(
Oceania
Vanuatu
vital statistics
- Port Vila
- 260,000
- French, English, Bislama
- Vanuatu vatu
This picture-perfect island archipelago with its sub-tropical climate, sand-fringed islands and rich marine life fits the bill as a dream Pacific getaway. Vanuatu is suitably photogenic – both naturally and with it’s photo-loving people and hip-shaking festivals. One of the best known, land diving (the original bungee) on Pentecost will have you biting your fingernails to the quick.
You might rub shoulders with the locals at kava bars, where you’ll be offered a bowl of the intoxicating liquid. Traditional life continues on many of the islands and villagers will likely welcome you. Be warned: they may love to eat root vegetables (kasava, taro or yam) but you probably won’t, although you should at least give them a try.
The capital, Port Vila, errs on the touristy side of things, but has colonial charm and dining in its restaurants with water vistas is a treat. Get your fix of live-it-up decadence one day then dabble in adventure sports next by visiting the active volcano on Tanna or diving on the wreck of the SS President Coolidge on Espiritu Santo.
Just remember to leave your city slicker mentality at home. These islands are chillaxed to the max – even in the capital there’s no bargaining or hawkers.
Explore Vanuatu By
It's been a long wait, but the deserted beaches, underwater adventures and...
It's been a long wait, but the deserted beaches, underwater adventures and geographic...
First held in the late 1700s in East Tanna, the Nekowiar Festival is one of...
First held in the late 1700s in East Tanna, the Nekowiar Festival is one of Vanuatu's...
Looking for an epic Vanuatu cultural event? Then the Maskelyne Canoe...
Looking for an epic Vanuatu cultural event? Then the Maskelyne Canoe Festival, where...
Leave Vanuatu’s main island of Efate behind and head to a land of...
Leave Vanuatu’s main island of Efate behind and head to a land of adventure. Thankfully...
Travel north from the main island of Efate and you’ll discover Penama...
Travel north from the main island of Efate and you’ll discover Penama province and its...
For the adventurous there really is only one way to explore Gaua, a remote...
For the adventurous there really is only one way to explore Gaua, a remote island in the...
Being one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, Vanuatu’s...
Being one of the most culturally diverse nations in the world, Vanuatu’s traditional...
After landing at the tiny Lamap airport on Malekoula, you'll head to a boat...
After landing at the tiny Lamap airport on Malekoula, you'll head to a boat ramp, jump in...
