IF you are travelling to Fiji the first port of call is usually Nadi on the sunny north-western coastline of the mainland. Sandalwood Lodge is a quiet budget hotel only 5 km from the airport and provides 33 self-contained guest units at modest rates. The hotel is a C-shaped building of 2-levels enclosing a tropical garden and relaxing pool area. There is also a children's pool making this a family-friendly place to stay in Nadi. All rooms have ensuite, kitchenette and private balcony or verandah. There is no restaurant but there are local places to eat.