The climate is hot can be very humid. While historically November to March is the ‘wet’ season, over the last couple of years El Nino has sort of reversed the seasons. Yes, there are cyclones (I’ve been through two) but they come, they go and they are part of the tropics (even in Australia). There are also occasional earth tremors, as there are in any place with volcanic activity (like New Zealand).

Summer is from November to March, the average temperature is 28°C (up to 32°C) and it can be hot, wet and humid. Winter is from April to October with the temperature averaging 23°C. Sea temperature varies from 22 to 28 degrees making swimming enjoyable all year round. As they say, whatever the weather, have a nice day!

The currency is the vatu and the exchange rate is stable. All major credit cards are accepted and there are ATM's at supermarkets and outside the ANZ and Westpac banks. The best exchange rate is at Goodies souvenir shop in the main street.

Despite what your doctor or travel agent says, malaria tablets aren’t necessary or recommended unless you are going to the outer islands. You don’t need vaccinations against exotic tropical diseases but you should have an up-to-date tetanus shot in case of coral cuts and take out medical insurance. While there are good doctors and regular flights out, you shouldn’t travel anywhere without insurance.

Visas for stays not exceeding 30 days, visitors from countries including USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Philippines, South Korea, the UK, Norway, Switzerland, EU countries and Fiji do not require a visa. Permission is usually granted for an extension of up to four months simply by applying while here. Visas are only obtainable from The Immigration Department, Port Vila, Vanuatu. PMB 014, Tel: 22 354, Fax: 25 492. The automatic entry visa is not a work permit though.

Tips

• Town water is safe to drink.
• There are no real ‘nasties’ (spiders, insects, animals or reptiles) in Vanuatu. However, coral can cut and there are some spiky marine creatures that can hurt so reef shoes are recommended. If you do get a coral cut, a squeeze of lime or lemon is a natural remedy or see Reception for some hydrogen peroxide and antiseptic. In the tropics, cuts should be covered.
• You may see sea snakes when snorkelling – yes, these are potentially nasty, but their mouths are too small to bite.
• While the ozone layer is in better shape here than down south, the sun can be severe so slip, slop, slap.
• The tropical heat can dehydrate, so taking a bottle of water on excursions is recommended.
• Tipping is not part of Melanesian culture. The ni-Vanuatu people are among the friendliest in the world and a smile and ‘tank yu tumas’ is plenty.