Vanuatu Travel Information
General Information
Vanuatu is a ‘Y’ shaped archipelago comprised of 83 islands 800km west of Fiji. Featuring towering volcanoes and dense rainforest, coral islands, wide beaches and natural harbours Vanuatu is a place of spectacular natural beauty. The Ni-Vanuatu people are peaceful and friendly people who enjoy the simple pleasures of their unique country and are willing to share their diverse culture and customs. Vanuatu offers experiences not found anywhere else in the world including the Pentecost Land Diving (the world’s first bungy jump) and the Toka Ceremony on the island of Tanna.
Population
The people of Vanuatu are predominantly Melanesian. The total population is approximately 200,000.
Banking
The introduction of the International Companies Act made Vanuatu one of the most attractive and competitive financial centres in the world. Trading banks are ANZ, Bank of Hawaii Vanuatu, Westpac and the National Bank of Vanuatu. Banking hours are 8.30am to 3.00pm Monday to Friday. The National Bank of Vanuatu's airport office is open for all flight arrivals.
Currency
The local currency unit is the Vatu however foreign currency, traveller’s cheques or cash are easily converted to the local currency and can be exchanged when leaving at the airport. Banks accept most major credit and debit cards and Goodies has the best rate for cash and traveller’s cheques in town.
Business Hours
Offices are generally open from 7.30am to 11.30am and from 1.30pm to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday. Shops from 8.00am to 11.30am and from 1.30pm to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday and 8.00 to Noon on Saturday. Banks from 8.00 to 3.00pm Monday to Friday and the Post Office from 7.30am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Transport
Like the USA and Europe, driving in Vanuatu is on the right-hand side of the road with cars, 4WDs and jeeps available for hire. Metered taxis are everywhere with some offering fixed rates or commonly, comparable rates to the buses. Mini buses offer frequent service but are not timetabled and can be flagged down and identified by the letter ‘B’ next to the front licence plate.
Languages
The Ni Vanuatu have populated the islands for centuries and with more than 115 distinctly different cultures and languages still thriving, Vanuatu is recognised as one of the most culturally diverse countries in the world. The main languages spoken are Bislama, English and French.
Telecommunications
Vanuatu has worldwide satellite communications, 24 hour telephone, fax, email and web access with phone, telex and fax at the post office and resorts and an Internet café in the main street.
Art & Craft
Vanuatu’s traditional handicrafts include carving, painting, weaving and potting with Handicraft Blong Vanuatu, Art Blong Yumi and Goodies offering a wide selection of authentic crafts from the islands of Vanuatu conveniently located in the heart of Port Vila.
Entertainment
There are a number of night clubs open til late on the island however all major hotels also feature regular entertainment. The Palms Casino at Le Meridien Resort, Club 21 at Melanesian Resort and Club Vanuatu all offer gambling while the mean drink kava at local kava bars or Nakamals. Club Vanuatu and The Office Pub have cable sports channels on TV and there are regular Melanesian cultural show performed at various venues.
Religion
Vanuatu’s population is predominantly Christian with visitors welcome to attend Sunday services. Many shops and markets close on a Sunday however some Chinese-owned shops and supermarkets remain open, as do the resorts.
Shopping
Most shops will accept foreign cash, traveller’s cheques and major credit cards (Amex, Diners, JCB, Mastercard and Visa). Many shops observe a ‘siesta’ from 11.30 am to 1.30 pm and will close however restaurants, cafes, banks, supermarkets and the Post Office remain open. Shops open on a Saturday morning and some speciality shops and supermarkets also open on a Sunday morning. Suburban general stores open early and close late 7 days a week and local markets operate daily except Sundays.
Medical
There are no dangerous animals or insects in Vanuatu and no vaccinations are required although anti-malarial precautions are recommended for visits to outer islands.
Dress
Light and casual, but not too brief in public places. Tropical clothes for evening wear - no ties.
Electricity
220-230 volts AC, mainly three-point plugs in hotels.
Eating Out
Dining is a definite highlight in Vanuatu as the fresh local produce is in plentiful supply and the first class restaurants offer a range of Melanesian, French, Polynesian, Indian, Chinese, Thai-Vietnamese, English and Japanese cuisine.
Tipping
Tipping or bargaining goes against local tradition with a smile or a simple ‘thank you’ considered tip enough. It is worth noting that prices at local markets tend to rise on days when cruise ships are in dock so it is recommended you avoid shopping on these days.
Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended and very affordable. As they say, if you can't afford the insurance, you can't afford to travel. To find out more about travel insurance, click here
Passports & Visas
Passports must be valid for a minimum of 6 months after you return to your country of origin. Visitors who intend to stay for less than 30 days do not require a visa. It is the travellers responsibility to ensure all documentation is in order prior to departure.
