Vale Oasis Insights

Vale Oasis Guest Guide by Andy Mundell

This is your Handbook for House Operations & Utilities; Guest Services; House Rules; Local Amenities, and to know what to expect ahead of and during your stay.


Getting Here

Visit malolocat.com to book your transfers to/from Port Denarau (Nadi) and Musket Cove. (Once booked, please advise us your scheduled sailing times so we can inform the Resort when to expect you to check-in/out.)

Upon arriving at Nadi International airport you can either catch Malolo Cat's free, connecting courtesy shuttle (information on Malolo Cat website) or take a cab if you wish to stop to do shopping along the way. The cost of a taxi from Nadi Airport to Port Denarau is around FJD$50. Drive time is around 25mins (if not stopping).

If your flight arrives into Nadi after 4pm you'll need to stay overnight in Nadi. Advise Malolo Cat where you're staying and they can collect you the next day.


'The Trader' General Store at Musket Cove is a small supermarket that's well stocked with most things you'll need. This includes local produce, meat, fish & poultry, dairy, bread, canned and packet foods, spices, juices, and most other things you'd expect to find in a general store.  It's a short 5 mins stroll from Vale Oasis and we find it more than sufficient for self catering while living on the island. However, if you have very specific, high volume or budget conscious dietary needs, then visiting a supermarket in Nadi will be worthwhile. I'd recommend NewWorld near Nadi Airport, or NewWorld Nadi Plaza before heading to Port Denarau.


Once you arrive at Port Denarau make your way to the Malolo Cat counter where you will check-in for your scheduled sailing to Musket Cove Resort. If you have a bit of time up your sleeve before boarding, there's some great places to eat lunch. The shops are also worth exploring. Especially for beachwear and local fashions. There's a small supermarket here too (Less variety and higher prices than supermarkets in town, but super convenient!).


50 minutes after departing Port Denarau, Malolo Cat will stop to disembark Plantation Resort and Lomani Resort passengers. Remain on board to continue to Musket Cove.

You will be greeted on arrival and will check-in at reception like other Resort guests. Once you're checked in, the Resort will transport you and your luggage to Vale Oasis to settle you in.


Check-in from 2:00pm.
Check-out by 10:00am.



Guest Services


When checking-in you'll set up your account allowing you to charge your purchases (dining/bar/shops/etc..) to be settled when you check-out. You can also use cards or cash around the Resort if preferred (+ there's an ATM on site if you need it). Your charge account can only be used at Musket Cove Resort. If visiting Plantation or Lomani Resorts you'll need your credit card to make any purchases as they do not accept cash.


We're so fortunate to have Resort living right on our doorstep and we're incredibly grateful for the service that Musket Cove Resort extends to our guests. They'll treat you like a Resort guest and will go out of their way to make your stay as perfect as can be. The hospitality you'll receive is genuine. It isn't something they're obliged to do. This relationship is very important to us and we ask you to please respect it. When the Resort is busy please allow Musket Cove's guests to have priority use of all Resort facilities, including cabanas and sun lounges, restaurant seating, water sports equipment, etc..


Housekeeping is NOT included in your nightly rate. You will find the house clean and tidy on arrival – all beds made up with clean linen, and fresh towels (including pool/beach towels) to use for your stay. (Additional towels can be found in the linen cupboard if needed).

You'll discover the house is very easy to keep clean. There's a broom, vacuum cleaner, brush & shovel and cleaning products hiding in the broom cupboard in the master bedroom, and/or the laundry, and/or under the kitchen bench.

If you wish to have daily or periodic housekeeping services then this will need to be arranged in advance with the Resort, with applicable surcharges payable to them. Let us know if this is something you'll require and we will discuss arrangements and options with the Resort to extend this service.



Vale Oasis: Utilities, Amenities & House Rules

The small white/red router on the shelf above the desk uses Vodafone-Fiji's prepaid 4G data service.

Wifi Router Name: ValeOasis
Wifi Password: (advised to you via email)

The router powers off when idle for an extended time. If it is off, press the button on the front face to start it. (Also check that the power socket is plugged in and switched on at the wall). The button on the top of the router cycles through functions displayed on the router LCD screen.

Troubleshooting:

Cannot find/connect to wifi: Step 1 is always to restart the router. Use the front and top buttons to find the reboot function. If all else fails contact Andy via phone/whatsapp or SMS on +64-21-826972, or email andy@valeoasis.com

No internet service: If you can connect to wifi but there is no internet service, it's likely that a data top-up is required. We endeavour to keep on top of this. However if you run out of data then either reach out to us and we'll happily add data for you, or you can immediately solve it by visiting: https://www.vodafone.com.fj/my-vodafone/web-top-up. Enter the device number: 9341968 and select a top-up amount (n.b. FJ$50 top-up is usually sufficient to stream music and video for a full week or more). The modem will need to be restarted to activate the top-up.

Alternate connections: If you are unable to connect to the router, activate Mobile Hotspot Tethering on your phone to use it as a temporary wifi connection. Most NZ and AU mobile carriers extend data roaming to Fiji for little or no extra cost. Musket Cove Resort also provides wifi, however it does not extend as far as the house. Ask at reception for details and costs if needed.


Vale Oasis has three independent water sources.

  1. The two large white tanks at the rear of the house supply internal faucets, showers, kitchen and laundry.
  2. We are also connected to the Resort's main bore & catchment supply. This permanently supplies the toilets, outside faucets and pool. It is also used as our backup supply if tanks run low during drought periods.
  3. The green tank at the rear of the house is our dedicated drinking water supply.


The water spout on the left side of the kitchen sink is drinking water. This is filtered rain water and is completely safe to drink. This is drawn using an independent pump and plumbing from a dedicated tank through 3 filters (including a 1 micron charcoal filter) to remove any particulates, parasites or bacteria.


Our solar water-heating system on the roof supplies ample hot water for multiple daily showers. If the weather has been cloudy for a couple of days then the water temperature will diminish. If the temperature is no longer sufficient you can resolve this by activating the back up electric heating. This is done from the switchboard located at the back of the top shelf in the linen cupboard (next to the laundry). The trip-switch will be easy to see on the switchboard as it will be the only one that's off. If you do this then please ensure you deactivate it again when the weather improves, or before you depart.


Malolo Lailai has it's own power generation supplying 240 Volt AC power throughout the island. Sockets are 3 pin plugs (same as Australia/New Zealand). The power supply is consistent and reliable with two large Catapillar diesel generators producing ample load capacity and redundancy. Power is expensive on the island so please be conscious of this when running high power drain appliances.


Both bedrooms have air conditioning units. For the A/C to be effective at cooling the bedroom, you must close the bedroom's internal doors & window shutters and turn off the ceiling fan. (note: The A/C IR receiver in the second bedroom is faulty and not receiving RC commands. You can activate the A/C unit by pressing the small button on the front-face panel).

A/C is very power intensive so please limit use only to cool bedrooms when needed for sleeping and switch off at all other times.


On arrival the lawns/gardens will be tidy and the swimming pool clean and full. In order to maintain this during high occupancy periods, a grounds keeper or pool attendant may arrive periodically to perform brief maintenance tasks. If the timing isn't convenient, let them know and they will be happy to come at a time that suits you.


The pool is not fenced. If you have small children be aware that you will need to monitor them at all times. The pool is not deep (1.5m / 5ft) so diving is not recommended.

 

For perfect star gazing you can deactivate the pool light and outdoor sensor lights with the switch on the bannister-post (right-side of bottom-step on the pool deck). The view of the Milkyway galaxy on a moonless, clear night is a truely breathtaking, if not life-changing, experience


There's bins at the end of the concrete driveway behind the little rock wall. The Resort supports recycling so please be sure to put your rubbish in the correct bins for weekly collection.


The garage and locked cupboards in the house are used for home owners personal belongings - Please respect. 


Use the washer & dryer at your discretion. Always keep the laundry doors open when using the washing machine or dryer to allow humidity to escape. Washing powder can be purchased from The Trader if needed. You may need to switch the power on at the wall socket first before using. Please switch off again before you leave.


The portable bluetooth speaker outputs an impressive, high quality sound. Turn it on to pair and connect your device to "Hyperboom". See the set up guide if required.

Please do not remove the speaker from the property.


In order to use the Smart TV you will need to connect it to WIFI or connect it to your phone hotspot. You can then connect to Netflix or other streaming services


The stove has one electric hotplate and 3 gas hobs supplied from large gas bottles behind the garage. The hobs ignite using electrical starters when pressing the selection knobs. Sometimes these fail to ignite the gas. There should be a lighter in the top draw beside the stove if you need it.


If you take towels from the house to the beach, food containers to the island-bar, or take umbrellas or flashlights or other items from the house to the resort, please remember to bring these items back to the house with you


Use the BBQ as needed. Always be sure to close the gas bottle tap when finished or the gas will slowly escape. If you run out of gas, The Trader operates a bottle swap service. Take an empty orange can to exchange for a full one. Cost is around $20.

Please scrape and clean the barbecue grill and hot plate before you depart so it will be ready for the next guests to use


Four cats reside around Vale Oasis. They adopted the house some years ago, living around the property, under the deck and in the bush and hills beside us. You are not obliged to feed them (they have other food sources). But feel free to do so (they enjoy food scraps, and tinned mackerel from The Trader is an inexpensive favourite). They're shy (they won't enter the house) but very sweet. They'll appreciate it and having them around is good for pest control, so it's a win/win relationship. (Cats on the island are all de-sexed and periodically health checked by vets arranged by the Resort)


Please be mindful of noise between the hours of 10pm and 7am as a courtesy to others living nearby (includes resort management staff who need to work the next day). Head to the Island Bar if you want to party loud & late.


The front doors will auto-lock behind you unless you turn the inside latch from vertical (locked) to horizontal (manual/unlocked). Take care not to lock yourself out.

Life on the island is incredibly safe. Crime, including property theft, is rare. However, as a matter of common sense, we recommend you lock the doors when leaving for extended periods and do not leave valuables where they can be seen


There is a fire extinguisher located by the front door closest to the kitchen. There's also a fire blanket in the top drawer beside the stove. In the unlikely event of a fire, first ensure everyone is safe and evacuated out of the house.


If you enjoy candlelight, we have a number of LED imitation candles that look and behave exactly like the real thing (impressively so). Turn over to access the switch or to replace the batteries. They're ideal for ambiance and to use as night lights.

DO NOT use real candles or any other incendiary products (including mosquito coils) in or around the house as these pose a serious fire risk.

Smoking inside is not permitted. There is an ashtray under the sink to use outside if needed.


Both Musket Cove Resort and Plantation Island Resort operate medical clinics. Talk to Resort staff if you require medical attention. In the event of a significant medical emergency, Malolo Lailai's airstrip has landing lights making it possible to medivac from the island 24/7.


The shell and coral collection under the glass dining table has been curated by us over 50 years and has significant sentimental value to our family. Please do not disturb or remove anything. The same respect applies to various art pieces and artifacts in the house.


Shit happens. We understand that and, within reason, we won't pursue recovery of costs for replacement or repairs providing you alert us to any breakage or damage that occurs. This allows us to remediate any issues before next guests arrive.


If you experience any plumbing, electrical, structural or appliance issues please advise reception and they will arrange Maintenance & Engineering staff to visit and resolve the problem.


Please leave everything as you found it as best as possible and follow the checklist below. Housekeeping will clean the house and strip the beds after you leave. They will also do a stocktake to alert us to any items missing.

  • Turn off all wall sockets and switches including A/C units, Ceiling fans, Washer/Dryer, TV, Speaker, Modem, and all inside lights. (Do not switch off the fridge).
  • If you deactivated the outside & pool sensor lights, ensure they are returned to auto-on using the switch on the right post of the pool-deck bottom step (down = on).
  • If you activated back up electric water heating, return the trip-switch on the switchboard in the linen cupboard back to the off position (down = off).
  • Ensure the BBQ hotplate and grill is clean and the gas bottle tap is closed/off.
  • Return any Resort snorkelling gear to the Activities Bure.
  • Visit reception at least a couple of hours before your departure time to settle your bill. While there, check that the porter is booked to collect your bags from the house.
  • Be sure to return house keys to reception before you depart.


Malolo Lailai Activities

There's a vast range of activities to do while you’re on the island. For up to date information visit:

musketcovefiji.com/activities
plantationisland.com/our-paradise/resort-facilities/
lomaniisland.com/category/activities-list/


Musket Cove's 'Activities Bure' on the main beach provide snorkelling gear, water sports equipment and daily snorkelling excursions free to Musket Cove guests. For guests not staying at the resort, including Vale Oasis guests, you can purchase an Activities Pass to enjoy the same convenient access during your stay. Talk to the Activities team or ask at reception about purchasing activities passes.

Alternatively you can also purchase activities individually. See details and pricing


You are welcome to use the Resorts pools and facilities, but please respect that Resort guests have priority over poolside sun lounges, cabanas, services and amenities.


You can hire bikes (daily or weekly) from the Activities Bure (subject to availability).


Some of the world's best surf breaks are just 20 mins boat ride from Malolo Lailai, including Cloud Break, Namotu Lefts and Wilkes Passage, providing world-class, year-round surfing, with April to October being the peak season for consistent, large swells (4–8ft+). Learn more about our local surf breaks

To surf these breaks contact Jonah Surf Fiji via Whatsapp +679 729 3754

Surfing excursions provide for 3 hours surfing on the breaks.

  • Namotu FJ$120 per person*
  • Cloud Break FJ$150 per person*
  • Tavarua FJ$130 per person*

(*minimum three persons otherwise charter applies)


Please enquire at the SUBSURFACE FIJI office next to the Activities Bure. They have a range of learn to dive and multi dive packages available.


Malolo Lailai (including Malolo Bay) is an active marine reserve. Fishing is not permitted. Fishing excursions, including deep sea fishing, can be arranged via the Activities Bure.


Malolo Lailai's 9 hole golf course is part of Plantation Island Resort. FJ$40 per person to play 9 holes with trundler and new clubs (men's, women's and left-handed available). Contact or visit Plantation Island Resort if you wish to play the course.




Malolo Lailai Dining & Entertainment

With 3 fantastic Resorts on your door step you're spoilt for choice.

Entertainment on Malolo Lailai ebbs and flows depending on the night of the week, the time of year, the venue and the mood of the crowd. From island serenades to traditional Fijian Meke nights, interactive family entertainment, live bands, DJs, and more. You'll soon discover what, when, and where.

Whatever the case, you'll find many social nights begin (and often remain) at the Island Bar. Because life's always better when there's sand between your toes. Meet other guests, local residents and yachties from around the world. At the Island Bar, drinks cost less, you can cook your own BBQ, the dress code is 'wear something', and the stories are endless.

Order BBQ packs from The Trader Cafe earlier in the day. Or, if bringing your own food to sizzle and serve, the Resort will happily supply all plates, cutlery & condiments for $10 per person. No hassle, no dishes. Perfect! (Please remember to return home with any containers, plates or utencils you bring with you. The only thing you can't bring with you is beverages. BYO is not permitted. The Bar has everything you need.

Musket Cove Resort

Dicks Place Bar & Bistro

Overlooking the pool and Malolo bay. With à la carte dining, exotic cocktails and themed buffet nights enriched with fresh produce from Malolo Lailai's own orchards and farm.

More info and menus

(Dinner reservations recommended/required)

Musket Cove Resort


The Trader Café

Located on the edge of the marina. A relaxing venue offering café cuisine, gourmet pizzas, burgers, pies, smoothies, juices. Eat in, take-out or have your meal delivered to the Island Bar.

More info and menu

Musket Cove Resort


MCYC "Island Bar"

This iconic, beach-floor, yacht club bar, is known throughout the pacific as a gathering spot for visiting adventurers, skippers & crews, resort guests, and local residents. Order BBQ packs and cook your own meal.

More info | BBQ pack details

Musket Cove Resort

Poolside Bar

Enjoy cocktails, beers, wines, mocktails and snacks delivered to your pool lounge, private cabana or served on the bar-top where you're seated.

More info and menu

Plantation Island Resort


Copra Restaurant

All-day beachside buffet dining for kids big and small with a wide selection and a new theme every night

Learn more

Plantation Island Resort


Black Coral Grill

Enjoy a selection of fresh fish, meat and poultry from the char grill, or vegetarian and popular local dishes.

Learn more

Plantation Island Resort


Tavola Restaurant & Bar

All-day à la carte dining overlooking the sparkling lagoon. Popular family lunch favourites and nightly delicious South Pacific cuisine.

Learn more

(Dinner reservations recommended/required)

Plantation Island Resort


Brigham Bar

Lively beachside bar from 10am and dancing into the night.

Learn more

Plantation Island Resort


Cocohut

Great coffees, funky frappes & fresh coconuts

Learn more

Plantation Island Resort


Snack Bar

Grab a quick bite from the Snack Bar menu, including salads, sandwiches, pizzas and chips. Now available at Coco Hut.

Learn more

Plantation Island Resort


Bata Bata Milk Bar

Refreshing sweet treats for hot Fijian days

Learn more

Plantation Island Resort


Bowl

Fresh and crunchy poolside poke bowls

Learn more

Lomani Island Resort


Lomani Flame Tree Restaurant

Fine dining, local dishes prepared fresh by expert chefs. (Children not permitted).

Learn more

(Dinner reservations recommended/required)

Vale Oasis


Dining at home

Fire up the barbecue; Go wild in the kitchen, or bring home a pizza or two. At Vale Oasis you have all the creature comforts of home to self cater in your own private retreat.

Welcome to paradise