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Nadi
Nadi within Fiji
Country	Fiji
Island	Viti Levu
Division	Western Division
Population (2007)
- Total	42,284

Nadi (pronounced [ˈnandi]) is the third-largest conurbation in Fiji. It is located on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu, and had a population of 42,284 at the most recent census, in 2007. Nadi is multiracial with many of its inhabitants Indian or Fijian, along with a large transient population of foreign tourists. Along with sugar cane production, tourism is a mainstay of the local economy. The Nadi region has a higher concentration of hotels and motels than any other part of Fiji.

With its large Indo-Fijian population, Nadi is a centre for Hinduism and Islam in Fiji. The downtown area is defined by the Nadi River and Viseisei village on the west side, and the beautfiul Sri Siva Subramaniya temple on the east. It is the largest Hindu temple in the Southern hemisphere, and is a site for pilgrims. Nadi International Airport located 9 kilometers from the city, is the largest airport in Fiji and is served by Air Pacific (the international airline of Fiji), Air New Zealand, Pacific Blue, Korean Air and some other domestic airlines such as Pacific Sun, Air Fiji and V.I.P charter airline Air Wakaya. Thus, Nadi is the principal port of entry for air travelers to Fiji, even though it is on the opposite (western) side of the island of Viti Levu from the nation's capital and largest city, Suva.

Nadi is a hub of commerce and tourism, with about 18 hotels, and is popular among travelers seeking to take ferries to island resorts in Fiji's western Mamanuca Group of islands. The town is also close to the western mud-flat beaches. It is also close to the Nausori highlands to the east, and can access the Sabeto [samˈbeto] and Sigatoka [siŋaˈtoka] valleys. Other sites are the Waqadra [waŋˈɡandra] Botanical Gardens, and the Sleeping Giant Gardens, which house Raymond Burr's magnificent orchid collection.

History

Nadi Township was established in 1947. Around that time Government of Fiji has established its own "Government Station" on the higher grounds of Nadi. It is said that a couple of business set up their business around the "Government Station" to service the Government Station. The other business organization from other parts of Fiji also followed the suit. It is reported that there was a very strong move by some concerned citizens of Nadi to move the town center to Martintar because of the existing center being so prone to flooding. This did not materialize because the move to shift the town center to Martintar came in too late as the Nadi Township had already developed strong roots in the existing location.

The elected system was introduced in 1967. Dr. A.H Sahu Khan was the first elected Chairman of the Nadi Township Board ^[1]. With the introduction of Local Government Act in 1972 the Board changed its status to Council. Mr H.M Lodhia became the first Mayor of Nadi Town Council in 1972 and remained the Mayor until December, 1973. The current Mayor of Nadi is Councillor Timoci Koroiqica

Economy

Air Pacific has its head office at the Air Pacific Maintenance & Administration Centre in Nadi.^[2] Fiji Airlines Limited, operating as Pacific Sun, is headquartered at Nadi International Airport in Nadi.^[3]

References

1. ^ Nadi Town Council - History
2. ^ "Air Pacific Annual Report 2008." Air Pacific. 44 (44/48). Retrieved on 3 October 2009.
3. ^ "Contact Us." Fiji Airlines Limited. Retrieved on October 3, 2009.

Political divisions of Fiji Divisions Central · Eastern · Northern · Western Provinces Ba · Bua · Cakaudrove · Kadavu · Lau · Lomaiviti · Macuata · Nadroga-Navosa · Naitasiri · Namosi · Ra · Rewa · Serua · Tailevu Dependency Rotuma Cities Lautoka · Suva Towns Ba · Labasa · Lami · Levuka · Nadi  · Nasinu · Nausori · Savusavu · Sigatoka · Tavua

External links

Coordinates: 17°48′S 177°25′E / 17.8°S 177.417°E / -17.8; 177.417

• Nadi travel guide from Wikitravel

From Wikitravel

Nadi (pronounced "Nandi") is on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, the main and largest island in Fiji.

Understand

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.

Nadi Market Peppers

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

Get in

Nadi International Airport (NAN) is Fiji's main international gateway. It is responsible for over 95 percent of Fiji's annual international passengers.

Nadi International Airport's main airline providers include: Air Pacific, Air New Zealand , Pacific Blue, Freedom Air, Korean Air, and Air Fiji, among few others.

Visit Airports Fiji Limited for more information

• 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.

• You are able to barter with the taxi driver prior to the trip in order to get the price of your trip down before you leave to your destination, ask your hotel or research reasonable prices prior to your ride. The taxis can be flagged down, or found at taxi stands

• It is recommended that you do not hire a personal car to take you around, simply for safety reasons.

• Rental Cars are available through many known names such as Avis, Europcar, Hertz, Budget, etc. many can be found in the airport. You muust have a valid drivers license and be above the age of 25 (or 21 depending on the company) in order to rent a car. The average price is around F$100 per day.

• Visit the Hindu Temple at the southern end of the main street of Nadi. It is the largest in the Pacific and is very colourful.

• Visit the Wailoaloa Beach, at a 1/2 mile long the beach located in the northern area of Nadi. There are multiple beach clubs and resorts located on this stretch.

• The Newtown Beach has public access as well, it is located about 10 minutes away from Nadi town by bus.

• Visit the Nadi Garden of the Sleeping Giant. Originally started to make a place for the private collection of tropical orchids of Canadian actor Raymond Burr, this garden now houses many beautiful plants and trails for walking. It is open Monday-Saturday, entrance fee is F$10.

• Hop on a local bus (FJD$2) to Lautoka and visit a real Fijian city away from the tourist eye. The bus terminates at the local markets, where you can buy tonnes of fresh produce.

• From Thursday to Sunday, drop in to the Capricorn Hotel between Nadi airport and Nadi town at around 8pm. You can sit under the bungalow and listen to a wonderful group of Fijians playing traditional and modern songs on guitar, ukulele and keyboard. You may even be invited to try some of their kava drink (an experience in itself)! The Hotel also serves meals and there is a bar.

• Hop on a ferry at Denarau Port and visit the Mamanuca and Yasawa islands right off the coast.

• Visit the Nadi Town market, there are hand crafts, fruits, other produce, music, and much more!

• The currency is the in Nadi and all of Fiji is the Fijian dollar, the Fijian dollar is worth $1.84 for every American dollar

• Nadina Restaurant, Lot 6 Khalil St, Nadi (opposite the Capricorn hotel), ☎ (679) 672 7313. For a taste of authentic Fijian cuisine go to the Nadina restaurant. Fresh seafood, chicken and meat served with rice or Fijian vegetables. Outdoor dining and very friendly staff. Local Fijians sit outside playing the guitar and singing Fijian songs as you dine. Meals around $FJ20-30.  edit

• The Bounty Restaurant & Bar located in the Martintar "strip" is a favorite spot for locals and tourists. It has an excellent atmosphere and a friendly environment with good food and a selection of local and imported beers and spirits. The Bounty is popular for it's steak and seafood dishes, particularly lobsters. More information available on the website.

• The Royale Thai Restaurant located beside The Bounty Restaurant in the same premises offers a fine dining experience in authentic Thai cuisine. Royale Thai is the only Thai restaurant of it's kind in Nadi and quite possibly in Fiji. More information available on the website.

• Tu's Place is a great local restaurant also in the Martintar area of Nadi. It's over the road from the Bounty and next to Ed's bar. The menu is varied with some asian inspired dishes, europeon dishes, local dishes and definitely the best fish and chips I've had anywhere in Fiji. Try their Thai curries - Tu makes his own fresh curry pastes from local ingredients - delicious. They also serve beer and wine.

• Amalfi Italian Restaurant tel.(679)6750200 is a very nice and new restaurant in Port Denarau (very close to Nadi). Amalfi Restaurant is a corner of REAL Italian Cuisine, Food and Wines. Staff is italian. Elegance, Style, Gourmet level, are the success keys of this new best point in Nadi - Port Denarau. It deserve a visit for sure. prices medium-high...Come to Amalfi Ristorante Italiano in Fiji and enjoy chef-crafted cuisine from both Northern and Southern Italy. Our extensive wine list boasts top-rated selections and our chef specials are unique to Amalfi Ristorante Italiano..Our friendly staff and inviting atmosphere welcome you every day of the week. And our private dining room, make any special occasion great. Our convenient location in Marina Complex, Port Denarau, means you get to spend more time lunch/dining with friends at only 10 mins. driving from Nadi airport.

Best part is - Amalfi Ristorante Italiano has been owned and operated by Italian Staff. As well as most of the food is directly imported from Italy just to let you taste the REAL Italian flavours. So,come on in and meet us... Dine-in, carry-out, special events and group dining available,

• Continental Cakes & Pizza Tel: 670 3595 This bakery located on Queen Road in Nadi town has gotten great reviews from numerous places. There are many cakes, pastries, bread, pizzas and delicious flaky croissants. The bakery serves breakfast, sandwiches, and flat crust pizzas Monday-Saturday from 8am-6pm.

• Daikoku Restaurant P.O.Box 1900, Nadi Town Tel:+679-6703622 Daikoku restaurant is a popular Teppan-Yaki steak house located on the corner of Queens Road and Northern Press Road in Nadi Town. Call the listed telephone number for a reservation! They are open for lunch and dinner from 12pm-1130pm Monday-Saturday.

• Hard Rock Cafe Tel: 679-670-3131 What is a trip without a meal at the local Hard Rock Cafe? Located in Port Denarau, this Hard Rock is the home to items from Bruce Springsteen, Aerosmith, Shakira, Seal, Jethro Tull and many more! Open daily from 10am-11pm.

• Saffron Tel: 670 1233 Located on Main St in Nadi Town. This Indian restaurant is said to have the best Indian food in all of Fiji, created by Chef Eugene Gomes!

Drink

Ed's Bar is a short walk from the Nadi Bay Hotel. Just head out to the main road and turn left (away from Nadi Town). You'll find pool tables, a small dance section and a beer garden. There is no cover if you are a traveller and no dress code either.

• The Bounty Restaurant & Bar is a popular watering hole for locals and travelers. Located in the heart of Nadi and just walking distance from Ed's Bar, Mercure hotel, Capricorn hotel, Lazy Cactus, and Ohana. You'll find a variety local and foreign beers, also draught beer. Live sports games (IRB 7s, SUPER 14, etc) are screened on the big screen. The Bounty has a great atmosphere and also offers karaoke for the daring.

Sleep

Fiji offers a range of accommodation types from the budget accommodations to the luxurious up market resorts scattered around the islands.

• Capricorn Hotel. On the Queen's Road between Nadi airport and Nadi Town. This is a mid-priced hotel with fairly basic rooms, but they are air-conditioned and have patios/balconies. They restaurant serves fairly bland western style meals including fish and chips and pizza.

• Mercure Hotel Nadi. Queens Rd, Nadi Airport, Fiji Islands. Tel (679) 672 2255 Fax (679) 672 0187. The hotel features 84 rooms in two accommodation wings that overlook the resort style swimming pool, beutiful tropical gardens, a restaurant with alfresco dining on the poolside deck as well as a relaxing and welcoming bar.

• Nadi Bay Hotel. Wailoaloa Road, Nadi NAP 0359, Nadi Airport. Tel 679 672 3599 Fax 679 672 0092. A bustling hive of activity: friendly, good food, lots of travellers to swap stories with, reasonable room rates, music etc. As a small but refreshing detail, orange juice fans are recommended to grab a tall glass at the poolside bar.

• Nomads Skylodge Backpackers Resort. Namaka, Queens Highway, Nadi Fiji Islands. Tel (679) 672 2200 Fax (679) 672 4330. Nomads Skylodge offers 55 rooms including superior and deluxe rooms, family units with cooking facilities and multi-share (4 to 6 beds per room) accommodations. email Nomads Skylodge Backpackers Resort. Online reservation at best rates with instant confirmation start near US$50 for doubles.

• Aquarius Backpackers Resort. Wailoaloa Beach, Nadi Fiji Islands. All rooms at Aquarius Backpackers Resort have their own ensuite bathroom and top quality facilities.

• Nadi Bay Backpackers Resort. The Nadi Bay Resort is located just a few minutes by road from the airport and seaplane base, and offers a variety of accommodation including dorms, standard rooms and apartments. email Nomads Travel to Book. Online reservation at best rates with instant confirmation start near US$50 for doubles.

• Novotel Nadi. Namaka Hill, Nadi Fiji Islands. Tel (679) 672 2000 Fax (679) 672 0590. The hotel has 127 spacious rooms, each featuring a private balcony overlooking the landscaped gardens. They offer conference rooms as well as both a restaurant and bar, providing both relaxed indoor or outdoor dining.

• Tanoa Rakiraki. PO Box 31, Rakiraki, Fiji Islands. Tel (679) 669 4101. Fax (679) 669 4545. The Tanoa Rakiraki Hotel offers 36 homey rooms that offer everything you can possible need for a comfortable and relaxing Fiji vacation. Located in Rakiraki Township, a two-hour drive from Nadi. Online reservation at best rates with instant confirmation start near US$20.

• The Bounty Apartments located in the heart of Nadi in the Martintar strip. The Bounty Apartments offers an affordable and secure accommodation suited to the low budget traveller. Ideally located and only minutes away from the Nadi International Airport, the main shopping center, restaurants, bars, hotels, resorts, and the Denarau marina. Room rates per night start from US$28 and a bed in the dormitory is US$10 per night per person.

• Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa located on Denarau, this 5-star resort has 296 rooms all overlooking the beauty of the Fijian Pacific Ocean. To give you the full Fijian experience the walls are filled with traditional Fijian decor ranging from paintings to sculptures and carvings. The large range of amentities include: a private beach, golf club, pool, kids club, cultural activities, water sports, fitness center, spa treatments, numerous restaurants, and more. You truly get the full Fijian experience with this resort. They also offer wedding and conference packages, as well.

• Tanoa International Hotel P.O. Box 9203, Nadi Airport Tel: (679) 6720277 Fax: (679) 6720191 Tanoa International Hotel is convenientley located less than a five minute drive from the international terminal of Nadi International Airport. The hotel has 148 rooms starting at F$250 a night. This hotel includes many important features such as 24-hour security and reception, internet facilities, a 24-hour airport shuttle, pool, a "Bula" bar and much more to make for the perfect vacation stay.

• Club FijiPO Box 9619, Nadi Airport, Fiji Tel: Int + 679 6720 150 Fax: Int + 679 6702 324 Club Fiji has the perfect location for a tropical location. Located on the beach of Nadi Bay, only 8 km from the Nadi International Airport and 4 km from Nadi Town. This resort features very unique Fijian accomodations including Bures, Villas, and Apartments for very modest prices. You also have the option of making your stay a five or seven- night all inclusive package as well which includes your stay, food, wine, excursions, airport transportation and more. A fabulous deal! The resort also has many activities, restaurants, child care, and scuba diving! It is a perfect resort for families, couples, and everyone else as well!

Stay safe

You will hear on the grapevine quite a few stories of pickpockets and scams in Nadi. A recent story was that two young women were given an 'after hours' tour of the Hindu Temple in Nadi by a 'guide'. They were asked to leave their bags outside the temple as a mark of respect and returned to find them gone.

There is a police station in the centre of the main street if you have any problems.

• Coral Sun run air conditioned buses from Nadi airport to Suva twice a day - also stopping by request at the resorts and villages along the way. Buses depart from Nadi airport at 7.30am and 4pm each day. $20 one way. Ph. (679) 672 3105 or book at the office located within Nadi airport.

• There are numerous ferries and day trips leaving daily from Denaru Port in Nadi, if you would like a simple day trip to the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Islands, or other similar islands, many ferries run from 9-4 daily.