Fiji Gateway Hotel

Opened in 1969, this is one of Nadi's first hotels. Not to be confused with the luxury Raffles brand in Asia, Raffles Gateway is part of a smaller local brand that operates two beach resorts on Malolo Island: Plantation Island and Lomani Island. Most guests are travelers taking advantage of its easy airport access for a night or two. 

The hotel has some charm, thanks to its creamy white facade and car turnaround that are overflowing with purple bougainvillea. Inside, the large two-story lobby has vaulted wooden ceilings and walls decorated in Fijian art. Friendly staff will often get guests checked in as early as noon, since most guests check out early in the morning. The hotel is usually filled with travelers drinking beer, playing pool, or lounging by the pools. At night, an acoustic guitarist is often performing, and there's a lively buzz of people enjoying dinner and drinks -- either anxious to begin their vacation, or enjoying the last bit of it before heading home. 

Nadi is on the western side of the island of Viti Levu, and home to the the biggest airport in the country. Though Raffles Gateway Hotel isn't on the beach, its main attraction is that's located across the street from the airport. Guests can walk to the airport, or wait for the shuttle that makes regular rounds between the entrance of the hotel and the international terminal about every 15 minutes.

Those with a rental car have free parking in the lot by the entrance. There is an on-site convenience store and a grocery store about a five-minute drive away. The front desk can help arrange transportation.

The hotel has 95 rooms spread among two-story buildings, which were last refurbished in 2014. Interiors offer neutral tones in beige tile floors and white bedding with Fijian-inspired bed runners. Traditional wood furnishings, including desks and cushioned chairs, may show wear and tear. All room categories are equipped with AC units, flat-screen TVs, electronic safes, mini-fridges with a pitcher of water, hot water kettles, tea, and instant coffee. Bathrooms have walk-in showers, Frangipani toiletries, and hairdryers. Some rooms also have original paintings by the hotel's executive director. Rooms either overlook the main pool, a neighboring hotel, or the pretty garden with mountain views. Most rooms have furnished terraces on the first floor or unfurnished balconies on the second floor. 

The Deluxe Family Room has a queen-size bed in one room, and a set of bunk beds and a separate twin bed in the other (kids under the age of 16 aren't charged). Executive Rooms include mini-fridges stocked with soda, water, and beer. Rooms for day use are also available.

There are two restaurants at the hotel, both open for all three meals. The open-air restaurant, Palm Court Cafe, serves Western-style cuisine. For breakfast, guests can choose between a continental buffet or hot a la carte options. Bure Restaurant offers more upscale European-style cuisine and wines. Room service is also available 24/7. The hotel bar has two billiards tables, TVs playing sporting matches, and funky wicker stools. In the evening, there may be live music from local musicians. Next to the bar is the Cocohut coffee shop, serving espresso and iced drinks throughout the day. 

There are two swimming pools, though most people congregate at the main one. It has cushioned lounge chairs, umbrellas, and a foot bridge that connects to a waterslide. The smaller pool has a hot tub facing a garden, but it was mostly unused during our visit, likely due to it being adjacent to the restaurant.

There are a tennis court, volleyball net, and small gym with cardio machines and free weights. The garden gardens are lush and a pretty spot for a stroll. Guests who booked a day-rate room can use the facilities at no charge, other than a fee for a towel; this adds some liveliness to the property. Wi-Fi can be purchased at the front desk, or there are desktop computers (for a fee) next to the coffee shop.