Nadi, on Fiji's main island, is its main international gateway. It's busy and diverse, with lively markets and close to island resorts and cultural spots. Many use it as a transit town rather than a final destination. The pace here is relaxed and typical of the South Pacific.
Local dishes like Kokoda and Lovo are popular. Indian, Chinese, and Western options are common. Vegetarian and vegan options exist, mainly in Indian restaurants. Late-night food options are limited.
Nightlife is modest with bars and pubs in Nadi Town and on Denarau Island. Some places have live music or cultural shows.
The coffee scene is growing with more cafes offering espresso-style drinks. Specialty coffee is still limited.
Tipping isn't common or expected but appreciated for good service in tourist areas. Small amounts or rounding up is typical and always optional.
Buy local SIMs at the airport or in town from Vodafone Fiji or Digicel. ID or passport needed. eSIM is sometimes available but check ahead.
Tourist areas are generally clean. Some local parts can be less tidy. Waste management and recycling are improving.
Few 24/7 services exist. Emergency hospital care runs round the clock. Late-night pharmacies and stores are limited.
Supermarkets carry international goods. Local markets offer fresh fruits, veggies, and seafood. Shops usually open 8 AM to 9 PM, with shorter hours on Sundays and holidays.
Credit cards work well in hotels, large restaurants, and shops in tourist areas. Small vendors and taxis usually want cash.
ATMs are easy to find in Nadi Town, the airport, and near hotels. Major banks include ANZ, Westpac, and BSP. Check your bank's fees for international withdrawals.
Nadi International School offers international curriculum in English. Local schools follow the Fijian curriculum.
A small, growing nomad scene with some meetups and online groups. Networking happens mostly online or at cafes.
Nadi has parks and a river, but shaded walking paths are limited outside resorts. Some green space is good for running and walking.
Good running routes exist along Denarau Road and resort areas. Daylight runs are safest due to traffic on main roads.
Gyms are found in hotels and standalone centers in town.
Tennis courts are available at some resorts on Denarau Island with equipment rental and occasional coaching.
Padel courts are uncommon or unavailable in Nadi.
Yoga classes are offered in some studios and many resorts, with English-speaking instructors and a range of styles.
Basic martial arts like boxing and karate are taught in some local gyms. BJJ or Muay Thai are rare.
No skiing; Fiji is tropical with no snow.
Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are common, mainly on Denarau Island and surrounding waters.
Surf spots like Cloudbreak are accessible by boat from Denarau Marina. Warm waters year-round. April to October offers bigger waves, November to March smaller ones. Surf schools are available.
Excellent diving near Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands with clear water and rich marine life. Dive shops in Denarau offer courses and rentals.
Nadi Hospital is the main public facility. Private clinics like Zens Medical Centre offer better care and English-speaking staff. Pharmacies are common.
Tap water is treated and mostly safe, especially in hotels and main towns. Sensitive travelers might prefer bottled water.
Playgrounds and kid-friendly cafes exist mainly in resorts and parks. Nearby attractions like the Garden of the Sleeping Giant and Denarau Island suit families.
Legal protections exist but social acceptance varies. Tourist areas tend to be safe and welcoming; formal community groups are limited.
Many hotels restrict pets. Vet services and pet supplies exist. Public pet-friendly areas are limited. Strict import rules apply.
Power is generally steady, especially in urban and tourist areas. Short outages can happen during bad weather.
Beaches near Nadi are mostly on Denarau Island about 15-20 minutes away by car. Resort beaches are cleaner than those near town.
Nadi lies near the Nausori Highlands and Mount Batilamu (Sleeping Giant). Hiking is possible within an hour's drive, especially in Koroyanitu National Heritage Park.
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