Snorkeling with sharks (homestay)

We had a lovely time at Bill and Paula's homestay. Super friendly family, our kids had the best time with their adopted pets and new friends. Can't wait to go back!

Amazing food and we were made to feel so welcomed by the family and rest of village

This Fijian homestay is an experience our group of 7 will not forget! We were introduced to the Fijian culture and accepted into the family and local village. We all are experienced campers and hikers and in good physical condition so we were able to adapt to the cultural differences. There is little lighting so take headlamps or flashlights. Our rooms were clean. Fii is very warm and humid and there is no A/C so all windows and doors are kept open (no screens) so we heard all the nightly dogs howling, barking and fighting, the bats in the mango trees squawking at night, and the coconuts falling onto the tin roof. The add on excursions were amazing and are a must. This would be difficult for anyone with mobility issues (steep climb to the dining area, and getting on and off the boat). Vil and Palo were gracious hosts who treated us very well. The price was reasonable even after we added on the excursion and meal package (which is needed due to no restaurants, stores or services around). Palo worked very hard providing traditional Fijian dishes for us and Vil provided exciting boat rides and excursions. This is not a resort experience with a lovely beach. A prior review complained about rats. We so no signs of any rats but there was an occasional lizard in our room and one in our group even had a lizard poop on her from the rafters, which she considered a sign of good luck! Conservative clothing is part of the Fijian culture so come prepared.

This home stay is one of the highlights of our trip. Bill and Paula’s family is one of the kindest, happiest families we have ever met. The food is OUTSTANDING and Paula made sure I didn’t have any issues with my food allergies. The accommodations are rustic, but clean and comfortable. The only issue I had was at night the fan stops working, because it is on solar. If you brought a small, portable fan on batteries you would be fine. My partner is a camper and he was fine with the accommodations. I am a nice hotel kinda gal and was still comfortable overall. The shower works and the toilet is nice. The beds are ok. Bring bug spray. Be aware, it is an island with no WiFi except at the house above where you dine. I brought a book and was happy. We also went to church with Bill and Paula. It was a wonderful experience. They shared their clothes with us so we could dress appropriately. The reef just off the beach is okay. The snorkeling further out is so beautiful. The waters were clear 35-40 feet down. Lots of hard, ancient corals that have not been bleached yet. It was a treat. We came to see waters and life like it used to be in the Cayman Islands 40 years ago. We were not disappointed. Paula caught a fish on our way back to the main island and gave it to us. The chef made a meal everyone could share, staff and guests alike. It was such a beautiful way to end that part of our vacation. Ask Bill about the package that includes transportation and snorkeling!