Anita Mitchell – Page 15 – Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

The Family Resort in Fiji Where New Friendships are on the Menu

Posted on August 2, 2019 by Anita Mitchell

When you have been to Fiji you leave with a leading memory: ‘The Fijian people’. Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, a Family Luxury Resort, is located in what Fijian people call “The Friendly North”, famed for the openness and warmth of its residents.

When there is such natural beauty in Fiji, warm weather, world class coral reefs, marine life and lush landscapes, why is it guests comments are about the friendly Fijians? Comments like, “The staff at the resort made for an exceptional experience and we can’t wait to go back.” and “I saw people actually cry when they left this place, it is so wonderful.”?

We’d like to introduce some of our heartwarming staff, who are so easy to connect with.

Johnny Singh is a resident Marine Biologist and Naturalist. Say what now? Yes, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji is the only resort to employ full-time marine biologists to help visitors appreciate Fiji’s best diving and snorkeling and to understand the Cousteau philosophy. Johnny is from Fiji, studied here and also in Australia, where he earned his master’s degree from James Cook University.

Johnny is passionate about the environment, conservation, sustainability, and educating guests of all ages about the environment. At Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, he plays four key roles:

Guest Education Informing guests about Fiji’s natural heritage, snorkeling (both day and night trips – can you spell bioluminescence?), evening presentations, all to guide guests of all ages in how to help protect the environment through action and advocacy in our daily lives.

As Environmental Coordinator. Johnny’s resort projects include integrated landscaping, creating renewable energy sources, organic gardening, recycling grey water for wetlands, composting, and more. He also ensures the resort uses eco sensitive products.

Research With the belief that we must understand something before we are able to protect it, Johnny conducts reef checks at dive sites in order to assess the health of the reefs. Guests and other volunteers are always welcome to join Johnny on these reef checks.

Local Outreach Johnny takes his educational tour on the road and visits local schools, giving presentations, sharing knowledge, and helping future generations of Fijians so that they are aware of the importance of preserving their local environment.

Not only is Johnny a delight to be around, he’s responsible for restoring mangroves in the area, repopulating nearby reefs with giant clams, and measuring the benefits of marine protected areas.

If you think this work sounds all very hip and new, Johnny Singh has been doing this work at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort Fiji for fourteen years! When asked what project was his favourite, Johnny said, “I love all of it.”

As an example of how close guest connections run with those who work at the resort, Johnny’s daughter connects with a young past guest every Sunday to chat over Messenger. The family has been back to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort five times and when away, one of their children communicate weekly with a friend made in Fiji.

Veiwili began his career at the resort as a trainee in our Food and Beverage area (restaurant). He has become one of the superstars on the floor (that’s serving floor, not dance floor -although he probably lights up a dance floor too!).

We’re so glad and grateful to have him in the team. Veiwili grew up in a fairly remote and isolated part of the island we are located on. Something about where he originates from contributed to this special person you are sure to gravitate to.

If you’ve been to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort before, there is a good chance you remember Talei and her wonderful and welcoming smile. Talei has been at the Fiji Family Luxury Resort for nearly two decades. After running our world renowned Bula Club (Fiji’s best educational, interactive and fun Kids Club) for fourteen years, Talei is now in charge of running our restaurant (more about our fine dining experience and organic menu).

Talei would love to meet you and share in your experience. Learn how to receive a complimentary night’s accommodation

#FijiFamilyResort #FijiMarineBiologist #FijiDiving #FijiSnorkeling #FijiResort

Is it time for a remote work escape in Fiji?

Posted on June 26, 2019 by Anita Mitchell

It's no secret that we'd all like to indulge ourselves with an island escape every now and then, however, work and life often gets in the way. Luckily, some employees have the ability to take their work on the road with them. Thanks to the internet, many tasks can be carried out anywhere in the world – even on the sun-kissed, relaxing beaches of the tropics. Is it time for a remote work escape in Fiji?

What is remote working?

The term "remote work" is used to describe work that is carried out outside the confines of an office. In it's first iterations, this meant working from home, or perhaps a local cafe. Now, remote working transcends time zones, with certain professions allowing employees to work by the seaside, on snowy mountains or on the other side of the world, provided there's a strong internet connection.

This flexible work arrangement is increasing in popularity. An International Workplace Group study showed that almost half of Australian workers work remotely for half a week. The same study reflected the allure of remote work, with 69 per cent of millennial opting to trade other work benefits in favour of flexibility.

What are the benefits of a remote work escape?

An escape to a tropical destination like Fiji brings many benefits to the stressful work life of a busy employee.

Regulating sleep

The reality for many employees is that they find themselves working beyond office hours, sometimes into the night to get tasks done. A remote working excursion to Fiji provides you with the perfect excuse to reset and regulate your working clock.

If you start work at sunrise, around 6.30 a.m. local time, you'll still get to enjoy the warmth of the Fijian air, finishing early for a relaxing afternoon. Furthermore, working hard during the day gives you plenty of time to enjoy what Fiji has to offer in the evenings.

Quality time

Even if you're busy typing away during the week, a remote working holiday allows you to spend quality time with your family in an incredibly dynamic environment. After getting your tasks done, consider going on a snorkeling excursion with the kids, or sit down for a cosy family dinner – with remote work, your time is yours to allocate.

What are you waiting for? If you're ready to book your escape to the Jean Cousteau-Michel Resort, get in touch with our friendly team.

How a digital detox can improve your health

Posted on May 31, 2019 by Anita Mitchell

It's no secret that we live most of our days online. From social media to our reliance on technology for work, we often forget to switch off our devices and give ourselves a digital break. Here, we discuss why it's time to unplug and take a digital detox break to sunny Fiji, and the surprising health benefits you may experience after putting down the screen.

What is a digital detox?

While smartphone use is an often inescapable part of modern daily life, there are huge benefits in taking a few days out to switch off and focus on the present reality in front of you, rather than the online world – this is known as a digital detox. The average smartphone user taps their phone over 2,600 times per day, according to dscout research. For many people, this can be attributed to work demands, such as checking email. However, for serious phone fanatics their frequent use could be down to Social Media Anxiety Disorder. This is characterised by feeling anxious or stressed when unable to access the internet, and results in a negative impact on in-person social interactions.

Improved sleep

Many of us are guilty of checking our social media at late hours. Not only does the bright white light of a phone screen jolt you awake and strain your eyes, but the electromagnetic radiation transmitted by electronic devices can interrupt precious sleeping time. By avoiding phone use as bed time approaches, you allow your body to switch off. In fact, a darker environment promotes the sleep hormone melatonin. At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, there are plenty of evening activities to encourage you to put down the phone and enjoy the moments in front of you. However, we wouldn't blame you if you wanted to head to sleep early -with days spent swimming and snorkeling, you'll be ready for a good night's sleep by sunset.

Create healthy relationships

With much of our social lives taking place in cyberspace, it's unsurprising that this may impact the way we interact in person with those we love. While on your detox vacation to the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, make an effort to be present with your family. Ban mobile phone use during family activities and meal times to keep that screen time down. With a range of family-friendly activities, there's no excuse for you – and the kids – to spend the day online when there's so much to explore.

Promote physical activity

A major headache for office workers is managing the health impacts of a sedentary lifestyle. According to the Australian Government Department of Health, physical inactivity is the fourth leading cause of death due to non-communicable disease globally. This lack of movement often comes with major smartphone use, as you're spending time sitting and swiping, rather than getting out and about in reality. With a range of excursions and activities to pass the time, there's plenty of active adventures to enjoy at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.

Ready for a digital detox? Get in touch with the team at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort to start planning your dream escape.

The story behind the Fijian pearls gifted to Meghan Markle

Posted on December 11, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

On their whirlwind royal tour of Australasia, newly-weds Harry and Meghan spent some time enjoying everything Fiji has to offer. As well as market visits and kava ceremonies, the royal couple also met with First Lady Sarote Konrote, where Meghan was gifted a stunning pearl necklace.

Discover the story behind this symbolic gesture and how you can get your hands on your own Fijian pearl necklace.

The story behind Meghan Markle's pearl necklace

While attending a meeting at Borron House, the Duchess of Sussex was gifted an exquisite 18-inch pearl necklace by the First Lady. The necklace featured 37 high-grade naturally multi-coloured pearls sourced from renowned pearl farm, J.Hunter Pearls. Colours ranged from shimmering greens to magnificent bronzes, brilliant blues to gun-metal greys.

The pearls from the Savusavu region are a product of the Pinctada Margaritifera-Typica oyster – a subspecies of the black-lipped Tahitian oyster. Their pearls are one of the world's rarest and their multi-coloured tones are highly sought after by pearl connoisseurs from all corners of the globe.

Speaking to the Fiji Sun, Ms Hunter explained that the necklace was the perfect embodiment of the Fijian Government's role in the 2017 United Nations Climate Change Conference aka COP 23.

"Fiji's role in COP 23 is to take care of our ocean," she said.

J. Hunter Pearl Farm practises a sustainable farming operation, which is one of the key signatures of the COP 23 initiative.

Discover where Meghan Markle's pearl necklace came from.

Receive your very own Fijian pearl necklace

At the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we pride ourselves on our unique attractions and excursions. Of those on offer, lucky guests can join a trip to J.Hunter Pearl Farm. The tour offers insight into the history of pearl farming in Fiji, as well as a guided boat trip around the farm itself. Here, guests can view oysters at different stages of growth as they suspend on 200 metre-long lines that run three to five metres below the ocean's surface.

There's even the option to dive down to view the oysters up close if weather permits, so bring a snorkel just in case!

Afterwards, stroll round the showroom and purchase individual pearls or exquisite pieces of jewellery, just like Meghan's.

When staying at our eco-friendly luxury resort, guests can experience a true Fijian experience. If you'd like to find out how we can make your Fijian holiday one to remember, get in touch with the team today.

Snorkeling versus diving – which one’s right for you?

Posted on November 16, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

As Fiji is known as the soft coral capital of the world, it's hardly surprising so many of our guests take to the waters to explore the underwater paradise below the waves.

Here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we offer opportunities for both snorkeling and diving, so you can make the most of these stunning surroundings.

But which one is right for you and your abilities?

Dipping your toes in scuba diving

Scuba diving refers to underwater swimming using a self-contained breathing apparatus known as a scuba. Each diver carries their own tank of gas which allows them to stay underwater for longer periods without needing to come up for air.

A wetsuit and flippers are worn to give greater freedom of movement, while goggles and scuba equipment allow the diver to remain comfortable whilst swimming.

Whether you're a novice or an expert, we offer an incredible dive programme for all guests wanting to experience scuba diving in Fiji. All dives are conducted at the Namena Reserve – a site considered one of the top 10 diving spots in the world! The reserve is home to 400 known corals, 1,000 species of invertebrates and 1,000 fish species! Here, divers can enjoy walls and pinnacle dives.

We offer certification courses for beginners through all levels, with a minimum age of 10 years required to join in.

Experience world-class diving at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.

Superb snorkeling in Fiji

Snorkeling is an activity that involves swimming with a breathing tube (snorkel) and a diving mask. It allows people to swim along the surface of the water while looking at the colourful coral and marine life below. Unlike diving, a person cannot fully submerge their head underwater.

A person will wear flippers to help with movement through the water, however, a wetsuit isn't required, unless snorkeling in colder waters.

At our five star resort, guests don't need to undertake a course to get involved. Instead, with snorkel and flippers strapped on, people of all skill levels can snorkel in the shallows that surround the resort and enjoy the beauty below!

If both scuba diving and snorkeling sound like something you'd like to get involved with, there's no need to choose just one. Why not experience both? Our team of dive experts and in-house marine biologist can work with you to ensure you stay safe and happy whilst partaking in both activities.

Get in touch today to find out more about our scuba diving and snorkeling opportunities.

3 tips for proposing on your Fiji holiday

Posted on November 12, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

Nothing beats embarking on a romantic holiday with your soul mate – unless you have plans to propose that is!

Amongst butterflies and jitters, it can be hard working out the PPPOA (perfect proposal plan of action!)

That's where we come in. Discover the top tips and tricks to ensure your holiday proposal is just as perfect as your loved one.

1. Relax, relax, relax

Proposing is a daunting task and nerves are understandably bound to rear their head – no matter where you are. However, acting on these feelings is a surefire way to make your other half ask questions about your behaviour. The last thing you want is to accidentally spill the beans when your stories don't add up!

Thankfully, Fiji operates on island time – something we practise wholeheartedly here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. So, whether you're relaxing by our adult-only pool or sinking into a South Pacific massage at our onsite spa bure, you'll have no trouble calming those pre-proposal nerves. With calm breaths and confidence, take your time finding that magical moment to propose.

A romantic and relaxing couple massage is the perfect way to calm pre-proposal jitters!

2. Think about the rest of the holiday

Instead of building on your nerves throughout your holiday, think about popping the question sooner rather than later. This tactic will eliminate pre-proposal jitters and instead allow you to enjoy your trip of a lifetime to the fullest. As you revel in the romance, be sure to take advantage of the resort's incredible array of activities and excursions.

From deep-sea diving to waterfall hikes, cultural ceremonies to private island getaways, there's something exciting or relaxing to suit everyone's preferences.

3. Ask your hotel for help

Here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we love making our guests dreams come true. Before arriving for your stay, let us know of your proposal plans. This way, we can work with you to put special touches in place. Whether it involves reserving a dinner table on our pier at night or finding the perfect private spot – we can help.

Whether its our honeymoon suite or secluded dining spot, romance is always top of our agenda. If you're thinking of proposing on your Fiji holiday, get in touch with the team today to see how we can make your trip one you'll never forget.

Different ways to volunteer on your holiday to the Fiji Resort

Posted on October 31, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

Protecting and preserving our stunning surroundings is high on our agenda here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. However, it's not just our resident marine biologist and team members that make this possible. We're proud to give all guests the chance to help out too through our various volunteer experiences.

Here's how you can get involved and make a change for today and years to come.

Get stuck into our giant clam repopulation project

Where they were once in abundance, Fiji's giant clam population is slowly depleting as a result of over-harvesting. These magnificent creatures play an important role in the recycling of nutrients as well as being a critical component of the resort's surrounding waters.

In an effort to rebuild diminished clam populations, Fiji Resort's resident marine biologist, Johnny Singh, has established the 'giant clam repopulation project'. With his hard work, Johnny has been raising a series of juvenile giant clam brood stocks as part of an effort to repopulate four species in local waters around the resort. Under his guidance, volunteers will learn about the daily workings of a sustainable pearl farm at J. Hunter Pearls. This is a great way to learn about the intricate process behind cultivating and protecting pearls at one of Fiji's most renowned hatcheries and research centres.

Protect Fiji with our volunteer programs.

Help restore our mangrove population

Mangroves are a core component of the ecosystems that surround the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort and beyond. Their extensive root systems help with water filtration, while playing host to a diverse range of wildlife. They also prevent coastal erosion from storms, as well as removing carbon from the atmosphere.

Unfortunately, Fiji's mangrove population is rapidly shrinking. In order to replenish numbers, we've created our own mangrove restoration program. With your help, we aim to continue planting young and healthy mangroves along the coast to meet our goal of 10,000 freshly planted mangroves by November 2018.

Immerse yourself in the community spirit at Fijian schools

Another great way to give back to the local community involves our reading program. Here, guests can make the short trip to Buca Primary School and read to the local children. Each volunteer will bring a grade-appropriate, English language book which they will read to the class, then leaving it behind as a donation to help bolster the school's growing library. This experience gives a glimpse into Fijian education as well as allowing guests to interact with the friendly children and help them learn and practise English.

Here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we're incredibly passionate about giving back in everything we do. If you'd like to find out how you can help preserve and protect our beautiful lands, get in touch with the team today.

Celebrate Fiji Day in style at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort!

Posted on September 21, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

October 10 is one of the most important dates on the calendar year and a day that has great significance for Fijians all over the world. This is more commonly known as Fiji Day.

Find out why this day is so important and what you can expect to do on your stay at our five star Fiji resort.

What is Fiji Day?

Fiji Day commemorates two very important dates in Fijian history. The first signifies the events that occurred on October 10, 1874. On this day, Fiji's nominal king and warlord, Ratu Seru Epenisa Cakobau and fellow Fijian chiefs ceded to Great Britain, and the British took control of the islands as the Colony of Fiji. This life-changing decision was influenced by Cakobau's desire to increase trade within the Commonwealth islands as well as promoting civilisation and Christianity.

However, nearly 100 years later in 1970, a constitutional conference was held in London. In this meeting, attendees agreed that Fiji should become a fully-fledged sovereign and independent nation, under the Commonwealth of Nations. Later that year on October 10, Fiji's colonial status was removed, and the country became an official democratic state.

While the original signing over of rights may seem strange to celebrate, the event was significant in the fact that it protracted the process that culminated in Fiji's official independence.

Find out how you can celebrate Fiji Day at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.

How do people celebrate Fiji day?

As well as the day itself, locals also celebrate Fiji Week. During this time, people immerse themselves in various religious and cultural event that celebrate Fiji's great diversity and fascinating story. Each year, a different theme is chosen by organisers that ties in with Fijian traditions and independence day itself.

Visiting at this time of year is a great way to immerse yourself in Fijian culture and celebrate alongside locals and staff of our five star Fiji resort. Here, expect plenty of dancing, presentations and partaking in the various cultural activities we have to offer. Join in on a visit to the local Nukubulavu village and meet some of the local residents, as well as the village chief himself. Back at the resort, experience a traditional Fijan lovo feast – an underground cooking sensation that the whole resort can get involved with.

Here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort, we're proud of our heritage, and we love sharing it with everyone who chooses who to stay with us. Find out how we can make your Fijian holiday one to remember by getting in touch today.

Uncover the legends of Fiji

Posted on September 18, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

We love sharing tales of ancient tradition with guests at our story-telling nights here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. But where did the inspiration for such fables come from?

Degei – the creator of Fijian life

Where better place to start than with the supreme snake god of Fiji himself – Degei. In the beginning Degei lived alone with his companion Turukawa the hawk. One day, Turukawa went missing and Degei went in search of her. After finding Turukawa, Degei was disappointed to find that the hawk had spurned him after finding a mate. The next day Degei returned to the spot and was shocked to see Turukawa's abandoned nest – inside were two eggs.

Degei rescued the eggs and nurtured them at his own home. After several weeks, the eggs hatched and revealed two tiny human bodies. Over time, Degei raised the humans and taught them how to fend for one another using crops he provided. One of these crops is believed to be kava (yuqona).

Years passed and the humans learnt to bring new life into the world. Degei then led his people through the oceans to Vuda – the first Fijian settlement. However the God didn't stay, and instead continued his travels further north to the Nakavadra mountain range where he chose to reside. To this day, the snake god is often offered the first bowl of yaqona (kava) as a sign of respect and thanks.

Discover the legends of Fiji at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.

Shark god and protector of the oceans

Protecting the ocean is one of our biggest passions here at the Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. Thankfully, we're not the only ones who want to see this underwater paradise flourish. According to Fijian legend, there's another protector of the reefs and ocean life, and he goes by the name Dakuwaqa.

Dakuwaqa, the shark god, not only looks after the ocean and all in it. Legend states that he also protects fisherman from the dangers at sea. It's believed that he has the ability to morph into anything, however his true form is that of a half human, half shark. His presence is still celebrated today, with fisherman known to pour a glass of kava into the ocean before venturing out on trips.

Want to learn more about the fascinating tales of the islands? At our story-telling evenings, guests of all ages can enjoy hearing about Fijian culture and legend. Get in touch with the team today to find out how we can make your holiday to Fiji one to remember.

What is traditional Fijian massage?

Posted on September 6, 2018 by Anita Mitchell

No one knows how to relax and unwind better than Fijian locals – they seem perpetually at ease. However, the island nation also has a rich history which has blessed locals with colourful traditions and rituals.

Traditional Fijian massage effortlessly combines the Fijian knack for relaxation and this culture to create something truly special and unique.

A post shared by Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort (@jmcfijiresort) on

Sep 6, 2017 at 12:07am PDT

What are the origins of traditional Fijian massage?

There are over 100 inhabited islands in Fiji spread out over 194,000sq kilometres throughout the Pacific Ocean. In the past many of these islands did not have access to western medicine, instead using their own traditional healing techniques passed down generation after generation.

Traditional Fijian massage is one such technique. In the past, and even today, work on Fiji's remote islands is hard and physical – watch a local climb a coconut tree and you'll agree! If the muscles ache after a hard day working locals head to their village's masseuse to ease their pain.

While the technique itself is often different from island to island, the end result is the same – complete and utter relaxation.

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Jul 19, 2017 at 7:17pm PDT

What are the benefits of Fijian massage?

Some Fijian massage involves deep tissue massage using the edges of the feet, a technique that's more effective at loosening muscles than most that use hands and elbows.

Others use locally sourced, natural ingredients such as nut and coconut oil, along with long rhythmic strokes of the hands. Fragrant tropical aromas and deep tissue massage creates a feeling of bliss that has to be felt to be believed. However, a true modern Fijian spa experience combines the best of all of the island nation's techniques to provide a massage unlike any other. The end goal is to ease tension, loosen muscles, detoxify the body and enable relaxation.

To find out more about traditional Fijian massage techniques and to experience ultimate relaxation for yourself, why not book a stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort today?