For over a decade, a destination sat on the top of my bucket list – an island so mysteriously beautiful, almost feeling celestial and unable to exist. That place is Comorocala Island in Fiji. My husband, Anush and I finally had the opportunity to experience it, and even now we wonder if it was just a dream.
Touchdown
Our journey began at Nadi Airport, where Como Laucala welcomed us into its new private hangar and took a light coffee table before taking us to a private jet for a short, scenic 50-minute flight. From above, the island resort looks like a floating Garden of Eden – dense rainforest, sugar-white beaches and a reef surrounded by endless blue.
Upon arrival we were greeted with warm smiles from the staff, and Jordan tau (Fijians are “friends”), over the next few days, drive us to our island home. We arrived at our one-bedroom plantation villa, a Fijian-style bure seamlessly blend of rustic design with modern comfort. This space is flawless: soaring thatched ceilings, carved wood details and an indoor and outdoor living area open to the private garden. Our private paradise even includes an infinity pool, outdoor bathroom and sofa bed.
The first night set the tone. Sunsetists at Cliffside Rock Lounge give way to cultural nights, and we join the locals in the tradition Kava Ceremony, watching Mek Dance and tasting Love Feast – The wood and root vegetables are slow cooked underground until soft and smoky. This is heartfelt, original, and completely unforgettable.
Flavor and Flow Day
Thanks to Jet Lag, we rose with the sun the next morning. In our villa, Soko brought us a vibrant extension before we headed to the plantation for breakfast. The chef's “tau tray” offers a tasting of the kitchen's favorite specialties in a small section. Coconut chia pudding and fresh fruit are my favorites, but what I look forward to most every morning is the whole jam, nut butter, curd and the changes in the pastry of the day.
Later, we hang out by the largest spectacular swimming pool in the South Pacific. With its layers of circle pools, lagoons and glass walls, each angle feels like a postcard. After lunch, Executive Chef Dan took us on a farm tour showing how the island grows almost all its own produce. From hydroponic herbs to your own poultry farm, the level of self-sufficiency is encouraging and every meal becomes fresher. That night we wandered around the seaweed bar before a delicious Thai dinner. From that night, I still dreamt of Thai and Pandan mango sticky rice pudding.
Adventure to the surroundings
Como, Laucara Island, was the first resort I have ever visited.All inclusive“After its name – from private dining to daily activities. After a happy Como Sambara massage at the spa, we headed to the lagoon. There, we took a guided Jet-Ski tour, exploring the island's shoreline and Ombré Blues in the lagoon.
Later, I realized a long-term dream through a guided horse riding. We ran past the coconut plantation, canned the beach, and finally poured the saddle into the sea. The moment my horse begins swimming will be forever etched into my memory. That night, the resort’s weekly curry night offered another feast, fresh Fijian barbecue and spiced chicken curry stole the show.
Entering the heart of the island
Aspire to join Gary on one of the island’s favorite hikes and Gary General Manager. The trail lingers in the rainforest with birds singing, thus enjoying views of Laukara and nearby Qamea.
Back at the villa we chose a simple private beach picnic. Holding cold fresh mango juice in hand, a bowl Kokoda (Fijian Fish Ceviche) and the sea at our feet, we have everything we need. It's a relaxing meal that matches the environment: fresh, unquestionably and incredibly special.
That night unfolded like a love letter to Fiji: a sunset cruise with champagne fuel Rere AhiIt's a classic 1970s sailing boat followed by a private toe and barbecue arranged by the Jordan and Tau team. For me, a flower crown, a thunder for Anush, live island music and dinner roasted in front of us, it was pure magic.
Sota Story, Until Next
There was no alarm on our last morning. Como Laucala didn’t perform a strict check-in or checkout schedule, so we hang out in the pool, wandered on the beach, and tasted our last moments in heaven.
What's really compelling about the resort is that the feeling of the entire island is just for you. This is by far the most private resort we have ever stayed in – even at restaurants or events, you rarely cross the road with other guests. But it's more than privacy; it feels private, as if every employee is there just to make your stay extraordinary. They satisfy our preferences easily, speak to us by name, and always greet us with a warm smile. The conversation about our day felt sincere, never composed, and their concentration made every moment take care of.
Como Laucala Island is beyond one place. It is a world of its own, complete in its retreat, customized in adventures, and unforgettable due to its people. It will remain one of our greatest travel experiences and I can’t wait to repeat it. Although leaving is bittersweet, I know it's not goodbye, only Sota Storyuntil we meet again.
About the Author: Jyotsna Shankar is a San Francisco-based content creator who has been searching for her next tropical island adventure. follow @jyo_shankar Used for bucket list destinations, luxury hotels and travel tips. To view Jyo's perfect beach vacation package list, read her Tropical Essentials Guide.
