Vanuatu
JUST BRILLIANT GUIDES
Regional area HIU LINUA
Torres Islands
TORBA PROVINCE Sola
VANUA LAVA
MOTA LAVA
Pacific
Banks Islands
Ocean
GAUA
ESPIRITU
Olpoi
SANMA PROVINCE
SANTO Malao
MAEWO
AMBAE Walaha
Luganville
MALO Norsup
South West Bay
Craig Cove
Ulei
Lamap
PAAMA
Lamen Bay
SHEFA PROVINCE
Sea
MALAMPA PROVINCE
AMBRYM
Valesdir
Coral
PENTECOST
Lonorore
MALEKULA
PENAMA PROVINCE
Longana Redcliffe Sara
EPI Votlo
EMAE
TONGOA
Shepherd Islands
EFATE PORT VILA
VANUATU
ERROMANGO
Potnarvin
Dillon’s Bay
Ipota
N 100 km
0 Scale
Roads International airport Domestic airport Reef
Please do not remove map from room
TAFEA PROVINCE
Lowital Lenakel
ANIWA FUTUNA TANNA
Anelgauwat
ANEITYUM
Vanuatu
"WELCOME TO PARADISE" IS THE PHRASE THAT MOST VISITORS HEAR ON ARRIVAL TO VANUATU, PROBABLY BECAUSE THIS UNIQUE ISLAND NATION IS JUST THAT: A PARADISE ON EARTH. BOASTING THREE OFFICIAL LANGUAGES AND A RICH, DIVERSE LOCAL CULTURE, VANUATU IS THE PERFECT TROPICAL GETAWAY. Vanuatu is made up of 83 islands, many of which have been inhabited for thousands of years. With each island offering its own distinctive traditions, the diversity in the region is second to none. The people of Vanuatu are Melanesian in origin, and more than 120 languages are spoken throughout the region. Vanuatu, which means ‘land eternal’, was initially discovered by European explorers in 1606 with the arrival of the Spaniards to the island of Espiritu Santo. The Spanish didn’t colonise the area, but merely retained knowledge of it as a passageway for ships in the South Pacific. It was Louis Antoine de Bougainville who rediscovered this tropical oasis in 1768. Captain James Cook followed in the ensuing years and named the area New Hebrides, a name that was retained until the country gained full independence. For almost thirty years during the late 1800s,
the administration in New Hebrides was disputed between England and France. In 1906, the two countries eventually agreed to enter into a joint administration agreement called the British-French Condominium. The agreement was highly unusual because two governmental systems were implemented. The only time there was unification between the governments was when a dispute arose between the two, which was settled in one court. Meanwhile, the original inhabitants were not granted citizenship by either government rendering them nationless. These laws were practiced until full independence was gained almost 80 years later, and the region was renamed Vanuatu. Enjoy your stay in paradise!
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON VANUATU, VISIT WWW.VANUATU.TRAVEL
EFATE Main roads Local roads Tracks Village International airport Places of Interest
Utanlangi NGUNA
Coral reef
Pacific Ocean
Matoa
Beach
Tikilas Siviri
Sunae MOSO Tassariki PurumeaPassage Swimming Beach
Paonangisu Napara Emua
N
Lakenasua
LELEPA Natapao
ae
Napkoa
Chenal Hilliard
Onesua
ule
Ne
Pangona Point
Tagabe
Malapoa
PORT VILA
Devil’s Point
Epangtuei
Coral Sea
Bauerfield Airport
Pango Point
im
Elluk Pango
Fres Wata
Montmarte Erakor
Forari
Ewor
Manuro Point
Manuro
Eton
Swimming Beach
Eratap Enam
NarpowPoint Swimming Beach
Please do not remove map from room
Pang Pang
u
Ren tapa o
MELE BAY
Mele
p
Na
a
Swimming Beach
Tukatuka Point
ÉFATÉ
Tamate
Teoum
Pa
lao
Mele Cascades Waterfall
Mele Maat
Epao
sle
Mangaliliu ERETOKA
Matarisu
Bethel
Mt MacDonald 647 metres
AMBRYM
Boafatu
Ep
tu
Na Noa par i eae r
Ngurua
Disused Americam WWII air strip
Quoin Hill
Port Havannah oai n iA Tanoliu rofa
Swimming Beach
Wiana
Natasiriki Passage
UNDINE BAY
Ulei
EMAO
PELE Piliura
0
N Scale
10 km
EXPLORING
Efate
EFATE, ALSO KNOWN AS ÍLE ÉFATÉ, IS THE MOST POPULATED ISLAND IN VANUATU. MOST PEOPLE LIVE IN THE NATIONAL CAPITAL OF PORT VILA, BUT WITH SO MANY NEARBY ATTRACTIONS IT IS WELL WORTH VENTURING OUT. During World War II (WWII), Efate played an important role as a strategic base for the United States military. Some historical relics from this time still remain, but many others were buried underground when the occupied Forces finally left the island. At the eastern end of Efate sits Forari, one of the three most used ports in Vanuatu. Forari is home to a now defunct manganese mine and stands today as a relic of the past, overgrown by evasive ‘mile-a-minute’ vines. Entire areas of Efate have been blanketed by this vegetation, which was introduced by the Americans as a cover during their military operations. The entire length of Efate can be easily navigated via Long Island Ring Road in two and a half hours without stops. Nonetheless, to absorb some of the island’s most beautiful attractions, set aside a leisurely six hours to drive around and explore. Visitors can take in the sights such as the Taka Custom Village, Roosevelt Airstrip and the old Cola Bottle Shop by the road at Havannah Harbour as part of an island tour. The tour starts at Blue Lagoon then ends up with afternoon tea at the ‘Survivor’ series film site.
Eton Beach and Crystal Blue Lagoon Beach, which are situated approximately 35 minutes from Port Vila, are well worth a visit. Frolic in turquiose waters in lush tropical surrounds to feel a world away from home. Please note that it costs around 500VT per person to use public beaches in Vanuatu. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, make sure you book a shared charter and try your hand at catching Spanish mackerel, tuna, wahoo, yellow fin and trevally. North and west of Efate lie a number of small islands called Eretoka (Hat Island), Moso, Lelepa, Nguna, Pele and Emao. Viewed from a distance, Eretoka Island looks like a floppy hat. This small island is famous for being the burial site of Chief Roi Mata, who was buried here along with his 20 wives. The chiefly title of Roi Mata features in many oral stories still told in the region. Although many individuals have held the title over an extended period, the actions of these chiefs are often attributed to a single individual. Please note, respecting custom land owners and the culture is important when visiting Vanuatu. Be sure to dress and behave appropriately in public spaces as the locals are modest people.
Invest in
info@.ck.com.vu 22 629 | 777 32 10 | 777 32 19
www.ck.com.vu
“Invest in Vanuatu” Artwork - John Batman Group - Compendium - 2020
PORT VILA To Airport
LINI
ANABROU
(KUMU
Harbourview Restaurant
L)
HWY
FATUMARU BAY
N
Lycée Louis Antoine de Bougainville
TEOU
MELCOFE
RD
MA
University of South Pacific
RUE
CHAMPAGNE E
MA
TEOU
L RA NE GE U E E D ULL GA DE RIS PA DE
Goodies Seawall
GETTING Around
National Tourism Office
AU
Goodies
AR DE ND
WA LE
S
MO
ED
DE
E NU AV E
RU CO
RN
GH
L
PICARDE BRETAGNE
RUE DU DAUPHINE
Highway / Main roads Other roads Local roads Parks Hospital Places of Interest
IN PTA
D’AUVERGNE
CA
RUE
AVE
RUE RUE
SEASIDE
OK
D’ARTOIS
HWY
RUE
UR
WA L
National Museum
RUE DU LANGU EDOC
NAMBATU
Central Hospital
INB
E
E
Medical Centre
ED
CO
LINI (KUMUL)
RU
Parliament House
AVE
RU
E
Dentist Iririki Island
OK
CHURCH ILL
BAY
CO
Independence Park
IN PTA
N WINSTO
Market
VILA
TASSIRIKI
CO L
Post Office
CA
PORT VILA
RD
ERAKOR LAGOON Cruise Ship Wharf RF
WHA
RD
Please do not remove map from room LAHO
K
LU
EL
RD
RU
ILL
V E RU UGAIN BO
Flag down a mini bus for an interesting way to get around. There are no real designated stops for buses on Efate, so look out for any mini bus that has a ‘B’ on its registration plate and signal the driver to pull over for you. The cost for using the bus service around town is 150VT, but this can increase to around 300VT if you are travelling a longer distance out of town. Taxis are also readily available in Efate. Just remember to always ask about the price before you accept the ride to get a correct costing. It costs approximately 500VT to get around town in a taxi. Note that haggling is not considered good manners in Vanuatu.
THINGS TO See and Do • Take a swim in the playful waters of White Sands Beach or picnic at Eton Beach. Entry costs around 500VT per person. • Plunge into the fresh water pool of Eton Blue Hole and snorkel for small fish. Entry costs around 500VT. • Explore Éfaté on a Round Island Tour or hire a car and drive around the island at your leisure. • Paddle by kayak to the Siviri Caves, home to a huge colony of bats. Entry to the caves 1,000VT. • Check out the quirky stalls at Havannah Harbour or enjoy a village cultural tour. • Walk through lush rainforest to visit Mele Cascades. Entry costs around 2,000VT. • For first-rate snorkelling take the free ferry to Hideaway Island. Entry to the marine park costs 4,500VT per person. • Relax with Gold Class tickets at Tana Ciné located in the Tana Russet Plaza. Enjoy one of the latest blockbuster films. • Visit Takara Village Hot Springs. Entry cost 500VT and 1,500VT to use the mud pools. • For the ultimate pampering experience, book yourself a body treatment at Lotus Day Spa. • Stop in at the War Museum in Tanilou Village to hear Ernest recount his WWII experiences.
QUE FAIRE AU Vanuatu
Vous trouverez de nombreuses activités à votre goût au Vanuatu!
• Allez nager à la plage de White Sands Beach ou pique-niquer à Eton Beach. L’entrée coute environ 500vts par personne. • Plongez dans les eaux claires du fameux Trou Bleu d’Eton (Eton Blue Hole) et nagez à la découverte des nombreux poissons de récif. L’entrée coute environ 500vts par personne. • Explorez Éfaté lors d’un tour de l’île, ou louez votre propre véhicule et découvrez l’île à votre gout. • Un tour en kayak? Les Grottes de Siviri (Siviri Caves), où se réfugie une immense colonie de chauve-souris, ou roussettes, qui sont des chauvesouris frugivores. L’entrée coute environ 500vts par personne 1,000VT. • Arrétez vous au marché d’artisanat le long de la route de Havannah Harbour ou découvrez un village traditionnel, où danses et costumes sont un régal pour les yeux. • Partez randonner le long des sentiers de la Cascade de Mele et baignez-vous dans les eaux vives et fraiches de la cascade (Mele Cascades). L’entrée coute environ 2,000VT. • Pour des promenades sous-marines et la découverte de la faune et flore récifales, prenez le ferry pour l’île Hideaway. L’entrée coute environ 4,500VT par personne. • Offrez-vous un moment de détente avec une entrée « Gold Class » et découvrez les derniers films à l’affiche, à Tana Ciné, situé à l’étage du centre commercial Tana Russet Plaza. • Visitez le village de Takara et ses sources chaudes (Takara Hot Springs). L’entrée coute environ 500vts par personne, et 1,500VT pour les bains de boue. • Faites-vous plaisir, réservez un soin de beauté au Lotus Day Spa. • Allez à la rencontre d’Ernest et ses histoires de la 2e Guerre Mondiale et son musée (War Museum) au village de Tanoliu.
COMMENT SE DÉPLACER AU Vanuatu Experience Vanuatu Food and its Traditional Culture, 8 diners only, matching wines, between the ocean and the stars, a lifetime tropical sensual experience of knowledge and pleasure.
gm@francescas.com.vu
+678 7779780
www.francescas.com.vu
Faites signe aux mini bus marqués d’un B sur la plaque minéralogique, le chauffeur vous mènera où vous voudrez ! Il n’y a pas d’arrêt de bus à proprement parler, faites juste un signe de la main au chauffeur et il s’arrêtera. Le trajet en ville est de 150VT, et peut aller jusqu’à 300VT si vous sortez de la ville. Des taxis sont à votre disposition à Efate. Demandez le prix de la course avant d’embarquer. Une course en ville coute environ 500VT. Les Mélanésiens ne sont pas coutumiers du marchandage, évitez donc de discuter les prix, mettez-vous d’accord avant de partir!
DUTY FREE Shopping Duty free shopping is generally only available at airports and wharves in most countries, however, Vanuatu offers a downtown duty free system. Vanuatu’s downtown duty free shopping system means that you can conveniently do all your duty free shopping along the main street in Port Vila where a number of duty free shops are available. To purchase duty free goods, you simply need to tell the shop assistant your departure date and time, and your goods will be delivered to the airport by the time of your departure. Ask instore about duty free shopping allowances if you’re unsure what they are for returning home. Automatic teller machines are found throughout Efate and will dispense cash readily in local currency. There are also many money exchange stores in town. Shops often provide favourable rates to shoppers. The only tax in Vanuatu is the Value Added Tax (VAT), which is charged at 15% on most goods and services. Since expatriate residents and tourists make more purchases than most locals they are indirectly supporting the Ni-Vanuatu. To work out what the Vatu is in Australian dollars, this is a simple comparison: 1,500VT is equivalent to around AUD$18. To get the best deal on duty free goods, take your time to look around and compare prices. For your convenience, most retail shops are open during the lunchtime period.
Vous pouvez faire des achats hors taxe dans les aéroports et vous trouverez des magasins hors taxes dans la capitale où acheter toutes sortes de produits: parfums, bijoux, alcools et autres… Vous n’aurez qu’à communiquer votre date et heure de départ au vendeur qui livrera vos achats directement à l’aéroport le jour de votre départ. Renseignez-vous auprès des magasins si vous avez des doutes quant à l’existence de taxes sur certains produits dans votre pays, afin de vous assurer de bien pouvoir ramener vos achats avec vous. Des distributeurs de monnaie locale sont disponibles sur l’île d’Efate. Vous trouverez aussi des agents de change en ville. La seule taxe appliquée au Vanuatu est la VAT (Value Added Tax), de 15% sur la plupart des produits et services. On peut dire que les expatriés et les touristes font plus d’achats taxés que les Ni Vanuatu, et donc ils soutiennent de manière plus forte l’économie locale. Le change entre le dollar australien et le Vatu est facile à faire: 1,500VT font environ AUD$18. Prenez le temps de faire le tour des divers magasins pour comparer les prix et faire les meilleurs achats possibles selon votre budget. La plupart des magasins restent ouverts entre midi et 14h.
REGIONAL Markets VANUATU HANDICRAFT MARKET
Located near the main Wharf in Port Vila. Boasts 140 handicraft stands, 26 boutiques, a dutyfree shop and local food stands.
VILA’S OUTDOOR MARKET Located in Port Vila on the sea wall next to Downtown Bon Marche. Fresh local produce and stalls selling beaded necklaces, Vanuatu souvenirs and woodcarvings further along the waterfront. Mon-Sat 24 hours.
MAHITAHI MARKET Located in the heart of Port Vila on the waterfront. The Nambawan Café situated next to the market has wireless internet and Moonlight Movies.
HEBRIDA MARKET PLACE Located in Port Vila’s town centre. This market boasts an array of woven bags, hand-painted clothes, mats and more. Mon-Fri 8am-5pm / Sat 8am-12:30pm.
LUGANVILLE MARKET Located on Main Street, near Sarakata Bridge, Luganville, Espiritu Santo. People come from all over the island to both sell and buy locally-grown produce and handicrafts. Mon-Sat evening.
AIRPORT Customs
It’s important to know some facts about customs in regards to taking artefacts back to Australia and New Zealand. It’s advised that all items made from plant material and wood are inspected and treated prior to leaving Vanuatu. Otherwise items will be inspected on arrival back home and, if insect damage is detected, may result in them being destroyed. In some cases, you may even be fined. Small items that can be packed with your luggage might only require an inspection certificate. If on inspection items look suspicious, then you will be advised to get them treated before departure. The process costs around AUD$50 to inspect items and AUD$25 for a certificate.
The Quarantine Service, which will inspect and treat your items, is located close to the airport, and any taxi or bus can take you there. It’s best to visit at least 48 hours prior to departure. Alternatively, Vanuatu Agencies will take care of everything and airfreight items back to Australia for you. For more information, call this service on 33 580 or 23 519. On arrival to Australia, you need to declare certain items. For a full list of those items and other useful information, visit www.agriculture.gov.au/travelling/ arriving-in-australia. On arrival to New Zealand, you will be required to declare items as outlined on your Passenger Arrival Card. For the list of items, visit www.mpi.govt.nz/travel-and-recreation/ arriving-in-new-zealand/items-to-declare.
BEACHES and Islands EFATE IS A TROPICAL PARADISE JUST WAITING TO BE EXPLORED.
There are many public beach areas on Efate for visitors to enjoy. Eton Beach on the east coast is popular for swimming, snorkelling and fishing and has a barbecue hut and shower facilities available. Be sure to check out Sara Beach and Takara Beach in the north which are picturesque and offer a place to stop and enjoy some lunch. Alternatively, grab a bite to eat at Tamanu on the Beach Resort in the south and then use the beach for swimming and snorkelling afterwards. Havannah Harbour, a half hour drive west of Port Vila along Round Island Road, is just another aquatic paradise to explore. Sail across to Lelepa Island to swim, dive and fish. Keep an eye out for the dolphins which frolic in the waters here. Nearby, Tranquility Island features a Turtle Sanctuary as well as great swimming, diving, snorkelling, bushwalking and more. Kakula, Pele and Nguna Islands in the north offer sublime snorkelling and swimming. Take an esky full of refreshments and make a day of exploring these beautiful islands. Note that entry to public beaches costs around 500VT per person and the money is used to support the local community. Prices can vary from beach to beach so be sure to take coins with you. Remember to pack snorkelling equipment, reef shoes and plenty of water when visiting beaches in Efate.
A Rich Culture
WHILE VANUATU’S POPULATION SITS AROUND 270,000 PEOPLE, ITS LONG MIGRATORY HISTORY MAKES IT ONE OF THE RICHEST CULTURES IN THE WORLD TODAY. Vanuatu has been the recipient of intermittent migration from other Pacific countries for over 3,000 years now. As a result, Vanuatu has developed into a nation boasting over 120 languages. The three official languages of Vanuatu are English, French and Bislama - a pidgin style of English that evolved when the Europeans arrived. Nonetheless, Ni-Vanuatu people converse in a myriad of languages as the result of trading with other regions in Vanuatu over an extensive time period. Not only did the migratory waves produce a multilingual society, the customs and rituals of immigrants also inspired Vanuatu’s diverse culture. Storytelling, song and dance are all integral to village life with colourful masks, tattoos, body adornments and carvings used to further convey their messages and beliefs. Rituals are keenly practiced throughout the islands with one of the more famous ceremonies John Frum Day - being celebrated on Tanna Island in February each year. During the rituals, devotees pray for the mythological John Frum to appear offering western possessions that signify wealth and prosperity.
Today Malvatumauri, the National Council of Chiefs, advises Vanuatu’s republican government on matters concerning Ni-Vanuatu culture and language. Traditionally, every four years the first-born sons of tribal chiefs are elected as representatives by district council chiefs. ‘Mal’ means a high rank of status, ‘vatu’ means stone, island or place, and ‘mauri’ means something that is alive which grows in the light. Visitors to the Malvatu Mauri ‘meeting haus’ will see a tall tamtam pole carving with five faces erected nearby. The tamtam, or split drum, is used by the chiefs in each community to gather the villagers together whenever there’s a special occasion or meeting. The Vanuatu Cultural Centre, located opposite Parliament House, showcases artefacts, photos and videos. It’s open Monday to Friday 8am–5pm and Saturday 8am–12pm.
AN ISLAND
Nation
ASIDE FROM ÉFATÉ, THE ISLANDS OF ESPIRITU SANTO, TANNA, PENTECOST, MALEKULA, AMBRYM AND THE TORBA PROVINCE ARE WELL WORTH A VISIT. ESPIRITU SANTO ISLAND
PENTECOST ISLAND
Espiritu Santo is the largest of Vanuatu’s islands and boasts beautiful beaches, amazing blue holes, and world-renowned diving and snorkelling.
Pentecost Island has become famous throughout the world for the land diving ritual known as Nagol. The ritual, which occurs every Saturday between April and June, influenced the invention of bungy jumping. Naghol sees local men and boys jumping from a 20–30 metre high man-made tower with only a vine attached to their ankles. The vines are carefully selected by the jumpers who know that just ten centimetres can be the difference between life and death. Pentecost offers a number of activities such as snorkelling, hiking, canoeing and sightseeing. For more information, visit www.santo.travel.
Million Dollar Point located on Segond Channel is a popular dive site as it marks the place where the Americans disposed of tonnes of equipment at the end of the war. While Santo is a mecca for dive enthusiasts – it’s home to the renowned SS President Coolidge wreck dive – it also offers breathtaking sightseeing for non-divers. Days can be spent lazing on remote white sand beaches, kayaking in pristine waters or trekking through untouched rainforest. Loru Park, stretching 220 hectares, offers nature walks and has a bat cave for those interested in seeing these creatures in their natural habitat. If you’re interested in culture on Espiritu Santo, there’s a number of Ni-Vanuatu tour operators who can organise local tours to villages for you. For more information, visit www.santo.travel.
TANNA ISLAND Tanna is best known for being the home of Vanuatu’s most popular tourist attraction, Mount Yasur. As one of the world’s most active volcanoes, its regular eruptions make for some spectacular viewing. Be aware that visitors approaching the crater can be at risk from toxic gas, projectiles and avalanches. If you visit on a Friday you will be privy to the weekly ceremony dedicated to John Frum. Members perform rituals in the belief that mimicking American acts will lead to the delivery of western goods owned by American visitors during WWII. The Whitegrass Plains offer great hiking. Witness the glory of seeing hundreds of wild horses roam free in the tropical wilderness. Amazing views are on offer throughout this hike. Alternatively, embark on a horse riding tour and traverse the stunning landscapes of Tanna on horseback. For more information, visit www.tanna.travel.
MALEKULA ISLAND Malekula remains virtually untouched so you can observe village life at its most authentic. Locals are very friendly and only too happy to share their customs with others. The rugged interior boasts some good birdwatching and trekking, and there are ancient cannibal sites you can visit in the northern part of the island. Additionally you can snorkel through the wondrous coral reefs and explore the local marine life. For more information, visit www.vanuatu.travel.
AMBRYM ISLAND At the centre of Vanuatu sits the island of Ambrym, a volcanic island which experiences constant eruptions making it an exciting tourist destination. Despite its activity, it emanates mostly smoke and ash so it’s usually safe to be in close proximity. The Yam and Magic Festival, which occurs in July, celebrates the locals’ unique traditions and customs. For more information, visit www.vanuatu.travel.
BANKS & TORRES ISLANDS The Torba Province is the northernmost region in Vanuatu. Consisting of the Banks and Torres Islands, seven of the thirteen islands here are colonised. The Torba Province offers plenty to see and do with an active volcano, magnificent waterfalls and lakes, cultural activities such as the snake dance, custom dances and the water music which is unique to the region. For more information, visit www.santo.travel.
head office: 46 New Street postal address: PO Box 726 telephone: +61 (03) 9879 email: info@johnbatman.com.au
ATTN:
WAR HORSE SALOON PO BOX 6403 PORT VILA, VANUATU
JOB NUMBER: DATE SENT: CONTRACT NO:
0 2 3
Shown herewith is a proof of your advertisement as it will appear in the forthcoming publica
MELE Village
VANUATU COMPENDIUM PUBLICATION
Proofs must be returned to ensure correction of errors. Alterations will not be accepted by tele
West of Port Vila lies Mele Village which is nestled in the picturesque cove of Mele Bay. For beautiful scenery, meander through lush tropical flora up to Mele Cascades. Once there, refresh yourself by standing under the falls or take a swim in the pristine rock pools. Entry to Mele Cascades costs around 2,000VT per adult and 1,000VT per child. Make sure you take reef shoes with you to navigate the wet rocks. If you’re keen on water sports, there’s a number of fun activities that await you here. Kayak around the bay in a glass bottom sea kayak, snorkel through stunning coral reefs or just kick back and sail around the bay. A number of tour charters operate in Mele Bay, so take the time to check out what tours are available. Mele Bay is home to the Tanna Coffee Roasting Factory, which is located on Mele Road next to Sama Sama Shopping Centre. Known for its quality Arabica coffee, the factory cultivates its beans in the fertile soils of Yasur Volcano on Tanna Island. Take a tour to learn about Tanna Coffee and taste the refined flavours for yourself. Open five days a week, call 23 661 to book a tour. The Summit Distillery Shop is located at the Coffee Roasting Factory on the road to Mele Village. If you’re keen on an adventure, Vanuatu Jungle Zipline offers zipline tours over the lush tropical canopy. Tours depart from town at 10am and 1pm daily from its offices at Lava Lounge and Nambawan Cafe. Enjoy your time in Mele Bay.
YOUR PROOF DEADLINE IS
FOOD &
Dining Out Vanuatu serves up a delicious array of cuisines with something for everyone.
ERATAP BEACH RESORT Efate Island Ph: 35 560
POPPY'S ON THE LAGOON RESORT Port Vila Ph: 23 425
LEAF RESTAURANT Poppy's on the Lagoon Resort Ph: 23 425
CAFÉ VILLA Nasama Resort, Pango Road Ph: 28 128
THREE PIGS RESTAURANT & BAR Nasama Resort, Pango Road Ph: +67 8772 8066
STONEGRILL RESTAURANT Star Wharf Road, Port Villa Ph: 5464 506
L'HOUSTALET RESTAURANT & BAR Captain Cook Ave, Port Villa Ph: +678 22303
FRANCESCA'S BEACH CLUB Port Havannah, Port Villa Ph: +67 8777 9780
CALYPSO BEACH BAR & CAFÉ Erakor Island Resort, Port Villa Ph: 67 823 098
SPICE CAFÉ, BAR & RESTAURANT
Join us for a fun, festive, tropical
Island N i g ht
Nambatu Area, Port Villa Ph: +67 824 406
Dancing! Kava drinking! Island Food Buffet & BBQ! Tropical Fruits! Fresh Coconut or Rum Cocktail!
WAR HORSE SALOON Wharf Road, Port Villa Ph: 26 670
Starts 6pm every Wednesday night. 3,900vt per adult 1,950vt per child
THE BEACH BAR
Bookings Essential 23425 / 25021 or email info@poppys.com.vu
Mele Road, Mele Ph: 560 1132
THE LOOKOUT RESTAURANT Rue René Pujol, Port Vila Ph: 22 762
THE BLUE MARLIN CLUB Numbatu, Port Vila Ph: 530 6299
HARBOUR VIEW CHINESE RESTAURANT Port Vila Ph: 23 668
Breakfast Lunch Dinner Open daily 7.30am till late (Island Night on Wed) 23425 / 25021 for reservations
Delicious Vanuatu inspired food on Erakor Lagoon
Relax with a cocktail! Happy hour daily 5-7pm
10 DAY
Itinerary
DAY 1: EFATE - PORT VILA Acquaint yourself with Port Vila by catching a bus downtown. Be sure to visit the sea wall where you can sit at a café and enjoy the vista looking across to Iririki Island. You might even catch a game of petanque being played by the locals. It’s never too early to start your duty free shopping, which can be done along the main street. Remember to book your Tanna Volcano tour for day 2 of your itinerary. There’s a variety of great restaurants to choose from for dinner on your first night. DAY 2: TANNA – FAMOUS YASUR It’s a 45-minute
morning flight to Tanna and then a two hour drive through dense rainforest to arrive near the peak of Mount Yasur. Experience the thrill of this active volcano erupting and bellowing ash in an awe-inspiring feat of nature. Described as an amazing and surreal adventure, this shouldn’t be missed. Note: Allow one hour checkin time for domestic flights and a provincial departure tax of 200VT/person is to be paid at each domestic airport.
DAY 3: EFATE – MELE BAY Explore Mele Bay’s most popular attractions. Walk up to Mele Cascades through lush rainforest, take a dip in the beautiful rock pool and picnic near the falls. You can also enjoy a tantalising tour of the Tanna Coffee Roasting Factory and try some Arabica coffee. DAY 4: EFATE – PORT VILA Day 4 is all about relaxing. Lounge around at your accommodation or wander around Port Vila to do more shopping. For something more upbeat, there’s a number of fun adventure activities available in Port Vila from buggy tours to jetskiing, sports boating and fly boarding. DAY 5: EFATE – ETON BEACH Hire a vehicle and travel east to Eton Beach, which is approximately a 35-minute drive away. Before you leave pick up some picnic items at Au Bon Marche or Boucherie Traverso. On the way to Eton Beach, stop in at Ripples by the Bay located on Narpow Point, Teouma Bay, for morning tea. If you continue to travel south from here, there’s a great beach for snorkelling. Travel on to Eton Beach and enjoy the rest of the day swimming, snorkelling and relaxing.
DAY 6: EFATE – ISLAND TOUR You can either do a self-drive island tour or book a tour. If you choose to drive, make sure you stop at the Wahoo Bar in
Havannah Bay, which is known for its fresh seafood and a jetty where you can swim. Francesca’s Beach Club on Havannah Harbour is also great. It’s well worth a visit to Survivor Beach and Gideon’s Landing nearby. Most organised island tours provide a Ni-Vanuatu lunch and a visit to a local village so that you can experience how the villagers live.
DAY 7: EFATE – ISLAND CRUISE Cruise around Havannah Bay in a 23-metre teak ketch with Coongoola Day Cruise. Visit secluded beaches, swim and snorkel through pristine waters, and get up close to the marine life. For more information, call South Pacific Cruises on 25 020. DAY 8: ESPIRITU SANTO OR PENTECOST Day 8 presents a good opportunity to visit another island. If you choose Espiritu Santo, the SS President Coolidge is one of the largest wreck dives in the world. Suitable for both advanced and novice divers, it’s an opportunity of a life time. Alternatively, there are a number of NiVanuatu tour operators with which you can organise local tours to villages. If you decide to visit Pentecost Island, every Saturday between April and June you will be privy to the famous land diving, which sees locals jumping off a 20-30 metre tower with only a vine attached to their ankles. Pentecost also offers great snorkelling, hiking, canoeing and sightseeing for visitors. It’s just another day in paradise!
DAY 9: HIDEAWAY ISLAND & THE BEACH BAR Book a day trip to Hideaway Island. Hideaway Resort is in a truly picturesque location and offers great swimming and snorkelling, with a comprehensive restaurant. If it’s a Friday night, we highly recommend the spectacular fire show at the Beach Bar in Mele Bay. Make sure you get there by 6am so that you don’t miss this extraordinary show. This is a free event.
DAY 10: TATA MO LUKIM YU! It’s your last day in Vanuatu so take the opportunity to relax and soak up the last of your tropical holiday. Otherwise, you can always do some last minute shopping. Please make sure that you allow yourself two hours for check in time for your international flight. Note that the international departure tax for Vanuatu is included in your airline ticket.
IMPORTANT TSUNAMI
Information
HEALTHWISE PHARMACY Next to BRED Bank Kumil Highway, Port Vila Phone: +678 25722
Educate yourself about tsunamis. Refer to signposts throughout the region. For up to date information, go to vmgd.gov.vu. Take official tsunami warnings seriously. BE AWARE OF NATURAL SIGNS: • Strong earthquakes • Loud roaring sounds • Receding sea water • Odd animal behaviour IF A TSUNAMI IS APPROACHING: • Do not stand near the shore to watch it. • Head inland or seek higher ground immediately avoiding roads. • Leave belongings behind. • If you can’t leave your building, move to a higher level or the roof. • Do not return to low lying areas until an official “all clear” has been given by VMGD.
HEALTHWISE PHARMACIE Dockside building, Port Vila Phone: +678 22707
ESSENTIAL Services POLICE 111 AMBULANCE 115 PROMEDICAL
26 996
FIRE VILA CENTRAL HOSPITAL PORT VILA
113 22 100
NOVO MEDICAL Lini Highway, Port Vila
26 698
THE MEDICAL CENTRE Kumul Highway, Port Vila
Calendar OF EVENTS • John Frum Day February Tanna Island
NOVO DENTAL Lini Highway, Port Vila Dockside Building, Port Vila Kumil Highway, Port Vila
HERTZ
• Santo Game Fishing Competition February Espiritu Santo
EUROPCAR
Rue D'Artois, Nambatu, Port Vila
22 707 25 722 22 468
Kumul Highway, Port Vila
26 517
AVIS
• Land Diving or Naghol April to June Every Saturday Pentecost Island
Bauerfield International Airport Port Vila Downtown
• Yam Festival April to August Tanna Island
INTERNET
• Vanuatu Senior Masters May to June Port Vila
26 696
HEALTHWISE PHARMACY
• Father Walter Lini Day Festival February Pentecost Island
• National Chiefs Day March Vanuatu
22 826
22 497 22 497
A number of bars and cafes offer free wifi across Port Vila and Luganville.
• Nguna/ Pele/ Emao Festival June North Éfaté and offshore islands
BANK ATMS
• Marobe Market June Port Vila, Éfaté
Automatic teller machines are found throughout Efate.
• Fete de la Musique June Éfaté
VANUATU AGENCIES 33 580 Airfreight and inspecting items made from animal and plant materials.
• Fanla Festival July North Ambrym Island • Santo Rodeo July Kavu Park, Espiritu Santo • Paama Mini Arts Festival July Paama Island • Wilco Round Island Relay July Port Vila, Éfaté • Maskelyne Canoe Race & Festival July Malekula Island • Nalawan Festival August Malekula Island • Back To My Roots Festival August Ambrym Island
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT
25 302 For those travelling to Australia, it is prohibited to take feathers home with you. If you are purchasing coral, shells or tree fern carvings you may need an export permit. Check with the Department of Environment.
CONSULATES Ministry of Foreign Affairs Vanuatu W: www.mofa.gov.vu
27 045
Australian High Commission (24 hours) W: www.vanuatu.embassy.gov.au
22 777
New Zealand High Commission W: www.mfat.govt.nz
22 933
Honorary Consulate of Belgium E: famcol@vanuatu.com.vu
22 306
• Colour Fest October Éfaté
Chinese Embassy W: vu.chineseembassy.org/eng
23 598
• St Andrews & Leaf Fishing Festival November Rah & Mota Lava Island
Embassy of France W: www.ambafrance-vu.org
28 700
• Vanuatu DJ Festival November Éfaté
Consulate of Philippines E: philconsul@vanuatu.com.vu
22 144
Honorary Consulate of Sweden E: swedcons@vanuatu.com.vu
22 944
• Vanuatu Golf Open August to September Port Vila • Vanua Lava Festival September Vanua Lava Island • Lantasu & Volcano Festival September Ambrym Island • Port Vila Rodeo October Port Vila, Éfaté • Tafea Fire Music Festival October Tanna Island • Napuan Festival October Port Vila, Éfaté
• Nambawan Game Fish Classic November Port Vila, Éfaté • Sae Festival December Pentecost Island
johnbatman.com.au The information contained in this publication is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, John Batman Group disclaims any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising material appearing in this publication is supplied by the operator or service provider and John Batman Group is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content. This guest services room publication is compiled and produced by John Batman Group, publishers of specialist room directories and magazines. John Batman Group and Just Brilliant Guides are trademarks of Frankie119 Pty Ltd. Compiled with the assistance of Vanuatu Tourism Office. Š Copyright all rights reserved. JBG–T
Images courtesy of Vanuatu Tourism Office.
46 New St Ringwood Victoria Australia 3134 PO Box 726 Ringwood Victoria Australia 3134 +61 03 9879 8588 info@johnbatman.com.au