Expert: Mick Maurer - 10/2/2001

Question
We have found private accom. but not sure how to check them out from an unbiased person.Is it better to stay at a hotel for 2 wks or to find our own private place? What about bugs? Is any part of the Island better?(prettier?)What about food compared to Canada?What to pack? Is this going to get us the best bang for our buck? Do you have any other suggestions?We have $4000.00 for air and accom.for the 2 of us.We would like quiet & warm & clean, walking to or on the beach. We have never been on a vacation. He is 41,I am 30ish.Like swimming,walking,(we both smoke and like our Canadian Beer)not saying we are lushes.Any info you can give us is appreciated. Jacalyn&Darcy

Answer
Jacalyn:
Private accom will give you a better price but you should ask the individual for references from people you can call in advance to make sure your money doesnt go south. For a first vacation, I am not sure I would recommend the Cooks.  It is so laid back that you almost need some experience traveling to get a quality experience.  The South part of the island has the best beaches. If you have $4,000 Canadian it is going to be a bit tough to find two weeks including air.  The food is a lot of fruit, vegies and fish but you can find restaurants serving anything from steak to pizza.  If you would like to consider some place else, I have some excellent deals on Fiji right now and that sounds more like what you are looking for, swimming, walking, quiet and warm.  You can email me directly at Aussiemick@aol.com