Suva, the capital of Fiji is a city with a long history and one of the icons of the colonial past is The Grand Pacific Hotel. In 2014, the hotel was fully renovated to exemplify its grandeur and celebrate its one hundredth anniversary. The initial planning for the hotel started in 1908 by a New Zealand company specifically aiming to provide visitors to Fiji with an elevated experience. There were doubts on whether or not it would be completed, but sure enough it opened its doors in 1914. Over the years this landmark has welcomed many notable guests including Queen Elizabeth II. One of the suites is named after her.

With such history I was looking forward to visiting and staying on my Pacifying the Pacific visit to Suva.

I drove over from Nadi (which was a beautiful drive) and found the parking easily accessible. I marveled at the atrium as I walked into the famous lobby.

Checking-in I noticed some envelopes depicting the hotel facade. On closer inspection, the official Fijian stamps were also of the hotel, celebrating the anniversary.

I stayed in a Grand Pacific Superior room which overlooked the pool and harbor. The room seemed quite modern though it maintained its charm. The standard amenities were present such as coffee and tea making facilities, mini bar, flat screen TV, desk, seating area and of course a king sized bed. They also had a welcome gift basket of fruit which I appreciated.

The bathroom was simple with a very large shower decorated in white tile.

But my favorite aspect of the room was the cute little terrace with seating for two overlooking Suva’s waterfront.

Arriving in the evening I didn’t have much time to test all the restaurants, but there was plenty of selection. Prince Albert is their premier offering headed by Chef Mo Arun and serving some creative Fijian dishes. Levuka Restaurant is the main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner set in the colonial building.

As I walked around, I noticed the music and energy of the hotel with crowds rubbing shoulders in the classy Victoria Lounge.

In terms of facilities, the hotel’s pool is a focal point for the back terrace facing the water. There is also a gym and spa. Bliss Spa offers many treatments like the “Royal Coconut Milk and Honey Body Ritual”.

Unfortunately I had a flight to catch the next morning, but I felt truly fortunate to have been able to stay in such a prominent property. If visiting Suva, make some time to take a step back into history. You won’t regret it.

Contact
Grand Pacific Hotel
Address: 584 – 618 Victoria Parade P.O. Box 15014, Suva, Fiji
Telephone: + [679] 322 2000
Email: info@gph.com.fj
Website: http://grandpacifichotel.com.fj