The recently renamed Funafuti Lagoon Hotel is right in the centre of town, but faces right on to the seafront.  Formally the Vaiaku Lagi Hotel, the name has changed but as far as we are aware, there have been no other changes at the the hotel.

It was fairly recently refurbished and a new wing was built facing out over Funafuti Lagoon, with lovely sunset views.  These 16 rooms are more modern in design but still quite basic compared to a western hotel.  They offer a double or 2 single beds, air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom with hot/cold water shower, fridge, tea and coffee making facilities, IDD telephone and sliding doors to a private, furnished balcony or patio. Some rooms also have a microwave.

The rooms in the older block are budget rooms, at a reduced rate, and are a little spartan with painted breeze block walls and only very basic furniture.  But the rooms are air-conditioned, have tea and coffee making facilities, telephone and have private bathrooms with showers.

There is a restaurant and bar, but the menus are fairly limited.  However, fresh fish and lobster are caught daily from the lagoon, so seafood is high on the menu.  There is now a small swimming pool at this property, which is a welcome recent addition.

In no way could the Funafuti Lagoon Hotel be viewed as anything but basic and functional, but it is clean and the staff are very friendly and helpful.  So should your travels take you to this part of the Pacific, please do not expect too much from your 'hospitality' experience!  The dividend from your visit will come from the cultural experience and the scenic beauty of these island nations' unspoiled outer islands and the warmth of their peoples.

Click HERE to visit the hotel's own website