Low-Cost Lodging Available in Fiji

Many airline travelers get a chance to stop over in Fiji because it is a refueling point between North America and Australia.

Although there are no youth hostels on the island, there are a number of resorts and motels that have converted several rooms to accommodate backpacking travelers seeking low-cost lodging.

Fiji is made up of 322 islands scattered in the Pacific. International flights arrive on the island of Viti Levu, which has 50% of the country’s land area and three-quarters of the Fijian population.

Foreign visitors face a much better reception today than the early European explorers who sometimes wound up as the main course for dinner.

And the crew that was set adrift during the infamous “Mutiny on the Bounty” raced through the islands on their way to Timor, pursued by canoe-loads of Fijian warriors. Part of that path is now named Bligh Water.

The Youth Hostel Assn. of New Zealand makes a special effort to smooth the path for budget travelers. It checks out facilities regularly and publishes a list of suitable lodgings in its annual handbook.

Included are bunk rooms costing $6 to $8.20 per bed, per night. Another 20% discount is available to members of the International Youth Hostel Federation. And representatives of budget accommodations offer transportation from the airport.

The Nadi Bay Motel, midway between the airport and town on Wailoaloa Beach Road, has a swimming pool, a bar and a restaurant. One large room has been converted into a 10-bed dormitory for backpackers.

Also midway between Nadi Airport and town, at 67 Northern Press Road, is the Sunny Holiday Motel. It has 28 beds for backpackers in twin rooms, and small bunk rooms. Guests are provided with a complimentary continental breakfast, inexpensive meals are available and luggage can be stored.

The Seashell Cove Resort at Momi Bay is 23 miles south of Nadi. It offers backpackers 24 beds in six bunk rooms. The resort has a restaurant, coffee shop, water sports, laundry, bar, daily excursions and Fijian entertainment on Wednesday nights.

About 50 miles from Nadi along the Queen’s Road to the Coral Coast area is the Hideaway Resort. It has 30 beds in three bunk rooms, a swimming pool, beach, bar and game room.

Those who wish to explore the country and learn more about its culture and customs, which range from fire-walking to fishing for turtles and sharks by chanting, should invest in a good guidebook.

Two to consider are the 200-page Fiji Islands Handbook ($8.95) and the 750-page South Pacific Handbook ($14.95), both 1990 editions by David Stanley (Moon Publications).

You can request these books through your retail bookstore or order from Moon Publications, 722 Wall St., Chico, Calif. 95928, (916) 345-5473.