Tourism receives FJD23.5 million for third year running

For the third consecutive year Tourism Fiji has received a FDJ $23.5 million allocation from the National Budget.

Announcing the 2012 budget, Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama said tourism remains the country's largest foreign exchange earner.

"In recognition of its strategic importance, Tourism Fiji will again receive an annual marketing grant of FJD 23.5 million in 2012."

The Prime Minister said says last year's record arrivals (631,000) positioned the industry to hit the billion dollar mark in foreign earnings.

For further information, please contact Tourism Fiji's executive office at aledua@tourismfiji.com.fj

Fiji ranked number three on list of most desirable destinations to visit in 2012

Fiji has claimed third spot in the list of most desirable destinations to visit in 2012 by popular blog site 'Ezine Articles'.

Expert writer Farrah Hedwat said Fiji was equally well accommodating for both backpackers and luxury holiday makers and well worth a visit for those willing to venture that bit further for somewhere less-travelled and very exotic, going on to say that as far as hospitality goes, the Fijians are among the friendliest people you could meet.

The 'Ezine Articles' listing is as follows:

1. Osio, Norway
2. Carolinas (USA)
3. Fiji
4. Tenerife, Canary Islands
5. Ukraine

For more information visit
www.ezinearticles.com

Tourism Fiji builds on 'Bachelorette' exposure with major wedding/honeymoon specialist visit

Capitalizing on the huge boost Fiji received earlier this year with the US screening of the dedicated Fiji segments of the popular 'The Bachelorette' reality TV show, Tourism Fiji has made further strong inroads into the American romantic travel market.

The national tourist office this month hosted 59 members of leading US and global destination weddings and honeymoon agency, 'All About Honeymoons and Destination Weddings', the visit designed to showcase and emphasize Fiji's ability to deliver across the international quality weddings and honeymoon product landscape.

While a key part of the 'Romance Travel Specialist' agents' visit to Fiji was to attend an annual convention held at Plantation Island Resort, a major component of their overall time in Fiji was to experience first-hand all Fiji has to offer their clients via pre and post itineraries visiting a variety of regions and attractions within the destination.

Tourism Fiji Regional Director – The Americas, Ili Matatolu said she was highly appreciative that All About Honeymoons and Destination Weddings selected Fiji as its venue for its annual convention.

"Hosting the US's leading agency in this lucrative market will definitely boost our efforts in getting a bigger share of the US destination weddings and honeymoon market in the long term," she said.

"This visit in conjunction with what we achieved earlier this year with the screening of 'The Bachelorette' will no doubt play a major role in enhancing our marketing and PR efforts and help our positioning as the 'top romance' destination for North Americans."

Televised last August, an estimated 23 million American viewers tuned in to watch the final two episodes of the popular 'The Bachelorette' reality TV show shot on location in Savusavu, Taveuni, Namenalala Island, Denarau, the Sabeto Mud Pools and Vomo Island.

For further information, please contact Tourism Fiji Regional Director, North America, Ms Ili Matatolu at ili@tourismfijius.com

Tourism Fiji broadens Fiji's appeal to Aussie backpacker market

Further demonstrating the travel opportunity the destination represents to the Australian backpacker market, Tourism Fiji and Fiji Independent Traveller Backpacker Association (FITBA) last month combined resources to host 55 Australian backpacker specialist travel agents.

While in Fiji the agents visited a variety of areas on the main island of Viti Levu including Nadi, Rakiraki, the Pacific and Coral Coasts and also the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands where they were able to sample a host of activities geared to appeal to this key market segment.

These included diving and snorkelling, sand boarding at the Sigatoka Sand Dunes, white water rafting, a Sigatoka River Safari, island day cruises, hot air ballooning and a traditional Fijian spa bath experience at the volcanic black mud springs at Sabeto near Nadi.

A key component of the overall exercise was a trade day taking place at Smugglers Cove Beach Resort at Wailoaloa Beach, Nadi, where the agents were able to meet with a good number of specialised hoteliers and tour operators offering backpacker oriented product and services.

Tourism Fiji regional director Australia, Paresh Pant, said the familiarisation, a first for the Australian market, was timely given the ever-growing numbers of Australian backpackers now visiting Fiji.

Tourism Fiji's partners in the Fiji educational also included Feejee Experience and Awesome Adventures.

For further information, please contact Tourism Fiji marketing officer, Ms Kesaia Marau at
kmarau@tourismfiji.com.fj

TF combines with Cathay Pacific and Korean Air to stimulate Japan business

Tourism Fiji's Japan regional office has combined resources with Cathay Pacific and Korean Air to increase awareness of Fiji and help strengthen traffic from Japan.

Effective from now until 29 February 2012 one lucky couple per month flying Cathay Pacific will have the opportunity to win two nights free accommodation in Fiji simply by booking a Fiji holiday.

This TF/CX campaign has been sponsored by Mana Island Resort & Spa, the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, Outrigger on the Lagoon and Shangri-la's The Fijian Resort, each of which is offering the two nights accommodation.

The airline and Tourism Fiji Japan are also offering special Fiji 'Oilei Pure Natural Coconut Soap' gift packs to Japanese visitors flying to Fiji via Hong Kong on the direct CX/Air Pacific code share service until 29 February.

Further stimulating potential business from Japan, Tourism Fiji has been actively showcasing the destination by a combined effort with both Korean Air and Vatulele Island Resort which has seen a series of cooperative advertisements and editorial features showcasing both destination and resort appear in the well-respected 'Nikkei' magazine.

Reaching an estimated and highly targeted readership, mostly young executives, middle-aged business women, mature couples and sophisticated seniors, Nikkei magazine is highly regarded as one of Japan's most influential publications.

For further information, contact Tourism Fiji's Japan office at info@bulafiji-jp.com.

Cooking up a Captain Cook storm – nice appetizer for 2012 SP Food & Wine Festival

Bringing a new focus on Fiji – and particularly next year's South Pacific Food & Wine Festival - in the New Zealand market, Tourism Fiji and Captain Cook Cruises last month combined resources to bring one of the country's highest profile celebrity chefs to Fiji.

The chef in question was celebrity gourmand Simon Gault whose role as a judge on the NZ version of the international hit cooking show 'Masterchef' has made him one of the biggest household names in the land of the long cloud.

Gault agreed to make a special appearance on board Captain Cook Cruises' 'Reef Endeavour' as part of a four-day Yasawa Island cruise which attracted 95 New Zealand 'foodies' who were treated to daily cooking demonstrations including several Fijian inspired dishes and a mini Captain Cook ' Masterchef' competition for the passengers.

Menu highlights included a variety of interesting gourmand repostes among them tuna tartare with Fijian sea grapes and a wasabi vinaigrette served up with a Fijian Tuna Taco drizzled with caramel ginger sauce!!

For more information on Captain Cook Cruises please visit www.captaincook.com.fj

AG – 2012 South Pacific Food & Wine Festival to present many benefits for Fiji

Attorney-General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum said the benefits of the upcoming South Pacific Food and Wine Festival in Fiji next year will not only include increased tourism figures - it will actively encourage of the use of local food in the tourism industry.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum made these comments while launching the South Pacific Food and Wine Festival and the South Pacific Food and Wine Hospitality Conference in Suva this month.



The festival and the conference are scheduled to run concurrently from 14-17 March on Denarau Island.

The event, he said, would enable local chefs to benefit from presentations by celebrity chefs from throughout the world.

These include the likes of distinguished French chef (and Australian TV personality) Manu Feildel, New Zealand chef, author and festival culinary ambassador Robert Oliver and renowned Australian chef and television personality Ben O'Donoghue, all of whom have confirmed their attendance at the event.

Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said Fiji's hosting of the event showed the public that Fijians should not shy away from using local food in the tourism industry.

"Fiji's food is just as good as those of other countries," he said.

"This event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase Fiji to the rest of the world."

For more information on the event visit the South Pacific Food & Wine Festival on facebook.

FIHTA - new tourism service turnover tax to widen net

Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association President, Dixon Seeto said the newly announced Service Turnover Tax will now widen the tax net to include other sectors that benefit from tourism.

Mr Seeto said the industry was faced with the prospect of an increase of close to 12 per cent on the Hotel Turnover Tax which has been renamed to Service Turnover Tax.

"I think the service turnover tax sort of makes it more of a level playing field and it's a bit more equitable that the other companies and sectors that are involved in tourism also help to get taxes from the service turnover tax from their clients to give to Government."

The tax rate remains at five percent but has now expanded to include rental car operators, inbound tour operators, events management operators, recreation entertainment and cinema operators, bars and nightclubs, bistros, coffee shops and restaurants with an annual gross turnover of $1.5 million.

Water sports, underwater activities, skydiving, hot air ballooning, river safaris, aircraft charter helicopter hire with an annual gross turnover of $300,000 and home-stay operators are also included.

For further information, please contact FIHTA at exec@fihta.com.fj

Campese and Serevi unveil World first 'Rugby Walk of Fame' in Fiji

Fiji's self-proclaimed 'rugby town' Sigatoka has officially launched its very own 'Rugby Walk of Fame' with legendary players former Wallaby David 'Campo' Campese and Fiji's Waisale 'The Wizard' Serevi unveiling their honorary plaque in front of excited fans.

One of the key players behind the event, Jay Whyte, Chairman of the Coral Coast Sevens and Managing Director of Sigatoka River Safari, said it was only fitting that two of the world's greatest rugby players officially launched the world's first and Fiji's very own Rugby Walk of Fame in Sigatoka," said

Campese said he was honoured to be remembered in a country outside of his native Australia and Serevi who was visibly emotional during the ceremony thanked the efforts of sponsors and the fans for the support.

Serevi's honorary plaque is located on the footpath in front of the Tappoo Shop and Campese's in front of the Sigatoka Safari Shop, both of which are on the main street in Sigatoka.

For more information on the Coral Coast 7s visit www.sevenspassion.com

2011 Fiji Coral Coast 7s a huge success

The 2011 Fiji's Coral Coast Rugby 7s has been hailed a major success with 24 teams participating in the two-day tournament held at Lawaqa Park on 18 -19 November, 2011 with top honours on the day went to the Warden team taking home the FJD30, 000 main prize and 'I-Wau' (Cup) competition title.

The Army took home the 'Davui' title (Plate), Hideaway Hurricanes were winners of the 'Tanoa' title (Bowl) and the US based Team Serevi won the 'Lase' tile (Shield).

Warden's Joji Ragamate was chosen by Coral Coast 7s 2011 ambassadors and rugby greats David Campese and Waisale Serevi as the Player of the Tournament winning the medal named after the two rugby greats.

For more information on the Coral Coast 7s visit www.sevenspassion.com

We kid you not - Fiji says Bula to schoolies

Building on Fiji's reputation has become a schoolies hot spot with thousands of teenagers set to flock to the Pacific island nation in coming weeks.

The first of more than 2200 Fiji-bound school leavers, organised by Australian tour operator Unleashed Travel group are heading to Beachcomber Island Resort, Plantation Island Resort and Mana Island Resort & Spa where a whole host of fun events and parties are scheduled to take place.

"The schoolies represent an important tourism market for Fiji generating close on FJD1 million into the local economy when you consider boat transfers, tours, accommodation, food and drink," Mr Lynas said.

For more information visit www.unleashedtravel.com.au

Westside Rentals Goes Pink in support of cancer

Doing its bit for a very good cause, Nadi-based Westside Motorbike Rentals has announced the expansion of its business into car rental with a special rate of FJD69.00 per day on any of its five new cars, FJD4.00 of which will be donated to the Fiji Cancer Society.

Look out for the cars with the pink signage!!

For further information, please contact gopinkrentals@gmail.com.

Wananavu Beach Resort launches new dive boat

Wananavu Beach resort's latest acquisition 'Nami' (the Japanese word for wave) is a purpose built, 34ft, single hull aluminium beauty with twin Yamaha 225hp engines and a capacity to carry 18 divers plus crew. 'Nami' means 'wave' in Japanese and is named after Wananavu owner, Mr Grant Taylor's daughter.

The new vessel will be operated by Dive Wananavu in conjunction with Reef Safari Fiji.

For further information, please contact Wananavu Resort's General Manger, Mr Ben Plummer at
ben@wananavu.com

New 'Off-Road Cave Safari' kicks off In Sigatoka

The team behind the Sigatoka River Safari has introduced yet another original Fijian experience for visitors to Fiji to enjoy with a new and very exciting 'Off-Road Cave Safari'.

The core of this new experience involves a journey deep into the heart of the Sigatoka Valley and an exploration of Fiji's largest cave system, the Naihehe Cave.

The half day safari also includes a crossing of the Sigatoka River in a 'push push punt' (bilibili) and the opportunity to meet the locals going about their daily lives.

This experience is seen as ideal for those looking to fully immerse themselves in Fiji's unique living culture.

Operating Monday – Saturday with morning and afternoon departures available, prices ex-Nadi, Denarau, Sonaisali, Natadola start from FJD249.00 per adult (FJD120.00 per child) and ex-Sigatoka Town (self drive) from FJD199.00 per adult (FJD 99.00 per child).

This includes transfers (except for self drive), the 4.5 hour 'Off-Road Cave Tour' lunch, a shopping discount at Fiji Market & Tappoos plus complimentary bottled water to all guests.

Family packages from FJD690.00 for two adults and two children are also available ex-Nadi, Denarau, Sonaisali, Natadola and ex-Sigatoka Town, from FJD540.00.

For more information please contact sales@sigatokariver.com

Heli-Tour Teams Up with Sigatoka River Safari for Combo Packages!

The Sigatoka River Safari has teamed up with Heli-Tours Fiji to offer a 15-minute scenic helicopter ride from Nadi to the heart of Sigatoka in combination with a Sigatoka River Safari which includes a jet boat trip to a remote Fijian village including a traditional lunch, kava drinking, dancing and singing.

The special tours are priced from FJD599 per person.

For more information please contact
sales@sigatokariver.com.

Hilton hosts Fun Day for special children

The Fiji Beach Resort & Spa Managed by Hilton this month organised a 'Fun Day' at the Nadi Centre for Special Education where students enjoyed a variety of sporting activities, a magic show performed by English tourist Lez Diamond, face painting and even a bouncy castle.

Part of an ongoing community service programme organised by the resort's Blue Energy Committee, the day was capped off with a hearty barbeque lunch and refreshments.

Blue Energy is a Hilton Hotel & Resorts global initiative whereby staff show an unique expression of to guests, fellow team members and the community at large.

Chairman of the Blue Energy Committee, Avinesh Goundar said just looking at the smiles on the faces of these children makes the team want to do more.

The resort has actively participated throughout the year via the upgrading of the Nadi District School facilities. This included the school library, washroom facilities, and a general clean up.

For more information, please contact the Sales Manager, Ms Heather Gordon at heather.gordon@hilton.com

Castaway Island to close for renovations

Castaway Island Fiji will close from 29 January – 02 March 2012 while the resort undergoes major renovations.

Chairman and CEO, Geoffrey Shaw said the renovations would centre on major Structural upgrades to the resort's main restaurant, the Sundowner Bar and the existing swimming pool which will reopen as an adult's haven pool.



The resort's reservations team will continue to be on hand to take bookings falling outside of the closure dates.

Meanwhile the resort has opened its latest culinary addition to be managed by resident chef Lance Seeto, the new Marau Bar & Grill which is located by the family pool.

For more information please visit www.castawayfiji.com

Wyndham Resort undertakes multi-million dollar investment

Wyndham Vacations Resort located on Denarau Island, Nadi has announced a forty-nine extension project which will both increase overall room inventory and provide the entire property a major facelift.

The latest development will see the construction of an additional sixty-three apartments to the resorts already existing 133 room inventory, a Mexican themed restaurant and new reception area.

The project is expected to take around eighteen months to complete.

For further information, please visit www.worldmarkbywyndham.com/resorts/fj

Blue Lagoon Resort wins Prime Minister's Export Award

Blue Lagoon Beach Resort in the Yasawas has been awarded the Vodafone Fiji Ltd Tourism Services Exporter of the Year award during the 2011 TFL Prime Minister's Exporters of the Year Award held at the Sofitel Resort and Spa in Denarau.

General Managers Justin King and Melanie Habib said they were undertstandably proud of the achievement, considering they were new to the market

"We have been fortunate enough to attract some incredible reviews, and wonderful word of mouth meaning that we have enjoyed a successful first two years of operation, " Mr King said.

For more information, please visit www.bluelagoonbeachresort.com

Shashita Nand scores top gong

Radisson Blu Resort Fiji Denarau Island's popular Director of Sales & Marketing, Shashita Nand has been named Carlson's Director of Sales & Marketing of the Year

Announcing the accolade at an awards dinner at the recent Carlson annual Asia Pacific General Manager Conference held in New Delhi, President, Carlson Hotels Asia Pacific, Simon C. Barlow said that Shashita had scooped the award by demonstrating her strong work ethic and a genuine passion for the business.

"She has successfully driven substantial revenue growth and achieved higher yields through strategic promotions and excellent relationship building with key clients, "he said.

For further information, contact Ms Joanna Ong, Carlson Hotels Asia Pacific at jong@carlson.com

New soft adventure experience for Fiji with Terra Trek Fiji Limited

Based out of Pacific Harbour - Terra Trek offers customers a chance to experience thrill and a sense of adventure while taking in the beautiful sites in the hills of Deuba.

What's different - customers get to drive themselves on the tours handling four-wheeler buggies brought in from China especially for this purpose.

The buggies are the only ones of their kind in Fiji and according to Terra Trek director, Russel Baumann, something new for anyone looking for adventure and fun.

"Customers can expect a big bula smile and a warm welcome, we have a track adventure which they can do which takes about half an hour of orientation, obstacle course and then the test track which leads to an inland waterfall tour so they can expect a lot of fun and adventure," he said. Terra Trek operates 3 days a week.

For more information and reservations, telephone + 679 9282397 or email terratrekfiji@gmail.com or russ@connect.com.fj.

Molituva Archaeological Site in Kuku Village, Tailevu

A fascinating insight into ancient Fiji, the Molituva Archaeological Site in Kuku Village, Tailevu was discovered in 2006 by the Fiji Museum Archaeological Team.

In the past few years, thanks to dedicated input from local villagers, the site has been returned to much of its former glory and visitors can now visit the village.

Opening hours are from 8.00am to 6.00pm Monday to Saturdays. Adult entry fees are FJD20 and children, FJD10.00 which includes refreshments.

Group rates are FJD40.00 per person which includes entertainment and lunch.

Further information is available on the following Tourism Fiji website link: http://www.fijime.com/index.php/fijime/page/256

Santa Visits Castaway

Castaway Island Fiji already enjoys a healthy returnee rate with guests returning year after year to enjoy the resort's unique Castaway Fijian hospitality

However, there is never a time of year when more returnees get together than at Christmas, and this year the returnees will constitute more than 60 per cent of all the guests staying at the resort.

An annual highlight is the arrival on Santa on the beach on Christmas morning. It's always the topic of great discussion and surprise to guests, as to how Santa will arrive. Last year Santa made a perfect landing on the volleyball court on the beach front by parasail, much to the delight of everyone there.

For more information please visit www.castawayfiji.com

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