When is the best time to visit?
Vanuatu weather offers year-round tropical sunshine, with a maximum temperature of 28° to 30°C. Many say that best time to visit Vanuatu is from April to October when the weather is warm and sunny. November to March sees humidity and sporadic rainfall, though this is also the time of year you'll find sharp deals. For upcoming weather, check out Vanuatu's Bureau of Meteorology.
How do I get to Vanuatu?
Vanuatu is approximately 2.5 hours by plane from Australia’s east coast and 3 hours from Auckland, with most international flights arriving into Port Vila on the island of Efate and once-weekly flights from Brisbane arriving into Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo
How do I get around Vanuatu?
Check out this article for information on getting around Vanuatu and this one for information on car hire
Is Vanuatu a good destination to take children?
Vanuatu is a great destination for children. The local people are very genuine and caring and the short flight from Australia and New Zealand is attractive for those travelling which children, however there are not as many resorts with kids clubs or child-friendly facilities. There are however a number of self-catering accommodation options which are ideal for families and tend to be smaller, more unique properties.
Is Vanuatu expensive?
Australian visitors can expect to pay similar prices for food and drink as they would back home. One benefit of Vanuatu is the great range of self-catering accommodation and the number of markets and supermarkets (in the main street of Port Vila) which can save you money on dining out. Note that you will be unable to buy alcohol on Sundays unless you are eating in a bar or restaurant.
What is the currency in Vanuatu and can I use my credit card?
The currency in Vanuatu is Vatu.1 Australian dollar equals approximately 80 vatu. A trip around town on the bus costs approximately 150 vatu. Most resorts accept major credit cards. ATMs and foreign exchange services are available in Port Vila and Luganville.
Do I need to tip in Vanuatu?
No. Tipping or bargaining goes against local tradition with a smile or a simple 'thank you' considered tip enough.
Do I need a passport and visa? What are duty free allowances?
Check out this article for information on immigration and entrance permits. If you lose you your passport the Australian High Commission’s number is +678 22 777 and the New Zealand High Commission is +678 22 933. The inbound duty is two litres of spirits and 2.25 litres of wine (3 bottles) and 200 cigarettes (or equivalent). You can buy duty-free beer and spirits on arrival.
Can I use my phone and internet?
Most Vanuatu resorts offer internet access including WiFi which you can connect to on your own device. In order to use your own mobile phone in Vanuatu you will need to check with your network provider for your roaming status before travelling.
What are the electricity plugs in Vanuatu?
These are similar to Australia and New Zealand, running on 230V, three-pronged plugs while some resorts also have 110V for electric shavers.
Do I need travel insurance?
Even if you’re not travelling too far from home, you should always take out travel insurance especially when you’re travelling overseas. Even if you’re in good health and won’t be taking part in any adventurous activities, you’ll still need cover against accident, illness or injury. Be sure to read the product disclosure statement before buying any insurance policies.
Where can I buy local handicrafts?
For a range of handicrafts from carvings, t-shirts, necklaces and coconut bras (‘basket blong titi’ in Bislama) head to the handicraft markets on the Port Vila Seafront. There is information at the markets on what you will and won't be able to take home with you.
What are the main languages spoken?
There are three ‘official’ languages in Vanuatu – English, French and Bislama. Bislama is ‘pidgin English’ with a few French words. Check out this article for information on learning Bislama.
What are standard office hours?
Touristy businesses, banks and supermarkets stay open all day but government offices like to retain the tradition of siesta and close from 11:30am to 1:30pm.
What's the time zone?
Vanuatu is GMT+11, meaning that in non-daylight saving time, Vanuatu is an hour ahead of east coast Australia and is on the same time zone as the states that have daylight saving during that time. New Zealand is normally two hours ahead of Vanuatu
Does a price include tax?
There is a 15% Value Added Tax (VAT) on all goods and services. This is usually included in the quoted price.
Is the water safe to drink?
The tap water is safe to drink but if you are worried, bottled water is readily available. Whatever you decide, the important thing in the tropics is to drink plenty of it to stay hydrated. There is a high calcium content in Port Vila water so you may get white specks in your tea or the shower rose can become clogged (a paper clip sorts that out).