While most resorts on the Vava'u islands of Tonga share tranquil beauty and white sand beaches, Ika Lahi trumps with its location at a large, calm lagoon on outlying Hunga Island. Also, although service and hospitality are great at the four resorts I visited, Caroline and Steve at Ika Lahi go an extra nautical mile.
I am not a deep sea fisherman but appreciate Steve's enthusiasm for the sport--and the fruits of his outings, which grace guests' tables. He is very knowledgeable about sea creatures , shows deep concern for conservation, and adopts ethical catch-and-release practices with marlin.
Of Caroline, I must say she is a many-faceted jewel. She takes all anxiety out of meeting airline connections and making contact with whale-watching/swimming and other excursions. She anticipates needs and makes phone arrangements--a blessing especially for northern hemisphere folk whose cell phones are inoperative in Tonga. Both she and Steve provide transport to and from the lodge with their several boats. Last but most of all, Caroline is a n inventive chef with an international menu to rival the best eclectic restaurants I have experienced. Catch of the day may be mahimahi simple with a side of salsa, or Thai style with coconut cream, or curried Indian style. Salads and fruit-based desserts are culled from her garden or other local sources. A highlight was panna cotta flavored with tart mandarins. As a one-helper chef, Caroline offers an amazing variety of dishes: when I was there, three choices for appetizer, main course, and dessert. She is fun (and funny) to chat with. Ask her about some of the neglected pets she has saved. Everyone will luxuriate in the tropical splendor at Ika Lahi, but I recommend it especially to the compassionate, conservationist, and connoisseur of fine fusion food.
- Ika Lahi Hotel
- Ika Lahi Resort
