Nadi 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. Muslims worship at the Nadi Mosque and the Ahmadiyyahs worship at the Ahmadiya Mosque.
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.
PLACE TO VISIT
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.
WHAT TO DO
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.
HOW TO REACH
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.
