Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a chain of 83 islands lying in the Pacific about 2000km Northeast of Brisbane and is serviced by Air Vanuatu. Direct air services are available from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Connections are also available from New Zealand and Fiji. The islands range from towering volcanic cones to coral atolls with white sandy beaches and aquamarine lagoons.

The two main areas of interest for divers are the islands of Efate and Espiritu Santo. The country's capital is Port Vila, which is located on the island of Efate. Development is low key with a variety of low-rise hotels and resorts. About an hour's flight from Port Vila is the more remote destination of Espiritu Santo. Luganville is the capital and the port for Santo and is the gateway to spectacular diving.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

CLIMATE: The average temperature from November through March is 28 degrees Celsius (about 83F). From April to October the average temperature is 23 degrees Celsius (about 74F).

CURRENCY: The Vatu is the unit of currency. One Australian Dollar is worth approximately 82 Vatu and one US Dollar is worth approximately 120 Vatu.

DINING: As a legacy of the island’s French history, there are many excellent French and local restaurants in the town with moderate (by big city standards) prices. All hotels and resorts also offer a wide variety of dining opportunities.

DRESS: As the climate is warm and tropical, light cotton casual clothing is recommended. Women should dress modestly in public places.

ENTRY REQUIRMENTS: Australians, New Zealand, EU and US passport holders require a valid passport with at least 6 months validity beyond their intended stay. 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: English, French and Bislama are the official languages. However, there are over 115 dialects spoken throughout the islands.

SHOPPING: Port Vila is a duty free port and there are a variety of duty free shops offering a range of goods. There is also a colourful waterfront market selling flowers, fruit, vegetables and local handicrafts. All major credit cards are accepted at hotels, most restaurants and larger stores. Banks and money-changers are located in the downtown area.

TIME ZONE: 11 hours ahead of GMT

TIPPING: Tipping and bargaining are not part of their culture and visitors should refrain from these practices.