The Fiji Times newspaper devoted considerable space yesterday to the comments of an Australian couple who reportedly lamented the lack of larger-sized clothing and cotton garments during a call at Suva this week by Holland America liner Volendam.

"A majority of the passengers on board our ship are elderly retirees, many of whom wear large-sized clothing," Jan Taylor told the paper.

"They have money to spend, but it’s a pity that not all your shops stock their sizes", she said.

"There are also a lot of nylon-based garments which can be uncomfortable considering the climate in the Pacific."

Her husband Ron said he had found it difficult to locate shirts, in particular his favourite bula shirts, that fitted him.

Having said that, the couple praised shop attendants for the quality of their service and the legendary Fijian smiles.