Natadola Beach, Fiji

Natadola Beach, located on Fiji's main island of Viti Levu, is the most beautiful white-sand beach in Fiji. Natadola's lush beauty and variety of recreational activities, from snorkeling to horseback riding, draws vacationers from around the world.

Getting There
Nearest major international airport: Fiji's International Airport at Nadi. Travel time to Fiji from Los Angeles is about 9.5 hours.

Airport transportation
Upon arrival in Fiji, getting to Natadola Beach is easy! It is conveniently located just 45 minutes from the airport. Or if you are enjoying the scenic coastal drive from the capital of Suva, it is about a 2.5-hour drive to Natadola.

Ground transportation
Most resorts provide ground transportation from the airport. Taxis are very often substandard and are not recommended. However, car rentals are available from the airport.

Timing
Fiji enjoys a year-round warm, sunny climate without extremes of heat or cold. The mild, dry season runs from May to October with a warm, wetter phase from November to April. Temperatures range from 83 F to 88 F (daytime), and the evenings are in the high 70s throughout the year.

Lodging
Natadola Beach Resort with a spectacular view of Natadola Bay, offers packages that include return airport transfers, accommodation, all meals and government tax.

Cuisine
Fiji is known for its excellent freshwater cuisine, along with a variety of locally grown tropical fruits.

Travel Tips
Fijian dollars are used locally. All commerce is in Fiji dollars and daily exchange rates are listed in the major banks, in newspapers, and at hotels and resorts. All major hotels and duty free stores will exchange foreign notes and traveler's checks, as will the banks. International credit cards are, of course, widely accepted.

Although English is universally spoken, you will hear Fijian and Hindi.

Most Fijian resort staff are not permitted to solicit or accept tips. However, most guests do leave a contribution for their staff Christmas bonus fund. This is entirely up to your own discretion. 

While you are there: Other than relaxing and taking in the beautiful greenery and spectacular views, you can try snorkeling, surfing, horseback riding, and beach combing. For those guests wanting a bit more activity, tennis, golf, sport fishing or scuba diving can also be arranged.

To fake that you've been there
Drop a few of these Fijian words; your friends will surely believe you've been to Fiji, and you will be accepted in polite society anywhere on the island:

• "Bula!" (Boola) - the exact translation is hello/hi/greeting when you see someone
• "Vinaka" (Vie'na'ka) - thank you
• "Moce" (mothe) - bye

Linking for a better vacation
Fiji Visitors Bureau distributes general tourism informatino and a list of hotels with current prices. They also maintain overseas offices in several countries.