STORY BY PAUL HUGHES, FEBRUARY 2023. - IMAGE BY MARIANO CARPENTIER
Welcam (this is "welcome" in the native Bislama language)
Vanuatu is a tropical paradise located in the South Pacific, offering a wealth of attractions and activities that appeal to visitors from around the world.
It's such a beautiful place we have visited many times, not only for its natural and sometimes exotic scenery, but also for the infectious smiles of its people.
Vanuatu is a chain of 83 tropical islands, 13 being major islands, with around 65 islands inhabited. The islands are volcanic and coral in origin, and sit about 1800 kilometres east of Australia, stretching around 900 kilometres south from the northern tip of Queensland and 800 kilometres west of Fiji.
With its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant cultural heritage it's no wonder that Vanuatu is a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, excellent diving, lush rain forests and the local culture.
Vanuatu Tourism has a team of very friendly and knowledgeable locals at their three Visitor Bureaus in the capital, Port Vila.
They provide free maps and help with anything you want or need to know, whether it's hiring a car and driver, booking a tour, finding the most suitable accommodation, or just finding a great experience, duty free or restaurant!
Discover more here or link directly to the Vanuatu Tourism Office
Discover the Banana Bay Beach Club and see how an Aussie mother and daughter are literally building a new paradise in paradise ........ by hand!
KNOWING THE BASICS
The three main tourist islands in Vanuatu are Efate (where the capital Port Vila is located); Espiritu Santo (or Santo); and Tanna. Although beautiful and tropical, many of the other islands do not have a heavy tourism focus.
The three main tourist islands in Vanuatu are Efate (where the capital Port Vila is located); Espiritu Santo (or Santo); and Tanna. Although beautiful and tropical, many of the other islands do not have a heavy tourism focus.
LANGUAGE
There are three main languages in Vanuatu - Bislama, English and French.
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MONEY
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INTERNET, WI FI, POWER
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While Vatu (VUV) is the local currency, many places accept Australian and other currencies.
Have small denominations, especially in markets and outside the main cities. ATMs are available on the main islands, although they often must be operated by banks from your own country. |
Internet is expensive and slow, but you might get free access for 15 minutes a day at [email protected].
Major hotels and resorts have free wifi, but it is centralised to small areas in the resorts and limited to guests. Power is 240v/50Hz, with plugs usually the three-pin type found in Australia |
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SAFETY
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TRANSPORT
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Crime in Vanuatu is low, but take normal precautions and don’t walk alone after dark, especially in isolated areas.
While cyclones can happen any time, the peak season is November to April and there are usually plenty of advance warnings. Earthquakes do occur and there are several active volcanoes. If you hear loud sirens or experience earth tremors it is recommended you seek high ground. Check travel warnings before you travel. |
While there is no formal public transport system in Vanuatu, it's relatively easy to get around.
Privately owned mini buses are plentiful at the cruise terminal, airport and in the main towns. Simply flag one down, tell them where you want to go, and check the price - it is usually per person and they can often pick up other travellers. If going out of town, get a return price. Look for a red B on the number plate. There are also taxis, water taxis, tours and private cars for hire but careful, as roads are not well maintained. |
10 MOST POPULAR ISLANDS IN VANUATU
Here is a summary of the 10 islands that are most popular with tourists, each offering its own unique attractions and experiences:
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Efate: The largest island in Vanuatu, Efate is home to the capital city of Port Vila, as well as stunning beaches, lush forests, and cultural villages.
Tanna: Known for its stunning landscapes, Tanna is home to the famous Mount Yasur volcano, as well as a variety of cultural attractions, including traditional villages and dance ceremonies. Santo: The largest island in Vanuatu, it offers a variety of activities and attractions, including pristine beaches, world-class diving and snorkeling, and cultural villages. Malekula: Malekula is a rugged and remote island that is home to a number of traditional villages, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Vanuatu. Epi: Epi is a lush and tropical island that is popular for its stunning beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and vibrant local culture. |
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Ambrym: This is a remote and rugged island that is home to two active volcanoes, as well as stunning beaches and traditional villages.
Erromango: Another a remote and rugged island that is known for its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, including traditional villages and dance ceremonies.
Aneityum: This is a lush and tropical island that is popular for its stunning beaches, world-class diving, and vibrant local culture.
Pentecost: A spectacular island known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests and soaring cliffs, as well as its cultural heritage, including traditional villages and the famous "land-diving" ceremony.
Maewo: Another lush and tropical island that is popular for its stunning beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and vibrant local culture.
Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making Vanuatu a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and culture.
Whether you're looking for pristine beaches, vibrant culture, or stunning landscapes, Vanuatu has something for everyone.
Read about our day out in Vanuatu where our driver/guide was a chief of one of the villages.
Discover more about the amazing new club resort in Vanuatu that a Queensland mother/daughter team are creating out of the natural volcanic environment.
See our story on Vanuatu in 2016..
See the benefits of using the information and booking services of Vanuatu Tourism
Back to the Home Page.
Erromango: Another a remote and rugged island that is known for its stunning landscapes and cultural heritage, including traditional villages and dance ceremonies.
Aneityum: This is a lush and tropical island that is popular for its stunning beaches, world-class diving, and vibrant local culture.
Pentecost: A spectacular island known for its stunning landscapes, including lush forests and soaring cliffs, as well as its cultural heritage, including traditional villages and the famous "land-diving" ceremony.
Maewo: Another lush and tropical island that is popular for its stunning beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and vibrant local culture.
Each of these destinations offers a unique and unforgettable experience, making Vanuatu a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and culture.
Whether you're looking for pristine beaches, vibrant culture, or stunning landscapes, Vanuatu has something for everyone.
Read about our day out in Vanuatu where our driver/guide was a chief of one of the villages.
Discover more about the amazing new club resort in Vanuatu that a Queensland mother/daughter team are creating out of the natural volcanic environment.
See our story on Vanuatu in 2016..
See the benefits of using the information and booking services of Vanuatu Tourism
Back to the Home Page.
