Author Description

Avalon Travel Publishing has launched the 9th edition of Moon Fiji, the original travel guide to the 322-island Fiji archipelago. Since 1985, Moon Fiji has been the leading travel guidebook to Fiji. Author David Stanley has been writing about the South Pacific since 1979, and over the years tens of thousands of Pacific travelers have used his guides to Fiji, Tahiti, Tonga, Samoa, Micronesia, and the South Pacific. Moon Fiji’s 419 pages are packed with photos and maps. Unlike the maps in other guidebooks, the 53 maps in Moon Fiji are clearly labeled without confusing numbered keys. To allow for detail, there are three street maps of Fiji's capital Suva and two of the gateway city Nadi. Most of the 170 photos are new to this edition and many of them are in color. The 24-page color section at the front of the book has been expanded with a pair of 10-day suggested itineraries and four travel strategies. Summaries of sports and recreation, beaches, natural attractions, and culture will help you plan your trip. Moon Fiji’s 122 pages of reference material are tucked unobtrusively into the back of the book. The Background chapter provides an in-depth introduction to Fiji, while Essentials has everything you’ll need to know about transportation and practicalities. Tips for Travelers caters to those with special needs. The nine travel chapters offer specific advice on sightseeing, lodging, food, transport, and facilities throughout Fiji with exact prices are quoted. Tiny Must See and Top Pick symbols help readers choose among the many things to see and do. David Stanley researches his books incognito and eschews the "hospitality" many other travel writers enjoy and the listings are thorough and critical. Moon Fiji has been designed to compliment other media, and internet addresses and emails are provided whenever possible. There is much information not found on commercial websites or in the free brochures. Rob Kay of FijiGuide.com had this to say about Moon Fiji: "Stanley excels at getting accurate information on hotels, inexpensive restaurants, and tourist sites. However there is another reason why his guide is valuable. Stanley does not simply list the properties in alphabetical order and expect the reader to determine what's best. Based on personal visits and feedback from visitors, he will actually offer you an opinion and the straight facts."