Turtle Island Fiji

We had a great time but I noticed that they called all the black women, “Mamie”. I have a problem with that. See below for more context- Yes, the term "Mamie" does have a connection to slavery history in America. During the era of slavery, enslaved African American women were often given the name "Mamie" by their slave owners. This name was used as a demeaning and dehumanizing way to refer to them, erasing their individuality and treating them as property. The use of this name was part of the larger system of dehumanization and oppression that existed during slavery. It's important to recognize and understand the historical context and impact of such terms in order to promote a more inclusive and respectful society.

Turtle Island was a dream. My now fiance and I visited this May to celebrate my birthday and we also got engaged. The staff is excellent. They made me feel very special on the night of my birthday and assisted my fiance with his proposal. The food was exceptional, I am a vegetarian and the cook went above and beyond to make me my own creations. The private villas are lovely. They include a double shower, two toilets, two sinks, a spa and outside day bed. You also have your own section of beach right out front. The views are incredible. The snorkeling is beautiful. The people are the best.

Talking about Kava. It’s the most magical root plant on earth in my opinion. It was harvested from the roots of a tree and the older the tree is , the stronger the Kava will be. We’ve drank kava for five night straight, starting from 3 a night to 10 tsunamis on Friday. It comes in three different sizes, low tide, high tide and tsunami. It makes your tongue numb a little bit and it tastes like medicine. But you know what ? The best part is that I slept like a baby which never happened for the last seven years since I had William, my oldest son. I wish Kava can be introduced more in US. I truly believe in its power to bring people back to nature and improve the sleep quality in the most natural way, not by drinking alcohol or medication. Bill is the manager of operations on Turtle Island. He looks serious most of the time. And I can tell that he has millions of thoughts in his head because his mission is to make the guests happy. I also believe that he is playing a big role on this island like a father to lots of the younger staff. They all respect him very much. Mama Lo is our Bura 7’s mama. She is a quiet person and doesn’t talk too much. But I can tell that she has the warmest heart and takes care of her Bura families very thoughtfully. She seems super patient with every single request that we put out there. And she tries her best to meet our needs. We have danced together so much on Friday night. And It’s sad and unfortunate that we are leaving the next day. Mama Lo has four kids and she is divorced. Luckily she has her sister who can help taking care of the kids when she is away from them. We will be back mama Lo. We won’t make you waiting for long. Turtle island asks their employees to work 5 weeks and the gives them one week off. During the family time, the island will be shut down since all employees are sent home to enjoy time with their families. The island owner, Richard, has done such an incredible job taking care of the Fiji community and his staff. Everyone here are beyond happy. Jerry and Inia are the funniest guys on the island. Both of them have great smiles, especially great at the “Kava Smile” after drinking the typhoon bowl of Kava. It was hilarious! Inia was the guy who picks us up from the ferry. He also took us to the Butterfly reefs for snorkeling. Jerry has a lot of knowledge and history of the island. He jokes a lot and makes himself a very fun person to hangout with. Erami feels like a big uncle to me. He is always so warm and carries big smiles on his face. He teaches us the first rule on the island, which is “Kip smiling”. I love the optimism the entire island brings. He is going to be 55 on May 12th, 2024. It’s Mother’s Day on the 12th and all man will cook for the women. I don’t know if I want to eat food on the island that day. Luckily, we are leaving on the 11th. Mere, there is no better song like “You are the sunshine , the only sunshine. You make me happy when skies are gray “ to describe the greatest char

This is the experience of a lifetime for seasoned travelers. It is a one-of-a-kind experience which emerges you in the 4,000-year-old history of the Figi people. The Island itself is an amazing story and one of the most beautiful places on earth. All while doing it in first class luxury! This was our second trip and the friendships you make will last a lifetime.

It was everything we hoped for and much more. The staff truly treats you like close family. The food is outstanding , the bure was beautiful and spacious . The island is beautiful and the view from your bure is like you would see in a movie.

Literally the best vacation I have ever had, and it will be very hard to top as this place became home and the people have become a part of my family. Thank you for a very memorable time. We fished almost everyday as that is one of our favorite hobbies! Miss you all already!

It was my second time visiting this wonderful Island and my boyfriend’s first. I was very excited to introduce him to the lovely people I remembered so well. The day we landed my boyfriend proposed so it became a very special engagement trip! I do miss the photo albums that were provided in 2012 along with the leather luggage tags. We had a total of 5 photos provided and they did not really showcase our trip. Those small details from the first trip meant a lot and I hope they consider doing them again. All in all it was very nice to be back with our Turtle Family!

We just cannot give enough accolades to the staff and management of Turtle Island. We feel like a piece is missing after we left, that is the love, welcome and deep friendship extended to us during our holiday. It was incredible to unwind and enjoy everything Turtle Island offered and we will absolutely return at our first opportunity.

Best week of my life. The nicest people in the world! The food and the snorkeling were off the charts. The live music and singing throughout the day and night was spectacular. My absolute highest recommendation.