The second thing visitors notice is the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, remarkable even by island standards. Expect plenty of personal attention, and don't be bashful about requests like laundry and ironing--the staff will bend over backwards to accommodate your needs.

Accommodations are in one of 10 bures nestled throughout the 56-acre property (a working copra plantation) planted with numerous coconut and banana trees. Two bures are duplexes, perfect for families. Five are "Planters Deluxe" bures, each fitted with a king-size bed and a single bed. And three are ultra-luxurious honeymoon bures. These large cabins feature a king-size bed with a canopy, sundecks, and open-air (but completely private) showers. All bures are extremely comfortable, with ceiling fans, CD players, refrigerators, and even hammocks.

The restaurant on the property is first-class, and attracts diners who are not hotel guests. If you are a guest, you will be asked to put in your dinner order in the early afternoon. You may eat any time you like, however.

The Maravu attracts all types, but specializes in honeymoon and even wedding packages. The lush setting makes an excellent backdrop for a ceremony, and the secluded resort is the perfect romantic place for a honeymoon. You'll need to notify the resort in advance, naturally, if you wish to have a wedding ceremony performed during your stay.

Other attractions and activities at the Maravu Plantation Resort include:

• Swimming pool
• Private beach
• Jogging path
• Library
• Kayak rental (free rental)
• Snorkeling (free rental)
• Horseback riding
• Mountain biking
• Scuba-diving lessons
• Fshing expeditions
• Sightseeing tours