Bula Vinaka to the South Pacific ... A personal view by Andy Bialkowski.

The South Pacific is made up of diverse islands and peoples, but the one thing that is common to all, is their friendliness and genuine hospitality.

If you are looking for French Chic then the islands of French Polynesia will appeal. the beauty of Bora Bora is legendary with hotels such as the Lagoon Resort which has beautiful overwater bungalows from which you can lower yourself into the clear warm blue waters. But there are many other delightful islands equally enthralling such as, Raiatea. Moorea or Huahine. You can of course also visit New Caledonia a short 2 hour flight from the Australian mainland which also offers beautiful scenery and fabulous cuisine. Fiji has many excellent hotel like the Sheraton Resorts complex at Denerau, you can choose from the Villas beautiful equipped with large bathrooms and comfortable seating ares, the original Sheraton Royal decorated in traditional Fijian style and the Sheraton Fiji Resort Hotel set amid lush tropical gardens.

Perhaps you would prefer to stay on one of the small outer islands with pure white sand beaches and the whole island to explore, such as Castaway. Mana, Malolo or if your pocket can stretch to it the ultimate island retreat Vatulele where nothing is to much trouble, hoist your room service flag and they will come to you champagne in hand just in case you need a drink.

Perhaps you would prefer the Cook Islands, Rarotonga is the epitome of a laid back small Pacific island 45 minutes will take you right round the island. You can stay in first class hotels like the Pacific resort which is set on one of the loveliest beaches in Rarotonga amid glorious tropical gardens, the rooms opening out onto the beach or gardens all beautifully furnished and a haven if the sun is to strong. If you prefer self catering accommodation there is none better than Sea Change. Each villa has its own small pool and spacious deck space to lounge on set right on the beach. Fully equipped with huge fridge, cooker, microwave the very best self catering accomodation you could wish for. No stay in the Cook Islands would be complete without a visit to the stunning island of Aitutaki, the lagoon is one of the most beautiful sights you will ever see, the colour of the water is just beyond belief. Staying on the island at either the Lagoon Resort Hotel with its overwater bungalows or garden villas, looking out on to the warm blue waters of the lagoon has to be one of the most romantic places to be. The island of Tonga is small and tranquil, if you hit the island at the right time of year you may be able to swim with the whales on their migration north. Samoa is another idyllic destination with white powder beaches, azure blue seas and great swimming in waters so warm you will not want to get out.

If you really want to switch off and leave the rat race behind these islands will recharge your batteries and restore your well being. Most of the resort hotels have spas that can revitalise you in stunning surroundings. Each and every island has something different to offer, but all have one thing in common to make your stay as memorable as possible and I am sure that they will leave you with a feeling of well being that will live long in the memory.