First impressions of Fiji were mixed - for us it was similar to Mauritius but had more of a Hawaiian feel. As with all these tropical islands the journey from the airport was an eye-opener and you realise just how basically islanders live and not necessarily because of poverty - that's just the way it is.

The Sonaisali Resort is just south of Nadi and we had to take a boat ride across the river. We have to say that it is pretty close to paradise and our room has a wonderful view overlooking the beach and ocean. Only downfall is the sea is not as turquoise as we would have liked as the sand is black and this stirs up in the water. However, they do have a superb pool and restaurant set up and the staff are really friendly without you feeling like they are waiting for a big tip.

Although we feel we should be exploring the islands and taking a look at how the locals live we probably are not going to as after all our travels so far we think we deserve a few days just soaking up the sun and sampling the local food and drink (which so far has been better value for money than Oz). Then we will be ready to tackle all the sights New Zealand has to offer.

Jen and Ray (even more chilled out and relaxed - if that is possible)