaivotovoto, and Saumure.
According to a CNN article, around 34 million years ago, the ancestors of modern iguanas likely embarked on what may be the longest overwater journey undertaken by a nonhuman, land-dwelling vertebrate species.
Starting off the epic trek from the western coast of North America, these iguanas travelled nearly 5,000 miles (8,000 km) — one-fifth of the Earth’s circumference — across the Pacific Ocean, eventually arriving in Fiji, according to a new study.
Using genetic evidence, researchers propose that these iguanas made the extraordinary voyage by rafting on floating vegetation, possibly composed of uprooted trees or plants.
For decades, scientists have debated how Fiji’s iguanas arrived. Previous theories suggested that an extinct species of iguana rafted from the Americas without a clear timeline, while others proposed that the lizards migrated overland from Asia or Australia, said lead study author Dr. Simon Scarpetta, an assistant professor at the University of San Francisco. Scarpetta conducted this research during his National Science Foundation postdoctoral fellowship at the University of California, Berkeley, and in his current role.
Scarpetta and his team aimed to test both the overwater rafting and overland theories, as well as other hypotheses for the biogeographic origin of Fijian iguanas, including dispersal through Antarctica or across the Bering land bridge.
Fiji is set to host another gastronomic revolution as internationally acclaimed Australian chefs Adam Liston and Nate Scutter take centre stage at InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa (Natadola) and Grand Pacific Hotel (Suva). The exclusive four-event series will redefine luxury dining, blending the artistry of open-fire cooking with the pristine bounty of Fiji’s land and sea.
Adam Liston, the visionary behind Australia’s award-winning culinary institutions – Shōbōsho, ShoSho, Sora, and Mozza – is renowned for his mastery of smoke, fire, and modern Asian flavours. Together with hospitality entrepreneur Nate Scutter, this collaboration promises an immersive, high-energy dining experience that will push the boundaries of contemporary coastal cuisine.
Each event will showcase a meticulously curated menu that celebrates the raw energy of fire, deep umami layers, and the purity of Fiji’s freshest produce. Designed for discerning epicureans, this limited-time series brings together culinary theatre, innovative flavour profiles, and an intimate, luxury dining experience.
Wednesday 16th April & Thursday 24th April 2025 | 5.30p.m. – 8.00p.m.
A high-energy, interactive pop-up where inventive small plates meet the pulse of the Pacific. Expect fire, flavour, and finesse in every bite.
Sunset Soirée – A Beachside Culinary Affair
Thursday 17th April 2025 | 5.30p.m. – 9.30p.m.
A refined yet relaxed dining experience on the sands of Natadola Bay, featuring flame-seared meats, fresh seafood, and vibrant plant-based creations, paired with expertly crafted cocktails and live entertainment.
Fire & Feast – A Night of Smoke and Indulgence
Thursday 24th April 2025 | 5.30p.m. – 9.30p.m.
A multi-course fine dining affair at the renowned Navo Speciality Restaurant, where the essence of fire is captured in every meticulously crafted dish – from ember-roasted meats to delicately charred seafood.
Teriyaki Chicken.
Grand Pacific Hotel (Suva)
Harbour Lights – A Coastal Culinary Odyssey
Sunday 20th April 2025 | 5.30p.m. – 9.30p.m.
An elevated harbourside feast, where charcoal-grilled meats, delicately smoked seafood, and artfully composed salads converge against the breathtaking backdrop of Suva Harbour.
“This is more than a dining experience – it’s a celebration of artistry, innovation, and place. Adam and Nate’s fire-driven philosophy, combined with the depth and purity of Fiji’s local ingredients, creates a rare and unforgettable culinary journey. Robert Clark, general manager, Grand Pacific Hotel and I are excited to elevate what it means to dine in Fiji, offering guests something truly world-class, yet deeply connected to its surroundings.” commented Lachlan Walker, portfolio general manager – IHG Hotels & Resorts, FNPF-Owned Hotels.
With limited availability, these highly anticipated events promise an unparalleled gastronomic experience for those who appreciate the extraordinary.
Plantation Island Resort is the inspiration and backdrop for a brand-new children’s book, Elastic Island Adventures: Plantation Island Resort.
“We are thrilled to be a part of Elastic Island Adventures: Plantation Island Resort and to welcome the characters Kiri, Jed, Emma, Ethan and their friends to our beautiful resort in Fiji,” said Rodney Samuels, general manager of Plantation Island Resort, set on Malolo Lailai in the stunning Mamanuca group of islands.
“It is rare for a destination to resonate so deeply across generations that it becomes immortalised in a children’s book. Plantation Island Resort has long been a beloved holiday spot for families, and its inclusion in this adventure highlights its lasting appeal. From a tourism perspective, the book reinforces the resort’s status as a must-visit destination, inspiring new generations to experience its beauty and charm firsthand.”
Written by acclaimed New Zealand author Karen McMillan and published by Duckling Publishing, the book is the eighth installment in the Elastic Island Adventures book series, bringing a new and exciting adventure to young readers aged seven to 12.
New children’s book inspired by Fiji’s Plantation Island Resort.
The latest installment in the popular Elastic Island Adventures series, which famously blends fantasy and action, follows four children – Kiri, Jed, and twins Emma and Ethan – who frequently journey on ‘elastic island’, a unique way to travel that sends them pinging across the ocean to a variety of tropical island destinations. In this story, they travel via the magical ‘elastic island’ to stunning Plantation Island Resort in Fiji in an adventure inspired by the author’s own visit and experiences as a guest at the holiday resort.
Accompanied by Blong the Cat and Heathcliff the Dog, the children encounter a runaway hermit crab named Lepani, who is terrified of plastic and dreams of being anything but a crab. Determined to help, the children embark on a heartwarming and action-packed journey to reunite Lepani with his family – while keeping him out of trouble along the way.
Lepani the hermit crab.
Mr Samuels added, “This heartwarming story not only showcases the magic of Fiji but also highlights the importance of protecting our environment, something we are deeply committed to here at Plantation Island Resort. We hope this adventure inspires children and families to explore the wonders of our island while respecting and preserving the natural beauty that makes Fiji such a special destination.”
Plantation Island Resort offers an exceptional getaway for families. Spanning 23 lush acres of tropical gardens, with white sand beaches and a sparkling turquoise lagoon, the award-winning resort offers affordable, spacious hotel rooms and bures, accommodating up to six people.
The resort blends relaxation and fun, offering a variety of casual to more formal dining options and a wide range of facilities for all ages including multiple pools, children’s playgrounds, a 9-hole golf course, water parks, fishing, surfing, diving, island trips, and much more! Little adventurers will enjoy the complimentary ‘Coconut Kids Club’ and Lairo Teens Program for big kids, promising memorable experiences for all ages.
As part of its commitment to sustainability, Plantation Island Resort has partnered with Dr. Austin Bowden-Kerby, founder of Reefs of Hope, since 2018 on the BULA Reef initiative. Launched with Fijian NGO Corals for Conservation on World Oceans Day (8 June 2024), this ‘super’ coral nursery supports coral conservation efforts within the UNESCO-endorsed Reefs of Hope program.
For more information on Elastic Island Adventures: Plantation Island Resort: www.elasticisland.com Explore more of Plantation Island Resort and its offerings: www.plantationisland.com
