The Heli-Tour that we experienced was like flying through the pages of the National Geographic magazine!
I decided to do something unique and arranged to charter a helicopter with Heli-tours. With the help of owner/pilot, Tim Joyce, we planned an incredible tour that covered the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands and a Mount Evans.
Highlights: It was a beautiful day for flying and we were in for a amazing tour filled with stunning views of the sensational coral reefs, brilliant crystal blue water, an occasional turtle, capitvating white sand beaches, dramatic rock formations, deep gorges with lush tropical life and breathtaking waterfalls. Now, we know where the movies, Blue Lagoon and Tom Hanks, Cast Away, were filmed. As we flew over Monuriki (often referred to as Castaway Island), we tried, but were unable to find Wilson. Amazon.com actually sells Wilson Sporting Goods volleyballs, identical to Tom Hanks's Cast Away 'co-star', Wilson. Yes. Wilson's 'face' is printed on the volleyball.
It is difficult to describe beauty that is, quite frankly, indescribable, or an experience that takes your breathaway the moment you step into the helicopter. If this is your first visit to Fiji, you will fall in love with her; if you already love Fiji, your appreciation for her natural beauty will only deepen.
Safety: We felt comfortable and confident selecting Heli-Tour. Both the owner, Tim Joyce and Tyson, the pilot that took us on our tour, came highly recommended.
In restrospect: There are 3 things that I wish I had done:
1) Read up on the islands that we were flying over; although, Tyson did a very good job of sharing interesting facts of the islands throughout the entire tour.
2) Arranged a tour like this one with our daughter.
3) Arranged to do this as soon as I landed in Fiji.
Suggestion: If you are visiting the Fiji Islands and want this to be the vacation that tops all other vacations, schedule a Heli-Tour. Don't leave the Islands without getting an aerial helicopter view of Fiji's phenomenal beauty. If you want to plan the perfect setting to 'pop the question' but lack creativity contact Tim. He did such a great job helping me plan our tour, I am confident that he can assist you planning a heart-stopping, mind-blogging, fantastic tour. Cheers!