Moanas Guest House Lomaloma

Tevita and Carolyn Fotofili operate Moanas Guest House on Vanua Balavu Island in the remote Laur Group of Fiji. The two thatched beach houses a 15-minute walk from Sawana village are F$75 per person with private bath. All meals and snacks are included in the price and the meals are generous and good with plenty of fresh fish and fruit. You can snorkel about 100 meters offshore where the lagoon floor drops to a depth of around 10 meters. The managers can arrange a motorboat hire for trips around the island or to nearby Lau islands such as Kanacea. Their traditional outrigger sailing canoe may be borrowed. The hiking and beachcombing are great here. Moanas Guest House is the place for those who enjoy a relaxed, do it yourself vacation on one of the most remote islands in the South Pacific.

Air Fiji has weekly flights to Vanua Balavu from Fiji's capital city Suva. The only way fare is around F$150. The supply ship from Suva also carries passengers but it only sails once a month and it's rather basic.

Please call ahead so the managers can be arrange to have a carrier meet you at the airport. Otherwise, the Air Fiji agent will bring you to a nearby village after the weekly flight has departed for a small fee.

Car rentals are not available but a large pickup truck or carrier can be hired with driver.

All bills must be settled in cash upon arrival. Credit cards and travelers cheques are not accepted. There is no bank on Vanua Balavu so bring sufficient funds in cash from Suva.

All meals are included with the emphasis on seafood and local produce. The meals are simple yet filling and give an idea of the diet of the local population.

Vanua Balavu is a long island enclosed by a large barrier reef. There are many palm-fringed beaches to stroll along. The island's low grassy hills offer excellent views over the broad lagoon. Caving and fishing are favorite sports. This island is halfway between the main islands of Fiji and the Kingdom of Tonga and the people are related to the Tongans.

Please email moanas@connect.com.fj or call 679-822-1148 in Fiji to announce your arrival. There is only one other small guest house on the island, so advance reservations are essential.

Children under 12 are accommodated and fed at half price.