Welcome to Nadi: Fiji's International Gateway

Nadi is on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, the main and largest island in Fiji.

Nadi is a transit point for other destinations in Fiji. It may not be such a great place to spend any time but you may find yourself here whilst awaiting ferries, boats to outer islands or planes to and from home.

If you do decide to stay in or around Nadi, make sure you are prepared to be approached by people trying to get you into their shop as you walk down the main street. These people aren't threatening, but you do need to watch your valuables.

You may also encounter an underlying air of racism between the Indian and native Fijian populations, but this rarely comes out in the open.

It is possible to hire cars, or take taxis, but these are expensive options when there is a great local bus service at your disposal. Travel with the locals in open-air comfort for a fraction of the price of a hire car. All buses are marked on the front with the names of the two towns they travel between. If unsure, ask the driver.

If you are staying at the Nadi Bay Hotel, simply walk to the end of that road and catch the local bus heading right (towards Nadi Town). The buses run every 20 minutes or so, and are just 50 cents FJD one-way to town.

Taxis have their hometown printed on the front bumper, if they are travelling back home they are not allowed to charge more than the busfare.

Nadi Airport is labelled as the Jet Set Town for this is the main tourist hub where all international flights arrive and depart. The town itself has little to offer the tourist but it does make a good base for exploring the surrounding countryside and offshore islands. For those heading to the outer islands, or on early morning or late evening flights, it's likely you'll spend a night here before moving on to your holiday destination. Unfortunately for Fiji, he beach area at Nadi Bay is rather shabby so doesn't give visitors a good first hand impression of the country. Nadi Town itself has lots of bustling handicraft boutiques, clothes shops, several good restaurants and internet cafes. Its a functional town although here the tourism touts are on the streets trying to befriend you and sell their tours.