Six top tips for selling Vanuatu

1. Countless islands and countless opportunities

The nation of Vanuatu is by no means small; the South Pacific archipelago is made up of 83 islands, the most notable of which – Efate, Espiritu Santo and Tanna – each offer travellers unique experiences that can be found nowhere else in the world.

Espiritu Santo, the largest of Vanuatu’s islands, is famous not only for its beaches of white sand and clear water but also for its stunning diving spots and rich cultural history. Tanna is blessed with underwater caves, coral reefs and the smouldering volcano Mount Yasur, while Efate is home to the spectacular Mele Cascades waterfall and bustling city of Port Vila, capital of Vanuatu.

2. A world of culinary experiences

Travellers are not only able to enjoy the various activities and sights of Port Vila, but also have a huge of choice when it comes to dining. If eating at hotel resorts doesn’t appeal to guests they can instead dine out, enjoying local fare at a host of top quality restaurants. Plus there’s a range of markets where fresh local produce can be easily sourced.

Vanuatu’s historical ties with France are evident via the French cafes and restaurants on offer, but Port Vila is also host to a variety of other international cuisine. Cantonese dining, a steakhouse, a sushi bar and a pizzeria are all options. And being an island nation, the seafood is always fresh and of the highest quality.

3. Comfortably close

If there’s one downside to going on an overseas holiday it’s usually the flight. Thanks to Australia’s geographic isolation, more often than not, when you head offshore you arrive somewhat jet-lagged at your destination.

Fortunately travelling to Vanuatu takes no longer than a morning or afternoon as it is located only two and a half hours’ flight time from Brisbane and three and a half hours from Sydney. With regular services to and from Australia, travelling to the nation is easier than ever and before you know it you will be landing just as refreshed as when you first stepped on the plane.

4. SS President Coolidge: shipwreck diving at its best

With its underwater caves, coral reefs, exotic sea life and warm water, Vanuatu is a popular site for scuba diving enthusiasts. Most notable of Vanuatu’s diving sites is the SS President Coolidge, a former US luxury ocean liner that sank in 1942 just off the harbour of Espiritu Santo.

Today it is one of the largest and most accessible shipwrecks in the world, and with its easy beach access and clear visibility it is safe swimming for both novices and experienced divers. When exploring the wreck, divers have the chance to see military ordnance, chandeliers and mosaic tile fountains.

5. Mount Yasur: Volcanic action up close

Vanuatu is a part of the geographic area known as the Pacific Ring of Fire, a zone where tectonic plates collide. As such it is home to some of the world’s active volcanoes, one of which is Vanuatu’s most famous natural attraction, Mount Yasur.

Considered the world’s most accessible active volcano, it is located a short flight from Port Vila and it is a mere 10 minute walk up to the rim of the volcano. An experience like no other, on guided tours travellers can witness the frequent fountains of magma that spew forth from Mount Yasur’s central crater.

6. Easy local travel and transportation

Frequent tours between the islands and well organised transport make it easy to participate in the abundance of activities and access Vanuatu’s places of interest.

Beyond the transportation offered by organised tours, cars, 4WDs and vans are available for hire for tourists aged 23 or over, with international driving licences accepted, as long as you have held your licence for at least one year. Privately owned mini buses and taxis also offer transportation services for guests.

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