Vanuatu
Welkum! It's a gradual process, shedding the stress of big city life and drifting into the unique world of an island paradise. But in Vanuatu it overtakes you easily. Just over three hours from Sydney and two hours from Brisbane, Port Vila is a sleepy township on the edge of one of the South Pacific's great lagoons.
 With a selection of environmentally friendly resorts and quality boutique retreats, and a charm created by its stylish restaurants, art galleries, museum and wonderful craft shops housing the spiritual and mystical treasures of ancient Melanesia, the tropical warmth of Vanuatu with envelope you.
It's colourful history includes a period of joint French and British dominion. This delightful influence means that today the population speaks a mix of English, French and Bislama (Pidgin English). . And when it comes to activities, Port Vila's lagoon, harbour and extended reef system ensures that there are few better places to enjoy watersports. Vanuatu offers some of the best diving in the South Pacific thanks to careful preservation of marine sanctuaries that protect underwater creatures and corals. Beyond Port Vila you will find islands trapped in time, the home of unique and ancient cultures and a vast Pacific wilderness. The two most frequently visited islands are Espiritu Santo renowned as a diver's paradise and Tanna where you can scale the world's most accessible active volcano. Even more remote are islands such as Pentecost known for its unique customs and mysterious Ambrym. Our enthusiastic young team is committed to the highest levels of customer service and uncompromising in ensuring your Vanuatu holiday is the best possible. We look forward to sharing this exotic and adventurous corner of paradise with you! Vanuatu Fast Facts Climate: Warm and tropical averaging a pleasant 25°C from April to November. December to March is warmer with fresh tropical rains, averaging 30°C. Time Zone: Same time as Australia's Eastern States in Summer and 1 hour ahead in Winter. Currency: The Vatu is the basic currency 1AUD = 80VUV Banks: ATM machines are available at Westpac and ANZ branches in Port Vila, but please check with your bank to ensure your credit card is suitable. Major credit cards are accepted in Port Vila. Travellers cheques are accepted by larger stores and hotels. Shopping: Shops are open from 7.30am to 11.30am and 1.30pm to 6.00pm Monday to Friday and to 11.00am Saturday mornings. The colourful Port Vila Central Market is open daily (except Sunday). Crafts and outer island artifacts are good value. Languages: English is widely spoken with French and Bislama (Pidgin English) also recognized as official languages. There are over 100 other distinct languages and more dialects. Vaccinations: Vaccinations are not mandatory. However we recommend that you consult your doctor before travelling. Tipping: Tipping is not expected or encouraged. Electricity: 220 volts with a mix of Australian and European style plugs. Visa: Australian passport holders do not require a visa. Proof of onward travel is required.
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