One night stopover in Nadi / Lautoka for a group of ~10ppl

Hi everyone!

I have enjoyed reading through all the posts, but can't find an answer to my question...

I will be travelling to Fiji in August for my wedding (Octopus Resort in the Yasawas), and on the way there, we will be travelling with ~12 people. Due to flight / boat transfer connections we will spend an afternoon and night in Nadi first.

I'm looking for a fairly nice place to stay, but am confused after reading conflicting forum / Trip Advisor posts.
Hoping to spend less than $300 FJD per room, or even less than $200 if possible., as some of our guests are on a tight budget.

I want something nice, clean, but doesn't have to be too flashy or come with too many extras (activities etc) as it will only be for one night.

Have read that Lautoka is nicer than Nadi, but I am open to suggestions...!

Additionally, I'm hoping to find a nice restaurant for pre-wedding dinner, prefer something well priced with a nice atmosphere, cooking some good local cuisine.

Any recommendations on hotels, cheap deals on hotels (so many 'discount' websites, which are reliable..?!) and restaurants would be great!

Thanks! :)

The airport hotel-http://www.rafflesgateway.com/ will suit everyone-if you want something pricier you'll need to head to the Coral Coast which entails travelling onward then returning in the AM.

For local cuisine look no further than Ashyana on the airport road on the way into town as short cab ride from Raffles-excellent food/service.

Don't know Lautoka all that well looked rather quiet/dusty/low key last I was through.

Lautoka is the more interesting town, almost no tourism. But for that reason also not a lot of hotel options.

If your main focus is a hotel in the price range indicated and for one night only, then it's more convenient to stick near the Nadi area/airport. Should be easy to find decent place at 200-300 FJD per night. Raffles (when I passed through) had walk-in specials under 100FJD per night. But with a large group I suppose you'd prefer advance booking.

There is a great place called Stoney Creek Resort about 10-15 min from the airport ($13 FJ cab fare) in the Valley of the Sleeping Giant. They will also get you back to the airport when needed and can arrange for an extended stay if needed. A very lovely spot, good food (nice bar), nice swimming pool, and reasonable rates (less than $200). You can find them on the web. Not on the beach but can't say if there is anything good near the airport that might be reasonable. If you have time, go to the Botanical Garden nearby - awsome!

I agree with poser #1 - Raffles is fine. Didn't eat there last year but have heard of some who criticised the dinner menu. I also love Aashiyana - but it is Indian so only if you all like Indian food.

Hi, TaiMarilyn,
I may be going to Fiji later this year with a friend who is a Fijian Indian. How hot is the food at Aashiyana? She likes it hotter than I do.

We always stay at Raffles, were there last monday even thought we intended to fly straight out to the islands our flight was cancelled due to bad weather and light.
Were amazed that Pacific Sun paid for accom and a meal even though it was not their fault.
We usually pay F$ 186 per room per night at Raffles.

Ozziegiraffe - Aashiyana has VERY hot food - which my husband loves - but I have to ask for extra mild there. It's all great though and reasonable prices too. They are very accommodating about adapting to your taste.

I like the way the Chef herself comes out to take your order and check for preferences/desires.

The Fijians on Staff @ Ashyana are wonderful individuals, so lively efficient and friendly.

Thanks everyone for your help!

I've still not booked and seem to be researching myself into a frenzy...
I'll be booking the Raffles as the stopover on the way back home, so thanks all who suggested it :)
I'm still thinking about the way over, and wondering whether we should go somewhere else too..
I've found First Landing Resort online and it seems quite nice, plus Trip Advisor comments seem to be good (for their restaurant too which is promising...!). They have 2 bedroom villas which seem to be able to accommodate 2 couples per villa, which would be nice. The cost is a bit higher than $300 per couple though! Anyone got any thoughts on this place??!

Thanks again!
:)

PS. I'm looking at the First Landing Resort 2 brm villas which apparently fit 2 couples...

We stayed at the Mecure for three nights in Nadi and it was great. The room was clean (and had hot water clean water...which after one of our experiences was definitely awesome!) and the staff were extremely friendly.

I would definitely recommend Daikoku for a meal one night. It is not Fijian food - Japanese (Tepanyaki) but it is beautiful and the young Fijian chefs put on quite a show!

Vinaka (hello in Fijian)
As I live in Lautoka I think I can give you some good advice.
First Landing Resort is a really good choice, is on the water, has lush gardens, nice pool, great food and a great atmosphere. I havn't stayed there but it looks great. It adjoins the Vuda Yacht Club & Marina - great place to have a cold beer and watch the sun set.
First Landing is only about 10-15 minutes from Nadi Airport - taxi's would be cheap - not sure if Resort does pick ups but worth asking.
Lautoka is worth a visit, is not touristy like Nadi, has a interesting market and some different stores (mixture of indian & regular stores) - only a few souvenior shops.
Either of the airport hotels are fine for an overnight stop on arrival or departure but I wouldn't stay longer than a night, they are like all airport hotels.
Pre wedding dinner - would recommed First Landing if you are staying there - saves on transport & time and it really is very nice - I don't think you would be dissappointed. Have you checked out their website?
I hope you find this useful and you have a great wedding, Fiji is great - good choice.
Moce ( goodbye in Fijian)