Nothing could ever have prepared us for the beauty of this pristine tropical paradise surrounded by underwater coral gardens and limpid lagoons. Crashing surf was tamed by the coral reefs and the network of islands exuded a tranquillity and shimmering radiance rarely experienced beyond the picture postcard. After a picnic lunch under leaning palms on an uninhabited snow-white beach, we arrived at Mounu Resort. This is a luxury three-room hotel situated on a tiny sandy mound which can be circumnavigated in fifteen minutes. Each traditionally designed fale faces a different compass point and is completely private.
Solar panels provide electricity for hot water and lights.
The beds are adorned with frothy mosquito nets which proved to be necessary at night. The afternoon was spent snorkelling in the brilliantly hued coral and cavorting with the fish. They burn the hands and knees of the customers as they leave. The next day was a total contrast. We went to the island of Taunga where there is a village complete with a substantial church and school.