Independent, Wailevu West hotels

"We loved everything about Emaho Sekawa. I have never been at a resort where I remember almost every staff member’s names and they mine because it is such an intimate experience (thank you Mary, Rusi, Sala, Kele, Vika, Genevieve, Chantel, Tom, Illi and Tete!). Given absentee owners the entire resort is run by local villagers so you get to experience their preferred activities. Everything was peaceful, authentic, romantic, relaxing. With few exceptions everything was included including meals and minibar, and meals were excellent and based on that day’s availability in the market so lots of variety. Definitely try the volcanic mud pool, the kayaking, waterfall hike(s). Off estate, most of the activities are organized through friends of the staff so again more authentic and better priced (my deep sea fishing with Abi, who they have known for years, was much lower than the cost of what was being asked the following week when I was on the other island). Anything I would change? I hear they are putting in a spa, so that would be good because there is not much to do on the estate other than completely relax (but do try the cava ceremony with the staff!). Maybe some morning yoga looking out over the amazing ocean views! Emaho is not for someone looking for a 500-person multi-activity all inclusive. But if you want the most friendly staff, complete relaxation, beautiful scenery, delicious food and true authenticity, you cannot find better. Probably our best holiday stay ever! Vinaka"

"The staff definitely made the experience especially the activities staff. Very friendly, willing to share their life and culture. A nice mix of resort and local culture."

"A1 service by Subash and his wife! The property location and access to beach and activities were excellent. Our family really enjoyed staying here. Kudos again to Subash for making our stay so enjoyable! Also recommend using taxi services of Bablu, he was excellent."

"You always dream of a place like this! This was by far our best vacation! This island set the bar so high that we feel no other vacations will live up to it. The staff was amazing and the food was wonderful! Drinking kava every evening with the crew and sharing stories was magical. The owners gave us a personalized tour of Labasa and meeting the people was amazing. If you enjoy scuba, diving and or snorkeling, every place we went was amazing. A big thank you to all!"

"Overall an amazing place to stay. Lunch and meal service are not restaurant style and you have to place order for what you want for lunch and dinner during breakfast meal. The food was absolutely amazing. Definitely fine dining meals for lunch and dinner. The pools are not heated so pretty cold. The staff a lovely. Everyone is super friendly and so accommodating. Booking through hotels.com doesn't necessarily get you a cliff side villa overlooking the ocean and you may instead get one by the lagoon. I would definitely book again."

"The staff was great. It was nice overall. The TV did not have reception and the fan did not work."

"Stay at the Naveria Heights Lodge for the outstanding views and wonderful hospitality! "

"It was simple, clean. The staff is fantastic. Only thing id change is that id update the cigarette burned toilet seat and small table. Owners are lovely, (i totally put my foot in my mouth when i said koro is my fave! Yikes) The food was delicious and peggy couldnt have nbeen a better person. I came here to be with my dying father,, and the compassion and empathy that i was shown was so wonderful. "

"Peaceful, clean, friendly"