Author Archives: John Severini

While its true that the majority of guests at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort are families,non families also love it. Special dedicated areas just for couples…restaurant, pool, “quiet areas” etc., really bring a relaxing atmosphere without “chaos” to those traveling without children…this property really has the best of both worlds…and exceptional food and one of the most extensive wine lists you’ll find in the islands thanks to their manager, Bart, who marketed and sold wines “down under” (the prices are in Fiji dollars…U.S. price is 50% as indicated)

Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is more than just a famous name…its affordable luxury for families and “non families” with fantastic accommodations in their “Bures”…

Glorious weather…85 degree water…and beautiful coral…all right off the beach at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort…

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“Where everybody knows your name…”
That’s not just the lyrics from a past TV sitcom theme song…its reality at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort…where the staff greets you by your first name accompanied by a huge smile and “Bula”…these are just some of them…incredible…

There’s a reason why the varied cuisine at Yasawa Resort is so fantastic…most of the food is sourced fresh from the island…organic fruits and vegetables…fresh fish from the locals…fruits come alive with flavor…varied menus and of course fantastic sweets and deserts from a chef that knows his way around the bakery… as you can see here,my wife Kim enjoying one of their featured “out of this world” dinner finishes. By the way, an incredible wine list…very inexpensive and some fantastic New Zealand white wines!

On the island of Savu Savu at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort during the dinner we are serenaded by the “Bula Boys”…they sit on their traditional mats with the ceremonial “Kava” bowl in the center and entertain with wonderful Fijian music. I heard a rumor that they can also play just about anything…the challenge was on and I requested my friends favorite Italian melody…could they play it? Turn up your speakers and hear for yourself…and the guitar solo…brings tears to your eyes…ciao

Now begin our 3 night stay at the deluxe Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort…25 “Bure’s” and while this vacation destination is suitable for couples and adults, JMC features extensive children programs… however they “segment” the activities so that families and non families have exclusive areas…more on their unique approach in future posts…first some pics of this stunning world famous property..

We are on our way to the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort….but first an overnight at the lovely Fiji Orchid…once the home of Raymond Burr, star of Hollywood’s Perry Mason and Ironside TV shows. this property has six luxury “bures”, and Mr. Burr’s main area is converted into a lounge, bar and gourmet restaurant. This is a very secluded spot on 5 acres of lush, tropical flowers, gardens, palms and fauna set amongst the foothills of the volcanic Nausori Highlands …a real oasis…

After four glorious nights at Yasawa Island Resort & Spa its now on to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort for three nights,located on the island of Vanua Levu. We return first to Nadi for an overnight at the Fiji Orchid (this was Raymond Burrs Fiji home & guest house). The flight back to Nadi is via seaplane waiting for us 100 yards off the beach…check it out.

Ocean breeze…birds singing…sounds of the waves…hibiscus scents…and solitude…check out this peaceful FIJI massage location at Yasawas Spa…