This region has had a special allure for centuries and still does to this day.  In addition to extreme natural beauty, you will find vibrant local culture that incorporates myths and  folklore into song, dance and everyday life.  If an exotic island setting defines your ideal honeymoon, then there's surely a South Pacific experience that's made for you.

Which South Pacific destination is right for you?

The Cook Islands
Reasons to choose the Cooks: If you are beach bums at heart. A terrific place for quiet relaxation.  Ultra friendly locals.  Conducive to independent travel.

Reasons to choose someplace else over the Cooks: If you are busy bodies and/or prefer lots of organized activities. If you want access to a broad range of shopping, entertainment and nightlife options.

Fiji
Reasons to choose Fiji: Pristine waters, small private-island resorts, unbelievably friendly people and excellent service. The ability to truly escape from civilization for awhile.

Reasons to choose someplace else over Fiji: If you enjoy lots of nightlife, want a variety of shopping options, or don’t want to fly 10 hours from Los Angeles.

New Caledonia
Reasons to choose New Caledonia: A mix of cosmopolitan euro-chic with traditional Melanese culture.  Access to trendy boutiques, cafes and nightspots along with tropical beaches and water activities.

Reasons to choose someplace else over New Caledonia: If you want the ultimate in luxurious accommodations and prefer constant pampering. If you want total seclusion and a deserted island feel.

MoonRings Signature Itineraries:

Visions of Sand and Surf in the Cook Islands: 14 days / 12 nights	Cosmopolitan Relaxation in New Caledonia 14 days / 12 nights
Privacy and Romance in Fiji 13 days / 10 nights	Looking for French Polynesia itineraries? Click here

Best suited for:
Couples desiring an exotic tropical island experience.  Connoisseurs of powdery white sand, turquoise waters and the fine art of relaxation.  Those with an interest in unique accommodations.

When to go:
In general, the South Pacific can be visited year round.  However, from a weather perspective, certain times of the year tend to be more appealing.  The Cook Islands and Fiji are particularly pleasant from June through October.  Both locations are quite dry with high temps in the mid 70sF (25C) in the Cooks and slightly warmer in Fiji (84F / 28C).  New Caledonia is best visited from April to June and September to November, the latter period being somewhat drier. Expect high temps in the mid to upper 70sF (23-26C)

Accommodations:
The South Pacific is well known for its boutique resorts, usually composed of romantic, stand alone bungalows. In fact, the traditional thatched roof bungalow is one of the primary draws of the region.  It is possible, however, to find a variety of lodging types, ranging from large golf resorts to 4-villa private islands.

Dining:
Food options will vary by destination, and in some cases, from resort to resort (especially when the resort is the only place to eat on a private island).  As you might expect, fresh seafood is prevalent and delicious just about everywhere. Preparations vary widely. In the Cook Islands, try Ika mata, a tasty dish of fish marinated in coconut milk and lime juice. Both Fiji and the Cook islands offer lively feasts (similar to a Hawaiian luau).  The cuisine in New Caledonia has a stronger French influence and is also more international.  A local favorite is bougna, meat and root slow-cooked in a banana leaf. Sample small mangrove oysters (a delicacy) if available.

Special Activities:
Great diving and snorkeling.  4WD mountain safaris. Cultural sites. Lagoon excursions via a traditional outrigger canoe.