Page 4 - Vanuatu

VANUATU

VANUATU

Just over 3 hours away lies the warm touch of paradise. Vanuatu is an archipelago of 83 islands that has so much to offer and one
visit is simply not enough. It is ideal for busy couples seeking a quick ‘recharge’ in peace and tranquillity, adrenaline junkies looking
for adventure and families with children who want a chance to bond. You can be sure of a unique, memorable experience if you
visit Vanuatu. There is so much to see here, with Vanuatu’s unparalleled blend of authentic tribal communities, pristine marine
environments, majestic volcanoes and adventurous activities on offer. Vanuatu’s 3 main islands with full facilities for guests are
Efate, Espiritu Santo and Tanna. So if you’re looking for a South Pacific holiday with a difference – rich in experiences that leave
lasting impressions forever – think Vanuatu!

Must see & do

• Take the “B” bus – A great way to get around the Port Vila for a small price

and a fantastic experience. Travel with the locals and see places off the
beaten track!

• Eat out in a local restaurant – With over 35 cafes and restaurants offering

everything from traditional French and International to Asian and Pacific
Rim cuisine you are spoilt for choice!

• Visit Cascades Falls – Take a walk through the beautiful grounds, take in the

wonderful views and cool down with a swim in the one of the natural pools.

• S hop at the local markets – Whether it is sampling the local cuisine or

buying some fresh food or local handicraft, visiting the market is a must.

• Go snorkelling on Hideaway Island – Discover the remarkable marine life

at Hideaway Island and post a postcard at the world’s only underwater
post office.

• Visit a Ni-Vanuatu Village – Learn from the villages themselves, their

traditional way of life, dances, art & craft and culture.

Travel tips Max Temp °C Average Temperature
Min Temp °C
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
29 29 29 28 27 26 25 25 25 26 27 28
23 23 23 22 20 19 19 18 19 20 21 22

• Climate: The ideal tropical weather is from April to November with an • Clothing: Light tropical and casual clothing is suitable day and evening.

average daytime temperature of 23°C. The Southeast trade winds provide A sweater is a good idea for the evenings. Brief clothing should not be worn
slightly cooler weather with less humidity. December to March is hot and in public places and villages.
humid (with an average daytime temperature of 28°C) with rainy periods.
• T ransport: In Port Vila, look out for the small buses (number plates will
• Currency: The Vatu is the official unit of currency. There is a National bank of
start with “B”). They will take you anywhere within the greater Port Vila area
Vanuatu branch at the Airport in Port Vila to change currency both on arrival for 150-200 Vatu. There are many taxis in Port Vila, which are relatively
and departure. Most major credit cards are accepted. The banks in Port Vila are inexpensive. Agree on a price before setting out on your journey.
ANZ open Monday to Friday 9am – 3.30pm & Westpac open Monday to Friday
8.30am – 4pm. ATM facilities are available only in Port Vila, Efate & Santo. • Entry Requirements: Visas are not required for New Zealand passport holders

• Language: There are over 120 distinct languages and many more dialects. for stays of 30 days or less. A valid passport is required with a minimum of six
months validity from the date of entry plus, a return airline ticket.
Bislama (Pidgin English) is the national language of Vanuatu, but English and
French are also spoken. • Business / Shopping Hours: Most shops and businesses in Port Vila are

• Departure Tax: A tax of 3000 Vatu per person over 12 years of age applies open Monday – Friday 7.30am – 11.30am and 1.30pm – 5.00pm. Lunchtime
is usually from 11.30am – 1.30pm. Most shops are open on Saturday
to international flights and 400 Vatu for domestic flights. Both taxes are morning and some speciality shops and supermarkets are open on Sunday
included on your airline ticket. A provincial departure tax of 200 Vatu per morning.
person on domestic flights is payable at all the airports.
• Medical: No vaccinations are required, but it is wise to take anti-malaria
• Duty Free: Currently each visitor over 16 years of age is permitted up to 2
medication if visiting the outer islands. The most likely incident you will have
litres of wine, 1.5 litres of spirits and 200 cigarettes (or equivalent). Personal requiring any medication is coral scratches, so we recommend you take a
effects are entered duty free. suitable ointment.

• Electricity: 210 – 240 volts 50 cycles and 3 pin angled plugs identical to • Drinking Water: The Port Vila water supply is safe to drink. When travelling

those used in New Zealand. to outer islands it is advisable to take bottled water for drinking.

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