Introducing Vanuatu
You're heading to Vanuatu? Fantastic. You're going to love it. But it's not just a decadent escape with balmy breezes and gourmet food. It's also home to several best-in-the-world experiences that very few people know about: a luxury liner, like the Titanic, shipwrecked in clear diveable water; the world's most accessible active volcano on the island of Tanna; a giant banyan tree the size of a soccer field; pounding, cascading waterfalls; extraordinary cultural ceremonies and dances on the island of Malekula; primitive villages where you can witness an ancient living culture; and picture-perfect beaches where there's nobody but you and your snorkel gear. It's also a snorkellers' and divers' Mecca.
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Port Vila, the national capital on the island of Efate, buzzes at the centre of Vanuatu's tourist trade, all colonial and cool, with a view for every restaurant, and hotel beds that float you out over lagoons. If you've come on a package deal, you're just starting your adventure. Stay on when it ends to discover a few of the unique things that are Vanuatu, and to try out the sporty options, like abseiling down a waterfall, parasailing over the glorious harbour, zapping out of a cave of stalactites through a ravine on a blow-up float-ring, turning nature-child for the night on a tiny offshore island.
The best thing about Vanuatu, though, is that you feel safe and happy here. The people are a delight. They love their country and want you to enjoy its pleasures, but they aren't after the 'tourist dollar'. There's no bargaining, no hawkers, no pressure to buy. It is so refreshing.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
Tips & articles
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Vanuatu & New Caledonia: travel books to read before you go
18 November 2010
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Thorn Tree forum discussion
Recent posts
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Should we go in the wet season?
by becnaylor 14 September 2011
We are planning a trip in January and were thinking about Vanuatu. I'm a bit worried about the weather at this time of year, being the…
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One more Island
by jenniferr 12 September 2011
Hi all I want to go to Vanuatu in mid October and am in my late 40ts, female and on my own. Want to do Port Villa and around, Tanna and…
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One more Island
by jenniferr 12 September 2011
Hi all I want to go to Vanuatu in mid October and am in my late 40ts, female and on my own. Want to do Port Villa and around, Tanna and…
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