.

Looking for the ideal place for your family holiday this summer? We road-test four Fijian resorts that you and your kids will love

Fiji’s known as the destination for family- friendly fun because it offers the perfect combination of a tropical paradise, endless activities and friendly locals. But where do you stay? Never fear, HotelClub, an online booking agent that lets consumers compare prices and facilities of more than 48,000 hotels in 126 countries, has done the work for you.

The website conducted a consumer survey, which attracted 70,000 voters, and these four Fijian hotels emerged as the best family-friendly hotels for 2008. So with our bags packed and kids in tow, we road-tested these top hotels to help you take the hassle out of planning a tropical escape. Here’s our verdict on Fiji’s most fabulous hotels.

Castaway Island Resort
Best for secluded island and reef adventure and relaxation.

The moment you set foot on the pristine white-sand shoreline, see the crystal-clear waters and are greeted with a heartfelt ‘Welcome home!’ from resort staff, you know you have arrived in paradise. Castaway is a ‘barefoot’ island, and a relaxed dress code is encouraged. The resort has a rather small amount of private bures – a thatched-roof resort villa that reflects traditional Fijian style – so you never feel like you’re just another number, and the attention to detail here makes for a truly sublime and unique holiday experience.

Kids will love: The adventure offered at the resort. There’s an extensive kids’ club activities program, plus they’ll love exploring the shoreline and the private reef – located right outside your bure.
Parents will love: The friendly family atmosphere. You can take advantage of the complimentary child-minding service for children aged three and older, knowing the kids are not only in safe hands but being well entertained too. Parents will also love the organised water activities, such as scuba diving, jet skiing and windsurfing – to name a few.
Insider tip: Complimentary snorkelling gear is on offer, so make sure you pick up yours and head straight out to the reef – you’ll be amazed at the marine life that starts right at your front door.

Outrigger on the Lagoon Fiji
Best for an authentic, friendly Fijian village atmosphere but with a luxurious edge.

Outrigger on the Lagoon is Fiji’s first official five-star resort – and it really has to be seen to be believed. Pathways wind through sprawling lush vegetation and the scent of exotic flowers, the laughter of children and the sound of gentle Fijian lullabies seem to be everywhere.

Kids will love: The spectacular pool as well as the range of Little Riggers and Beach Riggers activities on offer, including hair braiding and water polo. There’s also a large games room with table tennis and arcade games, a sandpit and a chance to partake in the International Frog Race!
Parents will love: Outrigger offers a wide range of some of the best on-resort shops and stalls, showcasing quality local art and handicrafts as well as more recognisable 'label' clothing. Plus there's the Bebe Spa. Bebe means 'butterfly' in Fijian, and they couldn’t have chosen a better name for what is one of the most elegant, graceful and serene retreats you’re ever likely to visit. The spa’s nestled atop a hill overlooking the resort, and offers individual or couple treatments. Afterwards, enjoy cocktails, delicious snacks and some utterly breathtaking views at the spa’s Kalokalo Bar.
Insider tip: The award-winning Ivi Restaurant is regarded as one of the best restaurants in Fiji.

The Naviti Resort
Best for all-inclusive holiday.

This resort covers 15 hectares, with beautifully maintained landscaped gardens throughout. The grounds take on a new life at night with subtle, strategic lighting giving the resort an inviting and romantic feel.

Kids will love: The huge, child-friendly pool, rumpus and games rooms with arcade and table-top games and the kids’ disco with Fijian dancing.
Parents will love: An all-inclusive package option means meals, drinks and a range
of activities are all included in the price. Plus there’s a golf course and ‘swim-up’ bar so you don’t have to get out of the pool for a drink!
Insider tip: The Bamboo Terrace Restaurant & Bar is a must for fans of fine Cantonese and Mandarin cuisine.

Shangri-La's Fijian Resort & Spa
Best for an island resort easily accessed from the mainland.

Situated on Yanuca Island, the Shangri-La has some of the area’s best coastline. It’s connected to the mainland by a bridge.

Kids will love: The Little Chief’s Club, which specialises in supervised activities for children. The kids – as well as the adults – will also enjoy the lagoon side of the island, which caters for all sorts of family activities on and off the water.
Parents will love: The secluded adults-only pool area, the state-of-the-art gymnasium, the nine-hole golf course and the Chi spa, offering a range of Himalayan and Chinese fusion beauty and relaxation treatments and the chance for couples to stay overnight in luxurious spa rooms.
Insider tip: Take in a cultural show for a distinctly Fijian experience. You’ll see fire walking and enjoy a feast that includes traditional ‘lovo’ – meat wrapped in banana leaves and slow cooked under coals.

For more information and to get $45 off your next hotel booking, visit www.hotelclub.com.au/newidea

Sign up at HotelClub now to save on these great Fiji resorts or any of HotelClub’s other 48,000 hotels worldwide. Hurry, the offer expires January 31, 2009.

Fly Pacific Blue, departing Sydney from $339 or Brisbane from $359 (including taxes, fees and surcharges). For more information, visit www.virginblue.com.au.