Vanuatu Things to Do Tips by worldgypsie

Rom Dance Ambrym Island Vanuatu

For a unique experience travel to the mystical island of Ambrym from the capital Port Vila and be greeted by your transport to the village of Endu Pehakul where you will truely experience life in Vanuatu. Chief Mael Moses is the most hospitable man and will show you around his unspoilt natural village - its like stepping back in time. The locals will take you to some of the local sights such as the beautiful waterfall or for the more adventurous you can organise a trip to the twin volcanos (this involves a moderate fitness level due to the need to walk quite a distance) The locals will provide a traditional feast and magic show for your enjoyment. The spectacular Rom Dance is performed by chosen men who danced originally for celebrations and village events. Mystique surrounds the educational process to become a Rom dancer who go off to learn to make the mask and learn the specific dances. Flights to Ambrym are every few days so an over night stay in a traditional house will be required unless you have a group booking and can charter a same day flight. For the expereince of a lifetime contact Chief Mael Moses and arrange your visit to this beautiful island

Address: Endu Pehakul Village Ambrym Island

Directions: north of Ulei airport Ambrym Island Vanuatu

Phone: +678 48450

Port Vila Market

For a unique experience catch a bus to the Port Vila Market in down town Port Vila. Market days are Monday through to Saturday lunch time 24hours a day. Local organic produce is sold from tables by the local women and men and can range from fruits and vegetables to chickens goats and everything in between. The market is a regular meeting place for the locals from outer villages to catch up on news and is a rainbow of colours with the spectacular island dresses worn by the ladies and beautiful local flowers for sale. A short walk along the water front will bring you to the "Momma's Market" where clothing and souvenirs are available for purchase. Take some time to have a chat with the lovely local ladies who all have interesting stories to tell about life here. The essence of Vanuatu is the people so take some time to have a chat about life here with the locals and they in turn will be intersted in where you come from in the world.

Address: down town Port Vila

Directions: Opposite Island Chicken take away

Phone: none

Coongoola Day Cruise

The tour begins with a motel pick up and a half hours air conditioned bus ride past villiages and beautiful tropical surroundings to your dingi transfer to board the beautiful Coongoola. Morning tea is provided on board as you sail. First stop is the Turtle Sanctuary on Moso Island where if you wish you can sponcer a turtle and be sent information during its life cycle when it is seen by locals. Sailing on to beautiful Hapi Tok beach for either a swim or snorkle with a BBQ lunch. You can be as lazy or as active as you wish with two snorkling opportunites you can discover the beautiful coral reef and fish - the scenery is beautiful and the tour guides hospitality wonderful. The crew are only too happy to chat or explain any of the local customs such as Chief Roimata or point out any sea life that venture close to the ship. The sail home flanked by frolicing dolpins is certainly a day trip to remember.

Address: Coongoola Tours - Vanuatu Tourism Office

Directions: Down Town Port Vila main road near Mommas Market

Other Contact: destinationpacis@vanuatu.com.au

Phone: +678 25020

Ever wanted to sail like a Pirate?

Care for a little yesteryear adventure then Captain Harry's Pirate sail is for you. Sailing aboard the schooner "Cassiopeia" is a definite must - a great adventure for kids of all ages. Your enjoyable 2 hour or sunset cruise starts with a dingi transfer to this beautiful schooner and then you can either sit on deck or really get involved by hauling the halyards, hoisting the sails, trim the sheets or mind the helm. Harry will give you a brief overview of the ships history including his 'ode to King Neptune' then its off across Vila Bay with sails flying in the breeze. Dressing as a pirate is not a pre requisite but is certainly a lot of fun (all pirate gear is provided on board) Harry will encourage you to participate in all sailing activities and is only too happy to teach you or tell you all about his interesting world travels. Drinks and nibbles can be organised with Harry prior to setting off. Depending on your requirements you can call into Pango Beach for a snorkel on the magnificent coral, swim or just laze around deck and enjoy the ambiance of the ship. Captain Harry is a wonderful host and this sail is a wonderful way to see Port Vila from the sea.

Address: waterfront ....

Directions: waterfront near Numba Wan Cafe

Phone: Captain Harry 47197

Mele Cascade and Waterfall

If you have limited time to spend in Port Vila a trip to Mele Cascades is a must. A half hour bus ride or organised tour bus will take you past Mele Village (Vanuatu's largest) on to the breathtaking crystal clear waters of the blue pools and surrounding tropical gardens of the Mele Cascades. One of the traditional land owners from the village will meet you and take the admittance fee to be paid on arrival for upkeep and improvements to the area. You can sit by the pools enjoy the beautiful surroundings and fish or start your 15-20 minute trek to the base of the waterfall. Shoes are a must but note that you walk through shallow water pools on your walk. The walk is not extremely strenuous but has naturally made stairways so not for someone with a cardiac condition, unsteady on their feet or disabled. It is also not advisable to take the trip after heavy rain as the path will be extremely slippery. You will pass local children who attend to the village market garden on your way to the top. A digression off the track to the left will take you to a clearing with a breathtaking view overlooking Hideaway Island and the surrounding Mele Bay. The pools at the base of the waterfalls make a great place to cool off after your walk and you won't be disappointed with this unique experience.

Address: Mele Village Port Vila

Directions: Past Mele Village and Secret Garden at the base of Clems Hill