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Slideshow: Secret Island Hopping

Lau Archipelago: Escape Technology

One of the best things about Lau is its true seclusion. Mail boats only come one a month and technology is extremely limited. Sailing is the best way to get around and cargo boats visit anywhere from three to eight islands stopping for several hours at each port before returning to Suva. Tourists can stay in stilt homes with local villagers, in the few guesthouses in Lakeba and Vanua Balavu or at the Kaimbu Island Resort which only has three bures for three couples.

Aside from seclusion, Lau’s natural wonders include caves and coral reefs while its surf spots and diving sites attract adventurers and thrill-seekers. The Nasaqalau village is best known for its coral limestone cliffs and caves, particularly Oso Nabukete, where legend has it that any woman hiding her pregnancy will not be able to escape through the cave’s mouth. Vanua Balavu houses a trove of virtually untouched coral reefs ideal for snorkelers. Lakeba’s Qara Bulu Caves, once a prison, are now a diver’s delight.

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