|
|
 |
| |
|
|
A lucky and astounding find. My husband’s 60th birthday was planned for Fiji, but then a cyclone hit. Luckily an acquaintance from the Monterey Bay Aquarium told us a MUST is to go to Moody's Namena. The diving and snorkeling were the best we've done and probably ever will. The island itself is like something out of a dream. We had a wonderful time making new friends, visiting and talking. The staff are the liveliest people . We couldn't have imagined having come to Fiji and not have come here. Thank you Tom!
Marcy & Mark Osterkamp, California - January 2013
Thanks to everyone at Namena for making our holiday here so special . The snorkeling, the food, the walks, the birds and the bures are fabulous. But mostly is the wonderful people we met here that made it so special. You treated us with guest care and consideration.
Vinaka Vakalevu!!
Jo-Anne & Doug, Australia - November 2012
Thank you so much for the wonderful hospitality. Everyone has been great, incredibly professional and supportive.
Namena is a special place and will remain so in my heart. Hope to be back soon!
Thank you everyone.
Much love
Tom Crowley, BBC - September 2012
Thank you Tom and the staff for two wonderful weeks.
The diving, the lunch on Nautilus beach, the kava night, the birthday cake…and much more!
Vinaka
Daniel & Patricia, Switzerland - June 2012
Namena is a very special place run by very special people. It is an oasis of God’s beautiful creation and I know it being look after by caring people. I enjoyed sharing Tom’s life adventures over meal times. His only omission is a visit to New Zealand. Thank you Nigel and staff for looking after me. I plan to be back soon. The e diving is the best.
With fondest memories,
Lindon Sizemore, Dunedin, NZ - August 2011
We came wanting a quiet, time to ourselves, superb diving, lovely food, diet coke and wind down time. We got all that- Thank you
Our manta experience was the best and the dive team were terrific.
All the team were responsive, friendly, warm and thoughtful.
Thank you for a lovely week. You exceeded our expectations.
Anne Riches & Mark Patterson, Sydney, Australia - January 2011
This is a very special people and we will always remember our stay here. As if to say goodbye a whale came past our bure at sunrise and breathed several times. The diving was spectacular, the island is a jewel, but most of all the people who made us feel so welcome, make this one of the most memorable times in our lives. We hope to come back again before too long.
With much love,
Steve and Margo Govin, USA - October 2010
"Since we Brits have a reputation for being understated and conservative, here is an understated and conservative assessment of our stay:
We have just had the most fantastic, wonderful, indescribably superb, interesting, entertaining, awesome, magical, incredible, great, perfect 10 day stay. The diving has been the best we have had anywhere in the world. Thank you everyone at Moodys --- it really was quite, awfully nice".
Alan & Lindsay, UK - October 2008
Note: Under Favorite Links check out TripAdvisor reviews
"Tom & Joan, What you have created here is unique and magical. Those of us priviledged to share your paradise are fortunate beyond measure. Our second visit is even more wonderful, which we wouldn't have thought possible - we only knew we must return again and again. One must be here, and return, to allow the senses to absorb, minute by minute, the greatest reef, most beautiful island, and most wonderful ambience we have seen (in 47 years of searching). Until next time - we appreciate your vision and tenacity!"
Letty & Ned, California - October 2008
"We so enjoyed watching the boobies bicker as they built their nests. This is really the Galapagos of the South Pacific. I just got certified for SCUBA and the dive guys were great in introducing me to the bommies and walls. The red and purple anthias were truly spectacular. But best of all was NO TV and no Blackberry service. We have never seen so many stars. It is easy to see why honeymooners come here!!!"
Kathy & Mitch, Texas - October 2008
"We love the fact that there is no TV! Actually we just love Moodys!! It was our third trip here and definitely won't be our last. Thank you, Joan, for arranging good weather for us this time. P.S. Probably see you next year".
Steve & Jan, CA USA - November 2008
"Thank you for making our honeymoon one we will never forget!! The amazing weather, sunrises, sunsets, breath-taking views (both above and below sea), the wonderful staff all made our stay above  and beyond our hopes, dreams & desires for our first vacation as a happily married couple and we plan on saving our pennies and directing our memories towards Moody's Namena until we return. Thank you so very much. We were truly blessed and ever thankful".
Tyler & Alicia, Oregon USA - November 2008
"Thank you for sharing your wonderful island home with us. We spent considerable time choosing our vacation destination before settling on Moody's Namena, and we certainly weren't disappointed. We wanted peace, quiet, relaxation and to recharge our batteries. We got all that and wonderful views, crystal clear water and fantastic weather. Joan was great to liaise with regarding my gluten free diet and I felt comfortable that all was taken care of with each meal. Your wonderful staff deserves mention as well - they were all fantastic. A special mention must go to Nigel, Kiri and Charlie - thank you everyone! We'll be sad to leave but hopefully we'll return one day for a longer stay".
Shane & Michelle, Brisbane - November 2008
"We had the most spectacular dive of our lives today! Everyone on your staff contributed to make our stay wonderful and fun - including the volleyball game. Jon was here 18 years ago and has been trying to get back ever since. It was well worth the effort and we hope to be back again soon".
Debi & Jon, San Diego - November 2008
"Shaun & I came to Fiji on our honeymoon expecting to find crystal clear waters, colorful fish and sunshine. We found this, of course, but we also found so much more. We found a wonderful family who are so kind and generous and dedicated to making each person's stay unique and fulfilling all their expectations and desires. We found friendly conversations and a family atmosphere here which was such an unexpected surpise to us. We were welcomed and felt truly honored to be a part of the Moody family during our 10 days here. A special thanks to all the staff who work tirelessly and always offer a smile - especially Kiri".
Shaun & Carolin, Perth, Australia - November 2008
"First of all, let us say thank you, thank you, thank you! Our time here has exceeded our expectations - we have truly found paradise. With your warm staff, great food, and sublime diving, you have covered everything we have been looking for. From the amazing sunsets to the glowing stars, the island has been great to us and for that we look forward to our future return. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality. We seem to have found our second home".
Nicole & Matt, Arizona, USA - November 2008
"We were privileged to be amongst some of Tom and Joan's earliest guests when we came from Suva in February 1985. Our problem is that it has taken so long to get back. Vinaka vakalevu Tom and Joan. You have worked miracles setting up a fabulous home here on Namena and it's been fun being part of it these least few wonderful days. The magic remains after all these years and the very special memories will live on, especially of that shark ... Thank you ever so much for such a relaxing and enjoyable stay. It certainly will be one which I won't forget. Please don't make me go back to reality!"
John, Sheila, Joe and Viki, UK - November 2008 ***
***Comment: John worked for the NLTB back in the early '80's and assisted Tom getting a native lease on Namenalala Island. Thanks, John, it was great reliving old memories. Tom & Joan
"Thank you for having the vision to create such a magnificent place to be. How fortunate we are to have been able to stay here. The diving was superb, the staff was superb, the accommodation was superb and the food was superb. We loved spending time listening to Tom's stories and wisdom and knowledge. Joanne, you run this place efficiently".
Carolee & Roger, California - October 2008
"What a magical place to spend one's honeymoon ... We found out about Namena through Mark's aunt's advice and listened to it rather blindly, and we can't believe our good fortune that we did! The experience was perfect - rustic elegance, we call it. The diving was out of this world and we can't thank Nigel and George enough for taking such good care of novice divers. The food was incredible and our mouths watered for each meal (and the picnic was terrific). Our bure was ideal and the company was perfection. Vinaka, vinaka, vinaka ... and we can't wait to return. Till then ---"
Mark & Jordana, Los Angeles, CA - September 2008
"We've spent an unbelievably wonderful time here - the hosts, the staff, the island - Wow! We loved it the first day and the place just continued to grow on us as each moment passed. By the end of our stay we were wishing we could stay longer; alas, we have to settle for dreams of a prompt return. Thank you all for making us feel so at home. Vinaka vakalevu".
Ronald & Melanie, Cincinnati, Ohio - September 2008
"After three years it is nice to see that nothing has changed. A very special place and very special people - all of them. Vinaka vakalevu".
David, Larry Green, UK - September 2008
 "Namena - wonderful place! Great Staff! What a place for a vacation. There are not enough words to say. We had a fantastic time. Thanks for the hospitality and atmosphere".
Rob & Peggy, Ohio, USA - September 2008
"Quite an experience from our initial adventure of getting here, by plane, taxi and then the long choppy boat ride to the island. The island is something, secluded, natural, full of birds and wildlife. The sunsets, the blue water, the bures all as if a dream. I guess Tom & Joan's dream came true. Thanks for sharing your dream with us. The staff was very friendly and always cheerful and helpful. The food was excellent. The diving spectacular. Special thanks to Nigel, George & Kini".
Tim & Terri, Loveland, Ohio - September 2008
"Thank you for sharing Namena. We will never forget the beauty, peace and kindness shared with us. Always Moody's Namena will hold a special place in our souls. I am determined to be good so I can go to Namena again, again & again. The help in diving was invaluable and sincere. Before you see me again I will be here frequently in my mind. Tom and Joan, everyone made us feel so welcome. Vinaka".
Kathy & James, Ammannsville, Texas - September 2008
"To experience Tom's childhood dream is a special treat. You have created a beautiful, peaceful oasis for others to experience and continue to dream about and continue to revisit through pictures and memories. The entire staff have been gracious and created an environment for total relaxation. Diving was remarkable. Thanks to Nigel, George and the diving crew for their patience and attention to safety. Great food, beautiful flowers and pleasant interaction".
Linda & Paul, Williamsburg, Virginia - September 2008
"We'd like to thank you and all your staff very, very much for your warm-hearted welcome and those unforgettable dogs. There were many elements making this a finely unique experience, very different from what you can expect from a 'standard resort'. The consistent smiles of the staff, the long and very interesting discussions during mealtime, the beautiful nature of your island, the fabulous food (discovering loads of new things) ... the list could go on for a long time. We wish all of you the very best for the future and for preserving this little paradise for a long time - as you've managed to do so thoughtfully and skillfully".
Nadia & Marc, Switzerland - September 2008
"Wow, what great cooks! Thanks so much for the fish and taro greens especially! We loved the diving and the walls & soft corals. Nice fish. Great birds, the honeyeater, the goshawk. Most of all, what you have done to preserve this beautiful place and getting the reserve status. What a wonderful place to watch the hawksbill swimming below Nautilus Bure. Thank you for the warm hospitality and the kava party. See you next year".
Carol & Clint, USA - August 2008
 "We were both touched by the kindness and graciousness of the islanders. Tom and Joan have created a special place where for a brief time we can be reminded of what is truly essential in our lives ... the rising & setting of the sun, the rhythm of the ocean - the richness of being present. Thank you for that gift".
Diane & Terence, Bloomington, Indiana, USA - August 2008
"Helicopter seeds to greet us, lightning to brighten evening skies, Moody's you think of everything. Thanks for sharing your amazing home. Top staff and friendly fruit bats & much, much more".
Norma & Carol, USA - August 2008
"We wanted quiet & relaxing and that's what we got. We were looked after so well by all the staff. The diving was the most colorful that Nick had ever experienced. We loved exploring the island and walked all the trails. We're working on the world record for circumnavigating the island by kayak! The bures are so cleverly designed and we appreciated the many thoughtful details. Next time we'll shook for Nautilus Bure with its wonderful view over Nautilus Beach".
Mara & Nick, Redondo Beach, California - August 2008
"Thanks to the entire staff at Moody's. We had a wonderful time exploring the island and reef. Ben was so happy to rediscover his love of diving. We've also never had such a wonderful time doing absolutely nothing. We can hardly wait to plan our next visit here. Thank you again for creating such a wonderful place".
Carey & Ben, USA - August 2008
"Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful island and home with us. We feel so lucky to have spent this week here. We wish we could stay. Hopefully we'll be back someday. It has been such a perfect spot to spend our honeymoon. We will always remember the views, the snorkeling adventures and the always interesting stories and conversations at mealtime. Thanks also to your wonderful staff".
Rachel & Michael, USA - August 2008
"A magical place. A magical time. Pristine reefs. Rainbow corals, rainbow skies, sharks, schools of barracuda, one-eyed jacks, parrot fish - lion leaf fish - a white tailed tropic bird hovering - a whale. Warm gracious smiles, soft singing, graceful hospitality, flower arrangements, braided netting..... Feasts for the eyes and for the soul. And our stomachs - all delicious, unique and comforting. Thanks to all for filling our souls".
Paul & Judy, USA - August 2008
"What a wonderful experience - great diving and dive staff, wonderful house and fine story-telling by Tom. This was the best stop on our Fiji trip and we had a marvelous week. The staff and management are wonderful, the island is a rare treat. This is a rare and special place. A true tropical paradise. Diving is magical with a crew that is attentive and safety conscious. Soft corals and overall marine life is spectacular. More sharks than you can count! The relaxed pace and warmth of the whole staff makes this a unique time. It may be half-way around the world, but well worth the travel time".
Jon & Linda, Sands Point, NY, USA - July 2008
"Our best visit ever! It was great for us and the boys to spend quality time with Mom & Dad. We enjoyed every minute of our time together. Also had fun with the group of guests on the island with us. Thanks to all the staff for all the special things they did with us (especially the fishing). Mom & Dad, you made this the best visit ever! Thanks for all the special attention".
Marijo, Mitch, Kirk & Keith, Houston, Pennsylvania - June 2008
(our daughter, son-in-law and grandsons)
"We were drawn to Namena by the diving, but discovered that there is so much more. First of all, what a treat getting to know ALL the Moodys. We loved hearing all of the history and the accumulated wisdom. The diving was beautiful with diverse healthy reefs. We also thoroughly enjoyed exploring the land portions of the island. We loved the goofy looking baby boobies. Every aspect of our stay here has been special and memorable. Thank you Tom and Joan for putting your hearts and souls into Namena and allowing us to benefit from your years of dedication. Thanks you to all the staff who are so friendly and gracious. Thank you to Marijo and family for enriching our experience. You are all such wonderful people. It has been a joy spending a week here".
Sally & Chris, USA - June 2008
**Note: There were quite a few guests here when our daughter Marijo and family visited us. Marijo grew up on a tiny 3 acre island in the San Blas Islands off Panama back in the '70's where we built our first resort. The stories she told our guests while visiting us enhanced their lives hearing her stories of growing up on a very remote island in the midst of a Cuna Indian Reserve where she learned enough of their dialect to bridge the language barriers between English and Cuna.
Joan & Tom
"Thank you for your hospitality. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and had a great time meeting your family and hearing about the history of Moodys. The dive sites and your dive staff were world-class. Thanks to this trip we will always remember that it's possible to disconnect, relax, use less and have a great time. Simplicity and conservation".
Fred & Stacy, Virginia, USA - June 2008
"What a way to spend a honeymoon! From exploring the depths of the Namena reef to hiking up and down the dragon's spine, we have enjoyed every minute. You and your exceptional staff have made us feel pampered and at home from the moment we stepped on the jetty. It has been an unforgettable experience full of beauty, laughter and romance. We've loved our delicious and multi-course meals that were always accompanied by hilarious anecdotes and we feel honored to have met Marijo, Mitch, Maryann, Keith and Kirk. The family clearly is a source of joy and the celebratory attitude was very contagious. We cannot think of a better way to start our journey through life together than here at Moodys".
Dan & Sienna USA - June 2008
"Thank you for 5 days of extraordinary rest and renewal. Ania and I knew this was just the place to be when the boat neared the island for the first time and we could see the reefs, the birds and the bures perched high on the bluffs. Thank you Tom for your stories and wisdom, to Joan & Lil for ensuring it all happened despite the short notice and for your company at dinner & lunch. Tom is like a guy out of a book - a novel that is clearly still being written. I enjoyed every minute of his company. Thanks to Nigel for his guidance and smarts during dives and kava night, to George for patience showing me how to snorkel, to Charlie for his guitar playing, to John for his good humor......"
Angus & Ania, Canada - January 2008
"You really have created something special at Namena. Well, obviously, nature played a part as well, but you've made it possible for all the rest of us to effortlessly enjoy a taste of paradise. But we can see that's only come about with unrelenting hard work from the two of you. I hope you get huge satisfaction from seeing the delight of what seems to be everyone who comes to stay. We're determined to come back and swim with the manta rays again. For both of us, the half hour yesterday spent underwater with two giant mantas gliding all around us was one of the best moments on any holiday we ever expect to have".
Nick & Orla, Topanga, CA - December 2007
"To the entire Moody crew:
When we arrived we thought 7 days would be too long, when we left we knew it had been too short! The quality of the diving was matched by the quality of all the dive & boat crew. All of the staff are fantastic and we hope that one day someone will make a movie about the 'Moody's'. It has been a privilege to stay here and I can't wait to tell the world about Moody's Namena. We wanted somewhere very special to celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. We found it!"
Steve & Lyndal, Birmingham, UK - December 2007
"Whenever we come to Namena, it is always an experience that not only gives us the peace and relaxation we crave, but it reminds us about the important things in life. Here with Tom and Joan we feel as if we are at home, family members, not just guests. We love everything about Namena, it's beauty above and underwater, the people, and the experiences - it keeps us coming back and wish we could live here year around ... who knows what the future will bring. Special thanks to Tom for his stories, John for his friendliness and cooking, Joan for her sense of humor and Lily for making us feel at home - and for the rest of the staff who kept everything running smoothly with a smile. One thing is certain: we will be back".
Franck & Vanessa, Atlanta, USA & Biarritz, France - November 2007
"This was our second trip to Moody's, our first being in 2002. This is the only place we have ever stayed which has made us feel like guests in a home rather than guests in a resort. This place is one of the most unique and exceptional places in the world. Whether we were hiking, swimming, snorkeling, reading or just sitting on a beach we weren't just seeing unspoiled nature - we felt like part of it. Thanks for the perfect vacation".
John & Irma, Richland, Washington - November 2007
"Many thought we were mad to stay at an island for 2 weeks but I went with my instincts. Bruce and I needed a holiday and we got one. Reef and fish were spectacular, Tom and Joan & Lil were welcoming and the conversation scintillating. The staff were great fun (we need to improve our volleyball technique). We didn't expect to be alone but we had the whole island to ourselves. We wish you all the best and hope many more people can appreciate the simple pleasures of life".
Lyn & Bruce, NSW Australia - November 2007
"Ten years ago we honeymooned at your island, and for ten years, talked about coming back 'someday'. Well, finally, we made it back. We can honestly say that it was even better the second time around, and we didn't even know that was possible! The diving - spectacular; staff - warm, friendly and incredibly accommodating, and Tom and Joan, well, it just felt like we were here visiting family. You both are wonderful hosts with stories that could keep me sitting at the table all night. We hope to return soon - certainly in less than another ten years and we hope we come back to see you both in great health and as lively and 'spunky' as you are today".
Rob and Jenn, NY - October 2007
|
|
 |
|
| |
|
