Hospitality Business Magazine

Big changes in store for Fiji’s original resort

Crusoe’s Retreat, Fiji’s very first resort, is set to unveil a new visual identity to complement its progressive hospitality direction for 2019.

The passionate grandparents of Crusoe’s third-generation staff set the standard for the resort’s warm, welcoming, laid-back nature that guests across the world have come to know and love. This year, Crusoe’s’ management team plan to roll out a series of physical and digital renovations to propel the resort into the future while paying homage to its roots.

“With our quiet, off-the-beaten-track locale, Crusoe’s will always be popular for honeymoons and romantic holidays, but in recent years, personal and professional development bookings – such as wellness retreats and corporate team building – have skyrocketed,” says Karen Hind, Crusoe’s Retreat Business Development Manager.

“Crusoe’s is known for its down to earth demeanour – and we’re conscious not to lose that – but we felt it was time to revitalise our physical space and branding to ensure the guest experience is easy and relaxing from start to finish, whether the end goal is business, pleasure or both.”

In 2018, the resort embarked on its physical journey with pool upgrades (in Crusoe’s classic ‘barefoot’ style) and the launch of Taki Beach Bar & Grill (Crusoe’s casual bar and restaurant serving fresh local cuisine right on the beach).

“This year, we’ll be upgrading our larger shared spaces to ensure our retreat and corporate guests can fully relax, focus, motivate, slow down or connect in a truly authentic Fijian paradise,” says Karen. “We’ve hosted regular local corporate groups for some time, but from February onwards we have a number of large international companies joining us, so we’ll be working hard to execute upgrades without any disturbances to guests.”

Crusoe’s Retreat is nestled on Fiji’s famously beautiful Coral Coast and surrounded by lush jungle foliage, sun-drenched shores and towering palm trees, with a traditional village on its doorstep.

“Being so connected to our village is really special – it allows our guests to immerse themselves in the Fijian culture,” says Karen. “From language lessons, guided bush hikes and fire dancing through to lovo meals, traditionally built beach bures and our team of friendly staff (many of whom live in the village), the genuine experiences our guests’ enjoy are what sets us apart from other resorts.

“Our mission is to provide an idyllic, peaceful space to clear the mind and recharge the body through meditation or yoga, adventure, romance, nature, good food and great people. Crusoe’s is the real Fiji – where you arrive as a guest and leave as a friend – and it’s important our visual identity truly represents what we’re about. After months of planning, we look forward to sharing our new branding (including website) in the coming months.”