As a travel enthusiast, I have been fortunate enough to visit some of the world's most breathtaking destinations. Tahiti/Moorea, Fiji, and the Maldives are all incredible locations that offer unique experiences. No matter which one you choose, you are guaranteed to have an amazing adventure. Whether you're looking for crystal-clear waters, exotic marine life, or rich cultural experiences, these destinations have something for everyone. Let me help you plan your dream vacation today!
Maldives
We’re on a mission to explore the world’s most incredible destinations and bring them to you! Recently, I had the opportunity to visit the Maldives, and it was truly a life changing experience. Yes, the journey is a bit long, but the patience is well worth it once you arrive. The views from the sea plane transfer and the island experiences are simply incredible. Although the food may not be the highlight of your trip, the snorkeling, relaxation, and service will be next level.
My Recommendations:
Qatar Airways had the best service
JW Marriot overwater villas were serene. They offered a plunge pool and horizon views like no other
The private beach dinner offered an incredible memory and while I absolutely loved every single minute, the price made it one I wouldn't repeat
Trans Maldivian Airways was such an experience. The pilot flew barefoot. Make sure to pick one of the single seats so you have a window view for the entire flight
This would be my top pick but know that there isn't much to do outside of what is offered on your island because it is extremely expensive to travel to the other islands
Fiji
I've explored some of the world’s most unique and breathtaking destinations and I'm sharing those experiences to help others determine and book their own journeys. Our recent visit to Fiji will be remembered as one of the most authentic, immersive travel experiences we’ve ever had. The people and culture of Fiji are unlike anything else we’ve ever experienced, with their kind and generous nature making us feel right at home. We ventured to the outer islands, where we visited the same spots as the cast of our favorite TV shows and movies, had drinks at Cloud 9 bar in the middle of the ocean, and discovered a hidden gem of a resort at the Marriott in Momi Bay with breathtaking views.
I would return here year after year for family vacation. Most of the people we encountered were from New Zealand or Australia. My kids cried when we had to leave and told me they want to move here someday. It's easy to visit the surrounding islands here and there are a number of ways to do it. The main island of Nadi also has a lot to do/experience but it's not a small island so it takes some time to travel to different sites. If I traveled to Fiji again, I would definitely spend some time in New Zealand or Australia while I was in that region of the world.
Tahiti and Moorea
We spent a few nights on the main island of Tahiti and five nights in Moorea in an overwater bungalow. This allowed us to experience the markets and culture of the mainland as well as the relaxation of the resort islands. I felt that this was the perfect mix between the Maldives and Fiji but this would be my third choice of the three. That being said, we are already planning our return trip but this time to Bora Bora.
It was too many years ago for me to recommend a specific hotel or restaurant but I will give you a tip that worked for us. We couldn't afford the overwater bungalow for the entire trip so we booked a garden villa for 3 nights and the overwater bungalow for our last two. When we arrived, we were surprised with an upgrade to the overwater villa for the entire stay. I don't know if that upgrade happens often but for me, it's worth the chance to save several thousand dollars.
Something this villa had that the Maldives didn't, was a glass floor. We could watch sharks, eels and exotic fish swim by without ever going outside. There was a light underneath so you could even view the sea creatures at night. This was equal parts exhilarating and terrifying. Even after seeing what we could bump into, we still ventured out to snorkel. It was pretty epic. The best snorkeling of my life was on the great barrier reef but this was a close second (along with the Maldives).
There are plenty of other activities to engage in such as kayaking and paddle boarding. You can also take out ATVs and explore the inner island. Our Moorea resort offered complimentary bicycles and we rode them into town to do a little shopping. Tahiti is known for it's pearls and since we bought one, we also bought food and wine at the local grocery store which saved us an extraordinary amount vs. buying it at the resort. When you travel as much as I do, you have to find little ways to save money without sacrificing experiences.