Reviews

"One word : Perfection. My Raiwasa experience is unforgettable. This place is more than a very high level of luxury resort.. Raiwasa has a soul. It's authentic, and out of the time and space. Everything is anticipated, every wish is provided... It's like living the dream from the beginning to the end, and Richie is such a brillant chef. Very good balance and creativity in all the menu. He would be so successful in Paris !!"

"Raiwasa is glorious. The people are lovely and warm. The food and the cooking were delicious every night and day. The accommodations are superb. We loved our time here. It was a comfort and a joy. Raiwasa was one of our best vacations ever. Vinaka! "

"Bob and I spend our honeymoon at the beautiful Raiwasa private resort for 10 nights. We were on the black package and it was definitely worth every penny! We are already talking about an anniversary trip in the future! This place is unlike any other, and if you are looking to feed your soul, I highly recommend a stay at Raiwasa. I promise you won’t regret it!"

"To be honest, the word Raiwasa, should be placed into the English dictionary, with a meaning of “joy, wonder, happiness, sensational, supercalifragilisticexpialidocious” Hands down, we have never visited anywhere, that made us feel so relaxed, so welcome, and so luxurious. It was a level above any luxury holiday we had experienced before. The island itself is wonderful, so lush and green, with big smiles in every village you pass through. The villa is just sensational, the minute you enter the long drive, and see the gardens and get to enjoy the “welcome” ceremony from the amazing team, that make Raiwasa extra special. The layout of the villa is fantastic, the pool is something out of a magazine photo shoot, the 3 acres of garden are a joy to walk around, the private beach is just great, and includes a wide range of watersports for your use. BUT, the big thing that makes Raiwasa extra special, are the people who work there. The most wonderful team of folks, ever assembled in the tourism industry. Richie & his entire team, deliver an impeccable service, form the minute you arrive, to the minute you depart. We must have hundreds of photos, of ourselves & all the team, they become your friend. You want to share Raiwasa with them. Just a wonderful team, who clearly love their job, and no wonder why, they get to turn up to paradise every day. We could write a whole book on our experience. But really, if your reading this now, simply click on the “book now” page and secure yourself a slice of paradise on earth. Thanks to EVERY single member of the Raiwasa team, you all made our holiday EXTRA special. We will never forget the people, the sunsets, the villa, the food, the island and the Raiwasa experience."

It’s been almost 5 months since our dreams came true with our honeymoon visit to Raiwasa! Our lives were greatly impacted by this experience that my words below have no way of doing Raiwasa justice! We are still residually affected by Raiwasa in our day to day life when we smell something that takes us back there; feel a breeze that makes us take a deep breath to hope we can return soon; feel the compassion from someone in our hometown that reminds us of the Fijian kindness and hospitality at Raiwasa; and so many other instances that bring the desire in our hearts to find peace in our hearts and souls just remembering the lifelong impact of Raiwasa! My experience as a soon to be married man was a pleasure in exploring my selection for our honeymoon to Fiji. I narrowed down my decision to Fiji after great consideration of the Maldives, Bora Bora, Bali, Tahiti, Hawaii and Greece. My decision on Fiji was because I wanted to experience the tropical and remote destination that has breathtaking waterfalls everywhere. I researched the Fijian Islands for weeks if not months to make my final decision on Raiwasa Private Resort which is located on the 3rd largest Fijian Island called Taveuni. Hundreds of properties were considered by me after I juxtaposition of all these properties to find the diamond. So I found Raiwasa to be that diamond where I would Raiwasa (look to the sea) with my beautiful new wife! I initially made an inquiry about Raiwasa to communicate directly with the Owner, Mr. Patrick Janin. Raiwasa is unexplainable as we know this, but let me start my experience with Patrick. He’s a 7 star owner of the most beautiful property in Fiji in my personal opinion. I cannot begin to calculate how many times he responded in depth to my emails, spoke to me on the phone multiple times for hours and did FaceTime calls with me personally and then with both my fiancé and I after I let the cat out the bag on where we were going. I wanted my crème de la crème location to be Raiwasa but I also wanted another property to visit as well for our 2 week honeymoon. Patrick knows the Fijian Islands like the back of his hand so he networked his connections and we finally found a 2nd location for our departure after Raiwasa that I’ll mention briefly at the end. So, Patrick is really the main reason I settled on Raiwasa and he became a lifelong friend through this process. We flew from Atlanta to LA on Delta Airlines and directly into Nadi International Airport using Fijian Airways to begin our journey. Upon arrival to Nadi we immediately were greeted by Fijian people, music and culture at the airport. We loaded onto a small craft 19 passenger Fijian Airways plane that would take us about 1 hour northeast of Nadi to the 3rd largest Fijian Island called Taveuni. As we flew into Matei Airport in Taveuni, I noticed out my plane window in our last seconds above the blue water the property we were about to inhabit for the next 5 days called Raiwasa. I get chills just at the thought of how perfect this experience was unfolding! We were immediately greeted by the first of our 12 staff members at Raiwasa by Boji would would escort us in the Raiwasa truck to the Raiwasa property. In the truck we knew we were going to get first class treatment the entire way when Boji blessed us with mango oil covered wet washcloths that I can still smell to this day. It was a perfect gift after our long flight to Fiji from the USA! As we arrived to the resort, again we were greeted with Fijian love ! Fresh coconut water, live music and lots of smiles. From day 1 stepping onto the property we were treated with the utmost respect and love. It was something we will never forget. The Fijian love is something we had never experienced and Raiwasa was the epitome of that. Every evening we were greeted by the property manager, who discussed our plans for the next day. This included: activities, meals, excursions and spa treatments. Whatever we could imagine, was put on our itinerary for the next day. We never grew bored at Raiwasa! Excursions such as snorkeling, waterfall tours, horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, private beach picnics and much more ! And that did not include all of the activities you were able to do on-site. Swimming in the infinity pool over looking the South Pacific, paddle boarding, kayaking, Fijian ceremonies, biking, etc. Each excursion was planned with so much detail. The staff would pack special meals, drinks, and anything and everything you needed for the excursion. We were always so very pampered ! One of our favorite outings was our journey to Boma Falls. After exploring and jumping in the falls, we were taken to an exclusive part of the falls where a private lunch was set up for us. This is something the staff had to get permission from the nature park to set up for us. We had live music, food, drinks, and a beautiful arch that was handmade with beautiful Fijian flowers! It was unreal and so romantic for our honeymoon. In addition to the amazing excursions, the food at Raiwasa is 5 stars! Each dish is carefully handcrafted and tastes absolutely delicious. We have dined at many top restaurants around the world and Raiwasa’s food is unforgettable. Definitely some of the best dishes we have ever had ! After staying at Raiwasa for 5 days our stay was coming to an end... we did not want to leave. The one thing we said we would miss most is the love of the Fijian people and the way the staff cared and loved on us. It was something we had never experienced anywhere else. We truly felt we were in a dream our entire stay. If you are planning your next vacation, honeymoon, or get away please do not look any further! There is no place that compares to Raiwasa. The people, the experience, the views, the uniqueness... it is something that no other resort can match! We love Raiwasa and it’s people and we cannot wait to come visit again. This is not a goodbye, but a see you later, Raiwasa !!

"I was in Raiwasa for my 15th wedding anniversary with my husband and 13 year old twin sons . It was the best vacation I have ever had ... I have been to other pacific Islands but this was hands down the best . I felt like I was in heaven. Nothing was too much for the staff. very polite , well trained ,not intrusive.. I loved all of them. The FOOD!!!!!!! i just can’t get over the fresh food and good quality food. Thanks Raiwasa and staff for giving me a holiday to remember !!!!"

"Our second visit to Raiwasa and it was like coming home. We felt so welcome and were so genuinely pleased to see everybody, and grateful to return to this little piece of paradise. Everything was again outstanding, with the added touch that all of our little likes from the last visit had been remembered down to the finest detail, and so if it were possible, things were that bit more special. Favourite candles, types of wine, preferred foods and experiences were all slipped quietly in. Just LOVE, love, love this place. I cannot recommend it enough! I promise, if you visit, you will never forget. Thank you so much everybody. For memories that will last a lifetime."

" I've been to a lot of places in the world, stayed in a lot of resorts and 5-star hotels and I can easily say that Richie and the whole Raiwasa team is at the top of their game. Every request was accommodated, every problem solved, every question answered - and all done with a smile and friendly, welcoming manner that just made us all so comfortable. I'd give my experience at Raiwasa more than 5 stars if it were possible. Waking up and looking out at the Somosomo straight was a fantastic way to start the day. The photography does not do it justice, especially the bedrooms that don’t show how beautiful the view truly is. The grounds are BEAUTIFUL! Trish and I loved the garden tour. We enjoyed hearing about and seeing how much of the fruit and herbs are grown on the property. It really drove home to us how wonderful natural and healthy everything we were eating really was. That's when I think I realize that the flowers arrangements of the house came from the grounds. We thoroughly enjoyed the private water access and relaxing at the beach bure. While I am sure every guest has their own preferences - this was a definite plus for us and undersold. I even enjoyed getting in a little exercise but jogging up and down the stairs a few times in the morning :-) The one thing we did not truly appreciate until we got to Taveuni is that this is not a large tourist destination with lots of tourist attractions in the traditional sense. This is an eco-tourist location with lots of ecological attractions. We somewhat understood this, but the reality was better than we hoped for. If guests really appreciate that coming in, there are more than enough activities to fill a week or more. I certainly think anything under a week is simply not enough time. The food and beverage service and selection were exceptional. Richie and the team accommodated my daughter Paige's dairy allergy without sacrificing variety, quality or flavor. That is a fantastic accomplishment considering that Paige gets a far more limited selection at restaurants in the US and some that she simply cannot eat at, all due to their inability to accommodate food allergies. The fact that Richie had clearly understood about our likes/dislikes/allergies in the pre-stay survey and was prepared for them meant a lot to us. Whether it was Richie, Maria, Lo, or Kelera - everyone was so nice, welcoming and ensured that we had anything that we might need or want and rapidly grew to understand what we would typically want for breakfast or lunch. I feel like they took the time to get to know us individually and make the stay a personal experience. Since we upgraded to the Platinum package - which I highly recommend. The daily massages were so wonderful after a day of hiking, swimming, snorkeling....a perfect way to end the day prior to enjoying a wonderful meal. Staying at Raiwasa was a dream vacation. I've already told many people about the wonderful experience we enjoyed there. Raiwasa is a special place to me and by that, I mean, that not just everyone can or will get to enjoy this experience and create the kind of memories from our stay that we will always cherish. I have described Raiwasa as the perfect place to relax and enjoy a wonderful outdoor-activity oriented vacation for those people that can afford it. Please don't misunderstand me either - I thought it was worth every dollar - but recognize that this is not an experience that everyone can afford. That is simply the reality of experiencing a vacation at a location this wonderful and with such a fantastic team dedicated to making sure that your stay there is truly a wonderful experience."

"‘It's hard to put into words just how magical our recent holiday to Raiwasa was. As a family of six, two adults and four children ranging from three to 14, it was the perfect place for us to restore, connect and learn. The location is paradise. The resort style house is set amongst stunning tropical gardens that frame panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, it’s actually so beautiful it is hard to believe that what you are seeing is real. From the moment we stepped foot onto the property we felt instantly in a zen state of mind. Just a few winding steps lead you down to your own private beach where your snorkelling guide awaits to show you the colourful fish that lie below. Taveuni Island, on which Raiwasa is located, is just a short flight from mainland Fiji, and has so much to offer. One of the things that ensures such a special holiday experience is that the Raiwasa staff take the time to get to know you and your pre-holiday needs. This ensured an experience that was tailored to our family. Our older children loved the boat trip to Rainbow Reef, one of the most spectacular snorkelling sites I have ever swam. The reef went for miles, with varied bright coloured corals and fish. Our younger boys loved the excursion the staff had planned to locate pirate treasure buried on an island, using a treasure map that had washed up on the beach. I loved the picnic lunch we had one day at the base of a stunning waterfall. I know my partner enjoyed having the time to read a book from cover to cover, knowing his children were enjoying themselves. For burnt out parents who need some time to unwind, the nanny service is worth every cent. You can do as much, or as little as you like, it’s all there to be designed around your desires. The fresh produce and the Fijian hospitality ensures for very memorable meal times. The staff take a lot of time and effort to design your meals to your taste preferences and there are many gorgeous locations to choose to have your meals served at. For us it was the privacy and connection that Raiwasa provides that makes it so unique. The fact that it is just you and your family being looked after in paradise is really something else. We returned a very happy and connected family. We hope to return someday.’"

"Raiwasa exceeds all expectations. Your website doesn't begin to do it justice. Our trip was to celebrate my (big) 60th birthday (which apparently, due to the international date line, I turned 60 twice ;) and also my 25th year in business. All of you made it a very special celebration for us. Your taste in architecture, interior design, landscape architecture and attention to every other detail, is impeccable, as are your gracious team members. (You've created a wonderful culture with your team), and we look forward future vacations at Raiwasa."

"If you’re planning a trip to Fiji, the real Fiji, then you need to stay at this resort. After multiple President Club wins with several organizations and staying at many Executive and exclusive resorts, I have never experienced this level of service, care and detail from a staff - EVER. The staff is six star- the house is amazing - the pool and view will stay with you for a lifetime. Enjoy the nature walk through your own garden, take trips with the locals, order endless home cooked meals with local ingredients, fresh juices, milk shakes, fruits, etc. This resort is the hidden treasure of the over 300 islands in Fiji. I cannot compliment the chef, Richie, or the staff enough. They made this bucket list trip a true dream and we would love the opportunity to come back. Make sure you visit the huge water fall with the all-stars Babu and Petero. If it’s 2 nights or two weeks, this resort will exceed expectations and leave a lasting impression on you. I would rate this 6 stars if I could. There was 6 of us on a family trip and the staff treated us like family, played with the kids, remembered every detail, cared for every single need and did it all from the heart. Get off the mainland and experience the real Fiji- you won’t regret it."

"Bob and I got married May 19th 2018, and we decided to spend our honeymoon at the beautiful Raiwasa private resort for 10 nights. We were on the black package and it was definitely worth every penny! From the moment our plane landed in Taveuni we were in awe of the beauty this place exemplified. Being that our package included everything the resort had to offer, we took advantage of every activity we could during our stay. From scuba diving the Rainbow Reef, horse back riding, hiking Bouma Falls, island Hopping, snorkeling, fishing, paddle boarding/kayaking, taking a village and island tour, taking a garden tour, and last, but not least becoming Fijian for a day was nothing short of amazing. The staff became like our family, and the genuinity that comes from each and everyone of them is so sincere. They treat you as their own and tend to your every single need. I have to admit that on our last day I shed a few tears saying our farewells. We fell in love with the people, the island and the values we came to learn during our stay. The attention to detail and making sure we were happy 24/7 blew me away. I have never been treated with so much respect and warmth from staff at any other resort. They honestly think of everything possibly imaginable to make sure your stay is perfect. Being that it was our honeymoon, they made sure to serenade us with the most beautiful and romantic gestures. I am so happy that we chose Raiwasa for our honeymoon because it was everything we could’ve ever dreamed of and more. We are so blessed and grateful for having the opportunity to experience what this island and this resort offers. We are already talking about an anniversary trip in the future! This place is unlike any other, and if you are looking to feed your soul, I highly recommend a stay at Raiwasa. I promise you won’t regret it!"

"Perched high above the South Pacific Raiwasa Private Resort is a paradise for those seeking luxury and solace. A tranquil setting where you can relax in comfort and soak up the warm tropical air. The calming seascape spans for miles and the natural sounds of this vibrant haven caress your mind as you lose track of time. The Raiwasa experience is all about meeting your personal needs at this time in your life. If its a break from constant work and people then you will hardly notice the Fijian staff members as they prepare your room and ensure that your breakfast, lunch and dinner is organised wherever and whenever you would like to dine. The staff are wonderful, and show genuine hospitality.If you wish to be active the staff can arrange for special day activities and tours. The waterfall lunch and swim is a must, and your guided tour by charismatic staff is a wonder in itself. If your like me and would like to tangle with Fiji's tropical Gamefish, a driver will be there to take you to a suitable vessel, where a master skipper will guide you on a wonderful fishing adventure. Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo and Giant Trevally, join a long list of fun fish to catch. Our Raiwasa experience was flawless. The balance of privacy and interaction with staff was a perfect mix. We truly enjoyed our stay in this Tropical Fijian paradise."

"Best vacation ever. Raiwasa is an amazing place, so beautiful, with a stunning views, fantastic house, wonderful pool area. You can´t have it better. The staff was so friendly, amazing food, massage, water activities and tours on the island. Everything was perfect. The staff made a perfect week for us. I can´t explain Raiwasa with words it´s so much better. You have to go there to understand. I can only highly recommend it. I can't wait to come back.

"DREAM VACATION - My husband and I just returned from Raiwasa, and it was the vacation of a lifetime. We read the reviews, and saw the pictures, and were prepared to have a great time, but nothing could have prepared us for the welcome, (genuine warmth of the staff), the peace and beauty of the house, and the five star dining and attention that we received. I have severe allergies to gluten and dairy in particular, and avoid all grains because of cross contamination. I was so fortunate that Patrick and Ritchie communicated clearly with me prior to the trip, and Ritchie continued to create meals for me that were way beyond expectation. If anyone has gluten allergies in particular, you know how vacations usually go. You go in to dine, and someone whips up a fabulous gourmet meal for your significant other, and then you get handed some steamed vegetables with no flavor, and a piece of chicken with no sauce. Ritchie created the very same gourmet entrees for both my husband and myself, substituting as easily as I would have at home. Because we are the only guests, every need is carefully thought of, anticipated, and created beyond our expectations. I am a "foodie" and gourmet cook myself, so dining out is usually filled with disappointment as I described above. This was spectacular. As regards the staff, they were so lovely, I wanted to take them home with me. With fresh flowers everywhere, the gorgeous outdoor shower and bath, and beyond beautiful outdoor areas and views, it was hard to find a favorite spot on the property. There were fabulous surprises for us too. It was out 25th wedding anniversary, and the staff organized special moments for us on our special day, as well as other special things throughout the week. As a special note, Patrick was so easy before we arrived. He made sure that he fully understood my allergies. I am allergic to most detergents, so the staff even rinsed all of the bedding with white vinegar before we arrived. I brought some of my own detergent with me, and never had a single itch the entire time because of bedding. It is very unusual to go to a place like this. It is so far removed from how we live at home, and so quiet and peaceful. I loved the Fijian people, the way that they live, and the way that they value friendship, family and simplicity. I am all ready to look at the calendar and schedule our next trip to Raiwasa, and to tell anyone with a pulse that they absolutely need to go there. Maria was an absolute joy to be around, Babu our driver was knowledgeable, funny, and enjoyed sharing cultural similarities with us. All of the staff were marvelous, no doubt because of the excellent skills and personalities of Rosie and Ritchie, who manage the place and pay such close attention to the little details. Everything that they touch, they make beautiful. Do yourself a favor, and go. It is the perfect place for as much privacy or as much interaction as you wish, and suitable for a fantastic honeymoon, unplugging from the craziness of our daily work week lifestyle, or like us, celebrating 25 years of marriage. We are so happy that we chose to celebrate it here. "

"As an actress and model, my life is so busy. I am always running to photo shoots planning events and running my business. I rarely take real time off from my crazy schedule, so when my boyfriend surprised me with a romantic Fiji getaway at Raiwasa I was excited but did not know what to expect. Let me just say that Raiwasa is something that everyone should experience once in their lives. Sean and I had many amazing memories that we will hold on to forever! The staff, the service, the food and the privacy was perfect and my stay was what I needed to get re-energized. It's a very peaceful, exciting, and romantic Atmopshere all in one. Truly a one of a kind experience, do yourself a favor go down to Raiwasa, you won’t regret it."

"We've been to several 7 star hotels and Raiwasa’s services along with the experience provided goes way beyond them. We really got to live the saying of "your wish is our command" and everyone was beyond wonderful and you could feel the love and how they work as a team. The view here is unbelievable and is nothing like we have seen before it's simply amazing. We've traveled to so many different places but this is the first time that we felt such sadness leaving a place. It was indeed our home away from home. "

"As a family we span several age dynamics, with mid teen children and also early twenties. This often means getting all together difficult as some are still at school, some at university and others now forging their own careers in the workforce and own relationships with significant others. This recent trip was short in the planning by our standards, as often and more usually Melinda spends months planning and strategizing the optimal destination and itinerary for all involved. Our youngest son, Nicholas had returned from boarding school in the country, where they are denied electronic communications and can only touch home and family through the written word. You can imagine how foreign this would feel for all involved. He had two weeks to be back in the embrace of the family before returning for a final term. So, arriving at Raiwasa was at once both a relief and a surprise. Obviously, the location and setting is the stuff postcards and stories are based upon. But most 5+ star resorts deliver an initial wow, but then fail to follow through. The magical thing for us as a family and I’m sure to all your other guests, was and is, your team. Straight away this felt like a different experience, as we were treated like family and the team quickly adapted to our psyche and pace. And it all happened effortlessly and without our direction. The quality of food and the inclusion of locally grown produce was a surprise, as often we have found this to be a short coming in typical resorts. The activities being tailored just to us made them all a memorable experience. And the opportunity to interact with so many of your team on a personal basis was a joy. The tour of the garden and the cultural night were a highlight, especially with the involvement of their wonderful children. We all felt at our stays conclusion that we should have stayed longer and have vowed to return."

"My wife and I had the pleasure of staying at Raiwasa Private Resort which has to be one of the most unique private places I've ever experienced. The food was undoubtable the best even compared to high end resorts such as Kokomo. The property itself is amazing, suitable for couples or families with 2 dual masters and upstairs sleeping. Impeccable attention to detail. The grounds are extremely well kept and the views are simply stunning. The staff are at your beckon call (approximately 12 staff members). They are professional and friendly and will do whatever it takes to make your stay a memorable one."

"Raiwasa team, where do I start! My husband and I stayed at Raiwasa for 17 days in January for our wedding anniversary. I have been to many 5 star accommodations around the world including our recurring annual vacation to either the Four Seasons or the Royal Palm Beachcomber in Mauritius. These are top-notch resorts with beautiful service, food and amenities. But nothing prepared me for Raiwasa! This island is paradise and the Raiwasa experience is just crazy in its perfection. I can say I have now found a new home in Fiji, and I will be going back as often as I can. We stayed in January and had 12 days of perfect tropical weather, 3 days of overcast weather with intermittent breaks of sunshine and 2 days of rain showers (not lasting that long). It mostly rained at night and then during the days it was beautiful. The rain was welcome so we can relax with a book in the hot weather with two sides of the house open to the big deck and with a view to die for. Honestly the pictures can’t do it justice you have to see it for yourself. The staff is just beautiful; Raiwasa has a staff of 12 that will cater to all your needs. They have an ingenious way of ensuring that we receive total privacy, you never see anyone unless you call on them. This place is fully private, I spent many days sunbathing and swimming nude in the pool. I love this place ! Just Freedom …. The most amazing chefs, try the Coconut crepes and the eggs benedict for breakfast. The 5 course dinners were amazing and we tried all their different dining locations (two of our favorites are the private beach and the overlook deck by the pool), the quantity was perfect and the taste was really great. Richie, Ben and Rosie have some serious talent, best food we have ever had in a tropical setting. The activities are amazing, with highlights being the Bouma waterfall (with a surprise, you will see :) ), my husband loved the coastal fishing and the snorkeling on the Rainbow Reef, the Fijian culture day was really something special and authentic. Nothing Disneyland about it. The attention to detail is really there and there is so much more to be said about the experience but I don’t want to spoil it for you. We where not bored one day and only spend 2 days lounging around doing nothing. I can’t believe I am saying this but this was the best vacation ever (for this 56 year old that has been around). Vinaka to the whole team, we love you XOXO! "

"My experience at Raiwasa was nothing short of amazing. Fiji is paradise and Raiwasa has captured a spot as the most luxurious accommodation in Fiji. As the owner of a yacht charter brokerage, I am accustomed to five star service, surroundings and amenities. Raiwasa rivels the experience of some of the world's most luxurious super yachts at a fraction of the cost. Your villa provides an excellent extension to clients who have enjoyed a charter yacht vacation and now are looking for a land based property. As a frequent visitor to Fiji, I can say that the cultural experiences you provide guests is by far the best. The traditional Kava ceremony preceded by the root grinding and presentation was informative and something I have often wondered. The local village performances were genuine and the beauty of the children singing and dancing was only eclipsed by their beautiful smiles. Your staff are superstars. They have mastered the difficult task of balancing guest privacy with interaction. They are attentive, they are gracious, they are funny, they are energetic and they are ready to make every second of your stay memorable. I was in awe upon arrival and I was in tears to depart, not because I wouldn't be back again, because I will, but because I felt a connection with this special place and the special staff you have brought together. "

"I am not the type of guy to write reviews. In fact, this is my first ever review for anything, positive or negative. I typically vote with my patronage and if I like a place, I will frequent it and if I dont like it, I just dont go back or support them. This is true for me from anything from a local store purchase to a 5 star resort or a car dealership purchase. I am writing this review of Raiwasa because it was simply fabulous and deserves recognition. I chose Raiwasa as a destination for my 25th anniversary. I had never been to Fiji before so I was a bit worried at trying it on such a special occasion and getting it right. I have been to Hawaii more times that I can count and to Tahiti numerous times and my default would normally have been to choose a known destination for my 25th as opposed to an unknown Pacific Island destination. Laucala Island resort in Fiji was my first initial choice but I could not get any availability for my dates (turned out to be a blessing). I settled on Raiwasa after some online research and after speaking to the owner, Patrick, by phone who was very gracious, helpful and informative. I live in Orange County, California. The flight to Fiji from LAX is about 12 hours. Regardless of your airline booking, most seem to codeshare with Fiji Airlines. We flew business class and the plane was clean, the food decent and the Fijian airline staff incredibly friendly, helpful and professional. By the time we got to Taveuni, since leaving our house, we had been travelling about 20 hours. Normally you would be feeling some typical travel fatigue at this point on any journey but both of us were totally stress free and in surprisingly good shape. I attribute this virtually 100% to the airline staff attitude as well as all the easy transfer process with super friendly customs and ground staff. At this point, before even seeing Taveuni or Raiwasa, I knew I'd love Fiji and its people. That was a nice start and a good omen. It is a very short distance and easy connection to the domestic terminal for the flight from Nadi to Taveuni. The flight was just over an hour and went quickly because there is some great sightseeing of all the islands and turquoise colored reefs on the short journey. We were met at the tiny Taveuni airport by "Babu" from Raiwasa who had cold towels and a cold drink for us. By the time the plane landed, we had our luggage and were on our way in about 10 minutes flat. The trip to Raiwasa is short and we were met by all the staff that would be looking after us. Another 15 minutes later we had breakfast ordered and a cocktail in hand overlooking a vista of coral reefs, islands and the Pacific Ocean. Raiwasa is set on about 3 acres of waterfront property. It is an awesome location. The villa, the pool and all the property improvements are of a very high standard and are beautifully done set in spectacular foliage and landscaping. It offers total privacy from any angle and is a delight to view and explore all the gardens and beach access. I have built custom homes in beachfront locations and I can attest at how much energy and resources it takes to not only build such a property but also to maintain it and keep it to such a high standard with the oceanside elements constantly beating things up. Throw in the fact that you are on a remote Island the logistics of keeping a place like this is doubly difficult. For me this just increased my appreciation of the beauty of the property. The food was simply fantastic. Richie, the manager and chef is obviously professionally trained, but more importantly he has real talent and 100% commitment to everything he makes. My wife has an extensive array of allergies that make most chefs run for the hills. It's not a lifestyle choice, it's a medical necessity with her. Richie managed to navigate her extensive allergies and provide us with the meals on par with the best we've ever had anywhere. He did this not for one meal, but for every breakfast, lunch and dinner. Taveuni is a beautiful Island. It has some of the worlds best scuba dives and some incredible fishing. I fished for a few days using Raiwasa's own fishing boat. As an avid fisherman, I could write forever about the sailfish, giant trevally and other fish I caught or the well over 200 lb Yellowfin Tuna I fought for almost 3 hours before it came undone, but right now I'm thinking about the Lobster Benedict Richie made for me. So you have a beautiful Island, an awesome location and villa with incredible food. What more is there? Well the staff (and the Fijian people) were the highlight. I own a few successful businesses and I have been fortunate enough to have travelled the world first class for business and for pleasure for over 35 years. The staff were simply the best I've ever experienced in all my travels. Nothing was a problem for them. They did so many special things for us that touched us deeply. Mix the incredible staff with all of these amazing other location attributes and you have......a truly magical place. I cant imaging not going back to Raiwasa. Now we know it exists it is a must for us to make it a part of our annual travels. We will be back sooner than later. I'm already clearing my calendar."

"So…my wish right this moment...blink twice…and be back at Raiwasa enjoying "Fiji Time" by the pool! I want to thank Patrick, Richie, Rosie, Lo, Maria, Babu, Kelera, Bogi, Petero, Harish & Sepo, for making our stay absolutely incredible & truly unforgettable! I've been in the dive industry since 1999, visited numerous destinations as well as 5+ star resorts around the world but never had such an amazing experience as Raiwasa offered! The moment we entered the property & drove up the driveway, we knew it was going to be "absolute paradise"! And it definitely was everything & more than anyone could ever expect! The teamwork of the entire staff was so unbelievably amazing! Each & every "i" was dotted & "t" crossed to absolute perfection! There are not enough praises to express how incredible our stay was with all of you. We were truly sad to leave & say good-bye! Each planned event was above & beyond what we could have ever imagined - absolutely incredible, thank you! I look forward to returning to Raiwasa for another truly remarkable & unforgettable experience! It was an honor meeting & spending time with all of you! Vinaka, Patrick & Richie so much again for everything…until next time."

"I have been handicapped from birth but I can still use my legs with crutches. While Raiwasa is not “officially” handicapped accessible let me tell you about what the staff did for me while I was there. I had never been snorkeling because it’s impossible for me to get into and out of a boat (without a crane, lol). But when I told Richie that snorkeling was on my bucket list, he went about and invented and built an ingenious teeter-totter that was placed on the boat. It allowed me to get in and out of the boat with ease. They also built me a chair specifically so that I could shower sitting down. I don’t think there is anything you can ask these guys that they cant accomplish. This place should be called Aladdin’s wish factory. Next time I will go to Bouma to swim in the falls, Richie told me he would build me a chair that the staff would carry me in. The massages where to die for and the food glorious. I loved my time discussing the dinner menu with Richie and Ben. Do the garden tour, very educational and Babu is so funny. My experience was downright unique and amazing, I can’t wait to be back. "

"We enjoyed Raiwasa more than any other Resort or Lodge we have stayed in in this part of the world. Patrick has done an amazing job with the level of training he has achieved with his staff and the attention to detail from the Villa itself, the amazing food and the manicured gardens. We have travelled extensively and stayed in some very high-end luxury Resorts all over the world and could not find fault with anything about our stay at Raiwasa. We will definitely be back."

It's almost difficult to write a review for a place that's so special. I've initially chosen Raiwasa based on the location, contemporary décor and wonderful amenities. It turned out to be so much more than just another vacation in a tropical place. It was an unforgettable experience! LOCATION The island of Taveuni was a perfect match for our vacation style. We do not like big resorts or tourist traps and prefer to rent private villas and to get to know the local culture of the place we're visiting. Taveuni makes you feel like you stepped back in time and away from your daily grind. Life is simple and people are friendly. The nature is spectacular and the climate is perfect. VILLA The villa is incredible! It's spacious, luxurious, immaculate, and has everything a discerning traveler might need. The decor is contemporary, tasteful, and comfortable. I loved having fresh flower arrangements everywhere. There are so many places to relax and lounge depending on your mood, and the views are beautiful everywhere! STAFF AND SERVICE If you want to live like royalty or a celebrity for a week, come here! With 10 staff attending to your needs, you'll be sorry you have to go home! There isn't even a common phrase that would capture the level of service the staff provide. I could say they "go the extra mile" but it wouldn't be enough. I could say they go "above and beyond" but it would still not describe the incredible service they offer. They're thorough but not intrusive. They'll take care of things before you have to ask. After a couple of days they'll learn your preferences and you won't have to say how you like certain things. Every guest can decide how much they want to interact with the staff and we wanted to get to know them a bit. I highly recommend for you to do the same! They're all such special people that you'd be missing out if you don't ever talk to them. After a few days we joked that we felt like we live on the island now and the staff are our neighbors and friends. In the morning, we'd look forward to saying hello to Maria or Lo and chatting with them as they were serving breakfast. Then Richie would come over and we'd talk about dinner plans or what we'd like to do that day. Then we'd go out with Babu to the beach or for a drive around the island. Please, please spend time with Babu! Every outing with him is such a fun experience! He knows everyone on the island and has a ton of stories to share! FOOD If you're a foodie, you'll really appreciate Raiwasa! Richie and Rosie blew us away every day with their cooking. The variety and quality of dining options is superb! There is an extensive menu for breakfast and lunch. And every night, Richie would design an elaborate menu for dinner based on local flavors. He can even make special requests if you're craving something specific. My husband told him a story of an amazing while chocolate bread pudding dessert I had on the island of Anguilla years ago and how I still talk about it. Well, for my birthday dinner Richie surprised me by making it for for me! The dining experience made this vacation so memorable. ACTIVITIES You can make your stay here into whatever you'd like. Of the 8 days we spent at Raiwasa, each one was different. Some days were spent relaxing by the pool or the private beach. And other days we'd do something fun and adventurous. The list of activities is extensive and will suit anyone's style. I especially appreciated having kayaks and paddle boards available; the water right next to the villa is a perfect spot to take those out. SUMMARY If you want to have a vacation that will spoil you, rejuvenate you and give you an experience to remember, Raiwasa is for you!

" THE MOST ROMANTIC PLACE ON EARTH! From the moment I contacted Patrick about booking Raiwasa, he was very helpful. It was a simple process to make the vacation of a lifetime a reality. As a busy executive, I am constantly focused on my work and downtime is very limited. Ashley and I were thrilled that we chose Raiwasa for 10 days to get away from the busy lives we both lead. Now that we have been back home in California for a few weeks, we are constantly reminded of the amazing memories we made. The STAFF was ABSOLUTLY AMAZING! I need to mention the resort staff; Richie, Rosie, Lo, Maria, Babu, Kelera, Bogi, Petero, Harish & Sepo, they made every experience truly remarkable. We were treated to a traditional Kava Ceremony, we watched the traditional south pacific drink be made and drank with them! I enjoyed this drink very much, the morning we were leaving they surprised me with a package of Kava to bring back to the U.S with me! Babu, our driver was a true joy. He took us on many adventures around the island, always had our favorite snacks and cold drinks packed up for our excursions. Natural waterslides, the blowhole, local villages, and snorkeling were just a few of the daily enjoyments we had. Every day, Lo and Maria greeted us with huge smiles, they spent so much effort making each and every dining experience memorable with different flower arrangements that were so beautiful. The staff set up an amazing lunch at the waterfall for Ashley and I, we sat staring at the waterfall while we enjoyed cold beer and a picnic lunch. I was able to climb up the back of the waterfall and jump in, it was a lot of fun. Again, the attention to detail was second to none! Fishing is a great joy of mine. I was able to go out hand line fishing with Harish and Babu a couple of times during my stay! We had an absolute blast! Catching multiple species of fish, close to the resort on the kayaks they provide. This was one of the best experiences I had during my stay. Ashley and I went out fishing on the larger boat they have at the property. Buba (not to be confused with his cousin Babu) took us out for a few hours, we ended up catching a 30lb Spanish Mackerel that Richie ended up cooking for us that evening! Ashley also ended up catching a 6 foot Copper shark, fortunately we were able to release it with no harm done to it. Richie was our incredible executive chef and General Manager for the property. He set up all of our experiences and was an absolute joy to be around. Nothing was too large of an ask, if it wasn't available he would find a way to make it happen! The food was INCREDIBLE, creating so many wonderful meals each and every time! I need to mention Lo and the incredible service she provided everyday along with Maria! Lo took us into her village one afternoon and we were introduced to the how they lived their lives each and every day. Very interesting to see how these villages prepared meals and interacted! Lo also does the massages and skin care treatments, Ashley was very happy with the services! Top notch! One evening we were surprised by some local children from a nearby village! They performed multiple song and dance routines for us at the villa, Ashley and I were so moved by this. A couple of the children were related to some of the staff at the villa making it very special! There are so many wonderful people on this island. We feel so lucky to have had the pleasure of connecting with many of the locals and learning more about them as individuals. The culture here pulls you away from your everyday life and is so refreshing. We both can't wait for the opportunity to return again! I'll never forget at the airport, Babu dropping us off, not saying bye, but see you later! If you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to go here, don't hesitate. "

You know when you find the perfect vacation spot and you immediately want to tell everyone about it but then you also want to keep it for yourself? That’s Raiwasa! You will NOT need a vacation from your vacation when you experience this resort. This is a place where time stands still, natural beauty surrounds you, and you are allowed to disconnect from the rest of the world and reconnect with what is important to you. Soak in the incredible view, the excellent service, and remember you are on island time!

My husband and I just spent 6 days at Raiwasa. Nothing prepared us for the experience that we lived. We where heading home to the US from Melbourne and stopped over in Taveuni at Raiwasa. We were greeted with an unbelievably warm welcome with Fijian warriors in full garb. The short walk on the coral path brought us to the most amazing shimmering view of the ocean. Literally mesmerizing… The pictures on the web site are beautiful but do not do the expansive view justice. We are very private people and only saw the staff when we requested interaction. Below is my attempt of capturing the experience we enjoyed. The house is gorgeous, its flows beautifully. It has an inside outside feel to it, large rolling doors open on two sides of the living room to a huge covered wrap around deck where you can sit and enjoy the beauty of Fiji. The outdoor bathrooms are amazing. The pool is great at a perfect depth to swim but also to stand up and laze around. They have a small private beach area above the ocean, which is also great, and a little hut to stay out of the sun where you can read and listen to the ocean. My husband Gabe asked for flavored coffee on the first day, but there was none available on the island. But little known to us Richie took it upon himself to have hazelnut and vanilla flavored coffee flown in on the next flight. The next morning without us asking, a great flavored coffee appeared during breakfast. The attention to detail was special and the feeling we received from the staff was honest and genuine. There is an “as you wish” culture at every point of the entire experience. It is really special, something that we have never experienced anywhere else. The food was spectacular and we quickly realized the passion that Richie brought to our food preparation. While you can completely control what you want to eat we finally just gave in and told Richie, just makes us whatever you want and we where not disappointed. Gabe and I really enjoyed the food and wine experience, we where under the Platinum package and had an extensive choice of wines to chose from. The wine list is impressive, all New Zealand and Australian and it was fun to experience wines from this part of the world. Richie pairs a wine with every meal and he never missed. I personally fell in love with Richie’s Walu, what an amazing fish (I had never eaten before) and so well prepared. The island fries made with local potatoes and home made paprika lime Aioli where also to die for. The avocado, panacotta salad was wow and Richie even made a chocolate lava cake on request because Gabe is such a chocoholic. Now the massages: Perfect !!!! Lo was amazing, great variety to chose from on the spa menu, stuff that I have never done before like the sugar scrub and Dilo wrap. Gabe fell asleep during the massages they where so relaxing. We had a massage everyday! I have some knee pain but we spent some time visiting the Bouma falls, which are very accessible through a flat walkway (the service team has prepared something for us but I am not going to ruin it by telling you). We took the private boat to snorkel on the rainbow reef, which also was amazing. Next time we go we will experience the Lavena waterfalls, the sea was a little rough this time around to do it. Overall we were treated to some amazing small surprises along the way from before we arrived to after we left that made the experience special and catered. My husband Gabe and I have traveled the world and been to some very special places, 5, 6 or even 7 stars, we have been to many of them but Raiwasa is on another level (for altogether different reasons). These stars systems show the level of amenities, which of course many are above Raiwasa’s. But Raiwasa is real, genuine human connection with the staff catering to only our needs in a beautiful setting, great service and food. Raiwasa is one of the best vacations ever because it was so personalized to us. We are already recommending it to friends and family and will be back for sure. I never write reviews and I have been scratching my head about how I can balance this review with something negative or something to improve. I am giving up ! There nothing to change, perfection I can’t find anything bad to say so I wont. I look forward to coming back and having the people I love experience this little piece of paradise. I hope this is helpful to people, I enjoyed writing it.

" Absolute perfection ! From the moment we made the initial contact with Patrick enquiring about a stay at Raiwasa, we knew we were onto a winner. Before we even boarded our flight to Fiji; Patrick, Richie, Rosie and the team had put an incredible amount of forethought into our arrival. Traveling with young children can be challenging at the best of times, and with our youngest son being on the autism spectrum, it can throw all sorts of additional curve balls. The whole team were incredibly prepared and Rosie jumped in as the little guys personal nanny. She had done research on ASD and after 9 days with him I can honestly say that she understood his quirks as much as many people that have known him his whole life. Rosie is an incredibly patient and kind hearted soul, and she gave us the confidence to go out with our 5 year old - snorkelling on the rainbow reef and out the front of the villa, kayaking to nearby islands, paddle boarding, kayak 'surfing' and hanging out in the gorgeous pool - knowing Mr3 was in safe and loving hands. And he was happy. We arrived to a gorgeous welcome, with the whole team to greet us with fabulous warmth, beautiful singing, stunning leis. And found ourselves in the most incredibly serene location with views that I cannot do justice to with words. Just incredible. I am a big foodie - have been a chef for over 25 years, a lot of that time spent running kitchens and working in various 5 star resorts and hotels - and the food we experienced at Raiwasa was as good as, and in many instances even better, than I have seen in a multitude of worldwide locations. The menu was extensive, and Richie was more than happy to adapt and create anything else we felt like eating. Requests for sushi and sashimi platters, goat curry, homemade gluten free breads and baking for Mr 3 and even pain au chocolat for sir, were greeted with enthusiasm and executed perfectly. The thought and attention to detail that went into every meal was quite astounding, wine pairing and table settings included. The villa was kept spotlessly clean, with beautiful pure Fiji products in the pristine indoor/outdoor bathrooms and the nicest towels I've ever used. Super comfortable pillow selection too! It was mind blowing to have such an amazing piece of paradise all to ourselves. Beautifully manicured gardens. A great deal of the fruit and vegetable produce being used in the kitchen is being grown on site - the garden tour is a must! A short Walk through the property down to the waters edge where we had all the water sports available, (and the option to be accompanied by Sikeli) including snorkelling, hand line fishing, kayaking and paddle boarding. Bonfires on the beach, lovo in the backyard, day trips to the waterfalls and rainbow reef, to local beaches to hunt for shells, kayaking to local islands, massages overlooking the magnificent Pacific Ocean, and endless hours by the world class pool. We could not have wished for a more perfect holiday. Heartfelt thanks to the Raiwasa team - as far as perfection goes - you nailed it. We cannot recommend this island dream enough. And words will not convey how magical our holiday was. The place. The people. Thank you. We will be back!

When I booked Raiwasa for an 8 day romantic getaway, I didn't realize that I'd be ruining our future vacation plans! This place is so beautiful and the service is so incredible that you'd never want to settle for anything else. To say it was an amazing experience would be an understatement. Every aspect of our vacation was excellent - the island, the villa, the views, the food, the service, the amenities, the activities... I could go on and on. The staff at this resort are incredible. They create a luxury experience in a way that's hard to describe. Richie and Rosie spoil you with fine dining. Maria, Lo and the others keep the place spotless and ensure you're always comfortable. Babu will turn a simple drive to the local shopping area into a fun experience filled with stories about the island and spontaneous adventures. It was an amazing stay and I highly recommend it!

"My wife and I stayed at Raiwasa April 2017. From the moment we were greeted by Babu at the airport with a cold water and a huge smile, we knew we were in for something spectacular. I refer to Raiwasa as my great reset. As the CEO of two software companies, I've had one too many sleepless nights and 80+ hour work weeks. I needed something more than our annual trip to Maui with the kids. I needed serious R&R, something different, a real chance to connect with my wife, get spoiled and fill the soul. Raiwasa crushed it. This place combines the best of so many things...a quaint island, an amazing 3-acre villa overlooking the ocean, world-class food, once-in-a-lifetime activities and a staff lead by Richie and Rosie. Trust me, you will be scheming ways to smuggle them back home. There was a genuine friendship that we developed with everyone that I actually got a bit teared up at the airport. No joke. It's real and difficult to put into words. This is a special place run by special people. We will be back. Vinaka Vinaka vaka levu. "

"Raiwasa was hands down our best vacation yet! The staff never stopped trying to please, they were always on top of everything and truly cared. There were so many small details that we wouldn’t have ever thought of that made the experience that much more special. Our stay was full of surprises that made us feel like such special guests. Everyone on the island is so friendly and happy. No one is ever in a rush or hurry, it’s a very nice change of pace and very relaxing. "

My family and I have travelled extensively around the world and this is one of our best experiences and far and away the highest quality service we’ve ever had. The essence of Raiwasa is a phenomenal setting and a warm local team dedicated to excellent service—both leading to an unforgettable experience on the “garden island” of Fiji. Upon arriving at Raiwasa--on its several acres of beautiful gardens and pathways overlooking the ocean--we were welcomed by two warriors, plus Babu, Richie, Rosie and seven staff singing songs as part of a traditional welcome ceremony. The villa is an architectural gem, open and gentle breeze swept with its tiered decks and verandas overlooking the shifting tides of the Somosomo Straights. High ceilings, solid timbers, nicely appointed living and bedroom areas, and spacious outdoor showers and baths are part of the villa’s charm. To the side of the villa, along a short pathway, is a natural infinity pool with its own decks, cabana and spectacular views. The lighted walkway down to the private beach leads to another cabana and deck right above the water. Kayaks, paddle boards, a motor boat and a nice selection of snorkeling equipment are part the offering. Raiwasa is characterized by outstanding service and a staff that is attentive to every need and every detail to make your vacation truly outstanding. The twenty pages of menu selections, prepared by master chef Richie and his spouse Rosie are simply amazing involving a wide variety of cuisines—Fijian, Asian fusion, French, Spanish, Mexican and Indian. All meals were delicious with outstanding presentations. Dinners are five course meals, and with reasonable sized portions. During our first dinner at Raiwasa we were serenaded with guitar music and traditional Fijian songs. Breakfasts and lunches were complemented by local fruits and a creative selection of flavorful smoothies. Each afternoon Richie appears to discuss menu ideas and recommendations for the evening. He emerges a few hours later with his staff to present his special creations at any of the villa’s six indoor and outdoor dining areas--on the decks, beach or by the pool. During the evening torches light the pathways around Raiwasa, adding a special aura as the sun sets and night sets in. Rosie and Lo provided soothing messages as options or part of the premium package. My wife and daughter loved the banana leaf wrap and head and foot message to sooth sun-kissed skin. The watersports are supervised by Petero and his colleague to make sure everyone is in their comfort zone whether kayaking, paddle boarding, tubing behind the boat or snorkeling. They know the coast and the tides and are there to make it all easy and safe for all ages and adventure types. During the week we enjoyed many exceptional experiences at Raiwasa, all made more memorable due to the attentiveness of Raiwasa’s staff. At first, we simply enjoyed the villa, beach, grounds and fantastic meals. A few days later we decided to take a short trip and hike to the local waterfalls with Babu in the lead. We had a great surprise waiting as we emerged from the rainforest at the base of the falls, but I won’t say what it was so I don’t spoil the fun for others. We had a fine cook out one evening where in-ground cooking with hot rocks and banana leaves (something like an American clam bake) allowed us to sample local Fijian dinner treats. After dinner we enjoyed traditional dances and a kava ceremony on the veranda with the whole crew. Lo took us on a walking tour of her village where the entire village was preparing for a big, once-in-a-lifetime ceremony to install her mother-in-law as the new village chief. We met the new chief as she proudly supervised construction of the ceremonial grounds with her advisors from a perch above the rugby fields. During our last few days we explored the island a bit more knowing that there was much more to see and do, and that we needed come back to enjoy more of Raiwasa’s charm and the warm, caring and attentive people that made our family vacation such an outstanding experience for all. Rolf Sartorius Note: We travelled to Raiwasa as a group of six, my wife and I, our 20 year old daughter, 15 year old son and his friend and my mother.

You will not need a vacation from your vacation after staying at Raiwasa, although I guarantee you have never vacationed like this before! The owners and the staff of this exquisite private resort have created a magical world where time stands still, natural beauty surrounds you, disconnection from the outside world is a possibility, connection with loved ones is a reality, and happiness is infectious! Set on three acres of lovely Taveuni Island in Fiji, the grand villa is home to a wonderland of surprises. The house includes a large wraparound sun deck, two bedrooms each with outdoor showers and bathtubs, a den, an upstairs recreation room, and a kitchen. My favorite seating areas were the egg chair, the hammock and the outdoor couch; I could sit and look at the ocean view for hours! Did I mention the “mini” bar? You get a stocked full size refrigerator with all the Fiji water (yes, they serve Fiji water in Fiji), soft drinks, milk, orange juice, and beer your heart desires!! The spectacular view of the ocean will absolutely hypnotize you! You will succumb to the constantly changing colors of the water & the sky, the gentle sound of the distant waves breaking on the reef, and the palms swaying in the breeze. The crystal clear blue infinity pool provides views that continue past the ocean towards the other islands in the distance. In the three days I was on the property, I maybe saw one boat in the far distance and two snorkelers on my last day. It was insane how little interaction with the outside world occurred but it was definitely welcomed! There are 7 dining locations on the property for you to enjoy 5 star quality meals prepared to your liking by the very talented team of Richie & Rosie. I should mention that the presentation & plating of each meal was outstanding! They must own a thousand napkin rings because I never saw the same one twice! The house has an expansive garden specifically grown for the guests with a large variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are used to create the very meals you enjoy! I highly recommend you take the garden tour to fully understand and appreciate all the dedication that has been put into the property. The house is outfitted with a staff of 10 individuals that anticipate your every need even before you dream of the need. These lovely happy Fijians bring the resort to life by creating an experience in everything you do. And there is so much to do! The resort offers spa treatments, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more. Getting around on a primitive island is no concern when you have the Raiwasa truck & Babu to drive you. Take time to see the Tavoro Waterfalls, blow hole, International Date Line, and more. Have Petero teach you how to jump off the waterfall, it is such a rush!! Take the private boat fishing or to Rainbow Reef for snorkeling or scuba diving. On my snorkeling adventure I saw schools of colorful fish, lobsters, and even a shark! The island is your playground to enjoy! The staff will create very memorable moments along the way; you will be surprised, you will feel honored, you will be humbled but most of all you will remember the way you were made to feel after you return home. I will not mention the surprises that are in store but know that you will not be expecting any of them and they will absolutely take your breath away! No detail is missed by the wonderful people I now consider friends. If privacy is what you seek, the staff will arrange it so you have little to no interaction. The entire resort can be yours without any disturbance. Discretion and endless choices is what Raiwasa offers to guests. Remember, you’re on island time, relax and appreciate the love that surrounds you. Oh, did I mention the outdoor showers with the ocean view? ☺

My son and daughter-in-law Rolf and Pat invited me to join them and their family Caroline and Jacob, my grandchildren, for a magical week’s vacation at Raiwasa, Taveuni, Fiji. It all began at the gate with a welcome ceremony by our villa’s extensive staff in native dress. They then introduced us to the lovely house and surrounding property that would be our exclusive home for the coming week. The house itself has large outdoor oriented rooms tastefully decorated with island crafts and beautiful fresh flowers from the property’s gardens everywhere. The adjoining wrap around veranda has extensive views out to the sea. Here we would enjoy meals, receive massages, enjoy entertainment or just relax. A few steps away is the infinity pool with a grass covered relaxation area and a dining area, again with extensive views of the water. We were shown the path down to our private beach with its boat, paddleboards or snorkeling equipment, available as we wished with assistance when needed. We were encouraged to peruse a book containing long lists of beverages, including delicious smoothies and alcoholic drinks, snacks, breakfast and lunch menus that could be ordered any time, to be served where we wished. Richie the talented chef would consult with us daily about the dinner menu which was always wonderful, multi coursed, prepared with local ingredients and beautifully presented. He would also help us organize daily activities. It was difficult to leave this beautiful setting but with the help of the always friendly and accommodating staff, we took several side trips to explore the island and its rich culture. They drove us to Bouma Falls, and after a short hike we reached the high falls and swimming area where the staff had already prepared our lunch to which was served on white table cloths and flower decorated tables. A member of the staff was kind enough to give us a tour of her village and introduce us to some of its members including her mother-in-law who was soon to be inducted as village chief at a large island wide ceremony. One night returning to our villa the staff prepared kava (the signature, age old, Fijian drink) and served with the traditional ceremony. Another night we were serenaded with native songs and watched, encouraged to join in with native dancers performing traditional dances. Staff took us to visit a local market with fresh exotic fruits and vegetables, a French Missionary Church with stain glass windows built in the 1800’s and the nearby International Date Line where we could take a step and cross from today into yesterday. Speaking of yesterday, I am 78 years old and am so fortunate to have such a wonderful family sharing this time with me. I and to be in good health with good mobility but the staff was always extremely helpful to me, as to all my family and to their individual needs. During my lifetime I have been able to visit and live in many parts of our world, but my weeks stay to Raiwasa was one of the most memorable times.

"Raiwasa Grand Villa is an outstanding luxury property/ location offering everything a 5 star resort offers and more. You have 10 dedicated staff looking after your every need. They are at your service at the push of a button and went out of their way to make sure our short break was everything we wanted it to be. The food created by Richie is outstanding with a great selection of champagne, wines and beer. The view from every angle is stunning and elevated so you can see for miles. Everything Raiwasa offers is about attention to detail even down to the most immaculate gardens we have seen in Fiji. We lead busy lives and came away relaxed and could only wish we could have spent more time enjoying the luxury. Everything about Raiwasa exceeded our expectations and we will certainly be back for more!"

Raiwasa不仅是美如画的度假天堂，还是一个放松休闲的人间仙境。第一天我就被raiwasa别致的风景所吸引，各种各样的热带果树和成片的花朵相互交织生长，每一眼都是一幅画。每天清晨，一睁眼就可以看见明媚的阳光撒在鲜红的扶桑花上，听见微风拂过椰子树的沙沙声，远处是蔚蓝的海水，波光粼粼。作为一个从来没有看到过如此美丽的大海的人来说，在raiwasa的日子让我和大海有了第一次亲密的接触。初次尝试浮潜，我看到了不一样的海底世界，粉色的珊瑚、蓝色的小鱼、胆小的寄居蟹都让我记忆深刻。我也在近海区尝试海钓，当鱼上钩的时候，内心的喜悦会让你觉得之前的等待都是值得的。与此同时，我非常感谢raiwasa的工作人员在活动期间的帮助，每一个在raiwasa碰见的人都在微笑，亲切地叫出我的名字，满足我所有提出的要求，但是他们对隐私的保护工作做的很好，他们永远只在你需要的时候出现。在raiwasa度过的时间是我在斐济最美好的回忆。

"We spent 14 days at Raiwasa Grand Villa and it was like we landed in Paradise! We decided to elope to get married and have our honeymoon in one place. After an extensive research and a lot of reading about Fiji, we found Taveuni Island. We decided that the island had everything we where looking for, not too touristy, wonderful nature with waterfalls and nature walks and hikes. Beaches and snorkeling and world-class diving and it just looked so tranquil. The island for filled all our needs for adventure and beauty. We where looking for the best accommodation on the island and we decided that privacy and to get a customized wedding and personalized stay was the way we wanted to go. We found Raiwasa by chance (web search) and right away after emailing and talking to Patrick we knew this was it! What he promised us was just 20% of what we received, we where treated to so many surprises. Everything was so easy from start to end. We just filled in all our wishes and dreams in a form and emailed it to Patrick. From how we imagined the wedding (a down to earth wedding by the ocean, lot’s of flowers and our rings in a shell and just us) to what food we liked and disliked. Everything was absolutely amazing! Our wedding was the best day of our life and the staff at Raiwasa went out of their way to make it extra special and beautiful. They even planted a coconut tree in our name for when we return. Our honeymoon followed after which was amazing. Riche who is the manger and also the chef is outstanding; he made everything just “happen”. He also made food that was so good that we could have just spend all day eating. He is making magic in the kitchen and listen carefully what we liked and did not care for too much and made every dinner customized just for us. Almost everything you eat comes from the garden or the ocean. My husband even dared to try fresh tuna sushi, which he would never eaten at home and he loved it! We bought the platinum package so everything was included from food and drinks to excursion and spa and car with chauffeur! We spent our time between relaxing by the pool and getting massages by the beach. We really wanted to relax and not have other guests making noise around us and this is place is ultra private. If you have a special occasion to celebrate this is a once in a lifetime treat. Besides the absolutely gorgeous place, they also have an incredible "staff" of 10, all for us. Babu, who was our private guide/chauffeur, took us around the island and he has a wealth of knowledge about Taveuni. He is also a very entertaining and funny guy who made us laugh nonstop. Thank you Rosie and Lo we will never forget your laughs and friendly Fijian way of being and how you made everything so incredible special on our wedding day (well everyday was amazing!). The boys in the garden, thank you for all the beautiful decorations on our wedding day and for the great surprise of being dressed as Fijian Warrior and walked me down the isle. We went as I said to relax and have forever memories and we got everything we where looking for in holiday. No stress, no pressure, it's Fiji time. One thing is certain: We will be back to check out our wedding palm tree."

“Raiwasa Grand Villa is in a completely different league from anything we have ever experienced…breathtaking, panoramic ocean views… beautiful private setting. The staff is absolutely the friendliest, always smiling. They cater to all your needs at the villa and all of your adventures as well! We loved the Bouma water falls and the Lavena coastal walk was magical! Paddling out to see the dolphins before breakfast was a first for us. The food was beyond all expectations. Everything Richie served was wonderful! But my favorites were the fresh seafood and coconut cream-based dishes. I have never seen my husband, who works so hard, able to relax like he did. We can’t wait to go back.”

“My husband and I experienced a few days in paradise…no words strong enough to describe how we felt…extremely private, exclusive and low key. Settled on top of a hill, with the glittering turquoise water at eye level, and surrounded by tropical flowers, palm trees, we were left speechless…it’s even better than the pictures. Richie and Rosie and the staff gave us the best service we had ever experienced, so friendly and personalized. The meals and food presentation were fantastic. Rosie with her warm smile, like a fairy, arranged flowers in every corner of the house. They made our stay a dream, and leaving them was hard... Walking in the garden when the sun rose, admiring those rare red palms, tropical fruits hanging here and there, and beautiful flowers…it all made our days even happier!”

“I am 75-years-old and no newbie to travel and I have to say Raiwasa was great. I only rent private properties because if you choose them properly they have the same amenities as the best luxury resorts, but with absolute privacy. Plus, I am too old to fight for a sun bed. The staff met all my needs without fuss or delay and was well-trained and unobtrusive. My skilful massage therapist, Lo, came to the house every day for my 60 minutes of indulgence. Raiwasa rivals my best experiences in Thailand and Bali.”

"Taveuni,the Garden island .... welcome to the paradise. We just spent 3 days at Raiwasa Grand Villa in Taveuni Fiji. Such amazing location with a very unique view! I am an Italian national that works in the Food and Beverage hospitality industry since long time,including cruise lines. I must admit that I was really impressed with the property, it was very well maintained and the view, wow one of the best I have seen in Fiji. The staff was extreme friendly and wanted to help us enjoy our stay. Richie is the Executive Chef with a great experience in the and you can feel that. The food was exquisite and so well presented, my wife and son also had an amazing time.We will plan on coming back as soon as we have the time off. Vinaka"