A backpackers guide to Nadi

PHOTO: Down time Fiji style

by Vijayalaxmi Hegde

Nadi (pronounced nandi) is primarily known as the gateway to Fiji. But there's more to Nadi than just being a transit point. Explore it. It's worth the effort.

Facts to know before you go

• The local currency is the Fijian dollar. (All prices quoted in this article are in the local currency.)

• Fiji's ISD code is 679. (Please prefix that to all the numbers provided in this article.)

• Most electric outlets are 240 volts with AC/50 cycles. You may need an adapter.

• Tipping is not mandatory in Fiji.

• Official languages are Fijian, English, and Hindustani.

• The best time to visit is between June and October.

• For emergency services, dial 911.

• Keep to the left when driving.

• Some islands and remote resorts do not have credit card capabilities. Carry cash.

Getting to Nadi

Nadi International Airport is Fiji's main airport and gateway which handles 96 percent (96%) of its total annual international passengers and 30 international flights daily.

Air New Zealand, Air Pacific, Pacific Blue, Korean Air, Qantas, Air Fiji, and Solomon Airlines are some of the carriers with frequent flights to Nadi.

Getting around in Nadi

Most Fijians don't own a car. So, there are plenty of taxis and an efficient local bus service. The taxis are inexpensive and metered. Rental cars are also available from Avis, Rosies, Hertz, and Europcar.

Things to do in Nadi

• Shop at Nadi's many souvenir stores, but be firm with persistent vendors.

• Get grimy: try an ancient mud bath therapy at Sabeto's Outback.

• Look at the huge collection of tropical orchids at the Garden of the Sleeping Giant about half an hour out of Nadi.

• Visit the colorful Sri Siva Subramaniya Temple, one of Nadi's main landmarks and the largest Hindu temple in the southern hemisphere.

Where to eat in Nadi

• Got to Nadina Restaurant for authentic Fijian cuisine with live Fijian music. Meals around $FJ20-30. Tel: 672 7313

• The Bounty Restaurant & Bar is popular for its steak and seafood dishes, particularly lobsters. Tel: 672 0840. Website: www.bountyfiji.com

• Food from the Continent at the Amalfi Italian Restaurant. Just 10 minutes driving from Nadi airport. Tel: 6750200/6750201. Website: www.amalfifiji.com

• Continental Cakes & Pizza is a great place for breakfast, sandwiches, and flat crust pizzas Tel: 670 3595 Monday-Saturday from 8am-6pm.

• Chef Eugene Gomes will treat you to some curry at Saffron, the Indian restaurant said to have the best Indian food in all of Fiji. Tel: 670 1233

Getting out of Nadi

You can take a ferry out to Mamanuca islands, Yasawa islands, and other islands. Ferries are aplenty and run daily.