Novotel Nadi

Though it's not as resort-like as hotels on Denarau Island and is not on the beach, Novotel is a slight step up from the hotels directly across from the airport. Guests tend to come here after spending time at rustic island resorts, or following a long-haul flight -- it's a place to take a dip in the pool, order a good meal, perhaps do some laundry, and get a solid night’s rest before continuing travels. The hotel is part of the French-based AccorHotels (Novotel is the company's mid-range brand, with 414 properties around the world), which means business travelers are frequent guests. Service can feel a bit impersonal, but the hotel is a fine choice for those with Accor points or those who just want reliable chain amenities.

Novotel also has a unique setting in Nadi, as it sits away from traffic on a huge stretch of land, thanks to its golf course. Guests first check in at the open-air lobby, then make their way to one of two sections of rooms: one closer to the outdoor pool and another past the contemporary restaurant (those staying in the latter section might find themselves with a bit of a walk). A steady stream of seaplanes fly in the distance, and on Sundays, the sounds of a local church service can be heard from the balconies.

Novotel is in the town of Nadi (pronounced Nandi) on the western side of Viti Levu, the largest of 330 islands in Fiji -- also considered the "mainland." Since the biggest airport in the country is based here (as opposed to the capital of Suva), this is the transit point for nearly all destinations in Fiji. The hotel offers free, regular airport shuttle service to the international terminal, about a 10-minute drive away. There's also free uncovered parking manned by a security guard for guests with a car. A grocery store is about a 10-minute walk away for those who want to stock their mini-fridges, though most guests are staying at the hotel for a very short time, and will likely use the restaurant or room service. The front desk can arrange transportation to the town of Nadi for markets and cafes, and ferry companies departing to outer islands from Port Denarau will likely offer free pickup and drop-off service to Novotel. 

The hotel has 127 air-conditioned rooms spread out in two-story buildings; Standard Rooms are on the far end of the hotel grounds, while Superior and Deluxe are near the pool and face the Sleeping Giant mountain range. All rooms are decorated in soft muted tones that include beige furniture, brown carpeting, and tan headboards. The top floor of the Superior and Deluxe section has vaulted ceilings, making the rooms feel bigger. All three types come with flat-screen TVs, tea- and coffee-making facilities, mini-fridges, work desks, and covered balconies with two chairs and a small table. Bathrooms have mini-fridges, bathtubs, and separate small, open showers with hotel-brand toiletries. The Deluxe Rooms (those with Accor points are likely to be upgraded) include beige sofas, and guests will likely receive VIP perks -- for instance honeymooners may arrive to find a bottle of Champagne.

Sloping downwards from the lobby is the scenic rectangular pool surrounded by a red brick terrace. There are several grassy lawn areas with a few hammocks, cushioned sun loungers, tables, and umbrellas, but not enough to go around -- some guests simply throw their towels on the grass due to lack of available seating. Towels, for their part, will need to be signed for and returned at the front desk -- a slight annoyance if one simply wants to take a quick dip in the pool. 

Guests have access to a beginners-level nine-hole golf course (gear is available) and a compact driving range, as well as a paved tennis court. Very rarely will anyone have to wait for their turn at any of these facilities. There's also an outdoor massage hut near the lobby that can accommodate couples. Note that staff may be on the hunt for business and will likely make sales pitches as guests go through the lobby.

The only bar and restaurant on the property is called Talei, which serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Guests are given two options for the buffet breakfast at different price points, and there's an outdoor omelet station, though service from staff can feel slow. Coffee is also self-serve and there seemed to be a line of people waiting at hot food stations when Oyster was there. The only interaction from staff members seemed to be when they asked for room numbers, and we saw guests trying to flag them down so they could order an espresso coffee. Lunch and dinner are both a la carte, featuring standard European cuisine like pizzas, salads, and sandwiches, along with some seafood items. The bar has a buzzing scene during the daily happy hour and on some nights there are food and drink specials like Fijian nights or rum tastings. 

The carpeted, windowless gym is in need of a makeover, but provides a few cardio machines and a set of free weights facing mirrored walls. 

In the lobby are a few shops for sundries, snacks, drinks, clothing, and souvenirs. It's cheaper to buy wine and beer from here instead of room service. Washer and dryer tokens are also available in the lobby.