VOMO Island Fiji

www.vomofiji.com

There are some places you get the opportunity to visit, and as soon as you leave you are planning your next trip back. That place for me is VOMO Island Fiji – the luxurious, private island resort that sits serenely, 35 kilometres north west of Nadi.

The setting is what tropical dreams are made of. On the ‘resort’ side of the island you have a flawless white sand beach with clear blue water. On the other side (and we’re only talking a 5-10 minute stroll away) is a mirror image - same white sand, same crystal clear water, but not a villa or luxury residence to be seen. Guests simply chose the side they prefer. (It’s such a hard life.)

At the western tip of the island you can take in glorious sunsets over Vomo Lai Lai - Vomo’s ruggedly beautiful smaller neighbour which is uninhabited, but serves as the perfect place for a private picnic.

Vomo is the definition of laid back, barefoot luxury. There are only 32 villas, so you only ever see a few other couples or families strolling around the resort. At times it feels like you literally have the whole resort to yourself. It’s a satisfying feeling to have.

Adults searching for that extra bit of exclusivity can head for The Rocks – Vomo’s recently re-developed adults-only haven. The stylish upgrade included an impressive infinity pool, along with spacious decking and super-comfy outdoor furniture. There is plenty of room to spread out with a choice of loungers, swinging chairs, in-pool loungers, couches, cabanas and cocoons.

The Rocks is also open for dinner twice a week. The mouth-watering menu consists of Asian-style sharing plates. Vomo Executive Chef, Michael Fosbender has put together a casual, tasty light lunch menu for those who simply cannot drag themselves away from the pool. Vomo’s menus change daily and you will not be disappointed with the selections and extensive wine list – the quality is top notch and there’s something to suit every taste.

Along with the villa room options, Vomo also has a selection of four 'Residences' – essentially these are expansive, architecturally designed beach houses, where no expense has been spared. The type of places where you can imagine a Hollywood star or a business mogul might escape to.

Vomo’s Residences are a top-end choice. But if you do have the means, they deliver a bucket list experience for a multi-generational family visit, a girls’ weekend away, or a group of friends. All come with their own pools, dedicated butler and basically everything else you could wish for. Stay here and you simply will not want to leave. They are also designed in such a way that all the bedrooms are completely private.

Justin King, the new general manager had only been on the island approximately five weeks when I met him. His relaxed demeanour makes me think he had been there five years. Justin can be seen wandering around the resort and is always keen to a catch up with guests to see how their holiday is going. Between Justin and marketing supremo Karen Marvell, they could be referred to as the Vomo Dream Team!

Speaking of people, at Vomo everybody knows your name. From the check-in team, to the food and beverage team, to the smiling lady in the boutique, I was greeted at every corner with a friendly and personal hello. I didn’t visit Vomo with the family in tow this time, but have done in the past.

Vomo offers a carefree holiday for mums and dads alike. The spotless Kids Village offers plenty of space with a huge playroom with top quality toys, a media room, cubby house, undercover play areas, slides, swings, arts and crafts, outdoor climbing frames and more. And for the really little ones, there are Baby Butlers ready for songs and cuddles as mum and dad laze on the beach, or perhaps enjoy the spa or nine-hole golf course!

Vomo has been one of Fiji’s standard setting resorts for some time now. After this latest visit I’m happy to say their commitment to premium, private luxury is as strong as ever. And above all else they deliver it at every level. The only problem is that once you’ve immersed yourself in Vomo, most other resorts (even the really good ones), don’t seem quite as good any more. You’ll be wishing you were in Vomo. And planning how to get back there.