Fiji Properties Invest In Upgrades

<I>Yanuca Island, Fiji</I> - In the quiet race for business and meetings traffic in this corner of the South Pacific, the Fijian Resort has grabbed first place as the biggest spender.

The 109-acre, village-like resort on Fiji's scenic Coral Coast--one of the original Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts properties--has invested $4.6 million to spruce up its 432 guest rooms, meeting facilities, public areas and food outlets.

"The key to our success with incentives and conferences is attention to detail and flexibility," said senior sales manager Denise Melinsky. "Having a spectacular tropical setting is icing on the cake."

Indeed, it takes a spectacular setting to lure corporate functions from Coca-Cola, Pfizer Pharmaceuticals and other international firms five hours beyond Hawaii.

It doesn't hurt that the property is 45 minutes through coconut plantations and pine forests from Nadi International Airport and separated from the mainland by a private causeway. Five low-rise wings circle Yanuca Island, providing ocean or lagoon views from most rooms. The Davui Convention Hall, which seats 400 theater style, is isolated from other guest facilities to ensure privacy for corporate functions. Amenities include a private golf course, deep-sea fishing, scuba diving and a glassy lagoon for snorkeling and swimming. Rack rates start at $177.

Meanwhile, the Tokatoka Resort In Nadi is spending $500,000 to add five villas to its current inventory of 79 rooms. The expansion is scheduled to be completed in mid-July. Also, the Westin Plaza is spending $1 million to refurbish its pool area and turn a nightclub area into a conference facility.