Information

Vanuatu is in the South West of the Pacific Ocean and contains roughly 80 islands that stretch over 1300 kilometers.   Of those island there are 13 principal islands, the rest being smaller and less or not populated.
The island chain is located  approximately 1770 kilometers from the east of Australia and 800 kilometers from Fiji.
The country offers scuba diving and snorkelling, with many wrecks such as the WWII troopship SS President Coolidge.  The culture is Melanesian and the climate and vegetation tropical.
Population figures have the total around 275,000.

QUICK FACTS:

Currency:  Vanuatu Vatu

Language: French, English, Bislama

Visa: Most western countries dont need a visa, but as always check with your consulate before arriving to check on current requirements.

Power: 220 volts AC.  Plug  types l

Safety: Vanuatu is a very safe place to travel, but it pays to take normal travel precautions especially in Port Villa and crowded areas.  

TRANSPORT:

Flying between islands is in most case the only practical way to get from one island to another and for the smaller islands you may have to charter a private plane from Air Taxi or something similar.  Within the larger islands, car hire and taxis are available

FESTIVALS:

Nagol Land Diving – Pentecost Island, April – June, a right of passage ceremony held during the Yam Harvest.
Toka Festival – Tanna, April – A 3 day festival taking place every few years when the chief thinks conditions favourable.
Rom Dance – Ambrym Island, Late July – 2 day dance festival.
Maskelyne Canoe Race and Festival – Maskelyne Islands, Late July – 2 day cultural festival including dance, canoe making and shared meals.
St Andrews Day Race – Rah & Mota Lava Islands, November – Cultural festival with ancient traditions.
Back to my Roots Festival – North Ambrym Island, Late August.
The Lakona Bay Kustom Festival – Gaua Island, August.
South West Bay Nalawan Festival – Melekula, Late August.