Hotel Sarah Nui

Hotel Sarah Nui's budget vibe is evident from the get-go, with its gray mixed metal and stone exterior. Fortunately, interiors are more cheerful (albeit cheap-looking), with a hodgepodge of funky, colorful objects found throughout. Expect red and black velour couches, fiber optic flower lamps, and a wall of glass cases displaying pearl jewelry for sale in the lobby lounge, while hallways have colorful, locally inspired artwork and patterned rugs. However, dim lighting (largely due to lamps often being turned off) and lots of wear and tear make the spaces unwelcoming. Given its location near the ferry terminal and airport, guests are typically transit travelers looking for a budget-friendly stay before heading off to another island or home. Visitors are almost exclusively couples.

On the main island of Tahiti, this property is ideally located for travelers with onward travel via the ferry terminal, as it's a one-minute drive (or five-minute walk) away. Those headed to the Fa'a'ā International Airport are also a quick 15-minute drive away. The hotel provides free shuttle service from the airport only, but guests must arrange this in advance. The area around the hotel is commercial and a bit rundown, bu there are some conveniences nearby. The popular Papeete Market, with vendors selling fresh produce, local delicacies, and goods, is a 10-minute away in the town's center, and it's surrounded by restaurants, banks with ATMs, and shops. Note that taxis are expensive. 

Like common areas, rooms are upbeat but poor-looking at close inspection. Though decor varies a bit between rooms, they all have wood floors, a mix of wood and metal furniture, neutral-tone walls with modern or quirky animal artwork, decorative lamps, and colorful tea trays. Despite low-quality linens, beds are mostly comfy, and big windows or sliding glass doors let in light. However, peeling paint, stains on nearly every surface, and scuff marks are found throughout. Still, amenities are sufficient, consisting of desks, air-conditioning, small flat-screen TVs with one English-language channel, mini-fridges, tea- and coffee-making facilities, large wardrobes (some with safes), and free, reliable Wi-Fi. 

Bathrooms are the most modern part of the units, with up-to-date tiling and rainfall showers, plus basic toiletries and hairdryers. Some rooms have wet bars, living spaces, and furnished balconies. Note that poor soundproofing can lead to noise issues. 

Given this is primarily a transit hotel, features are limited here. There are no full restaurant, gym, or pool, but a decent continental breakfast is served in a room next to the lobby lounge. Some rates include breakfast. Snacks like flatbread pizza and drinks are available in the lounge at certain times throughout the day and evening. Most past guests agree it's sufficient in a pinch, but better food can be found within a 10-minute walk. A vending machine in the lobby sells soda. Free and fast Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property.