There's a new way for Aussies to fly to the US - and it comes with a side of 'bula'

I've flown to the USA a few times now and there is one thing I really struggle to look forward to - arriving via LAX.

Thankfully, more route options are becoming available when visiting North America, and one fresh alternative to the usual carriers offers an opportunity for a South Pacific stopover-cation.

Fiji Airways has launched a new route connecting Nadi to Dallas Fort Worth in Texas, and with connections available from Australia, it's an enjoyable new way to start (or end) a trip to the States.

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A new way to get to the USA

Fiji Airways already flies to both Los Angeles and San Francisco from Nadi, but has now added a third option for travellers. The airline is saying 'bula' to Dallas after launching the new flight route on December 10 last year.

Connecting Nadi, Fiji with with Dallas Fort Worth, it's the airline's longest route yet, and there are plenty of options for connections available to Australia (including the first ever non-stop flights between Nadi and Cairns International Airport, commencing 10 April 2025).

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Inside the world's best first, business and premium economy class cabins

The service operates on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.

It is the perfect opportunity for Aussies to get a taste of both an island getaway, and the hustle and bustle of the big city.

The flight

Fiji Airways is operating the Airbus A350-900 XWB aircraft on the route, carrying 334 passengers. Return flights start at $1249.

There are 33 lie-flat, aisle-access business class seats.

You'll also enjoy large 17-inch screens, charging ports, and so much legroom that I couldn't even reach the footrest until I reclined.

The tray table is large and sturdy - good for a laptop if you need to work. It's got a fold mechanism that also came in handy when I wanted to block out some extra light from the screen buttons while baby was asleep.

In true Fijian form, the service was exceptionally friendly and kind. We were introduced to the cabin crew team before take off, and before landing they thanked each of us individually - and asked for any feedback on ways to improve.

Even small things that I would not expect but were offered made the flight as smooth as it could be - especially when travelling with a little one.

At one point she was still sleeping when the cabin lights were turned back on for the cabin to be prepared for landing. I noticed one of the crew spot she was still asleep, and once they had completed their safety checks they actually dimmed the lights a little again for as long as they were able to.

And when it was time for meal services during the flight, I had more than one flight attendant offer to hold the baby while we ate. She wasn't super keen on the idea in the end, so dad and I tag teamed instead, but the thought was there...

Premier airport service

The incredible service didn't stop once we got off the plane either. We were offered the first ever media review of Fiji Airway's brand new Premier Airport Service, which the airline promises will "redefine your airport journey at Nadi International Airport in Fiji".

And to be honest, that's exactly what it felt like. You get a personalised meet and greet straight off the plane - we hadn't even entered the terminal yet.

Your friendly helper will then expedite airport processing and help with your luggage.

When you leave, again you'll get priority check in, skip the queues and exclusive lounge access.

Every detail is taken care of, allowing you to relax and travel with ease. It was a blessing as a family travelling with a tot.

Packages are available to book at FijiAirways.com, Fiji Airways' premier service starts at $FJ170 per person (approximately $117), with family packages available.

The lounge

Fiji Airways Premier Lounge at Nadi International Airport was honoured as Oceania's Leading Airline Lounge at the 2024 World Travel Awards.

With opening hours from 5am to 11pm every day, the lounge welcomes passengers across all Fiji Airways flights and those of all partner airlines. The early opening hours were handy during our transit back to Australia when we arrived in Nadi 30 minutes early.

There was plenty on offer food and drink-wise but the winning find was a fruit juicer - options included watermelon, apple, pineapple, carrot and celery.

Each bathroom has a shower room, which needs to be reserved at the bar. If people are ahead of you, you'll be issued a buzzer.

Finally, if you've decided to bring your kids to Fiji, you can keep them entertained in the Lailai Land play area. It's filled with toys and a TV showing movies. A way to keep the peace with some passengers who may not enjoy having younger ones in a lounge setting.

Though generally we encountered nothing but smiles.

The ideal 'stopover-cation'

The idea of a stopover-cation has been gaining momentum over the past 12 months, particularly as Aussies look to get the most out of their travel budget.

Three quarters of Aussies are considering a stopover-cation for their next holiday (Scoot's Travelling Further for Less study) in order to visit multiple destinations on a single trip.

And while it might seem that having the connection in Nadi is unnecessary when you can fly direct to the US, the opportunity it offers is hard to pass up.

The quality of the flight and service was as good (or better than some other direct Australia to US options) and with the potential for a short holiday in Fiji it's an appealing option.

Not to mention the price for a flight to the US being competitive, immediately puts it at the top of my list.

The writer travelled as a guest of Fiji Airways.