Set upon a private island of 3,200 exclusive acres in the Fijian Pacific archipelago, Laucala Island brings a new meaning to the term “all-inclusive resort.” A beyond-five-star, luxury private island resort, Laucala is set amidst coconut plantations, sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons, rich green mountains and breathtaking natural beauty, often drawing comparisons as the veritable Garden of Eden of Fiji. True luxury is appreciated in the privacy of the resort’s 25 villas as well as the freedom to experience a variety of activities with spontaneity, ranging from pro golfing to beachside horseback riding to watersports and more. The resort prides itself on an integral philosophy, incorporating elements of the entire island into each guest’s experience.
According to a survey by global online travel brand Expedia.com*, Americans perceive destination weddings as less stressful and more romantic than traditional ceremonies. With beaches preferred as the ideal location for a destination wedding, and now with an exclusive new wedding experience, Laucala Island makes for the perfect marriage destination, with a flawless balance of tranquility and romance in the heart of the Fijian archipelago.
Couples can celebrate their ever-lasting love amid the turquoise waters and white sand Fijian beaches with Laucala Island’s exclusive wedding package. Offered to six guests, the package includes an official wedding certificate and celebrant, standard flower decorations, choir and serenades, a bottle of Crystal Roederer for the welcome cocktail party and a special dinner arrangement where Executive Chef Anthony Healy will create personalized dishes for the wedding party. Couples can tailor ceremonies to create their ideal romantic setting any time during the day, whether an intimate reception on the beach at sunset, or alongside family and friends in the Fijian village chapel. The village, replicated on the island with the assistance of scholars, showcases the indigenous Pacific Islands culture and provides an impressive stage for ceremonies, dances and weddings.
To commemorate the special occasion and prolong the romance, Laucala offers a special island experience for the bride and groom with an outing to Tadra Beach, meaning “dream beach” in Fijian. A secluded private beach accessible only by boat, catamaran or Jet Ski, Tadra Beach is available for only one couple at any given time, ensuring the ultimate private experience.
The bride and groom may enjoy an intimate picnic under the shade of indigenous trees or indulge in some of Laucala’s best snorkeling off Seagrass Bay. The resort arranges a 90 minute treatment of the couple’s choice, so that they may fall into a relaxed dream with the sounds of the water lapping on the shore and tropical breezes fanning. Laucala Island also offers a complimentary sunset cruise with champagne onboard the luxury sailboat, Rere Ahi. The cruise will conclude with a barbeque dinner at the guest jetty, complimented by a warm bonfire and serenades.
The bride, groom and guests will have complete access to the amazing amenities provided on-island.
Laucala Island offers 25 private villas as well as the freedom to experience a variety of activities led by veritable pros, ranging from the Par 72 Championship golf course designed by David McLay Kidd to beachside horseback riding to scuba diving and snorkeling with Fijian experts. “We encourage the bride, groom and wedding party to take part of all that Laucala Island has to offer,” said Laucala Island General Manager Andrew Thomson. “From the spa, watersports, and cooking classes to yoga and nature walks, our resort is an ideal location for a wedding. We provide an authentic and romantic experience unlike any other resort and ensure that each and every guest never forgets the wedding.”
Once owned by the Forbes family as a private island escape, Laucala Island was purchased in 2002 by Dietrich Mateschitz, C.E.O. of Red Bull drink company, and launched in 2011 as a private island resort. Amidst dramatic rainforest-laced landscapes and coconut plantations, the private island resort creates a romantic and peaceful picture for couples and guests alike who enjoy palm-fringed beaches, jewel-colored seas, and tropical gardens with lush hillsides.
The resort is 80 percent self-sustainable and prides itself on an integral philosophy, incorporating elements of the entire island into each guest’s experience, from island-made spa products to cuisine derived from indigenous plants, fruit and aquatic life.
*Source: Expedia’s American Altar Report 2014