Banking and currency
The currency used is the Vatu. Although Australian dollars are accepted by many shops, restaurants and hotels in Vila, and a few in Luganville (Santo), they are NOT readily accepted outside of town or throughout the islands. Daily fluctuations do occur, however you should work on the following approximations: 100 vatu = AU$1.28.
The best time of year is April/May to October when temperatures range from 18 to 28 degrees Celsius. Light weight casual clothing plus a sweater is usually sufficient. November to March, the wet season, is hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 26-34 degrees Celsius. Sea temperature varies from 22 to 28 degrees making swimming enjoyable all year round.
Dining
Dining is a highlight of a visit to Port Vila.
Electricity
240V., 3 pin (angled) plugs are required – same as Australia and New Zealand.
Entry Requirements
For stays not exceeding 30 days, visas are not required by nationals of Commonwealth countries, EU countries, USA or Japan. However, you must have a valid travel itinerary, ongoing or return airline ticket and your Passport must be valid for six months beyond your intended stay. Covid 19 vaccination is recommended.
Health
No vaccinations are required, however, anti-malarial medication is highly recommended. Please consult your doctor well in advance of your departure.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is highly recommended for all travellers to Vanuatu. To ensure you have financial cover in the event that travel plans need to be changed due to COVID-19. Please ensure you fully understand what your Travel Insurance policy covers and whether it covers cancellation fees and amendments should you become ill. Inclusive of medical coverage including pandemics as a stipulation.
If you or a family member tests positive for COVID-19 during your stay, appropriate insurance will be needed to cover costs related to room relocation and booking extensions, rebooking airline tickets and any associated medical costs.
Language
The local people (Ni-Vanuatu) speak Bislama, also known as Pidgin English, however, English & French are also widely spoken.
Shopping
Shops and tour operators are generally open Monday to Friday between 7:30am and 4:30pm/5:00pm, but close between 11:30am and 1:30pm for siesta. (Eating places, banks, supermarkets and the Post Office do not observe siesta.) Most shops are open on Saturday mornings and some on Sunday mornings. The markets in the town centre are open daily (except Sunday) and sell fruit, vegetables, flowers, and handicrafts.
Transportation
Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. There are no public transport systems in Vanuatu. Privately owned mini buses are common and run unspecified routes through the municipal areas. You need only board one heading in approximately the right direction and tell the driver where you wish to stop and you will get there, albeit by a circuitous route! The fare is 150vt per trip within the town centre and up to 300 – 500vt to the outskirts of Port Vila. Taxis are also plentiful and relatively inexpensive.
Tipping
Neither tipping nor bargaining is considered civilised behaviour. If you would like to express your gratitude for service, you might like to send a postcard or perhaps give a ‘t’ shirt as a gift from your country. It is neither necessary, nor expected, but such small items are received with much appreciation.
Time
Vanuatu is one hour ahead of AST (Australian Standard Time) and 11 hours ahead of GST (Greenwich Standard Time or UT). There is no daylight saving in summer.
Water
With little industry or agriculture and no unusual water borne bugs, the town water supply is considered safe to drink. In the outer islands, water is collected from streams whose catchments are untouched jungle, or as rainwater from roofs. Bore water is less common but safe to drink throughout. However some people react to water in different places simply because it’s different. If you fall into that category, bottled water can be readily purchased from Vila and Luganville. Supplies in the outer islands are very limited.
Vanuatu Public Holidays
January 1st – New Year’s Day
February 21st – Father Lini Day
March 5th – Custom Chief’s Day
April 7th – Good Friday
April 10th – Easter Monday
May 1st – Labour Day
May 24th – Ascension Day
July 24th – Children’s Day
July 30th – Independence Day
August 15th – Assumption Day
October 5th – Constitution Day
November 29th – Unity Day
December 25th – Christmas
December 26th – Family Day
