Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands is an archipelago of rain forest clad mountainous islands and low-lying coral atolls. The Solomon Islands are serviced by Solomon Air Airlines. The main international gateway to this area is Australia where you connect from Brisbane to Honiara. The country has very limited development and intends to keep it that way. There is a selection of small resorts in isolated locations, accessible by light aircraft.
The Solomon Islands offer extraordinary diving opportunities. The surrounding crystal clear waters offer prolific marine life, home to great varieties of fish and corals. These islands were the sites of many WWII battles and there are some outstanding wreck dives.
CLIMATE: The Solomon Islands lie in the tropics and enjoy a year round temperature of around 29 degrees Celsius (about 85 Fahrenheit).
CURRENCY: The Solomon Island Dollar is the unit of currency. One Australian Dollar is worth approximately 6 Solomon Island Dollars and One US Dollar is worth approximately 7 Solomon Island Dollars.
DRESS: As the climate is warm and humid, take along light cotton casual clothing. Women should dress modestly in public places.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS: Australian and New Zealanders require a valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months beyond their intended stay. US and EEC passport holders require an entry permit, which is obtained on arrival and is valid for 30 days. There is no charge for this. All travellers must have return or onward tickets and sufficient funds for their stay.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: Consult your doctor for recommended medication and inoculations.
LANGUAGE: The official language is English with about 87 Melanesian dialects spoken.
TIME ZONE: 11 hours ahead of GMT
TIPPING: This is not a Solomon Island customs and visitors are asked not to do this.
