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Solomon Islands
An extraordinary archipelago
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SOLOMON SITUATED IN THE southwestern Pacific Ocean, the Solomon Islands is one of the world’s most fascinating natural land sculptures, comprised of almost 1,000 separate islands of all shapes and sizes. A British protectorate until 1978, the Solomon Islands earned its name as a key geostrategic stronghold during the Second World War, where Japanese and US forces fought long and hard, most notably at the Battle of Guadalcanal.
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Exhibiting some of the world’s most wonderous culture and natural beauty, the Solomon Islands’ economy is flourishing thanks to a thriving tourism industry Writer: Jonathan Dyble Project Manager: Ryan Gray
However, aside from the relics that remain, it is hard to picture this conflict in such a place. The land features mountainous terrain saturated in deep tropical forest with hot springs and volcanic activity in abundance. Having largely steered clear of the urban destruction found the world over, a large majority of the indigenous people live off the land in small rural villages – a lifestyle that has allowed the country’s Melanesian culture to thrive.
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ISLANDS Arts and crafts are found all across the country, ranging from unique percussive bamboo music to colourful and vibrant paintings. With so much to offer, and as the government is increasingly recognising the benefit of tourism and the expansive natural attractions the islands have to offer, the country’s national economy is now thriving more than ever before.
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The Business End
THE SOLOMON ISLAND’S visitation statistics speak volumes for the country’s thriving business scene, with 65 percent of all arrivals at Honiara International Airport listing their reason for travel as business. This, combined with rising tourist numbers across the country, has led to tourism of all kinds playing an increasingly active domestic and international role in the country’s prosperous economic future. “Tourism remains an economic saviour for the Solomon Islands and is now positioned as the one of the top six sources of foreign exchange,” says Mike Parker-Brown, the man in charge of global PR for Tourism Solomons.
“The government has gone on record saying it sees tourism becoming a top two source of foreign exchange within the next five to 10 years. “Priority is now being placed on tourism development and an effort is being taken to facilitate growth under the country’s National Tourism Policy as well as bring focus to bear on upgrading tourism accommodation and products.”
Language: Area: Population (2016): GDP (2016): Currency:
Combined with continual economic and infrastructure development that includes expanding road networks and a rising number of air strips, the Solomon Islands is crucially attracting more business and commercial travellers to its shores than ever before.
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FACTS & FIGURES
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English 28,000 km²
599,419 US$1.2 billion Soloman Islands dollar (SBD) Time zone: GMT+11 Dialling code: +677 Internet TLD: .sb Climate: Tropical Highest recorded temperature: 35°C
Explore the Solomon Islands from the Hibiscus Motel
H I B I S C U S M O T E L , run by the Temotu Development
Authority, has 13 self-contained rooms with double beds at $460.00 per night and single rooms at $410.00 per night. There are many destinations in these islands, occupied by native Melanesians and Polynesians. Connections to other islands from Hibiscus Motel and other local rest houses are by OBM powered canoes, and monthly shipping from Honiara. Flights from Honiara to Lata are twice weekly, and more during the Christmas holiday season. Tel: +677 53145, +677 53169 and +677 53127. tdalata@solomon.com.sb
Hibiscus Motel
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Tourism Solomons TOURISM SOLOMONS, PREVIOUSLY known as the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau (SIVB), has been key in enabling this development, showcasing the country’s picturesque assets and promoting the varied and unique regional opportunities. Fostering a greater international recognition and appreciation of the country’s culture, history and natural environment, the national tourism organisation (NTO) has been fundamental in helping to establish a sustainable and environmentally responsible industry to the benefit of all Solomon islanders. Speaking to Asia Outlook, ParkerBrown and Josefa Tuamoto, CEO of the Tourism Solomons, explain how both the NTO itself and the country’s tourism industry have grown in the 49 years since its inception.
“Our new branding is unique. It allows every visitor to target or tag their own travel experience, exactly as they want it to be...”
Mike Parker-Brown (MPB): If a snapshot was to be taken across the last five years, while some might argue not enough changes have taken place, growth in terms of the destination’s profile and related year-on-year international visitation has been substantial. Figures released by the Solomon Islands National Statistics Office show visitor intake for the January-June Asia Outlook (AsO): How has period reaching 13,317, a 17 percent Tourism Solomons developed and increase over the 11,306 recorded in progressed in terms of its key objectives the same six months in 2017. Further, and the messages it tries to get across? the consensus is that this trend will
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continue for the remaining six months of the year, with the destination well on track break the record of 25,709 visitors achieved in 2017 when taking into account forward bookings. Whilst Australian visitation continues to dominate the Solomon Islands’ international intake, alongside rising visitation from Papua New Guinea, New Zealand and the US, Tourism Solomons has been making inroads into newer markets that it sees as having potential. As a result, we have now firmly established representation in place in continental Europe, Taiwan and especially Japan from where visits have increased substantially in recent years. (AsO): What is in store for the Solomon Islands over the course of 2018 and beyond to continue the good work already commenced and to enhance its reputation as a tourism and business travel hub further in the future? (MPB): One of the biggest developments to have taken place on the tourism front in 2018 that represents a major change in direction for the Solomon Islands destination
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marketing was the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau in July unveiling its new look ‘Solomon Is’ branding. A key component of the new branding saw the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau being renamed ‘Tourism Solomons’, with the NTO’s familiar sun, island and sea logo replaced by a new logo featuring an iconic Solomon Islands’ dugout canoe. Developed by Suva, Fiji-based Webmedia South Pacific, the new look identity replaces the former ‘So Solomons – So Different’ branding which had formed the main brace of the NTO’s marketing for the last five years. The strategy for the new direction has received 100 percent of approval from the Solomon Islands Government cabinet. Josefa Tuamoto (JT): We are confident that the new branding truly characterises the destination’s identity, message, image and positioning and will provide the platform for the Solomon Islands to optimally market itself in the international arena for the next decade or more. The beauty of this new brand is it allows us to attach the ‘Solomons Is’ tag line to just about anything – be that an emotion, an action, a noun or adjective – and we can also readily combine it to target specific demographics such as couples,
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honeymooners, families, etc. Our new branding is unique. It allows every visitor to target or tag their own travel experience, exactly as they want it to be, in the process making it uniquely theirs and uniquely Solomon Islands. Moreover, this branding is also about touching the past through a multitude of traditional lifestyles and cultural icons that have yielded little to urbanisation and commercialised mass-tourism. It is logical, nationalistic, unique, easy-to-follow and cost effective. More to the point, it checks every mark at this stage of the Solomon Islands tourism evolution and this branding is intended to evolve as the industry evolves. We’ve made the move to change and it’s the right move. (AsO): Are there any new developments or products that you believe will be crucial in facilitating progress in the regional tourism industry? (MPB): Solomon Airlines’ decision to fully incorporate Munda as a main port of entry for the Solomon Islands has seen the Western Province airfield transformed into the country’s second major air gateway, with the national carrier expected to commence a Brisbane-Munda-Honiara-Brisbane service operating on Saturdays before the end of 2018. The improvements to the Munda Airport are intended to bring a range of benefits – from increased passenger movements, increased tourism to the Western Province and points beyond, improved safety for larger aircraft, increased aviation freight and further government revenue from the aviation sector.
ASIA The cost of civil works is estimated at SB$62 million (US$7.6 million), of which New Zealand will contribute up to SB$47 million (US$5.5 million) and to date include the installation of airfield ground lighting and navigation aids, perimeter security fencing, airport rescue and firefighting facilities, including two fire trucks and the construction of a new terminal which will also house essential customs and immigration authorities. Further, heralding a long-awaited return to dedicated Solomon Islands small ship cruise programmes, newlyformed Solomon Islands Discovery Cruises (SIDC) in August announced its plans to operate six adventure itineraries in 2018-2019. Passengers will have the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the Florida and Russell Islands archipelagos distinctive cultures and environments,
including visits to remote villages and plenty of opportunity to discover amazing coral pastures and abundant marine life with daily dive and snorkel options. Both areas are also rich in WWII history, giving passengers insight into the infamous Guadalcanal campaign in 1942 via the many wrecked US and Japanese aircraft, warships and relics which literally litter the seabed. Meanwhile, we are viewing the country’s successful bid to host the 2023 Pacific Games as the biggest ever windfall for the destination’s tourism aspirations and will be rigorously preparing for this in the years to come.
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Out & About FOR THOSE HOPING to peer through the keyhole into a different world, the Solomon Islands has a range of diverse cultural experiences to offer. Visiting some of the country’s more populated regions provides an insight into unfamiliar city life, particularly evident in Honiara. Home to well over 60,000 people, the national capital, located on the island of Guadalcanal, plays host to the country’s most substantial market that has become renowned for its vibrancy, offering an unimaginable range of fresh foods. Away from the lively commercial spots and urban areas, the Solomon Islands offers an abundance of
remote areas that are perfect for exploration, referred to by Tourism Solomons as “nature’s unspoilt playground”.
Santa Ana Island: A band using instruments made wholly of bamboo, and led by a tribal elder, plays to welcome visitors from a small expedition ship
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In this sense, the archipelago is the ideal destination for those seeking adventure and a complete getaway from the routine and normality of western life, whether that be through hiking, surfing or diving. From its expansive and rich emerald jungles to the golden shores and turquoise waters of each and every one of the islands’ beaches, the country offers picture-perfect views from every angle. Meanwhile, the national culture is as equally extensive, displaying some of the world’s most fascinating World War Two relics and a remarkable heritage to match.
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P.O. Box 384, Mendana Avenue, Honiara, Solomon Islands T: (677) 20071 | F: (677) 23942 | E: reserv@mendana.com.sb For F&B booking email fb_sales@mendana.com.sb www.kitanomendana.com
LONDON PARIS
VANCOUVER
FRANKFURT
SAN FRANCISCO
TOKYO
DUBAI
NEW YORK DALLAS
LOS ANGELES
TAIPEI HONG KONG MANILA KUALA LUMPUR
Choiseul Bay
TARAWA
SINGAPORE
PORT MORESBY
Darwin
Perth
SOLOMON ISLANDS MUNDA HONIARA
Kagau Ramata
New Georgia
Suavanao
Santa Isabel Fera
Gizo Munda Seghe
VILA BRISBANE SYDNEY AUCKLAND
Canberra Melbourne Hobart
NADI
Auki Atoifi
HONIARA
Cairns Townsville
Adelaide
Choiseul
Ballalae
Mono
Guadalcanal Bellona
Malaita
Afutara Marau
Arona Kirakira
San Cristobel
Santa Ana
Santa Cruz
Rennell
Wellington Christchurch Queenstown
Legend
Codeshare with Qantas Qantas Domestic/International Interline International Partner Airline Interline with Air New Zealand Codeshare with Fiji Airlines Interline with Fiji Airlines Codeshare with Air Niugini Domestic island connections Fly Solomons International services
Flying to the Solomon Islands is easy with five weekly flights from Brisbane and twice weekly from Nadi. And now we fly direct from Brisbane to Munda in our Western Province – one of the world’s most beautiful dive sites. Dive at Munda or other pristine locations for amazing corals and WWll wrecks. Take a trekking or fishing adventure. Discover our friendly island culture soon. Visit flysolomons.com
A theme park designed by Nature
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Outlook Recommends “From WWII relics scattered in the jungle to leaf-hut villages where traditional culture is alive, there’s so much on offer” – Lonely Planet
HOSPITALITY
THINGS TO DO
TRAVEL
Tulagi Dive
Solomon Airlines
Hibiscus Homestay Run by the Temotu Development Authority, the Hibiscus Homestay is the ideal home away from home within the Solomon Islands. Having built its leading reputation as a family residence, each of the accommodation units feature comfortable furnishings, generous living space, a veranda and fan cooled bedrooms.
Ela Motors Avis TOUR OPERATORS
Vilu War Museum
Destination Solomon Raiders Hotel & Dive Honiara Hotel 10
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Travel Solomons Dive Gizo
Go Tours Travel
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EXPERIENCE THE SOLOMON ISLANDS WITH AVIS We offer a wide range of vehicles and competitive pricing to get you on your way. 677 24180 avis.com.sb avishoniara@ela.com.sb
Airport Motel
Experience the uniqueness that is the Solomons
•Discover scuba experiences • Learn to scuba dive • Advance scuba courses • Scuba equipment sales and hire • Equipment servicing • Hydrostatic testing • Dive guide services • Solomon commercial diving services • Shore diving excursions • Air fills • Boat charters
Airport Motel offers double, single and family suites, all with air conditioning and in-room TV access. The Motel has its own bar and restaurant, along with a gift shop and nightclub.
Airport Motel Henderson Highway, past airport PO Box 251 Honiara, Solomon Islands T: +677 364 46 29
T: +677 25700 / +677 848 3726 | www.tulagidive.com
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Transport Links
Public minibuses and taxis are easily found in Honiara
WHILST TRAVELLING IN an archipelago of almost 1,000 different islands might seem challenging, this prospect often offers significant reward. There are many ways to navigate the maze, but many visitors opt to pair up with local operators who readily provide half day, full day or even overnight tours that let travellers witness some of the country’s most spectacular and beautiful scenery. From kayaking to powered dinghies, travelling by boat provides unparalleled insight into the landscape and surrounding waters that is otherwise difficult to find. Meanwhile, there are also a multitude of methods to get around on the land itself. The country has approximately 1,300 kilometres of developed road, with the most extensive networks found in Guadalcanal, Malaita and Makara. Public minibuses and taxis are can be found in Honiara, Gizo and Aukiki, whilst car rental is also a viable option for those looking to make their own way around. However, if you’re planning to
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Honiara airport terminal
Small propeller plane parked at the airport
explore every corner of the country, air travel stands as one of the most effective methods of travel. With more than 20 airstrips spread across the
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islands, and scheduled routes offered by Solomon Airlines’ domestic wing, it is easy to see why flight is a popular option.
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Landmark Attractions RAIDERS HOTEL & DIVE EXPLORE • DISCOVER • RELAX • TULAGI • SOLOMON ISLANDS
Tenaru Falls
“At 63 metres, these waterfalls are spectacular. The path follows the floor of the river valley and cuts across the river’s many bends, crossing and recrossing a dozen times” – Lonely Planet
Guadalcanal American Memorial
“The sculpture is a nod to Ghana’s acclaim as the ‘Black Star of Africa’: it was an inspiration to other African countries vying for independence and the Flame of African Liberation, lit by Nkrumah, still burns strongly nearby” – Timeout
• REEF & WRECK DIVING • ACCOMMODATION • BAR & DINING • SNORKLING • HIKING & MORE Located one hour from Honiara, on the waterfront of the historic Tulagi Harbour, Solomon Islands
Office: +677 32070 Mobile: +677 7494185 / 7938017 raidershotel@solomon.com.sb www.raidershotel.com
Bonegi I and II
“Sunk during World War II by US forces, the Japanese Hirokawa and Kinugawa (Bonegi I and II) naval vessels attract divers of all ages and abilities. Eerily clad in underwater plant life and within swimming distance of the shoreline, the vast wrecks play host to a multitude of colorful fish” - Inspirock
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BusinessTravel Guide joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com
+44 (0)1603 959 676
ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com
+44 (0)1603 959 672
jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com
+44 (0)1603 959 668
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