The Bachelorette Heads to Fiji's Namale, the Most Romantic Resort in the South Pacific, for July 25th Episode

Sunset at Namale, Fiji's All-Inclusive Resort
Photo courtesy of Namale Resort

-  Namale Offers Fans the Chance to Experience a Bachelorette Inspired, Romantic 7-Night Getaway -

You will want to watch tonight's show of The Bachelorette to see  Ashley Hebert and her remaining bachelors as they head to world-renowned resort and spa, Namale in Savusavu, Fiji, for the ninth episode of the hit reality show’s seventh season, airing Monday, July 25 at 8:00-10:01 PM (ET/PT), on the ABC Television Network.

The Bachelorette, Ashley Hebert
Photo courtesy of ABC

Namale offers Ashley and her potential suitors the ultimate in romance –private villas, walks around the grounds to nearby rushing waterfalls, private dinners and luxurious spa treatments – a formula that will make it easy for the Bachelorette and one of her finalists to fall in love.

View overlooking the infinity pool towards the ocean
Photo courtesy of Namale Resort

“Namale is one of the best hidden treasures I have ever come across. The peace and beauty is second to none,” said Chris Harrison, host of ABC’s The Bachelor, The Bachelorette and Bachelor Pad.

The beach at this tropical paradise
Photo courtesy of Namale Resort

Named the Best Hotel for Romance by TripAdvisor in its 2011 Travelers’ Choice® awards, Namale is located on the edge of the Koro Sea in Savusavu, Fiji. The multi-award winning, all inclusive resort and spa provides the idyllic backdrop for romance, unparalleled luxury and privacy. While at Namale, Ashley and her finalists will wake up in private villas tucked among towering palms and bright hibiscus and will also enjoy lavish dining, a state-of-the-art spa and romantic excursions.

Perfect for relaxing
Photo courtesy of Namale Resort

To further celebrate Ashley finding love in Fiji, Namale created a Bachelorette Inspired Romantic 7-Night Getaway Package, which includes seven nights at any bure or villa at the Namale Resort and the following amenities:

• Inter-island transportation for two (limited time offer)
• Chilled bottle of champagne and a basket of South Pacific fruits upon arrival
• Namale's signature Couples Ultimate Fusion Spa Treatment, which boasts a unique combination of modern and traditional treatments
• Horseback riding to Namale's privately owned waterfall with 3 course lunch served at the base of the falls
• Private candlelight dinner over the Koro Sea and under a bed of stars
• Lunch where the Bachelorette dined at the Walu Deck (or choose
from: Hanging Bed at beach, Veidomoni Deck, Blowhole Deck, Lasalasa, Main Bure Private Deck)
• Dolphin Day Tour to Natewa Bay
• Romantic themed turn down service on the eve of guest departure
• All inclusive-features of the resort:
• All meals (Champagne breakfasts, 3 course lunches and 5 course dinners)
• All beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) with no limitations on beers, spirits, house wines and house champagnes
• Daily replenishable mini bar
• Daily laundry services
• Nightly turndown services
• Internet room access and wi-fi connections
• Complimentary access to fitness centre and indoor entertainment centre
• Activities such as snorkeling, horseback riding, Fijian village visits and so much more

The Bachelorette Inspired Romantic 7-Night Getaway Package to Namale will be offered for 90 days after the July 25 episode airs, and travel dates are August 2011 through the end of March 2012. The inter-island transport is only offered for packages purchased before August 12^th 2011. 

The Bachelorette airs on Mondays at 8/7 Central on ABC.  For more information on The Bachelorette, visit http://abc.go.com/shows/the-bachelorette.  Tune into ABC’s The Bachelorette on Monday, July 25 at 8/7 Central to see Ashley’s romantic adventure at Namale. To learn more about Namale, please visit http://www.namalefiji.com/

About Namale

Namale is the getaway for romance, relaxation, pampering and a spiritual renewal.  Located on the edge of the Koro Sea in Savusavu, Fiji, the award-winning, five-star resort and spa has received numerous accolades, including One of the 50 Most Romantic Places on Earth by Luxury Magazine and 2010 World Travel Award as Fiji’s leading Spa Resort.  The 525 acre resort and spa boasts 19 unique villas and bures, a world-class spa that merges ancient wisdoms with the knowledge of modern medical sciences and research to create and a generous variety of activities. 

About The Bachelorette

In the hit primetime romance reality series The Bachelorette, one lucky woman gets the opportunity to find the man of her dreams — and hopefully her groom-to-be — in this two-hour reality series. This single, very eligible bachelorette — a confident, successful and sensitive woman who is ready to find love — will embark on a romantic journey as she meets 25 handsome and intelligent men. As the Bachelorette gets to know each one, she'll continue to narrow the field. They will travel to exotic locations and spend time getting to know each other; she will introduce them to her family and friends and meet some of theirs. At the end of her romantic voyage, if she has found Mr. Right, will there be a proposal — and from whom? Hosted by Chris Harrison, The Bachelorette is produced by Next Entertainment in association with Warner Horizon Television.

 Article supplied by Namale Resort in Fiji

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Just Plain Relaxation in the South Pacific

All of us have different reasons to travel. Some people prefer the excitement of travelling to new places to explore the unknown or to immerse themselves in the culture. Others want the adventure and can’t wait to try out white water rafting, hiking the Annapurna Circuit, or going bungee jumping. I am the kind of person who prefers to relax on a beautiful tropical beach without a lot of activities planned. If your motivation is to seek relaxation and to get away from the hectic pace of everyday life, some of the islands of the South Pacific are perfect to serve your desires, preferences, and personality.

Below are five of my favourite destinations in the South Pacific that are perfect for just plain relaxing:

Australia’s Islands of the Great Barrier Reef: Relax, unwind, and discover yourself and a natural beauty beyond compare on the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef. Experience glorious weather, azure waters, brilliant beaches, awe-inspiring coral reefs, and fascinating flora and fauna. Time spent on a Great Barrier Reef Island is time out in one of the most beautiful places on Earth. From the world of privacy and luxury of five-star resorts to the back-to-nature simplicity of tented accommodations in sublime natural settings, the reef’s islands offer a retreat from the demands of everyday life.

 Hayman Island - Photo courtesy of Hayman Island  

Bora Bora: Home to one of the Pacific’s most desirable destinations and claimed to be “one of the most beautiful islands in the world,” Bora Bora is truly an experience worth having. With your first sight of the barrier reef that encloses a lagoon resembling an artist’s pallet of blues and greens, the pristine white beaches, and the two magnificent peaks, Pahia and Otemanu, you will fall in love with this captivating island. Life here is casual and relaxed. You will find this a place of dramatic beauty, warm waters, and a gentle climate. From the extraordinary scenery to the privacy and amenities of the overwater bungalows, Bora Bora is unquestionably the most romantic of the Pacific Islands.

Photo courtesy of Viajes Mundoparaiso

The Cook Islands: The Cook Islands are the perfect choice for singles, couples, and families who are looking for a laid-back, safe, and unhurried vacation where the local islanders will welcome you with their warmth and hospitality. Comprised of 15 lovely islands in the South Pacific, these stunning islands are wonderful places to unwind with palm-fringed, white sandy beaches, spectacular turquoise lagoons, clear water, and a relaxed pace of life. Your biggest decision of the day will be whether you want to relax by the beach and soak up the sun’s rays, go on a lagoon cruise to explore the numerous small islets and enjoy the marine on the way, or swim, snorkel, or scuba dive and get close to the wildlife in the spectacular lagoons. A visit to the Cook Islands is not complete without experiencing the stunning island of Aitutaki, with the world’s most beautiful lagoon.

One Foot Lagoon – Aitutaki - Photo courtesy of Paolo Motta

Fiji: Beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts will love Fiji. From a tranquil afternoon on the beach to snorkelling in fabulous coral gardens and azure lagoons, or a romantic candlelit dinner on the beach to a leisurely stroll along the pristine white sand beaches, Fiji epitomizes an idyllic tropical island. The genuine friendliness and hospitality of the people is legendary and their infectious smiles and the gentle pace of life are irresistibly seductive. To take your mind and body to a deeper state of relaxation, enjoy a soothing massage in a spectacular setting open to the sea breezes and the sounds of the waves.

Photo courtesy of David Grant

Tahiti: The islands of Tahiti, officially known as French Polynesia, are a gorgeous selection of volcanic islands and atolls strewn across 4 million square kilometres (1.5 million square miles) of the grand South Pacific Ocean. For hundreds of years, explorers, travelers, and lovers have been consumed with a passionate desire to seek and experience the magical beauty of Tahiti and her islands. Do you consider relaxation to be sipping a cool drink on a secluded beach as you stroll for seashells on white sand beaches overlooking breathtaking turquoise lagoons? If so, Tahiti and her islands are your haven.

Whether you dream of a romantic hideaway far from the stress of everyday life where you can blissfully relax in the arms of your loved one as you gaze at the blue horizon or whether you dream of discovering an ancient culture entrenched in South Pacific legends, Tahiti can help fulfill your own personal dream of discovering Paradise.

                                         Black Sand Beach in Tahiti - Photo courtesy of Tahiti Tourism

Follow us on Twitter for more updates on the South Pacific.

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

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Where to Go for Your Romantic Vacation in July

Photo courtesy of Governors Camp

Whether you go for a romantic getaway, an experience of a lifetime filled with adventure, or an escape to a beautiful tropical paradise, here are some ideas where you can go for your summer holiday in July. 

Looking for your “dream of the South Pacific” tucked away in the back of your mind, then head to Fiji. Here you will find  romantic couple- only hideaways in a tropical splendour of coral rich turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, blue lagoons, and palm fringed resorts. A warm tropical climate exist throughout the year and the weather  is mild and dry from May throughout October. The Fijian people are known for their  genuine friendliness and hospitality and their welcoming “Bula”. You will find the relaxing  pace of life on the islands  irresistibly seductive .Head to Castaway Island located on a private island, and stay in secluded traditionally thatched Fijian-style bures steps away from the island’s pristine white sand beach. For an over water experience, Likulliku Lagoon Resort is the place for you. This beautiful new resort features Fiji’s first over-water bures, beachfront and deluxe beachfront bures in a relaxed luxury atmosphere. Another choice is Qamea Resort and Spa which has been designated in the “Top Ten Luxury Resort in the World” by the Robb Repost. This resort is the premier  romance and soft adventure resort in Fiji’s Northern Islands. Don’t forget that diving and snorkelling  are world renowned in this area.

Photo courtesy of Castaway Island

If you are looking for a tropical destination close to the mainland with comfortable summer temperatures, why not consider Hawaii. We can’t get enough of breath-taking scenery and beautiful beaches located on the different islands of Hawaii. Consider your own personalized tour of two or three islands, staying at some of the beautiful luxury hotels such as Grand Hyatt Kauai, Marriott Kauai, Fairmont Kea Lani, or the Grand Wailea, situated on spectacular beachfront properties. We love Kauai, the Garden Isle, with its beautiful lush greenery, palm trees, warm, blue waters, breath-taking scenery, and the relaxed “get away from it all” pace. The island of Maui has the most sunny days of any of the Hawaiian Islands. Luxury resorts perfect for romantic getaways abound with some of the most heavenly beaches in the world. In addition, there are plenty of activities for the couple with an adventurous spirit. A trip to the top of Haleakala Crater often referred to as the “largest extinct volcanic crater in the world” is a must for its majestic, peaceful view.

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae

For the serenity and solitude of nature amidst tranquil landscapes, consider a cruise to Alaska. Alaska contains stunning glaciers, breathtaking scenery and plenty of marine life. It is one of those magical places which everyone should see in their lifetime. Add a land tour to such places as Denali National Park, Alaska’s most popular land attraction, Dawson City, an authentic gold rush town on the Yukon River,  Fairbanks, Alaska’s second-largest city, or Coldfoot and Prudhoe Bay where you can dip your toe in the frigid waters of the Arctic Ocean. Choose from a variety of different itineraries of either 7 or 14 days. Enjoy an array of lodge-based itineraries for a wilderness experience that you may not  otherwise encounter.

Photo courtesy of Cruiseshiptours.net

If you dream of an experience of a lifetime where you can get close to nature on an African safari, then travel to Kenya to the Governors Camp where William proposed to Kate. Located in on the banks of the Mara River in the Masai Mara National Wildlife Reserve in the heart of one of the best wildlife viewing areas. Accommodation is in huge  luxury tent complete with an en-suite bathroom.

Photo courtesy of Governors Camp

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations  for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca   or phone 403-477-0643

A Tropical Hideaway in Fiji - Likuliku Lagoon Resort

Once upon a time across the bluest of oceans, an island was born of lava and sand - an untouched paradise whose heart was a turquoise lagoon of unimaginable beauty and tranquility. The first visitors came and explored. To honour the magic of the place, they named it "Likuliku", meaning "calm waters".

                       Over-Water Bures – aerial view

Likuliku Lagoon Resort is a luxury “couples only” resort and is the first and only resort in Fiji to feature over-water bures. Located in the Mamanuca archipelago, Likuliku is 25 km or 16 miles from the Nadi International Airport.

                               Welcome to Likuliku
                                                                       

This resort has received many awards, including Top 10 Best Luxury Hotels in the South Pacific Traveller’s Choice Award  2011 and  Top 10 Luxe List of “Destination Weddings + Honeymoons” Magazine.

                                 Sunset Pool and Lagoon Views

Part of the romance of the resort is its idyllic setting on the beautiful bay of Malolo Island with its fine white sand and shallow lagoon.

                            View from top of Malolo Island

This resort is like an ancient village with 10 of the 45 bures being built over the beautiful turquoise waters of the lagoon.

                 Exterior View of Over-Water Bures

                         Over-water Bure Interior
The remainder of the bures are either beachfront or garden bures all spaced out behind the long beach shoreline. Each building features traditional architecture and materials using natural elements which are found in the area. Elegant and stylish pieces, detailed wood, ”magi magi” designs and rich fabrics all add to the atmosphere.

                            Traditional Magi Magi

Each bure allows you to laze on your private deck and enjoy the spectacular views of the lagoon. 

                                  Lagoon sunset

This resort is noted for its amazing helpful staff with their friendly “BULA!” and the fantastic food.

                              Fresh local seafood

What a perfect place to get away from it all, whether you are getting married, or go on your 

honeymoon,  anniversary or you just want a wonderful romantic getaway!

                                    Beach Wedding

All photos courtesy of Likuliku Lagoon Resort 

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643

Fiji Islands – an Enchanting Tourist Destination

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Located in the South Pacific about 3000 kilometers east of Australia, Fiji is the essence of a tropical island paradise and an excellent destination for tourists. Composed of more than 300 islands and about 500 islets, some habited and some not, Fiji is perfect for the visitor looking for deserted white sandy islands, magnificent beaches, rugged highlands, cool warm waters, astounding marine life, magnificent coral reefs, and lush rain forests. 

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Whether you are celebrating your honeymoon, a romantic getaway, your anniversary, or just  some sports activities such as sailing, snorkelling or scuba diving, Fiji should be number one on your list and here’s why:

Relax on island time: As soon as you arrive in Fiji, you will feel the slowed down pace. Whether you are walking along a deserted beach, or swimming in the ocean , the coast of the Fijian islands is the perfect place to unwind. You can feel your worries drift away as you breath your first whiff of salt air or feel the tropical breeze blow through your hair.  

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me-

Romantic bures: Fiji is known for its bures, traditional thatched-roofed wood bungalows set along the beach or tucked in the lush green foliage. These buildings usually contain one or two rooms with louvered windows which let the breeze in and exotic amenities such as plunge pools, outdoor showers, and beds draped with nets. They can range from being very basic to luxurious with nightly rates ranging from $250 to $5000.

Photo courtesy of qamea-fiji-resort-spa.com

Go Island Hopping: Comprised of so many beautiful islands, Fiji offers visitors the opportunity to visit and explore new destinations each day. There are two main islands: Viti Levu, the largest island and home to the Nadi International Airport, and Vanua Levu, the second largest which  has many resorts catering to dives as it is flanked by one of the world’s longest barrier reefs. Tavenui, the third largest island, is covered with tropical rainforests and Kaduvu, the fourth in size, is ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and eco-adventure. After you take a short ferry ride or a plane ride to your next island of choice, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on your own uninhabited island.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Warm and welcoming Fijian people: One of the main reasons to visit Fiji is to experience  the warm hospitality of the Fijian people. Fijians are well known for being happy, friendly and hospitable people who will do everything they can to make visitors fell relaxed and welcome to their islands. There are plenty of things to do and see in Fiji and its inhabitants are more than willing to make sure your vacation is one you will remember.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Amazing snorkelling and diving: Fiji has crystal-clear waters and protected coral reefs which hosts an endless adventure for curious divers and snorkelers.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

With 1000 species of fish and several hundred types of coral and sponges, and an endless array of anemones, molluscs, crustaceans, and other invertebrates, snorkelling and diving a major draw. Almost every resort has an onsite dive operator so all visitors can explore the depths underwater, no matter the experience level.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Relax…in the Fiji Islands Video by dhuting

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations  for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca   or phone 403-477-0643