Bula vinaka and welcome to the palm-fringed shores of Fiji and its kaleidoscope of islands and islets in every shape and size; where sand as soft as talcum powder meets the South Pacific surf and time slows with every gentle breath. Inhale the fresh, briny air and exhale away real life. Bask in the warmth of the sun, dancing on your skin through dappled shade, and the charm of traditional Fijian hospitality. No matter where you roam, you’ll find yourself warmly welcomed by local hosts who are proud to share their culture with guests – through music, dance and, of course, food. In this travel-inspired cookbook, Gourmet Traveller, in partnership with Southern Crossings, takes you into the kitchens of 13 of Fiji’s most luxurious resorts. While some of the featured properties lean towards fine dining or nourishing meals, others delve into regional traditions and family recipes. Each captures the spirit of the archipelago, with a focus on tropical flavours, sustainability and upholding traditions from fishing to farming.