For most visitors who seek the sunny shores of Fiji, the small town of Nadi is the first impression they have of the South Pacific archipelago. The foremost gateway to proximate island resorts throughout the rest of Fiji, the town of 30,000 people is a major tourist hub.

Nadi is northwest of Viti Levu, the main island in Fiji and has the main International Airport in Fiji. As such, the town is a popular stopover for visitors who hail from Asia Pacific, Australia and New Zealand. For those with paradisiacal vacation plans on the Mamanuca Islands, Nadi is a mandatory port of call. The town is a commercial hive of activity, with major chain hotels, resorts and fine beachfront property within the city limits.

Although Nadi is not rife with cultural attractions per se, recent growth in tourism has made it more hospitable to international travelers. The town, for one, is a centre of Islam and Hinduism in Fiji, with two mosques and the impressive Sri Siva Subramaniya temple.

Built in 1986 on the site of a previous temple, Sri Siva Subramaniya is the Hindu home of record south of the equator. The Dravidian design is a reflection of the strong Indo-Fijian heritage on the islands.

Waqadra Botanical Gardens has a superb collection of native plants and flowers.

The Garden of the Sleeping Giant is worth the ten minute drive from central Nadi. The fabulous orchid exhibit was once the personal stash of the late actor Raymond Burr, of Ironside and Perry Mason fame.

The Garden name derives from the mountain range that forms the backdrop of Nadi. From above, the chain bears a resemblance to a giant at rest. Tours of the picturesque area, known as Sabeto River Valley, are available. The landscape is spectacular and visits to native villages are possible, with the adherence of certain protocols of course. Other attractions in the area include banana, citrus fruit, cassawa and breadfruit plantations.

Other than pure island relaxation, events in and around Nadi involve recreation and ecotourism. The Sabeto River Valley is ground zero for exploration in the area, with ample opportunity to trek, hike and climb the wild, hilly environment. Most tours of the area require a guide and can be quite strenuous. The ultimate reward however, is the photogenic scenery.

A visit to a traditional village is a distinct option for visitors to Nadi. Nearby, yet still relatively remote settlements, offer a window into native life as it once was and in many regards, remains today. Certain customs, from ancient yaqona rituals to pottery production and native meals, may comprise the total village experience.

Cyclone and tropical storm season in Nadi, like Fiji in general, is between the months of November and April. The average minimum and maximum temperatures hover in the areas of 20°C and 32°C throughout the year.