Lonely Planet™ · Thorn Tree Forum · 2020

Questions Re: Nananu-i-ra

Country forums / Pacific Islands & Papua New Guinea / Fiji

Can anyone recommend the best budget cottage option on Nananu-i-ra? Charlies looks like it may be the cheapest but it seems a bit distant from the beach. I am thinking Morrisons but they may be closed in April according to LP. McDonalds seems a bit expensive but possibly nicer. Any other good options?
We want to self-cater, and were wondering if it was best to stock up at the markets in Nadi, or is there a fruit /veg market in Vaileka?
Also, is there any way to reduce the $60pp to get across? Do local boats go across? Any advice would be much appreciated.

Betham, Charlie and McDonalds are close to each other and on the side facing Viti Levu. The beach facing Bligh Water is on the other side of the island, only 100m or so away. The only acceptable place with a decent price on that side is Morrison's, but as you say, he may be closed in April. Also, he's a cranky old bastard who could put a damper on your enjoyment, like bitching at you for dripping sea water onto his lawn on your way to the shower. Go figure.

Don't expect to dodge the $15pp each way trip to the island, it's a cash cow for the locals.

You can stock up on essentials in Valeka. The MH stores in Nadi and Lautoka have a selection of imported goods. If you're traveling by bus, one of the nice things is all the bus stations are connected with each town's main produce market, so if something catches your eye you can pick it up.

Betham runs a mini-grocery counter, with prices that can be considered criminal, and I've been told his prices are improvised. Use this as motivation to buy whatever you think you may need before making the crossing.

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Thanks for that, that helps a lot. I have contacted Morrison's and they will be open at $30pp for dorm rooms. I haven't been able to find specific websites for the others. Out of Bethams, McDonald's and Charlies, which do you think is the best option/ value?

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I'm looking at MacDonalds - www.macsnananu.com. Would appreciate comments from anyone who's been there.

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