Bula Mike,

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year. Thank you for helping to put together my families' trip to Castaway Island Resort last month, our second trip you've helped put together for us. I thought I'd give you a critique of our week there, as well as give you the opportunity to make suggestions re what we might consider for the summer of 2010.

As a reminder of who we are, we are a family of 5, with 3 kids currently ages 13, 10, and 7. I've travelled fairly extensively-lived in Malaysia as a high school student for a year, speak 5 languages, my wife's family originated from the Phillipines, etc... I often like to dive on tropical vacations, but my wife does not. My 10 year old got his Jr certification while at Castaway. We are activity oriented. A lovely beach is fine and appreciated, but there have to be activities to engage in as well. My wife enjoys tennis, so usually wants to find a place with or near opportunity to hit a bit if she can.

Castaway: My wife and I booked with you at Koro Sun 3 years ago on your recommendation, just the two of us without kids. Great trip-just about perfect. Great food, beautiful people, good diving, my wife cried as we left. Not much of a beach or pool, and the intimate nature of the place accepts but isn't too populated with kids, so Castaway was a better destination for family, but set the standard for comparison of accomodation, food, and friendliness for us to date. So with that in mind, there were things that were nice about Castaway and some things that fell a bit short.

The good: Beautiful location. Beautiful beach. Nice facilities: Nice size pool in good condition, tennis court, spacious bures, beautiful dining area, boats in good condition, good dive facility, lots of families with kids to make friends with, great dive staff (good with kids too, as my 10-yr-old will testify).

The fair (I won't say bad b/c I don't think anything was "bad", just a tad off or disappointing at times): Food was good, but not great. Nothing bad, but just a notch above good buffet quality. Certainly not the level of Koro Sun from '06. The staff were nice, but with many the radiant warmth was just not there. ( My wife was not moved to tears when we were leaving.) The diving is beautiful but tame - great for my 10-year-old to learn, but similar at all sites so that 6 days of diving clear calm waters with pretty corals gets monotonous for me. No schools of barracuda, no large sharks, no rays, no swim throughs, etc... And, while relaxing, being contained on a beautiful island, nice as it is, is a bit limiting compared to the opportunities available on Vanua Levu with the waterfall trek, mountain biking, access to village, church, pearl farm, etc... Not as much "ethnic" fiji. The meke was great, but otherwise was a nice-sized family resort on a beautiful island, but would give B+, whereas Koro Sun would have received an A-, with their demerits coming from lack of a real beach and small not-really-viable pool area.

Okay, so those are our likes/dislikes and personalities of our family. So I'm starting to look ahead to summer of 2010 and I am open to recommendations. Enough for now. Thanks again, and if you've got some nice creative thoughts, feel free to think about what you'd recommend to close friends with similar backgrounds/experiences, and let me know. Happy New Year.

Sincerely,
A. Schwarz, MD
Tustin, CA

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Bula Mike,

I am an internet junkie and do 99% of my business and personal things online. However, when it comes to my S. Pacific travel, my agent beats any price I can find online. I don't know how he does it? wholesaler maybe? McCoy Travel is online and my rep is Mike Brown. He's spectacular and I'm very picky. Have him quote you something before you book...if he's higher than what you find, I'll eat my words. I would also encourage you to look at Taveuni Palms (only two homes, private staff - different than the island resort). Also look at Royal Duvai. Qamea and the rest isn't my cup of tea. Again, if you're looking for exclusive, high-end, you'll want to choose a smaller resort (if privacy and intimacy is a priority) and at least a 5 star. The bigger resorts feel more like a Hyatt to me....

A. VanGoey
Eagle, CO

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Bula Mike,

We had a very nice time! Thanks again!

All the best,
L. Zaltsman
Brooklyn, NY

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Bula Mike,

We just wanted to thank you for planning our wonderful honeymoon. It was a perfect vacation and a very smooth travel. After flying for 16 hrs it was nice to know there was someone offering a drink on the boat. While everyone was sitting outside we were comfortable in the captains lounge. Patu was the best! He was very knowledgeable about the island and he says "hi"...lol I learned so much about the Island and became very close the people who work on the island. I actually spent the day on their island (Tavoua) (probably did not spell that correctly) We spent the entire day with Captain Paul (the Chief's son) and Oni (activities director) learning about the village and speaking to the ladies who sell stuff. They loved me on that Island, only Nick and I went so naturally I bought from every single women..lol I also worked out a plan to write to them so I can start a writing program for my 3rd grade students with their children when they return on the weekends! Overall, the trip was great! Food - you were correct a little slow, but everyone is on Fiji time! I did suggest on the suggestion page a snack bar at night. Although dinner is great, I became a little hungry after games and drinks. It would be nice if they had a little snack bar people can buy stuff or they can make quick things to go and take back to the rooms. We also had a broken safe that they never fixed so we were a little nervous about our important stuff being locked up. However, in the end we completely earned the trust of everyone on that island. I left everything around my room and not a single things was moved.
For fun, we took a helicopter around the islands and went shopping. It was the perfect place to relax and get away. We brought a float for the ocean and started a tradition on the island. We passed it onto an Australian couple and they will pass it on when they leave...smiles On a great note, it only became cloudy on our last day, so we really lucked out. We look forward to booking our next trip with you, you have earned our complete trust! Thank you for making it a perfect honeymoon this island will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

All the best,
K. & N. Scrivanich
New Jersey, NY

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Mike,

It has been a pleasure working with you. Thanks again for all you have done.
I'm sure we'll talk again soon.

Take care,
R. Montellano
San Diego, CA

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Mike,

Thanks for all your assistance Mike.... you are an awesome travel agent..

Take care,
D. Patel
Reston, VA

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Dear Lori & Mike,

We had the entire place to ourselves the whole time! We were the only guests! With that the managers and staff pulled off a remarkable balance of making us feel like family, but in a ‘perfect host’ sort of way, giving us space when we wanted it, and letting us into theirs when we wanted that, too. As always in Fiji, the staff were immeasurably kind and gentle, thoughtful and thorough. Our dive master Zachariah was a hoot and eminently trustworthy underwater, especially for Oliver.

The place itself was pristine and manicured and immaculately maintained. Have you toured the Royal Bure? Our jaws dropped when we saw it from the outside. They stayed dropped after walking through the door and realizing it would be home for ten days. No accommodation we’ve stayed in Fiji is in the same galaxy, certainly not Turtle Island at seven times the cost. The house lived up to its monarchical name with all of its appointments and furnishings and bathrooms and decks. In the end we brought a friend with us for five days, and they didn’t even charge us for his room, just a nominal fee for food.

We found the food outstanding, by the way. As good as anywhere we’ve had in that country. It didn’t matter that we couldn’t order off a menu because we liked everything they brought us, and they brought it in ridiculously huge amounts. I shared a few likes and dislikes before we arrived and they remembered everything without having to be asked. Though copious and yummy the food was always healthy—okay maybe not the coconut batter-fried chicken—and fresh as fresh, like eating in the home of the most gracious country host. You know about their dishes, right? Annalise’s massive china collection on which the meals are served? It was too Out of Africa for words.

“Gracious” also describes the management and staff, in spades. Elisabeth was warm and flexible and accommodating without fault. Whatever we wanted she made happen with a great joviality. She was terribly generous about spontaneously offering to waive charges, like for our dive equipment rental and Oliver’s bubble course, which ended up turning into a full Junior certification. We wanted to help a couple of the nearby villages with their water problems, so Elisabeth boated over an American Peace Corps volunteer posted on Kadavu to manage that very thing. She put him up and fed him just so he could meet with us, and she offered to be the conduit through which the equipment is purchased. On a similar score we wanted to sponsor for scuba certification the young man they found to buddy around with Oliver (didn’t charge us for him either). Elisabeth made the arrangements, but in the end wouldn’t let us pay for it, covering it out of pocket instead. Overall the pricing at the place is unbeatable.

Can I say how wonderful it was to have a full-time RN on site in the form of Lydia? She checked me out every morning before my (shallow) dives to give approval. You may know that Annalise has her there for guests and the villagers. What a thing. The staff and locals speak of Annalise with exceptional respect and appreciation. Annalise’s contributions come with no eccentricity or expectations, and they, the contributions, seem to be endless.

Thanks, as always, for hooking us up.

Yours,
The Kohen family
Nelson, New Zealand

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Aloha Mike!

Thank you for all of your professionalism and personal touches - we are very impressed and certainly would be booking with you in the future , as well as recommending you to our friends and family :). I'm off to California (south Bay Area/Santa Cruz) tomorrow to see my family in a whirlwind of a summer for this teacher.

I meant to say more about how nice and woodsy with shells, books, tapa cloth, etc.. the Dive Kadavu lodge was (both lodges and bures were fine). Really everything was great. Most important to us was the DIVING which was out of thiis world! We hope to return soon and check some more islands. Thanks again for a great job - we will be in touch. PS - we really enjoy reading your ongoing information and updates!

Sincerely, Laurel Baldridge and Suzanne ("Delpha") Menor
L. Baldridge & S. Menor
Kapaa, HI

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Bula Mike,

Thanks for your help Mike, we had a great time! Tokoriki was great, the people were really nice and the pool was great. Arrangements with Rosie's went really well - logistically a great trip

Cheers,
K. Greengrove
Raleigh, NC

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Aloha and Bula Bula Mike!

We are still unpacking from our fabulous trip to Fiji - thank you very much for steering us to the two great dive resorts. Incredible diving - only unfortunate was the weather wasn't very good for our first week at Beqa Lagoon Resort, but with the scuba diving activity it was all fine . Loved our little oceanfront bure - as you know, the food was European influenced and fabulous - especially the desserts at Beqa (although didn't lose the weight we thought we would!).. Did the shark dive which was amazing to end the week and bought the DVD which is fun to have (well done). The staff was so nice and very professional. They are almost finished with a new massage and spa area - Sue said will be done in a couple of weeks. Overall, Beqa Lagoon Resort is a very professionally run dive resort , although the weather there might be alittle more overcast, but I think a big low pressure was hanging over the whole state that week - even the Yasawas someone said.

Dive Kadavu was more campy - we were the only ones there that week! We had the scuba boat all to ourselves , the sun came out, and they dropped us off at a beautiful long deserted beach to look for shells in between dives which was really nice (dive sights closer). Unfortunately too rough to get to the other side to see the manta rays. The managers, Mere and David, provided a homey and friendly atmosphere (although harder to understand David's accent). The villages next door did not allow for as much privacy (their path went right through and around our bure), although made a very authentic experience (we learned not to leave our shoes by the path - one pair went missing). Our only suggestion would be to upgrade the bathrooms . The diving was not as "valet" in terms of setting up your own equipment etc....was fine for us, but for some divers they may prefer. The Namalate reef there was very fun - but don't know how it would have compared to the Astrolabe reef I read about as it was too far away from this resort.

Thank you again for your excellent service in setting up our vacation , and we look forward to booking with you again in the near future. Next time we will be ready for the Somosomo straits, rainbow reef, and Taveuni now that we are intermediate divers! Maybe also a few days in Mamanucas/Yasawas.

PS - there is now just started, Mere and David said, twice daily plane service from Suva to Kadavu which would be shorter than going all the way back to Nadi.

Aloha for now and vinaka naka levu !!!!!!
D. Menor
Kapaa, HI

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Bula Mike,

I wanted to thank you so so so much for arranging our Fiji wedding/vacation/honeymoon. We had an absolutely fantastic time. It was beyond our expectations. You were right about Vomo, we absolutely LOVED it. The are the friendliest people in the world. They went above and beyond anything we could have imagined for our wedding. Having our wedding on Thursday before Lovo night was fantastic, as they made us feel as if it was wedding celebration. David got to be Chief, and of course, every guest offered him cava, so he was feeling good :) hehehe.
We are already talking about going back to Vomo, it was just absolutely fantastic. I am so glad we got married there. It was absolutely spectacular. The folks at Vomo were so excited about our wedding, we were treated like royalty the whole time. They even surprised us one night decorating our bure with candles and flowers. And we also got a surprise champagne breakfast the day we departed (they even wrote our names on top of our cappuccinos). They trully made the time we spent there unforgettable.
As promised below are pictures, so in case you need to show anybody what a Vomo wedding looks like. Yoshi did an amazing job, he is phenomenal.

Likuliku was also very nice. The facilities are fabulous and the staff very friendly (although nothing like the folks at Vomo, they are hands down the best). Food in both places was spectacular, thus I have to say I enjoyed Vomo's better as they had more seafood in the menu.
Thank you for the tip on getting some wine at the Airport, this was good call.

Panto the Rosie's driver is such a sweetheart, and speaks very highly of you and Melissa McCoy. He also told us where you go to get your beef pies that you like .. hehe.

Anyway, take a look at the pictures and I hope that it will help convince other couples for a fantastic wedding celebration at Vomo.
Thank you so much for arranging all of this for us, we had the wedding of our dreams! Thank you for making that possible.

Monica

Aloha,
M. Echezuria
Falls Church, VA

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Greetings Mike!

We're so very excited about out castaway vacation ! Thank you for making it extra great with that fabulous room upgrade , wow , for sure we won't want to be coming home anytime soon!
We'll definitely also make sure to go on the Manta Ray dive after reading about it, sounds like a can't miss .
You have been so helpful ,descriptive and efficient thanks again for arranging all .

P.S. I'm sure you'll soon be enjoying your " lifestyles of the rich and famous " vacation very soon .

Aloha,
D. Menor & L. Baldridge
Kapaa, HI

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Hi Mike!

Mike you are wonderful. I don't know if we'll do this itinerary but I hope we can do business with you soon as you are so nice. Deanie

Thanks,
D. Martino
Dallas, TX

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Hi Mike!

A friend gave me your name and said you are an amazing travel agent!!! Kate and I work together on Treximet and our submission won the award for the trip. She mentioned that you might be able to help me out with some insight into Fiji and which island to go to, where to stay, etc..

Our travel itinerary is listed below. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Thanks,
K. Olivia
North Carolina

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Hi Mike!

I just wanted to let you know that we are very pleased with your service so we are going to recommend you to one of our friends who is planning to visit Maui in July. You will hear from her soon, Thanks Again.

Warmest,
C. Nguyen
San Francisco, CA

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Dear Mike,

You da man. If you need any objective information about our experience, call anytime. But, we were satisfied, and feel that you did well.

Bless you,
P. Oconnor
Irvine, CA

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Bula Melissa,

The trip was fantastic. Many, many things done right. Mike was great, tolerating my frequent mind changes in the planning process. His suggestion or Raffles for a day room was good too – they just opened a new pool which is actually pretty nice for a “crash pad” level room.

Diving had to be the highlight, although the accommodations are a close second, followed by the quality of snorkeling around Davui.

We were more or less the only divers there at the time so we had essentially a personal boat driver and dive master. Even if there were a few more people, it beats the cattle boats from the big dive resorts. Mini, the dive master was excellent and a lot of fun to spend time with. The night dive just off the island reef was a highlight. Definitely a different set of critters out at night, and a couple sharks in the dark… Did the big fish encounter – good, checked the box, a bit like a zoo under water, without bars. Glad we did it, but the small reef sharks appearing out of the darkness and disappearing just as fast on the night diver were more impressive/a little unnerving. On a related topic – snorkeling is amazing – the colors in the coral are innumerable, throw in the vertical wall dropping down to about 30 feet, cool shells and I spent hours just kicking around the island.

The rooms at Davui are great. They do have a resort map now with locations. If I had that to overlay with sun/shade times of each, it would have been the ULTIMATE. We started with an upgrade Mike arranged (Valle 3) that for our time of the year, great sun/shade mix and evening sunsets. Then moved over to 6, which turns the corner and only got sun on the splash pool for about an hour – not a huge deal and since I picked it over Valle 1, oh well (1’s pool overlooks the boat area and thus a little less private). Bottom line though, the rooms are great and for the rainier season, we were lucky enough to have perfect weather right up the day we left, which rained and made it just a hair easier to leave, but only just.

After reading reviews, we had already determined that we weren’t the kind of people likely to write a disaster story review and nothing changed after the trip. It was a little humorous to see how some of the things people thought disastrous weren’t (at least to us). Mosquitoes, yes, we got bit. Inside and outside the netting, sometimes at dinner – its tropical. We had very, very strong repellent we brought with us – it helps a lot but still… the mangers were in transition but seemed to recognize that and went a little extra to make sure they weren’t missing an element we needed. They were good about setting some expectations up front as well – such as letting us know if there was ANYTHING we needed to ask, and yet reminded us that we were on an island and although they would always do their very best, sometimes they would not be able to accommodate certain food requests, etc. They had a smoked tuna breakfast sandwich that they never got the tuna in for, but they did know I had inquired about it a couple times and seemed to genuinely try and get it but could not. They substituted with smoked Salmon they were able to get. On the topic of food, it was amazing. In particular the fish, which seemed available at every meal in some form including the breakfast sandwich I mentioned. I read a very contrary review online about them never having fish before going so who knows why when that happened. It was definitely NOT an issue and it always seemed extra fresh.

One other pleasant, and not minor surprise, all drinks (except alcohol) WERE included. They don’t list it as that on their website that way (I think they say tea, coffee and water is). Probably saved us a little bit and kept us more hydrated than we otherwise may have. It also means that with a bottle or two from duty free in Nadi and the minibar stocked with coke, tonic, club soda, etc – we didn’t have to have drinks delivered, ordered, etc.

Staff was very friendly and mostly fast. We learned that if you get to know them a little better, ask them questions, etc, they seemed more at ease and more in tune with what you liked – by the end, they knew that I LOVED the fresh baked bread (they made a pesto bread, kind of swirl of pesto inside – to die for…), and got a kick out of keeping me well stocked at meals.

Airline was good – upstairs in the air pacific 747, bulkhead seat was KEY on the way there. The little commuter 3 seater plane Davui used was a kick. If you have any fear of flying or small plans though, watch out. I have great photos from the plane, including out the front window landing. But then I like flying, and small planes. If they have any reservations about it, a car from Nadi takes a little longer – but you do get to see the country and I think is a little cheaper, and does offer more options for departure/arrival time. I’m sure they like to keep boat trips from Davui to Pacific Harbor to a minimum so if multiple people arrive on the same day, the plane is a charter. We enjoyed it as I said. On the way back, we were on a United plane – luckily had economy plus so leg room was tolerable there too. Upgrades on the united plane was crazy expensive despite plenty of room. US air lines – Oh well.

Have I left anything off? I could probably go on for a lot longer...

Thanks again for a wonderful vacation.
J. & A. Lunzer
Hermosa Beach, CA

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Bula Mike!
The trip was fabulous! Thank you for taking care of all the details --everything worked out great! The upgrade to Paradise Taveuni was wonderful! It's a beautiful resort and a well run dive operation and we would recommend it highly. We're already talking about our next trip to the Pacific, so keep us in mind for any tantalizing deals out there!

Vinaka vaka levu!
M. & P. Gentele
Harrisburg, PA

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Mike!
We are flabbergasted!!!!!! You shocked us earlier today by telling us you'd upgraded us to an Ocean Front Suite (we were just thrilled we'd be in a deluxe ocean view room to begin with), but nothing could have prepared us for these accommodations!!!! Our suite has two bathrooms! It's bigger than our own home! It's beautiful! And we haven't even seen it in daylight!!!! Oh, and did I mention the two giant lanais?????? You are the BEST!!!!!! Thank you so much!

Just a little heads-up.. You may be hearing from the hotel... They didn't seem to get the memo about the breakfast being included, but I'm sure it will get straightened out. I printed out an email your wrote that mentioned it, so they are going to try to track it all down.

Thank youuuuu!

Warmest,
J. Holcombe
Los Angeles, CA
Romantic Hawaiian Getaway

Later that day ...Breakfast issue resolved... We are sooooo happy here in Paradise!!!! We woke up and opened the curtains to find we have been transported to the most beautiful place!!! The ocean is RIGHT outside and beautiful beyond belief, and our two lanais are bigger than our dining room!!!!!

Thank you!!!!

Warmest,
J & D Holcombe

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Hi Mike,

This is an excerpt from my recommendation I sent to friends...

"As to our conversation about traveling to Hawaii and other tropical destinations, the following is our travel agent's contact information:

Mike Brown's Email, office phone & cell

Mike is based out of Hawaii and works for McCoy Travel.

My past experience with Mike was phenomenal (this was our trip to Fiji). Mike goes the extra mile to make sure you not only have a great time at your destination, but that your travel to and from are just as great as well.

I would certainly call him when you are ready to schedule so that he could customize something FANTASTIC for you!"

Many Thanks,
D. Beierle
Olympia, WA

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Hi Mike,

1st let me say thank you for all your hard work for putting together our wedding/honeymoon last June 2008. Sorry it took me so long to get back to you & thank you. We stayed at the Prince & the Hyatt & we had the absolute most amazing trip. We couldn't have done it out you & your service. You were so patient we us, as we changed our minds a 1000 times, & asked 1000 questions. You are extremely talented at your job, & will be forever a part of making the best week long memories. Please let the owner know how valuable we think you are.

I just checked out some of your vacation packages for the anniversary date of june 6th of this year. Please keep us in mind if something comes up.

Again THANK YOU for everything, & wishing you a prosperous 2009

Thanks,
A.& J. White
Newport Beach, CA

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Mike, Bula Bula Bula and Aloha! here

Mahalo and Denaka for your help on my trip.

I made it back. The only problem was leaving NZ, Fiji and Hawaii.

New Zealand is heaven on earth... Fiji was absolutely magical... Kauai was wonderful..

The best thing you did was be the foil in my lodging selections, and recommend the Fiji sailing "adventure". Without the give-and-take on the lodgings, I would have not found the ones I found, or made the same decisions. Thank you!!!

In NZ, the Auckland Westin was 5*. Once I realized all the prices were in $Kiwis, and the $Kiwi is half the $Us dollar, I ordered another bottle of Hawkes Bay Pinot Noir and another Pavlova! Auckland was about ten times better than Seattle or San Francisco (our best cities in the US). I could live there in a minute. Great people, city, neighborhoods, golf (Murawai by the beach and Titirangi, a parkland course designed by Alistar McKenzie), sailing, shopping, dining and perfect weather!

The motel in Taupo was not great for me...best for an "extremely" low budget traveler (sub-backpackers). I found the Huka Falls Resort to be great: a collection of cabins, and restaurant that was terrific, and moved there for one night. Great wine and no drive home! ($100kiwis/nite).

My B&B in Waimarama/Hawkes Bay was brilliant. Terrific folks, great food (home made passion fruit ice cream and best lap pool in NZ, good surfing beach, and arguably the most authentic golf course I ever played (including Scotland)....this one (Wairunga: $10kiwis for 9 holes) had sheep all over it! Great fun!!! Craggy Range, Black Barn and any Pinot from this neighborhood of Hawkes Bay is a buy!

Te Horo is wonderful with a very hospitable host! Unfortunately, in the middle of nowhere (I did want peace and quiet)....but only 15 minutes to the golf course. The pool was small, but set in a delightful garden/orchard. Golf at Paraparaumu was a bit of Scottish links in the dunes....an Alistar McKenzie design!

The ferry ride across the channel was good, very plush compared to Seattle's finest. It may have been better to switch cars, and not take the car on the ferry, but I did not look closely into it. Maui cars were slow to check out in AKL....next time Hertz No.1 Club.

The Bolton was a good choice for Wellington; good location, pool, restaurant; The Museum would have been fine as well. I was welcomed warmly at the Royal Wellington Golf Club. The Shed 5 Restaurant was fab.

The motel in Nelson was adequate; ok interiors, but a marginal location; the pool was useless. I would have rather stayed in a B&B one or two nites, then move on toward the Able Tasman, and stayed in Motueka or Kaiteriteri at a b&b. Friar's guide is a good place to start searching b&b's. The public pool (lap pool) in Nelson was terrific....for $3kiwis. The Boat Shed restaurant in Nelson is perhaps the best in NZ. Sailing in Teriteri was "teri"fic! The Nelson Golf Club was a delightful seaside links.

The Punga Grove in Franz Josef was perfect for one nite for me alone. It was a good call to stop there for the night. There are two very nice b&b's there, both listed in Friars: Holly Homestead and Franz Josef Glacier Country Retreat....either would work if I return with my wife.

As you know, the Mercure in Queenstown was further from town than "walking distance", the pool was a cold plunge, and the room was a bit outdated. Great views though. Many thanks for following up to get the deposit credited to the St. Moritz (most comfortable hotel I stayed at in NZ). St. Moritz had great international staff (equal to the Westin), great interiors and appointments, terrific location, and nice views....best of all worlds. The price was at the high end of my range for a 1 BR suite but it worked for me. It was a terrific lodge for 4 nights...very comfortable. Dining at the Bunker and Botswana Grill was wonderful. Wine tasting at Amisfield Vineyard was my best lunch of the month. Great region for Pinot! Mt. Difficulty and Peregrine! I would however, play golf twice at the public course (Queenstown Golf Club, $45kiwis) and avoid Millbrook for the next several years until they finish their construction on and around the course. Millbrook was perhaps the worst golf experience possible due to the re-routing, construction, and lack of signage or warnings about the construction. 14 good holes, then go find a bar. Nice valley and subdivision though.

The Riverview B&B in Christchurch was over-the-top-great!!! Reasonable price, magical location on the River Avon, close to the city center (7+/- minute walk along the Avon), and terrific owners. I will return to it with my wife next year.

My largest regret in NZ is not staying longer....much longer. I would have loved to visit the Northland, Bays of Plenty/Islands, Coromandel, Wanaka and Doubtful Sound....and to have stayed everywhere longer. 2 months would have been a better schedule....but then there is always next year.

Fiji was also otherworldly. A very different pace and place. Stopping for one night in Honolulu and Nadi on the way out was good for the time adjustment, and to break up the flight times. The first nite in Nadi, on the way west, the Mercure was great. Newly remodeled with good food, good pool and a great respite for the night. I visited Nadi and ate at an OK curry/seafood place with a wonderful owner/waitress. Visiting Nadi for several hours was an eye opener to their politics, economics, and very welcoming cultures (Indian and Fijian). I met a family on the plane to Auckland that had left their entire travel wardrobes with friends in Fiji to be helpful. I planned to bring some clothes back to give my waitress for her friends/family, but then heard of the floods. While in NZ, I tried to organize a container of clothing....but did not have the time or contacts. I did, however, bring a suitcase of clothes back (from the Salvation Army in Christchurch) for the Nadi Salvation Army shelter. I would recommend that all guests to Fiji do something similar (easy to do). It is a very poor country and the clothes (or childrens books, etc.) will find a home.

Capt. Cook's sailing was the best. I had no expectations at all. It wasn't really sailing, but a nice slow paced cruise around the islands with lots of snorkeling. I brought a bottle of wine for each nite and shared with the other guests (2 Aussies, 2 Dutch, 2 Canucks, 2 Coloradans) and the extremely warm and friendly staff. If NZ was heaven, this was the inner circle of heaven. The coral and fish were better than anything I had seen since the 70's in the Carribean. The village we visited was heart-warming and heart-wrenching. The people were so open and friendly and kind and sweet (where is my thesaurus?). I regret not knowing the villagers would be offering their crafts so I could have had another $100 in small bills. Not that I am a craft buyer, but I wanted to help everyone. The on-island setup was a bit primitive, but I would not change a thing. Very camp-like. By the time we left I was relaxed. (It only took one bottle of wine, jungle drinks and snorkeling everyday to calm a type A personality down, hmmm.) Again, I could have stayed twice as long....with half the days just lounging around the base-camp island. Capt. Cook is a marvelous organization: everyone was the "bestest" person I ever met....but then all the Fijians (in Nadi too) I met were.

In Nadi, Rosies was also quite the organization. Womb to tomb, they planned it all for a smooth experience: drivers, lounge at the airport, going away massage. Oh baby, this should be a case study in exceeding expectations at Harvard Business School! The Novotel was also very nice and comfortable....perfect for a short stay.

In Kauai, the Hyatt was the right choice. A terrific property. Very comfortable for a larger hotel (compared to the NZ lodges I visited). Great food in terrific restaurants. Poipu Golf Club was beautiful! After staying for a week at the Westin timeshares in Maui, this was a welcome place to recover from the very large resort hotel and hustle/bustle of Kaanapali/Lahaina (we enjoyed that too, but it was culture shock after Fiji....our friends were our own activity directors: golf at Lanai/Challenge at Manele Bay, golf twice at Kapalu/Plantantion, whale watching....we could see the hair on their chins, thanks Capt. Steve's, walk the beach, umbrella drinks, superbowl party on the beach, galleries, dining, swim, stir, do over).

Kauai was very laid back.... and we will visit it, the Hyatt, Poipu GC, Princeville Ranch Stables and Adventures, and Amy-Lauren's gallery in Hanapepe again.

The connections back to Maui were a bit awkward, only because United at Maui/Kahalui is veryveryvery dysfunctional (three hours in the transition would have been better for this bunch). My fault for not rerouting our return direct from Kauai.... the problem was trying to make changes to a "miles Plus" ticket....but that was the price of getting a "hub" in Hawaii to meet my wife and friends on the way back.
Again, Hertz No.1 Club over any other car rental (....although I loved the graphics on Weird Campers in NZ).

Also, the AirNewZealand/Quantas folks in Christchurch were brilliant...I missed by scheduled flight (a change that was not noticed) and they bent over backwards to help get me out NOW to make my connection in AKL.

I feel I have done my patriotic duty to stimulate the US and world economy this year! I will call you when I start planning next years stimulating trip to NZ, Australia, and Thailand. I could not have made the same great trip without your help and that of ALL your vendors.

Many Thanks,

Many Thanks,
D. Brown
Aspen, Colorado

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Hi Mike,

Well, I've been meaning to do this for a long time and finally have a quiet moment. I decided not to send you a bunch of pictures from our honeymoon since you definitely know what everything looks like. Instead, I'm sending a picture of RJ and me because you don't know what we look like. This was taken at Taveuni before dinner one night.

Anyway, I don't know if I ever formally thanked you for all your help with planning our honeymoon. We really had the absolute dream honeymoon, and I loved that all we had to do was show up. Everything was taken care of for us, and we didn't have to figure out anything. That was soooo nice. You did a wonderful job of arranging and rearranging everything for us. Thank you so much!

Taveuni Island Resort was the best place I have ever stayed - from the privacy to the accommodations to the food and staff - it was perfect. We weren't thrilled with the beach but found plenty other stuff to do. Likuliku was fun too but we really just hung out by the pool the entire time we were there.

I really don't know why so many people refuse to use travel agents in the age of the Internet. You guys are so helpful, and the Internet isn't always cheaper. Plus, for someone like me who hates logistics, you guys are super heroes.

Ok, that's it. I'll definitely be keeping you in my contact list for future island excursions.

Thanks,
A. Pales
Oak Park, IL

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Aloha to very one at McCoy Travel .....
Our trip did not start out very well (not your fault). Our plane was delayed 9 hours leaving Las Vegas.
Mike Brown, as always, was wonderful. The lady I talked to at customer service was very kind and helpful. We finally made it to The Grand Hyatt on Kauai. The hotel was absolutely beautiful and all the employees there were beyond fantastic. All and all very one had a wonderful time.

Thank you, especially Mike Brown, for all your help with this trip.

Best Regards,
A. Michael
Las Vegas, NV

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Dear Melissa,

Wow, what can we say, but all wonderful things of our recent trip to Fiji.
Mike booked us a fabulous Weddingmoon at two properties, and everything went extremely well. From Air/ground/water transport to the 2 week stay at both Lovely Resorts. What was there not to love about Fiji?

The First Resort was amazing: They were there to collect us when we landed in Taveuni (no waiting) and took us straight away to the water transport. Sia was there to greet us when we arrived and she did an incredible job with the orientation, and our wedding arrangements. We would definitely consider another visit there. The staff were all wonderful!

The second Resort: We had a wonderful up-grade to a Premium Vale, and what an incredible place to snorkel and spend our week honeymooning. We were both very sad to leave.

We haven't used the services of a travel agency in a very long time (generally book our own travels via Internet), but since this was such a special occasion, we decided to go the Fiji Experts: McCoy Travel. All booking arrangements were spot on. All email correspondence was answered very quickly and in a timely fashion. Mike did a fabulous job providing us with several resort options and choices, and the before and after the trip follow-up has been tremendous.

We have both worked in the service/travel industry, and McCoy gets top ratings from us!

Kind regards,
M.& D. Osualdini
Edmonton, AB Canada

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Hi Mike,

Just writing a quick note to say our honeymoon in Fiji was Fiji-licious! Everything was great. We loved the Resort so much! The second one was nice too but after the first, there was no comparison.

I'll send some pictures soon. I have been swamped since I got back. All the people who couldn't make to the wedding want to see us now :)

Thanks so much for everything! I'll be in touch soon and tell you the great stuff we did.

Thanks,
A.& RJ. Pales (Kava Lover)
Oak Park, IL

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Mike,

We had such a wonderful time in Fiji. We really enjoyed the staff at the resort. We had a great time with the other couples at the resort. Amy Keen and I got to talking about our great travel agent....come to find out.....we both used you.
Thanks for everything. Chad and I will reach out to you in the future for travel. What a great expeeience.

Thanks again!!!
T. Kelly
Peachtree City, GA

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Hi Mike,

Just wanted thank you for organizing a great trip to Beqa Lagoon resort for us, We were lucky enough to see 2 tiger sharks on the big fish encounter, we are looking at heading to samoa in feb 2009 and would like you to assist with this trip as well.

Thanks,
D. Tscheuschler
Perth, Western Australia

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Hi Mike,

We loved Vatulele, Fiji and your recommendations. We are currently looking at going to Mexico in the middle of January. Do you recommend anything? We specifically are looking for a resort that has great diving.

Thanks,
P.& T. Rundle
Sylvan Lake, AB Canada

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Melissa,

Thanks for the note Melissa, we have booked two awesome trips through your company. Mike our agent has been the best. It is difficult with so many options in today's travel and cost limitations to get the best bang for your buck. Mike was able to give us our dream vacation in Fiji for my wife and I, and then help us book the best family vacation in the Mayan Rivera. Your company didn't let one ball drop. In fact, they were above our expectations. We feel like we finally have found a travel agency that is there to service the client and not just trying to get another commission and on to the next person. We felt like we were the number one client. We save our money to travel to great places. We want our experience to be great from start to finish. McCoy Travel Agency provides great service from start to finish. I have also be able to recommend several other people to your company with great pride, because I know you will not drop the ball. Thank you again. My only negative is that I'm jealous every time you send me an email of your wonderful vacations to Fiji and Tahiti. You make me want to go.

Thanks Again,
T. & S. Pickerill
Montrose, CA

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Melissa,

We had a fabulous time. We joked that the brochure for the resort didn't do it justice. We were the only people staying at the resort for more than half our stay. The accommodations were superior and the diving was also very good. All our flights were on time or close. Mike was very helpful in orchestrating all the flights and arrangements. By far, the staff at the resort was equal to the best we have ever encountered. Everyone had a blast.

Thanks,
J. Haslip
Phoenix, Arizona

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Mike -
I wanted to shoot you an note,  another awesome trip, you hit the target.  We had the best time.  Also, I talked to Luke and he said it was the trip of his dreams.  The best.  I think I have found my travel agent for life. 

T hanks for all your help and service.

T. Pickerill
Montrose, California
Your Riviera Maya Getaway

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Bula Mike,
Wonderful trip.  I want to thank you so much for your great service to us.  We felt it in Fiji when the resort did some special birthday event for us.  And, we appreciated all your careful attention to helping plan our trip with the exceptional energy and always timely answers to questions from us.  Also, all the resorts we stayed at were wonderful about providing  excellent varieties of vegetarian and vegan meals.  Each place was different and suited our needs very well. Of course , that was a big concern for us and they communicated to us that they had heard our requests from you.

The travel connections were perfect, and easy and we thank you for that.   The diving was amazing and your advice about which places to go was great. 

Most of all, I felt that you carefully listened to our  particular needs and tried to help us figure out for ourselves a three week long trip in a far flung destination.  And, of course, when you were out of the office the travel agency was very efficient .

Of course, you will hear from us again when we are able to do another amazing vacation!

Thank you,
J. Stewart
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Fiji Snorkel/Dive Trip

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Great!!! Thank you so much for your fantastic, always positive, attitude & your wonderful extra help Mike.

Sincerely,
C. Ehret
Tuscon, Arizona
Your Fiji Pearl Adventure

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Mike,

Thanks for the follow up phone call to find out how our holiday and wedding went.

We all had a wonderful time, the resort was everything I had hoped it would be. The staff were really very friendly, as all Fijian people are, and we were welcomed into the family. The food was good, always offering fish, meat and a vegetarian option for lunch and dinner. There was certainly lots of it too! Then just in case you did feel hungry in between, there were always the cookies in your room, the cake in the afternoon or the never ending supply of cookies in the dining area.

I must admit I was a little worried about the wedding as we had had lots and lots of really heavy rain, but Kay said "have faith as everything always works out for the special day", and it did. We had glorious sunshine and everything was absolutely perfect.

Yosi took our photos and he is a very good photographer, I would recommend him to anyone.
I dived quite a lot and enjoyed every one, Bale the dive master really looked after me. I think he was sad to see me go and so was Kay. I really did not want to leave and shed more than a tear as we were going. I have been home now for 3 days and apart from seeing my cats I can still say I still do not want to be here. My heart is in Fiji.

I have attached a few photos for you to see of the wedding.

Thanks

J. Bruce
Fountain Hills, Arizona
Fiji Wedding

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Mike,

We had an awesome time in Fiji.  The best,  I want to go to the Riveira Maya, Mexico to an all-inclusive for 5 people.  Can you hook me up.

T. Pickerill
Montrose, California
Fabulous Island Getaway

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Hey Mike,

I spoke to the lady you recommended to marry us but she was full.  She suggested someone else, but no response yet.  We are very glad to have you helping. When we are done, im going to let your employer know as well how great you have been.

Thanks,
J. White
Newport Beach, California
Honeymoon on Maui

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Mike -

AWESOME TRIP!!  Would love to take the time to really spell out our awesome experience (less Aloha and Hertz) via e-mail......but if you want to call please feel welcome and we'll fill your ears with what we experienced.
 
Cordially,
B. Brown
League City, Texas
Your Hawaiian Islands Getaway

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Got the Taveuni flight sorted.

You're a lovely man. Really.  Thank you Mike :)

J. Kohen
Nelson, New Zealand
Matangi Island Escape

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Aloha Mike:

Want to thank you for a fabulous trip to Fiji.  You were worried we wouldn't like the Fiji Resort much, but let me tell you it was probably the best vacation week of our 60 year lives.  We landed in Taveuni and were picked up right on time by a wonderful young man who drove us to Paradise over the worst road.  When we finally got there, we were welcomed by the most wonderful people. We were escorted to our bure and were rewarded with a complimentary foot massage. From there it only gets better.  It turned out, we were the only guests at the resort for the first 3 days.  When other guests arrived our treatment never changed, everyone from the owners, Terry and Alan, to the Fijians that were tending to the grounds were so nice and genuine.  The  diving was fantastic, the food was outstanding, and the service was  unreal.  We did trips to the local village, waterfalls and took part in the weekly traditional feast. I was made Chief, drank a lot of Kava, and danced the evening away. When  we left we felt we were leaving family behind.

Vinaka,
D. & J. Costa
Glendale, California
Fiji Dive Celebration

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Thank You Melissa and Mike!  

We had a wonderful experience.  The accomodation at the Big Island condo was outstanding and made the trip! To return to the peace, quiet and natural beauty was the perfect close to each exciting day. Bill Meyers, the concierge at the resort, was very helpful in directing us to attrractions and restaurants we never would have found on our own.  We would like to thank you for your care and attention.  It is such a pleasure to receive excellent customer service.  (We had visited several travel agents in our home community and they just didn't seem to care.) 

Again THANK YOU.  We will be in touch for our next vacation.

Ayles Family
Alberta, Canada
Family Christmas in Hawaii

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Greetings!

As we’ve booked through McCoy in the past, we knew that every detail would be well thought out for us. Mike Brown is our agent and I take every opportunity to recommend him to friends, forum boards, etc.  Based on our travels to Fiji in the past (sans children), Mike was confident that the Fiji Resort would be a great fit for our entire family.  We were hesitant, as the cost was higher than other resorts, etc. As expected, Mike’s suggestion was spot on!  The resort was as wonderful as I had hoped…I take that back, it exceeded our expectations.  Rosie’s was perfect, our flights were flawless and the resort….well, it was superb!  It was as luxurious as the other Fiji resort, the staff were actually more consistently pleasant and the food?  Each morsel was a delight!  It was a perfect way to introduce our favorite place (Fiji) to our children.  I have a feeling that we’ll be back many, many times.

After spending some time on your website, I learned that you can also assist in travel elsewhere.  I plan on contacting Mike soon to start our (parental obligatory) spring trip to Disneyland!  ( :

Thanks again for a wonderful trip, McCoy Travel!

A. VanGoey
Eagle, Colorado
South Pacific Christmas

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We've been working with Mike Brown on our Fiji trip.  Every question that has come up has been answered promptly and been well covered.  Most of all, his efforts on our behalf as we plan our trip have been most appreciated because of his very caring professionalism.  We've been able to trust that he sincerely has worked for our best interests and desires on this vacation. Mike stands out in his dedication to the work he's doing and as clients we really appreciate someone who is doing a good job with such  positive energy.

Sincerely,
J. Stewart
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Fiji Snorkel/Dive Trip

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Bula -
Our Fiji trip went well.  The accomodations at the Fiji resort were perfect for us.  Mike was right on target for recommending this resort.  The bures have lots of space.  We had not problems with ours.

We loved the remoteness of the island.  The villagers made us feel very welcome.  A highlight was attending the intra-island, inter-school rugby tournament at one of the villages. 

The weather was not great so our diving was not as good as it could have been.  No one can control that.  The dive operation was a little bit more primitive than what we are accustomed to.  However since we were the only divers at the resort, we had plenty of room on the boat.  Also, the dive boat doubles as the guest transfer boat. 

Thanks for your assistance,
N. Sandler
Seattle, Washington
Fiji Trip

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Glendale, Arizona
Your Fiji Fun Escape

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Hi Mike,

This e-mail is long overdue. The trip to Sydney/Melbourne etc. you arranged for us following Bula Fiji was wonderful. Every reservation from plane to hotel to bustrips was an absolute delight since it was exactly what we needed to see in such a short time and everything that was booked for us departed on time, the hotels comfortable, the buses clean. I could go on and and on but you can see we were very happy all the way through Australia. It was truly a memorable experience.

Thanks again for organizing the trip so thoughtfully, it is always a joy to work with you.

Beate (Co-managers of Papageno Resort in Fiji)

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Hi Mike!

Thanks for planning our Fiji trip - we had a very relaxing time!  The Fiji resort was pretty and Kayur had a great time diving!  He loved the white wall.  We just got back last night.  Unfortunately we 're back to work today.  :( 

Thanks!
J. Shah
Los Angeles, California
Anniversary in Paradise

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Mike -

Our trip was FANTASTIC and we can't thank you enough for making everything happen without a hitch.  As much as we've traveled throughout the Caribbean, I think we'll be headed to the South Pacific from now on (don't worry, we'll book through you).  While you were correct that the air conditioning was not working at the Fiji resort, the ocean front Bure and the winter tradewinds made it quite comfortable.  Plus, I talked the manager into a couple of free spa treatments for the "inconvenience".  Nice resort and, although they've got a few minor growing pains to work through, we were very pleased.

As they say in Fiji, Vinaka (aka: Mahalo, thanks, etc.)

B. Praet
Orange, CA
Family South Pacific Adventure

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Dear Mike,

Just back from Fiji and wanted to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for recommending the Fiji resort. They were absolutely wonderful and make our wedding/honeymoon outstanding. The place was exquisite and the staff unbelievably attentive and warm. The wedding ceremony couldn't be more perfect. Swiss Fiji Diving also took very good
care of us,the divemaster has eyes like a microscope and showed up all kinds of cool stuff. Overall the best trip we've ever had and so happy we found you to coordinate this all for us. I plan to write a review on tripadvisor to let others know what a treasure the Fiji Resort was and how wonderful Mccoy Travel and you are.

Thanks again and we will absolutley remember you for our future vacations.

Sincerely,

W. & J. Harlig
Newark, California
Fiji Paradise Adventure

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Dear Mike,
   
First, I would like to say we are not five star resort travelers. So my expectations going into this trip to the Fiji Resort were not five star expectations.  I loved the bungalows.  I thought the unlimited diving and snorkeling from the resort beach was some of the best I have done.  The resort staff was very nice and helpful.  Allen and I did one day of boat diving which was very nice, but it reconfirmed to me why I prefer live-a-board diving. (not the bobbing around while in the boat and easier exits from the water after the dive) We really enjoyed the opportunity to see the Fire Walkers and visit their village.  This was a HIGH point for us. 

In closing, I would like to say, we really enjoyed our stay and didn't let the down side of things cloud our overall experience.  I went to Fiji to scuba dive, bird watch and enjoy wonderful friends......I did all.  Hope this helps.

K. Strohmeier

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Mike -
I really liked the Fiji Resort. I thought the units were magnificant..big roomy, comfortable. I loved the snorkeling and diving off the resort and the boat dives were fine. The dive people were great and helpful. I "eat to live" not "live to eat" so, to me, the food was fine. My only disappointment was the lack of any decent primary forest for birding, but this was not the fault of the lodge. The pick-up/transfer ws efficient and friendly.

I would rate our stay as excellent. Son Scott agrees. I was worried that after the other Fiji Resort we could not duplicate our experience..this was such a pleasant surprise.

Much Thanks,

J. Moore
Half Moon Bay, California

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You rock, Mike! It all sounds like such a fairy tale destination wedding that I still can't believe that it's MY fairy tale wedding!

Thanks again for everything.

S. Fitch
Needville, Texas
Fiji Wedding/Honeymoon Christmas

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Mike,
I know you are way too busy for casual email  messages, but did want you to know that we really enjoyed working with you helping us plan our trip to Hawaii last summer.  It was beyond great and everything went very well.  We are keeping you in mind when we plan another big trip.  That black pearl story has me dreaming, as I purchased a ring and necklace while in Hawaii.  Fiji sounds just fabulous, we are dreaming of it in about two years.

A Client,

R.M. Thiel
Pleasantville, Iowa
Your Hawaiian Holiday

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Hi Mike,
We enjoyed our trip to Fiji. Air New Zealand is very nice and we had no complaints at all. We were met in Nadi by a very nice woman who helped us get checked in with Pacific Sun. That went smoothly too.

The Fiji Resort was awsome!

Everything was smooth on the way home too. We wish there could be a shorter lay over in Nadi, but we heard that compared to other traverlers, we actually did pretty well. Maybe a suggestion of a restaurant in Nadi might be good. Our lay over was in the evening and not long enough for a whole day at a hotel. We heard from some other travelers that their agent had gotten them into a lounge at the airport where the kids played computer and the mom got a massage. That would have been nice too. Those are my only suggestions. Otherwise it was great and went smoothly. We loved our trip.

Thanks,
P. Korber
Laguna Beach, California

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You are so good to us, Mike! 

Thanks for going out of your way to make our trips perfect. 

A. Van Goey
Eagle, Colorado
South Pacific Christmas

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Hi Melissa:

We had a terrific time in Fiji.  I found the people lovely and the resort was well run and a wonderful place to spend a week.  I would definitely recommend it — especially to people with kids as they really handle them and keep them busy from morning till night and that lets the parents have a good time, too.

The food was good.  There was only one dinner, where we ordered the salmon and the kitchen shouldn’t have let that piece of fish out on to floor as it was simply past its prime.  It was very fishy and not good.  But, that was one night, one entrée, out of 21 meals we had, so I have no complaint.

I thought the resort was lovely and that they did a great job of keeping everything fresh and looking good.  The tussles over the day beds were amusing, but that has less to do with the resort than with the people whom they’ve booked into the place! 

The folks from Rosie’s Travel were lovely and they took very good care of us at every point where they had that duty.

Anyway, that’s the report back.  Mike did a terrific job for us, and I’ll definitely call you when I’m planning my next escape!

Thanks.

Best -
G. Stewart
Van Nuys, California

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Mike -

Thanks for asking about the trip. The resort was wonderful, it met all of our needs and I would definitely put the Fiji Resort on your list to recommend to clients. The bure's are private and you do not hear neighbors, the activities are varied and cater to adults, kids and families. The food is fantastic, presented like art work, fresh and compares to some of the best restaurants in the world. As a single adult with a teenager, I appreciated the separation of activities and eating of families from adults. The adult pool, adult dining was perfect for someone who is past the "kid" stages of traveling. The best for last were the Fiji people themselves. They were attentive, lovely and the most gracious hosts. I would definitely go to this resort again.

Everything you booked worked very well and you were very accommodating. I really appreciated being able to call you with a heads up in case we missed a flight along the way.

Thanks for your service and support during the trip.
J. Den Boer 
Livingstone, Montana
Air to Fiji Resort

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Melissa -

As you know, Mike put together a 10 night Fiji vacation package for my husband and myself leaving LAX on 2/22/07.

It was fabulous!  It far surpassed our expectations!  We had a GREAT time!

I had tried several local travel agents, but none had done any snorkeling in the area.  It was so helpful to talk to Mike, as he was very familiar with the area. He asked quite a few questions regarding our snorkeling experience in the Caribbean.  As we talked, he would clarify what he understood we wanted in Fiji.  That instilled a lot of trust. He  also asked what we wanted to spend, and put together a beautiful package that was well within our stated budget.  He even offered suggestions as to the best area to sit on the plane.  He was right.  It was very comfortable.  We are so pleased with Mike and your agency.  He was so prompt in his replies and so attentive to the details.  He did a great job for us.

The Fiji Resort was nice.  The second resort was so much fun.  We thoroughly enjoyed the design and openness of the facility.  The food was fabulous, way beyond our expectations.  So many guests realized what a unique experience this was with such a low census. It was so lively with guests from 6mo to 80 years old, and it was just fun for everyone.

We would recommend the Fiji Resort #2 to anyone, but with the understanding that they are still working on some details. 

We are pleased to recommend Mike Brown and your agency to our friends.  We hope to use you in the future.  Yes, the snorkeling is great in Fiji!

Thanks again

J. Van
San Luis Obispo, California
Your Pacific Island Escape

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Mike -
I'm sure you will talk to Eric, but thanks for setting up the BEST trip EVER!!!!! =)

L. Dutcher
Your South Pacific Getaway
Newport Beach, California

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Mike-
Just a quick note to say thanks. The flights you booked for me were good; Delta is now my preferred airline. I had great seats. I really appreciate your extra trouble and patience with me when I changed my mind, or couldn't make up my mind.

Mucho mahalo!
C. Russell
Makawao, Hawaii

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Mike,

I want to personally thank you for all your patience and hard work getting us to this point and enduring all the iterations we have gone through. My first trip with you guys was great and I know this one will be too, your knowledge has been essential in helping us feel we are getting the honeymoon we are dreaming of, and we are both grateful for that. Thanks again.

Best regards,
E. Franks
New Port Beach, California
South Pacific Getaway

Mike -

I don’t often times write client testimonial letters, but this trip certainly calls for one!  I must admit, I am an Internet shopper and used to feel that my own “homework” would yield the best vacation results.  I can now say that is no longer the case.  Mike Brown is so patient and incredibly knowledgable, that I am hooked on him and McCoy Travel.  In talking with the other guests at Namale, I easily identified that I had the best package and the best customer service.  We shared with Mike some personal preferences with specific beverage labels, cocktail mixers and even the desire for a small tour of the property, as many changes had occurred since our last visit to Namale.  Not only did the staff spend hours sharing with us the improvements of Namale, but when we arrived at our bure – present was everything we had requested (down to the six extra pillows!).  Incredibly, Ocean Spray Cranberry juice was stocked in our bure (per our preferences) which could not be found anywhere else on the resort, or in town!  Mike answered all of my concerns before our travels with care and concern.  While at Namale, we realized an error in our seat assignments for our return flight back to the States.  I sent an email and when we checked into the airline on our departure – bingo!  Our seat assignments were back in line.  A huge thank you to Mike Brown!  Vacations are a sacred time and often times costly – Mike assured that every detail was taken care of and our vacation was incredible.  I would expand on the experiences at Namale, but the staff and the resort are so magical, it doesn’t seem fair to try and convey the trip with words.  Magical – everyone should experience it.  We will be returning to Namale for a third time in 2008 and you can bet we’ll use Mike Brown.  Our sincerest appreciation for all that you did for us!

A. VanGoey
Eagle, Colorado
Romantic Namale Spa Resort

Bula Bula Mike,

Even though it’s been a month since our wonderful trip to Vomo Island Resort, it’s still the topic of conversation. Thank you for recommending Vomo Island. My wife and I really bonded with the locals. We became part of the family drinking Kava up in the staff quarters a couple times. We had a great trip! ….no schedules, no TV, no phones…..just what we needed.

The only thing I’d like to set up if we make a return trip is to spend the last day on the island versus going to Nadi Airport and having the room in the hotel. We didn’t care much for the hotel and would have much rather spent more time at the resort, then flown to Nadi Airport and stayed there until our flight home.

Thanks again for the suggestions and making the arrangements. We especially appreciated having a beach-front villa by itself without another one attached to it.

Vinaka vaka levu,
T. Kale
Potomac Falls, Virginia
Your Romantic Island Escape

Melissa,

Thanks for the reminder to rave about our honeymoon to Fiji!

Mike set everything up perfectly – flights were fine (the LAX-Fiji flight was half empty, so there was plenty of room to spread out); connections and transfers were seamless; and we were very pleased with Crusoe’s Retreat and Matamanoa, and the diving at each.  Our accommodations at each place were great (although we weren’t in one, the newly renovated bures at Matamanoa are gorgeous.)  Maggie, the GM at Crusoe’s, passes along her fond hello’s to him. Oh, and it was a minor thing, but we loved having access to the Captain’s Lounge on the cruise to/from Matamanoa. 

As for diving, the new dive masters/instructors – Vili and Debbie -- at Matamanoa were really great; personable, knowledgeable, and their operation seemed well run.  Don @ Crusoe’s was nice too, but we had a couple dives that led us to question his safety judgment.  On our second dive there, both of us ran out of air on a deep dive in part thanks to an unexpected (not in the briefing) swim against current – I got down to only 10 bar before I was buddied up with another diver, who luckily had enough air left to share that we could get through our safety stop.  However, we dove a couple times with Don’s assistant, Seta, and those were our favorites of the trip, so overall, it was kind of a mixed bag. 

Anyways, we appreciated Mike’s great itinerary that met our budget, and accommodations and sights that exceeded our expectations.  Although Fiji probably isn’t in our travel plans for quite awhile again, we’ll definitely keep McCoy Travel in mind for future trips (I’ve always wanted to go to Belize!) 

Thanks very much,

L. Urbauer
Woodinville, Washington
Romantic Fiji Honeymoon

Good morning Mike,
One of our friends has fallen ill and we will postpone our trip until later in the year. Rest assured we will use your excellent thorough services. Thanks again.
Regards
R. Hughes

Your'e great, Mike.
Thanks for the quick response and thoroughness! I have passed your name on to other agents here and will continure to do so.
Mahalo, and have a great week...
Kelley

Good Morning Mike.....
I can only hope should the opportunity come my way to be a travel agent...that I will be one that is as good with the customers as you are.
I will speak with you soon.
Many thanks,
J. Myers
North Carolina
Fiji Weddingmoon

Mike,
Thanks so much for the advice and tell the receptionist that I talked to thanks for calling you at home for the information. We have really been enjoying our vacation here and am very glad that you were able to help us get here. Thanks again.
C. and L. Norton
Texas
Tonga Family Visit

All I can say is wow!
Mike Brown is super! He did more for us then three other firms I had contacted. Fellow travelers, look no more Mccoy Travel will deliver when others won't. They know how too deliver five star customer service!
L. and C. Norton
Texas
Tonga Family Vacation

Mike,
Tthanks for everything you and Cindy did for me. Everything worked out great. You did a great job for me and I hope to use you in the future.
Thanks,
B. Cornell
Washington
Hawaii - Australia Vacation

Hello Mike!
I simply want to thank you for the very good service you are offering! I had some very good times in the wonderful Fiji Islands!
I. Trudeau
Canada
Fiji Getaway

Hi Mike,
Kim and I had a great trip. The weather could have been a little more cooperative(rained a lot) but the trip was good. The food is good at Qamea and the bures are nice.
Thank you,
N. Hedges
California
Romantic Honeymoon Getaway

Hi Mike!
I just wanted to thank you for helping us purchase a Namale Spa wedding gift for Dave and Julie. I just got an email from them- and they were thrilled! We totally surprised them, which we love to do! I look forward to having the time and money to discuss our own trip to fiji with you, when next we speak... but until then, enjoy your "research" trip to fiji! don't work too hard! Thank you again for your help!
W e honeymooned in the Mediterranean, so i'll say-
Ciao!!!
J. Barrick

Mike!
We've been here only since this morning, and already we're in paradise! Oh my goodness, this place is beyond even our wildest imagination and expectations! Namale is pure bliss! ....and, we have to ask, how in the world did we end up in an OCEAN VIEW room???? We distinctly remember paying for tropical, so someone worked some pretty delicious magic!!!!! If you had a hand in this, we can't thank you enough. We can walk down a few steps and touch the sand, and we can see the ocean from our shower! Thank you so much for all you have done for us... we are just stunned and soooooo happy.
Have a wonderful and safe trip to fiji yourself, and know we wish you well.
Warmest,
J. and D. Holcomb
California
Namale Bliss

Mike,
My husband I just got back from the Big Island and we loved the Fairmont Orchid ...it was probably the most beautiful hotel on the island besides the Four Seasons .... thanks for your advice i'm very happy i took it.....
L. & D. Estrada
California
Fairmont Orchid Escape

Mike,
My wife and I just returned from Fiji on Saturday. You may remember we spent 6 days at the Hideaway Resort on the Coral Coast and then 5 days at Lomani Resort on Malolo Lai Lai. It was incredible! Thank you so much for your excellent suggestions and everything you did to make it such a wonderful vacation. We can't imagine a better itinerary or a smoother trip through what was a very unfamiliar locale. I hope we can work with you again to plan another great trip.

By the way, our Rosie driver - Panto - asked me to give you his regards.
Enjoy your time in Fiji.
M. Colyer
California
Fiji Escape

Mike
Thanks again for all of your help. My wife and I are so excited about our honeymoon/vacation that you were able to put together for us. We really need to just get away. If everything goes well you will have a customer for life, and I will refer anyone that I can to you.
Thanks
K. London
Texas
Exotic Fiji Honeymoon

Bula Mike,
Sorry for the delay in getting back to you, but things have been quite hectic since my return from Fiji...
Anyway, to sum it up, Matana/Dive Kadavu was FANTASTIC!!!! This trip was second only to my first trip to Fiji, which was extra special for the mere fact that it was the first Please do keep in mind that this is a comparison to Tokoriki, a much costlier resort, so the praises I make regarding Matana/Dive Kadavu should be viewed as exceptional....

As for the accommodations... Hard to believe, and I was truly shocked (and pleased), but I had the most comfortable bed I have ever slept on while on vacation. Simple thing, but greatly appreciated. We like the simplicity of the bures and the spacing of the bures, which not only provides privacy, but a sense of not being at a resort. I must say, the other guests, a maximum of 4 at any time, were a treasure as well. All were friendly and outgoing, which made for great conversation and lots of bantering. We really enjoyed the "family style" dining. Dion is not a mere cook, but a creator of delights.

I have likely gone on much more than you were expecting, but I cannot say enough or aptly express how truly wonderful it was. To highlight: Snorkeling-Phenomenal, Dining-Exceptional, Staff-The Best, Location-No Better. LOVE IT!!! What would I change?? One bure with twin beds, so that we can return that much sooner and more often!!! Seriously, Matana is, in my experience of Fijian resorts, a "startling find". At this time, I am envisioning my return and expect to do so within a year as there is lots more to explore and do there.

So, Mike, you totally aced it this time and for that I say, Vinaka Vaca Levu!!!
Most gratefully,
R. Graham
California
Kadavu Vacation

Dear Mike,
I just wanted to let you know that the arrangements you made for us to Fiji in December were excellent! Not only the personalized service you gave, but each and every concern I voiced you gave me top notch solutions and care. From the minute we stepped off the plane in Fiji to the Mercedes waiting to take us to the Warwick Resort. The Resort and the staff were 4 stars!

The follow-up call on our return to ask us our experience gave me a new belief in great service. I have used the same local Travel Agent for years without the level of service you offered long distances! Mike, you and McCoy Travel will be my new agency.

Thanks again for an excellent experience and I will be contacting you soon for our travel arrangements to Australia and again to Fiji later this year.
Sincerely,
D. Northrup
California
Fabulous Fiji

Thanks Mike,
Again, each person that worked with you was overly pleased with the process and outcome of your expertise in Travel! Thanks for being your congenial and helpful self! Also, if you had any other location suggestions to consider for a yoga retreat/vacation. Your assistance is appreciated.
K. Orenstein
Reno, Nevada
Yoga Retreat

Hello Mike,
Sorry I did not get back to you sooner, but bottom line: You did it again!! My father in-law and his friend had a wonderful time! They said everything went very smoothly, from the flight to the tranfer to the ship to the cruise itself. They relaxed, had fun and enjoyed the food. They took advantage of the island excursions, took a helicopter ride over the big island and really enjoyed watching the lava flow into the ocean. Overall it was a big sucess! They were very impressesd with the ship itself, the service and the food! I had told then to get the patch against sea sickness (the one you put behind your ear) so they did not get sick once. He called us twice from the ship to tell us what a wonderful time they were having and he is 85 years old!
Mike, thanks a million! As usual you came through for us.
We' ll let you know when we are looking at our next trip. We can' t wait to go back to Fiji....
O. and S. Steciw
Los Alto, CA
Dream Cruise

Mike,
Thank you, it is nice working with you. I am really excited about our Hawaii Cruise! I will look forward to talking with Misty tomorrow about our Activities we want to plan.
R. Thiel
Pleasantville, IA
Hawaii Cruise

Mike,
The vacation was everyting we were looking for and far beyound what we expected.
Musket Cove was great. The villa and pool on the island gave us plenty of privacy. Latter in the week we found that we would probably spend more time BBQ by the pool then we had. food and service was great. Most of the boats were not opperating. I'm sure due to being the slow part of the season. Next time would probably like to plan a 3 day trip on one of the sail boats available out of musket.
Vomo. Incredable food and unmatchable service. People were increadable.
Recreation center needs some work. One Hobbie was completely unusable and the other was close to it. The first day I toke it out the tiller brook. I did a quick repair with the main line to hold it togeather and continued sailing. It never was fixed while we were there. I talked with the recreation bure guys a couple of times about getting a bolt (which was all that was needed) to repair it. Also the recreation bure closed at 5pm. That really limited the use wiht working around the tides. Great trip and looking forward to another.
I had a guy stop me in LA because I was wearing a BULA shirt. Gave him your card. Feel free to send me more as I have had a lot of people asking us about the trip.
Thank for your efforts.
R. Richards
Fairbanks, AK
Exotic Fiji Island Escape

Thanks Brenda and Mike,
We returned last evening after a truly enjoyable and hassle-free trip to Australia. The arrangements you made were excellent. Ground transportation--excellent. Punctual, courteous drivers. I can't remember the name of the kind woman who met us at Auckland Airport (?Diane), but she was especially gracious. The Hilton Auckland is Excellent, and breakfast buffet is first rate. The Sofitel Queensland is also Excellent. Hamurana Country Estates, Rotorua. Excellent. Bucolic setting. Gracious, generous hosts, who put on an exceptional New Years Eve dinner. Highly recommend. Transportation. All excellent.
Have a Great New Year,
W. Brown
Denver, CO
Romantic South Pacific Vacation

Hi Mike,
Thanks for your stellar work on the condo. I look forward to sipping a cold drink together on Maui in March. Have a great weekend.
C. Curtin
Overland Park, KS
Maui Relaxation

Hey Mike,
Sorry we missed your call the other day. Our trip to Aussie was amazing - we almost extended while we were there, but then recalled that we have to work for a living. Thanks for all of your help!
E. Abdelnour
Houston, TX
Queensland Reef and Rainforest Trip

Mike,
I want to make sure and let you know what a great job you did handling our family vacation to Fiji. We were especially grateful for having you when we went to check in for our flight home and our seats had been pre assigned in a great spot toward the front of the plane where we could utilize the bassinet for Leo. You were not exaggerating when you said the people of Fiji were nice, they are wonderful. The Resort was wonderful and lovely, we truly did relax and enjoy our family.
Again, thank you so much and I look forward to booking our next holiday with you. I'm thinking Hawaii!
Have a wonderful Christmas and God Bless you and your family!
L. Lewandowski
Buffalo, MN
Fijian Family Getaway

Mike,
Thank you so much for coordinating our Honeymoon. The first 3 days in Hana were just what the Dr. ordered. Very laid back and so relaxing. We were amazed how serene and quiet the resort was, we also loved the fact that we didn't have to fight a large crowded resort our first few days while we unwound from the months of wedding planning and festivities.
The Spa was wonderful, the people at the resort were so very friendly and just full of the history of Hana and Hawaii in general. You were right, the beds were so comfortable and the accommodations were just perfect. We loved that we had such a spacious little bungalow and the soaking tub was a favorite of mine.
The Hyatt in Kaanapali was awesome. Gabe much preferred this type of resort to the quiet, isolation of Hana but Hana was a perfect way to start the vacation. We met some wonderful people, had some amazing food and all in all can't wait to sell off our current properties and move to Maui! Thanks again for being so flexible with us and our changing minds while planning this trip for us. We had a great time and wouldn't have changed a thing other than staying an extra week if we could have.
Mahalo!
D.& G. Pratoussy
Vancouver, WA
Maui Honeymoon

Hola Mike!
Just wanted to say Thank You again for the hook up to Bora Bora. Everything went smoothly and you did a great job for us. I'm going to be sure to recommend you and your agency to many of my friends and family to you guys. We had a great time - the island is incredible and beautiful. I only wish I could afford to go there more often. I also wish it wasn't so far away. The weather was great - it was actually cool for us dessert rats from Phoenix. The breeze really kept the humidity in check. The hotel even provided free snorkel equipment already in our bungalow. The only downside to the whole trip was the very long layovers and the cost of eating and drinking at the resort. I wish they would accept american cash from the greatest country in the world. Air New Zealand was great (although the layover was a bit long) and so was the trip and just want to say thanks again for the trip to heaven on earth. Keep up the good work and I'll get back with you on our next big trip in that area.
Later,
J. Cordova
Phoenix, AZ
Bora Bora Escape

Hi Mike,
Thanks for everything. I had a wonderful time in Australia!! Heron Island is wonderful any time of year, so I wasn’t disappointed that it was a little bit chilly. We saw whales and that is pretty special no matter what the weather is like : ) I’ll be sure to keep you posted on future travel. I’m sure that I’ll be going back to Australia and Africa has been on my short list for a very long time. I may have friend coming from Australia to visit me and if that happens, I’ll check air fare with you as well.
Thanks again for taking the time to write me!!
Have a great week,
M. Matkins
Colorado
Australian Frolic

Hello Melissa and Mike,
Our Fiji vacation was the best vacation ever! It was paradise above and under water!!
The Air Pacific flight was great as we managed to be upgraded to business class both ways, and as usual the Rosies' staff was very nice, helpful and punctual.
The resort was fabulous; the food was excellent, the villas were luxurious and the staff wonderful. They made us feel so special that we left the island with tears in our eyes. I was 5 months pregnant at the time and they spoiled me with attention.
The Island has beautiful beaches and a magnificent, unspoiled reef around it, which is wonderful to snorkel on at high tide. We also recommend the daily snorkeling trip, a round of golf on a beautifully kept golf course around papaya and coconut trees, walks around the island (approximately 1 1/2 hour, 2 hours if you' re pregnant) getting up early to watch the sunrise and cocktail hour at the Rocks restaurant at sunset.
Mike, thank you so much for recommending Fiji, we are looking forward to going back with our little one in the future. Fiji is definitely a place you go back to. This was our third trip to the Southern Hemisphere under McCoy Travel' s guidance, the second with Mike' s help, and there will be more!
O. and S. Steciw
California
Fiji Paradise

Bonjour Mike,

I just wanted to take a moment and send a thank you for your assistance in planning the perfect honeymoon!

Our trip started with us landing in Moorea and being greeted by someone immediately. At that point we were told that a swell had blown through Bora Bora and our over water bungalow had been washed away. She told me it would be taken care of, as quickly as she told me was as quickly the worry was gone-I turned to Shawn and told him how happy I was we went through a highly recommended travel agency and I knew things would be taken care of..and they were!

After we enjoyed our few days in Moorea (by luck we were approached to change to a garden bungalow for the first evening, and be upgraded to an over water bungalow the next 2 nights), we headed off to Bora Bora....AMAZING-is all I can say. I am glad things were changed around and we had the opportunity to stay at a different hotel other than Intercontinental (although Intercontinental was fabulous, variety is always good)..we ended up staying in an over water bungalow at the Lagoon Resort. We loved the Lagoon Resort, the bungalow was great and sat over the perfect coast line of a Motu off Bora Bora.

Everything went smooth, the transfers were easy and the people were very friendly. We trusted you to make our honeymoon travel arrangements fabulous, and you met all expectations, maruuru...:)

We will definitely offer high recommendations as the MaHannah's did to us about you..

Mahalo!
Mr. and Mrs. McPherson
California
Tahiti Dream Honeymoon

Bula Vinaka Mike,
How are you? The trip was a lot of fun and truly an unforgettable experience. The room at Maravu Plantation Resort was very nice, I would recommend Bure #21 to anybody who stays there, it is their newest bure and also the biggest. I wanted to thank you for matching us up with the resort and making it possible.

Thank you - Vinaka Vakalevu,
R. Morsy
Michigan
Romantic Fijian Vacation

Hi Melissa,
I’m pleased to let you know that my experience working with Mike on this trip was wonderful. He provided excellent follow up and customer service on this booking. Thanks for checking in with me on this!
Michelle M. (Denver, CO)

Hi Melissa,
Our trip to Qamea was amazing. I would highly recommend anyone to visit the resort. The staff was great, the food was exquisite, and beaches immaculate. Thanks to Mike for planning our honeymoon.
Thanks again,
Felipe M. (Covina, CA)

Mike,
Bula! We loved Fiji....................we didn't want to come back!!!!
We would have stayed loved if our kids would have been with us! Kimo wants to pack up and move there now. We met some really great friends who have invited our family to come stay in their village. We will save up for the 5 plane tickets.
Mahalo!
Andrea B. (Orem, UT)

Dear McCoy Travel,
Everything went great! Not only did Mike provide excellent service, he got us a steal on the Air Pacific tickets and the Sun Air island hopper was cheaper than catching a taxi and the ferry to Malolo LaiLai. Both airlines ran on time and provided efficient service. For your own info, I was more than pleased with Malolo LaiLai Lagoon Resort Club. This resort is at the end of the island, far enough from Musket Cove to enjoy tranquility, but close enough to access the amenities, with large self contained bures along a great beach. Our last four nights were spent on the Coral Coast at Tubakula Beach Bungalows just down the beach from the Outrigger. The roadside bungalows probably had too much traffic noise, but the grounds are spacious and the beachfront bungalows were quiet and sitting on a great stretch of sand. They are A frame style with a loft, kitchen, sleeps five and are a deal for beachfront...
Thanks again and we will send our friends your way,
Sincerely Laine P. (La Jolla, CA)

Bula Mike!
Thanks for the travel arrangements to Papageno Resort. Made for a very easy trip. Air New Zealand was awesome. Great service, great staff. We had a 2 hour delay from Nadi to LAX, they gave all passengers a $15 food coupon. Unheard of around here. A person could be stranded for hours, days, and never get an apology from the airlines. Anyways, I had a awesome time in Fiji and will return. Vinaka,
Becky K. (Reno, NV)

Hi, Melissa,
All told, we had a very good trip. Australia and California were wonderful, but you are most interested in Fiji.
The services of your company were excellent. Everything worked out as it was supposed to. Mike did a great job.
We enjoyed Fiji very much. The dive lodge was small and neat, with a good beach, just as we like it. Bob and Rena, the owners, were good hosts, and the food was good. We liked the Fijians. The diving was generally good; the most other divers on the boat besides us was one, and usually we were alone! It was the off-season, and three other divers arrived the day we left. We had some great encounters with mantas, and a few of the dive sites were truly beautiful.
Here are a few pix. The sarong is required for a visit to the village.
Thanks for all your help.
Regards,
Mike and Anne G.

Had to take the time to write to you and thank you for the wonderful package you put together for us for New Zealand and Fiji.
We had the smoothest trip we've ever had! Everyone associated with the arrangements was efficient, friendly and helpful. We loved it that we had alot of freedom but that the transfers, shuttles, flights etc were all taken care of. We had the time of our lives in Queenstown doing every extreme sport we could cram in. I even got to parasail over the city and lake like I'd hoped to do. Dan loved his bungee big time. We would have spent less time on the north island if we'd known how rural it was farther north. Beautiful but too quiet for us. That's the only change we would make though. We really enjoyed our stay at the Hideaway Resort. Rosie's travel was excellent with us except for one ride from Nadi in a coach with no suspension! Ouch. The people at the Hideaway were amazing. We met most of the people we will remember and keep in touch with there. There were too many kids at the pool but we didn't spend as much time there as I thought we would anyway. Too busy doing other things. We scuba dived for the first time and took a boat out to one of the deserted islands for the most amazing snorkeling we've ever done.

Thanks so much for all of your efforts on our behalf. It payed off big time for us and we won't forget you next time we travel.
Take care.
Shawn H.(Napa,CA)

Hope you are doing well. Jamie and I wanted to thank you for your assistance in sending us to Matamanoa. What a fantastic honeymoon!! What an amazing island!! What wonderful staff!! If I could sell everything and just live there I would in a heartbeat!

I have traveled quite extensively to different parts of the world and have never felt so welcomed. It was also the first time my wife and I have been able to travel internationally together and I don't know how we could top that. The beach front bure is a must! Our biggest challenge was adjusting from our fast paced hectic lives to "FIJI TIME!" I have to tell you when you learn to relax and just take it all in it really is amazing. The only downer of the trip was having to pack our bags and say good-bye.

The local staff made us feel at home. I could go on and on about Seko, Peter, Semi, Tom, Serilo, Anna, Rebecca, Vuni.. to name a few. The songs every night, fishing trips, basket weaving, kava ceremonies, sailing, crab racing, fijian dancing, and snorkeling filled our days with something to do when we wanted activities but the real beauty is being ok with just sitting and staring at the ocean.

I hope you have the chance to make others as happy with this trip as we were.

Thanks again,

Jeff and Jamie D. (Tallahassee, Florida)

Melissa/Mike,

I wanted to thank you and your staff for the trip to New Zealand and Tahaa that you planned for us. The trip was great and I still don’t think I have fully returned to reality yet. I was very impressed by the personal attention we received and the quality of your suggestions. I have included a few pictures for you to see.

We need a little mid year get away, that we would like your help with. We are completely flexible on dates, time and location. We are also open to the destination, any place that you would recommend..

P.S. We were the first guests to stay in the new cottage at the Grassmere Lodge (it was great).

Dave B. (Henderson, Nevada)

Arnold & Arlene D. (Annandale, VI)
click here for Bora Bora Honeymoon photos

Mike -

We had a wonderful trip to Fiji and Australia. Thank you for all of your hard work, and for making it possible. We really liked Plantation Island Resort...

We'll be in touch the next time we head to Hawaii!

Melissa McCoy,

First let me thank Mike for all his hard work and attention to detail in making our arrangements just perfect in Maui. This was a special occasion celebrating my oldest sons graduation from College at UCI. We also owed his younger brother a trip from 2 years ago when he graduated from High School. All their plans for the follow-up trip to Fiji worked out really great too. They wished they could have surfed more ... that was there only complaint. They loved the people, the resort and especially the beauty and the wonderful color of the water.

Please pass along our very special thanks to Mike and let him know our youngest son will graduate in 2 more years ... we just may need to do this again. .... and again and again and again.

Here is a picture to hang on the happy customer wall. We had a professional, Hopsing Coon come to the Hotel to shoot these for us and he was great. It is a wonderful idea to get a family picture while in Maui and may I suggest Hopsing Coon.

Best regards,

Bruce M. (Newport Beach, California)