Michelle Weir stays on a car-free private island where the noise of the ocean and people laughing are the only sounds to be heard.
Getting there: We arrived at 4pm and as no other flights arrive at that time we were straight through Customs, had collected our luggage and met our transfer within 30 minutes of landing. Sonaisali Island is a 25-minute drive from Nadi Airport and, from that 4pm arrival, youget there in time for a stunning sunset.
Check-in experience: On arrival, a tender boat takes you the 100m across the inlet to the hotel reception. There you are greeted with a friendly "Bula", a cold towel, a fresh coconut to drink from, and a warm chocolate chip DoubleTree cookie.
DoubleTree by Hilton resort on Sonaisali Island.
Room: I stayed in a double-queen guest room, which is one of the lead-in rooms, but it is on the beach with a stunning view of the sunset and palm trees. The rooms have the Hilton touch: Clean, spacious, and nice nude/taupe tones (a personal favourite of mine).
What's so good about this place: There are no cars on this private island, just the noise of the ocean and people laughing and having fun - immediately relaxing.
And the bad: It is an island, so with only the hotel bars and restaurants you may want to head into the Port at Denarau or Nadi town (about a 25-minute drive) for alternative dining options.
What's in the neighbourhood: Being an island, your only neighbours are other holidaymakers or locals, so there's a very relaxed vibe about the place.
DoubleTree by Hilton resort on Sonaisali Island.
Toiletries: Aroma Active Essentials - I only used the body wash and I loved the fresh smell of it. Not overpowering and not too floral.
Food and Drink: At Tavu restaurant ("grill" in Fijian), I had an amazing grilled chicken with plantain mash.
The bed: The beds and linen are called "sweet dreams" and that's exactly what I had. I was out like a light and had a solid eight hours (rare at home).
A room with a view? All rooms here are ocean view, and mine looked straight out to the beach with palm trees and a blue sky. Perfection.
Bathroom: I judge a hotel on its bathrooms and this one was spot on: Beautifully laid out, with huge space. Great shower pressure, a bathtub too and lush towels. Again, definitely a Hilton feel about it.
Noise: Just the lapping of the ocean and a few faint laughs from the bar.
Exercise facilities: A lovely brand new gym with great equipment! As a CrossFitter, I loved having kettle bells and medicine balls to play with.
Perfect for: Anyone wanting a relaxing few days away, or a night (or two) in transit before heading out to the islands.
CHECKLIST
The Double Tree by Hilton is on Naisali Island in Sonaisali, Fiji. Phone: +679 910 3333.
