Qantas Takes Off on First Flight to Vanuatu

Qantas

The Flying Kangaroo has taken off from Brisbane to Port Vila, the harbourside capital of Vanuatu, for the first time in its history.

The inaugural service, QF159, was at full capacity today with holidaymakers and business travellers making the near 3-hour journey to one of the Pacific's hidden gems.

The new route offers three direct flights per week from the Sunshine State, and from 12 December 2024* Jetstar will also offer up to four weekly flights between Sydney and Port Vila. Across both airlines this will create more than 150,000 new seats each year between Australia and Vanuatu and making it easier than ever for Australians to experience the beaches, rich culture, and unique adventures that Vanuatu has to
offer.

The new flights will promote tourism between Australia and Vanuatu, strengthening economic ties and providing a boost to the local economy and tourism economy of the broader Pacific region, encouraging ongoing Australian visitation to the island capital.

Qantas

Port Vila is one of the Flying Kangaroo's four new international routes from the Queensland capital that it has launched within 12 months. Today's inaugural service follows the launch of Brisbane to Wellington and Honiara in October 2023 and the upcoming launch of Brisbane to Manila in late-October 2024, which will add more than 100,000 seats between Australia and the Philippines each year.

Qantas Group CEO International Cam Wallace says: “We are thrilled to expand our network with the introduction of direct flights between Brisbane and Port Vila. This new route will maintain connectivity between Australia and the South Pacific, opening new opportunities for leisure and business travel to the region.”

“With its lush landscapes and crystal blue waters, Vanuatu is a truly remarkable destination and we are proud to offer our customers more ways to experience its natural beauty."

Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan Graaff says: “This new Qantas route to Port Vila reinforces Brisbane Airport's role as Australia's Pacific hub.”

“The service offers Queenslanders an easy escape to paradise on our doorstep. It also provides the growing number of people from Vanuatu now living in Queensland, particularly those working in the agricultural sector, with direct access to home and family.”

Vanuatu Tourism Office CEO Adela Issachar Aru says: “The launch of Qantas' inaugural flight from Brisbane to Port Vila marks a significant milestone for Vanuatu's tourism industry and strengthens our connectivity with Australia.”

“Vanuatu offers an unforgettable escape, where travellers can immerse themselves in stunning landscapes, rich kastom, and adventure. We can't wait to welkam Qantas customers to our shores and share the beautiful experiences our 83 islands have to offer.”

The new service will be operated by a Qantas Boeing 737 aircraft on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. All Qantas fares include checked baggage, complimentary food and beverages, and seat selection. Qantas Frequent Flyers will also earn Qantas Points and Status Credits on eligible flights.

Fast Facts

• Route: Brisbane (BNE) to Port Vila (VLI)
• Return fares: Starting from $796 in economy and $3,506 in business class
• Flight numbers: QF159 Brisbane to Port Vila, QF160 Port Vila to Brisbane.
• Frequency: Three times weekly (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday)
• Duration: 3 hours
• Aircraft: Boeing 737-800, 12 business class and 162 economy seats

Qantas history of flying to Vanuatu

• Operated Empire Flying Boats as charters between Noumea and Port Vila in WW2 carrying troops
and freight including 1-tonne of gold bullion.
• In the 1960s when Qantas owned Fiji Airways, regular services were operated between Nandi and
Port Vila.

VIRGIN AUSTRALIA ‘SURF’S UP’ DIRECT GOLD COAST - BALI FLIGHTS, ADDS SAMOA AND VANUATU TO DESTINATION LIST,

Virgin Australia will become the first Australian carrier ever to offer direct flights between the Gold Coast and Bali, connecting two of the world’s premier surfing destinations from next year.

Commencing on 29 March 2023 and available to book from today, services between the Gold Coast Airport’s new International Terminal and Bali will operate daily, with more than 2,200 seats available each week.

The announcement comes as Virgin Australia prepares to recommence flights to Bali from Sydney from tomorrow and Melbourne and Brisbane from Friday 17 June.

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said the addition of the new Bali service reflected the growth in demand for services in and out of the Gold Coast Airport as well as the airline’s expanding presence there, with the new route set to further enhance Virgin Australia’s network from the Gold Coast.

“We are currently seeing continued growth in travel demand for Gold Coast services and are operating up to 180 domestic flights outbound each week,” Ms Hrdlicka said.

“In May alone our Gold Coast bookings were up 55 per cent compared to 2019, with bookings on our existing Bali flights up 48 per cent for the same period and growing every week.

“With the addition of the Gold Coast Airport terminal expansion and demand for Bali rising, the time is right to connect these two famous holiday destinations as well as the surf breaks, wellness activities and nightlife that comes with them.”

Surfboards enclosed in a protective hard case bag, with fins removed, that weigh less than 23kg and are shorter than 3m incur no excess baggage fees and are considered part of your checked baggage allowance when you book a Choice or Flex fare with Virgin Australia.

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills welcomed the launch of Gold Coast-Bali flights, which he said further cemented the Gold Coast Airport and Virgin Australia connection.

“This service, linking two of the world’s top surf and lifestyle destinations, will be extremely popular with locals,” Mr Mills said.

“We have seen significant growth in Virgin Australia services in and out of Gold Coast Airport through the travel recovery, and this is a clear demonstration of what can happen with a strong partnership.”

Virgin Australia’s Short Haul International operations continue to grow, with Virgin Australia also soon planning to resume services to both Vanuatu and Samoa alongside its services to Fiji, Bali and Queenstown, New Zealand.

Direct services from Brisbane to Port Vila, Vanuatu will commence on 10 March 2023 with up to five flights a week. Services to Apia, Samoa will commence from Sydney on 21 March 2023 with up to three flights per week and from Brisbane on 23 March 2023 with up to two flights per week.

The addition of Samoa and Vanuatu to Virgin Australia’s network will give holiday makers a greater choice of Pacific Island destinations as well as provide those wanting to reconnect with friends and family the opportunity to do so as both destinations open to international travel post COVID-19.

To celebrate, Virgin Australia has dropped a Set Your Sights Overseas sale, with discounts of up to 30 per cent on offer for over 70,000 seats on all the airline’s Short Haul International routes*, including those announced today.

Return

• Gold Coast – Bali from $399*

• Brisbane – Bali from $469*

• Melbourne – Bali from $479*

• Sydney – Bali from $489*

• Brisbane – Vanuatu from $469*

• Sydney – Samoa from $549*

• Brisbane – Samoa from $549*

• Brisbane – Fiji from $449*

• Sydney – Fiji from $459*

• Melbourne – Fiji from $535*

  In addition, from 15 to 24 June 2022, Velocity Frequent Flyer members will get a mega bonus of 2,000 Velocity Points when they book Virgin Australia flights between Bali, Fiji, New Zealand, Vanuatu, Samoa, and Australia, for travel until 11 May 2023.**

  For more information and to book now, visit virginaustralia.com

Vanuatu Beachfront Villa Luxury with Decadent Dining, Nightly Cocktails & Massages

Set your watch to island time at Vanuatu's peaceful and private Tamanu on the Beach, a Caribbean-inspired resort located right on the postcard-perfect Coral Sea. Currently one of the top five hotels in Port Vila on Tripadvisor, this boutique beachfront oasis – home to just 15 traditionally crafted bungalows – promises complete seclusion and serenity with a private white-sand beach, superb beachfront dining and an in-house spa.

Just a few short strides from the beachfront's shallow, emerald waters, sits Tamanu Restaurant. Here you can drink in panoramic ocean views and savour mouthwatering dishes crafted using fresh, locally grown organic produce and choose from an extensive wine list. Return to the comforts of your private beach bungalow where you can watch the sunset, listen to the tranquil swaying of lofty palms and admire the deserted sandy beach.Your handpicked inclusions:

• Daily à la carte breakfast
• Two two-course à la carte dinners per person
• Two à la carte lunches with a glass of house wine or beer per person
• Daily cocktail per adult
• Two 60-minute full-body massages per adult
• A$100 spa credit per package
• Roundtrip airport transfers and a fruit cocktail or chilled coconut on arrival
• Welcome bottle of wine and tropical fruit platter
• One turndown service with chocolates
• Daily shuttle service into Port Vila
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

Stay 6 nights from only $1,999 in a Beachview Villa (two guests), valued up to $3,685. For more information phone Luxury Escapes on 1300 88 99 00 or visit luxuryescapes.com. Sale ends 16 June 2022. Valid for travel until 20 December 2023. Blackout dates apply.

P&O Cruises Australia Welcomes the Return of Ni Vanuatu Crew Onboard Pacific Explorer

P&O Cruises Australia is proud and excited to welcome back our Ni Vanuatu team mates to work onboard our first ship to start sailing from Australia in more than two years.

P&O Cruises has always valued its strong relationship with Vanuatu and is the only cruise line in the world to employ Ni Vanuatu team mates onboard our ships.

The first Ni Vanuatu crew left Vila this morning to join the P&O Cruises flagship, Pacific Explorer, which will begin carrying guests from May 31.

“Welcoming our first Ni Vanuatu crew back onboard our ships is an exciting moment and a demonstration of the respect we have for our Vanuatu team mates,” President of P&O Cruises Australia Marguerite Fitzgerald said.

“We have been paused for more than two years and these crew will play a major role in helping us to get back into operation.”

P&O Cruises is hopeful of being able to cruise to Vanuatu this year but stressed this was a decision of the Vanuatu Government and its officials.

P&O’s Pacific Partnership Helps to Introduce the Next Generation of Ni Van Paramedicine Professionals

P&O Cruises Australia and ProMedical Vanuatu have proudly
 congratulated Celine Eliab, Yvong Toa, Georges Jack, Jerome Sese,
 Pascal Nakou, and Philimon Kampai for officially graduating
as highly skilled emergency medical technicians.

Following valuable contributions to P&O Cruises Australia’s guest-funded Pacific Partnership program, ProMedical Vanuatu has proudly congratulated six team members for officially graduating as highly skilled emergency medical technicians in a special awards ceremony.

 
Celine Eliab, Yvong Toa, Georges Jack, Jerome Sese, Pascal Nakou and Philimon Kampai were recognised with a graduation ceremony in Vila for successfully completing the Diploma of Paramedical Science.

The two-year Diploma means the graduates have the formal qualifications to assess and help patients in an emergency, including providing life support, outside of a hospital setting, ensuring ProMedical can continue providing the community with reliable and international standard pre-hospital emergency services.

Douglas Patterson, Chairman of Vanuatu Emergency Services Association (VESA), ProMedical’s governing body, said the organisation was proud of what the team had achieved.

“We are incredibly proud of each and everyone of these team members who are the future of paramedicine professionals in Vanuatu,” Mr Patterson said.

“They have worked hard to develop their knowledge and practical skills as Emergency Medical Technicians to serve their communities in Port Vila and Luganville.

“VESA would like to acknowledge our donors and sponsors, specifically P&O Cruises Australia and their guests on this occasion for sponsoring the studies of eight students since 2017. Their commitment to the development of Ni-Vanuatu paramedicine professionals will continue to directly improve the health outcomes for the people of Vanuatu.

“This commitment is also shared by the Australian Government through the supply of clinical instructors through the Australian Volunteer Program who have been not only great mentors but also friends to our team as they developed their skills.”

Sandy Olsen from P&O Cruises Australia said the homegrown cruise line’s guests should feel incredibly proud knowing they’ve assisted in nurturing a new generation of medical professionals to help with the continuing development of ambulance services in the region.

“We want to thank our loyal guests for their ongoing support in working with us to give back to the communities in the South Pacific Islands which have been so warmly welcoming P&O’s fleet for nearly 90 years,” Ms Olsen said.

“Today’s remarkable graduates will not only help improve the lives of families in the community but will leave a lasting legacy on the medical teams and services for many future generations to come.”

The Diploma was achieved through an Australian-based registered training organisation called Emergency Australia.

Throughout their studies, the team completed theoretical online training as well as practical training and assessments under the oversight of clinical instructors and ProMedical managers.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

PATA: Asia Pacific IVA growth scenarios for Asia Pacific destinations now available

Following the successful release of the “Asia Pacific Visitor Forecasts 2021-2023” early this month and in response to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic, the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is pleased to announce the third issue of a suite of 39 destination-specific reports for the period 2021-2023, sponsored by Visa. Each report builds on the regional forecast by delving deeper into the changing dynamics of travel and tourism into and across the Asia Pacific region at the single destination level. The reports also include additional data and insights from Euromonitor International.

A number of essential changes to these reports have been made in response to the extremely volatile global conditions. The first most notable change has been a reduction in the coverage period to three years, given the highly erratic situation. The second has been the development of three scenarios for each destination, ranging from mild to medium and severe. The third change is the review of each scenario to include updated data on visitor arrivals and global conditions as they appear throughout the year.

The first update will be released at the end of the second quarter of 2021, with another scheduled for early in the final quarter of the same year. This agility is considered essential to better understand the changing possibilities for the destinations under each scenario and in allowing for a more rapid leverage of potential opportunities as they present themselves. In addition, each update will be highlighted with a webinar specifically designed to provide a more detailed interpretation of what these changes may mean for the destinations and for the Asia Pacific region.

Each of the 39 reports covers a specific destination in the Asia Pacific and individually provides:

• Annual forecasts of visitor arrival numbers into each destination, by scenario and source region;
• Quarterly forecasts of visitor arrival numbers into each destination, by scenario and source region1;
• Recovery rates for international visitor arrival (IVA) growth back to the 2019 benchmark;
• Annual changes in relative visitor share by source region, year and scenario; and
• Quarterly changes in forwarding scheduled international inbound air seat capacity.

These scenarios, when combined with other relevant metrics, provide hard data on how travel demand preferences could play out in these destinations and how they might recover under various conditions. Scheduled international inbound air seat capacity, for example, shifts relatively quickly according to demand. In other words, understanding the likelihood of when and where capacity increases become a useful barometer of potential demand that can translate into increased arrivals.

It needs to be remembered that Asia Pacific lost more than 760 million air seats into and across the region between 2019 and 2020 and while the resumption of capacity growth to 2023 can be expected, it will most likely be erratic and certainly not uniform across all the source and destination markets. Any advance indicators of capacity gains will deliver a huge strategic advantage in planning recovery processes2.

The recovery rates included in these reports present a proportion of international visitor arrivals (IVAs) in a given year, relative to the number of IVAs in 2019, expressed as a percentage. These illustrate progress by source region and scenario, into specific destinations for each year between 2021 and 2023, flagging of areas of both opportunity and continued risk, for appropriate action.

In 2021 for example, the top destinations within each of the three major regions of Asia Pacific, by individual recovery rate and under each of the mild, medium and severe scenarios, show that the best performances are likely to come from Mexico, Chinese Taipei and Fiji. Nevertheless, even those destinations at that time are still projected to have IVAs well under the levels they each received in 2019. Furthermore, as the scenarios deteriorate into medium and severe conditions, those recovery rates reduce dramatically for each of the destinations.

By 2022, while the recovery rates generally improve, even the best performing destinations under the mild scenario are still expected to recover back to less than 80% of the 2019 number of IVAs into each respective destination.

Through 2023, however, the mild scenario proposes that 22 of the 39 destinations covered (56.4%), will have returned to the pre-pandemic levels of foreign arrivals, led in recovery rate terms within each destination region, by Mexico, Bhutan and Vanuatu. Under the medium scenario, while parity with the respective 2019 volumes of foreign arrivals is still not complete, it is expected to be getting closer to that benchmark.

The severe scenario in 2023, however, suggests that all of the 39 destinations covered will still have some recovery ahead of them, with the top three performing destinations still falling short of the 2019 number of respective IVAs by more than 30% apiece.

Similar scenario outlooks are made for the source regions into each destination as well, with for example, the non-descript 'Others’ category building in 2023 to exceed what it generated in terms of IVAs into Asia Pacific in 2019, under the mild scenario, along with arrivals out of Africa. Every other source region is projected to remain under the 2019 volume of IVAs generated into Asia Pacific for each year between 2021 and 2023.

These recovery rates of course, differ widely by individual destinations and the three scenarios.

While the recovery rates highlight the speed with which the 2019 levels of foreign arrivals from each source market into Asia Pacific are reached or exceeded, it must be remembered that there are significant differences in what they mean for increases in the absolute numbers of foreign arrivals.

According to PATA CEO Dr. Mario Hardy, “This quantitative approach to modelling recovery rates, supported with expert judgments, provides us with a strong focus on hard data that can offer a significant advantage to those destinations that best identify and cater to those source markets that first begin to grow again, once this current pandemic is brought under control.”

“In addition, with tighter marketing budgets expected in the near-term, any information that highlights source markets with strong growth potential will be essential for improving the efficiency of the limited marketing spend."

“This series of scenario-based reports from the PATA Strategic Intelligence Centre is designed to present actionable insights at the individual destination level. We remain convinced that there will be a recovery in international travel over the next few years, although possibly not to the same levels as those of the pre-pandemic period. This suggests that the time may be ripe for developing a stronger focus on other metrics of both potential and success, including for example, time in destination, distribution across the destination and impacts on local communities, in addition to mere headcounts of inbound border crossings,” he concluded.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

P&O Pacific Partnership Backs Community Fundraising Campaign to Fix Leaking Corridor Roof Adjoining Maternity Unit and Children’s Ward at Vila Central Hospital

The P&O Pacific Partnership, which is funded by the generous donations from the cruise line’s guests, has thrown its support behind the fundraising campaign to repair the corridor roof adjoining Vila Central Hospital’s maternity unit and children’s ward.

The Partnership has committed AUD$21,000 (VT1.9 million) to the ‘Giving Hands Vanuatu’ fundraising campaign initiated by Carissa Jacobe, managing director of maritime manning agency South Sea Services.

This donation represents a significant portion of the overall cost of fixing leaks in the corridor roof, which has contributed to flooding of the walkway in recent years.

Sture Myrmell, President of P&O Cruises Australia, praised Ms Jacobe for her community leadership in developing the fundraising effort.

Mr Myrmell said it was also heartwarming to see that Ni Vanuatu people living abroad were among the people who have contributed to the project.

“Our ships cannot visit Vanuatu at the moment due to the covid situation but the people of Vanuatu are always very close to the hearts of our guests,” Mr Myrmell said.

“The P&O Pacific Partnership donation to the ‘Giving Hands Vanuatu’ fundraising campaign gives our guests another opportunity to show how much they care for the people who make them feel so welcome when they cruise to Vanuatu’s beautiful islands.

“I know that our guests would take the view that newborns deserve the best possible start in life and it is good to know that the corridor roof can be repaired for the benefit of the mothers and babies and their visitors.”

Ms Jacobe thanked the P&O Pacific Partnership and the cruise line’s guests for the welcome donation for the hospital project. She said ‘Giving Hands Vanuatu’ would be assisting with other local needs as they become known.

“We have begun other projects at Vila Central Hospital such as water blasting corridor walkways, fixing sinks, cleaning the ward bathrooms and handwashing stations, replacing windows and louvers in the wards and we have had a team of plumbers repairing the plumbing,” Ms Jacobe said.

The P&O Pacific Partnership is funded from a one dollar contribution on each guest booking with a number of projects supported in Vanuatu in recent years.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Vanuatu promises 'We’ll Keep it Beautiful for You' while travel is restricted

The Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) has launched a global campaign in response to the outbreak of coronavirus, and the international travel bans and government restrictions which have been put in place, called ‘We’ll Keep it Beautiful for You.’

Despite Vanuatu having no recorded cases of coronavirus to date, there are strict restrictions in place preventing international travellers from entering the country.

The VTO’s new campaign promises people overseas that the Ni-Vanuatu locals will keep Vanuatu beautiful for them until the restrictions are lifted and the time is right for them to return.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Vanuatu saw a 23.4% growth year-on-year in December 2019, and an 18.18% year-on-year in January 2020.

The VTO hope the new campaign will help sustain this momentum once the current situation passes, by keeping Vanuatu’s warm spirit alive and ensuring the destination is front-of-mind when consumers are able to travel again.

As part of the campaign, the VTO will share a range of #VanuatuMoments featuring locals helping to keep Vanuatu beautiful, on its Facebook and Instagram channels.

A series of social tiles have also been created for travel agents and the travel industry based in Vanuatu to share on their social channels, with the campaign message and promise “we’ll keep it beautiful for you.”

Ni-Vanuatu’s cheeky nature and cheerfulness has also been injected into the campaign creatives to help bring some happiness into people’s lives during this uncertain time.

Once this storm has passed, the VTO invite Aussies to once again, ‘Answer the Call’ of Vanuatu.

‘We’ll Keep it Beautiful for You’: Vanuatu Tourism Office launches new campaign

The Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) has launched a global campaign in response to the outbreak of coronavirus, and the international travel bans and government restrictions which have been put in place, called ‘We’ll Keep it Beautiful for You.’

Despite Vanuatu having no recorded cases of coronavirus to date, there are strict restrictions in place preventing international travellers from entering the country.

The VTO’s new campaign promises people overseas that the Ni-Vanuatu locals will keep Vanuatu beautiful for them until the restrictions are lifted and the time is right for them to return.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Vanuatu saw a 23.4% growth year-on-year in December 2019, and an 18.18% year-on-year in January 2020.

The VTO hope the new campaign will help sustain this momentum once the current situation passes, by keeping Vanuatu’s warm spirit alive and ensuring the destination is front-of-mind when consumers are able to travel again.

As part of the campaign, the VTO will share a range of #VanuatuMoments featuring locals helping to keep Vanuatu beautiful, on its Facebook and Instagram channels.

A series of social tiles have also been created for travel agents and the travel industry based in Vanuatu to share on their social channels, with the campaign message and promise “we’ll keep it beautiful for you.”

Ni-Vanuatu’s cheeky nature and cheerfulness has also been injected into the campaign creatives to help bring some happiness into people’s lives during this uncertain time.

Once this storm has passed, the VTO invite Aussies to once again, ‘Answer the Call’ of Vanuatu.

https://www.vanuatu.travel/au/

Holidays With Water Babies: How to Make 2020 the Year You Book Your First Family Diving Holiday!

Introducing your kids to the Life Aquatic is one of the most bonding experiences you can have as a family, entering that magical underwater world together is an experience you'll never forget. Diveplanit Travel provides specialist advice on how to do that safely, with advice on the 10 best family friendly dive resorts and dive cruises.

1. Jean Michel-Cousteau's Fiji Resort. Fiji is an obvious first choice for a family diving holiday, as most resorts already have excellent 'kids clubs' and family-friendly activities. Jean Michel Cousteau Resort is almost as famous for its Bula Club for kids as it is for the soft coral diving at nearby Namena Marine Reserve (and the resort's namesake owner). The diving here is spectacular and the resort also has a Junior Marine Biologist course for kids.
2. Captain Cook Cruises Fiji. A cruise around the Fiji islands with Captain Cook Cruises Fiji is another wonderful option for families. The onboard kids club has a great program for kids age 5 and up, and each day a new port offers a wide range of day trips and diving opportunities. The bonus for divers is that you'll visit Fiji's more remote dive sites such as the world-famous Rainbow Reef in a family-friendly environment.
3. Beqa Lagoon Resort, Fiji. Beqa Lagoon is more famous for shark diving, but the fringing reef at Beqa Lagoon Resort a stunner, and the soft corals of the lagoon rival the Rainbow Reef. Each year in August the resort hosts a Family Fun Explorer Week, with an all-inclusive package that includes Bubblemaker or Seal Team classes for kids.
4. Wakatobi Resort, South Sulawesi, Indonesia. Wakatobi is a purpose-built family friendly, 5-star dive resort, with luxury accommodation, fine dining, and seriously mind-blowing diving. They offer the full gamut of childcare too, from nannies for the toddlers to bubble-maker courses for younger kids and Discover Scuba Dives for the bigger kids, while certified junior divers can dive with their parents.
5. Pindito Liveaboard. In Indonesia, families can explore the Coral Triangle, the world's centre of biodiversity, by liveaboard, aboard the Pindito, which does a dedicated Family Cruise each July. This special “Family Dive Cruise” departs from Bali, taking passengers into Komodo National Park, a World Heritage Site and location for incredible diving.
6. Hai Tide Resort, Lembongan. Bali Hai Diving Adventures offer diving experiences on Bali's Lembongan Island, at Hai Tide Resort, also available as a day trip from your chosen Bali resort, with base camp for the day a large pontoon equipped with waterslides, swimming pool, kayaks and semi-submersible coral viewing boats.
7. Whitegrass Ocean Resort, Vanuatu. In Vanuatu, Hideaway Island Resort in Port Vila and Whitegrass Ocean Resort in Tanna are both great choices for families, with easy access to very pretty fringing coral reefs and easy diving conditions suitable for beginners.
8. Atmosphere Resort, Dauin, Philippines. The Philippines is another family-friendly destination, and Atmosphere Resort is one of the best for kids. 'Kids' Cove' on Atmosphere's premises has a range of educational materials and toys, arts and crafts activities and movies. Older kids can snorkel, do a PADI Bubble Maker Dive Course, join the PADI Seal Team program. They also cater to families in the spa with Kid's yoga and a Kid's Spa Menu.
9. Uepi Island Resort, Solomon Islands. Uepi has access to some of the world's best easy diving. Pristine coral reefs and friendly reef sharks are as close as the resort's own jetty and there plenty of land-based activities and safe swimming in the lagoon for kids.
10. Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. What could be better than ticking off the ultimate bucket list dive destination, the Great Barrier Reef, with the whole family? The easiest option for a family dive holiday on the Great Barrier Reef is to stay on one of the islands, whether that's Heron, Fitzroy or Lady Elliot Island. You'll have easy access to the fringing reefs to snorkel or dive and a Master Reef Guide on hand to take you on guided snorkelling tours and explain the Reef's complexities. As a recent visitor explains:

“We wanted our kids to have a jaw-dropping experience like we had snorkelling in Palau for the first time 20 years ago. Lady Elliot Island delivered, and more. It's all out the door of your cabin (vs hours of boat ride), and it's accompanied by the overall eco message of the resort - seeing something that amazing is a privilege and I'm so glad that for our kids, it was accompanied by a lesson in what it takes to preserve it. One of my forever happy places.”

For more information on planning a Family Dive Holiday, contact the sales team at Diveplanit Travel. www.diveplanit.com

Regional Tourism Sector Achieves 3.16 Million Visitor Arrivals in 2018

“2018 was a favorable year for the regional tourism sector with a total of 3.16 million visitor arrivals during the year. Of this, air arrivals were 2.14 million in 2018, 1.6% above 2017 while sea arrivals, mainly cruise (day visitors) were 1.02 million,” said SPTO Chief Executive Officer, Chris Cocker. These figures were released by the South Pacific Tourism Organisation in its 2018 Annual Visitor Arrivals Report.

The Report also noted that Pacific tourism receipts or visitor spending in destinations contributed US$3.8 billion or 11.1% to the region's GDP and generated 131,010 jobs placing the tourism sector as a key driver of economic growth and employment creation for the Pacific Islands.

Highlights of the 2018 Annual Visitor Arrivals Report include:

• In terms of air arrivals, Fiji continues as a popular destination, accounting for 40.7%, French Polynesia 10.1%, Cook Islands 7.9%, Samoa 7.8%, Papua New Guinea (PNG) 5.7%, New Caledonia 5.6%, Vanuatu 5.4% and Palau at 5.0%.
• For total visitor arrivals (both air and cruise), Fiji led with 33.1%, New Caledonia followed at 18.1% whilst Vanuatu was third at 11.1%.
• Air arrivals by key source markets rose by 13.5% with Europe, USA and New Zealand leading growth at 11.7%, 8.9% and 4.4%, respectively in 2018.
• Australia and New Zealand continued to dominate tourist arrivals at 50.7%. USA followed at 10.5%, Europe 9.7%, Other Asia 7.7% and Pacific Islands at 7.1% share.
• 9% of tourists were in the region for leisure whilst visiting friends and relatives (VFR) represented 13.9% and business 12.1%.
• National tourism budgets for Pacific Island Countries in 2018 were US$105.75 million. Of this, marketing and promotion accounted for 56.7 of the total budget.

The 2018 Annual Visitor Arrivals Report is an annual SPTO publication for member countries and private sector members. The Report provides detailed analysis on tourist arrivals by destinations, source markets, air and cruise arrivals and earnings. Figures are derived from reports provided by the National Statistics Offices and the National Tourism Offices of SPTO member countries.

The report is available to SPTO member countries and private sector members. For access to the report, please contact membership@spto.org.

Website: www.spto.org/

Vanuatu Tourism Awards - and the Winners are…..

Resort Staff & Award

Last week the annual Vanuatu Tourism Awards were held in Port Vila. Two renowned outer island properties were delighted to take out 2 of the converted awards which reinforce their long standing reputation for quality, service and value.

BEST BOUTIQUE AWARD: White Grass Ocean Resort – Tanna

The owner of White Grass Ocean Resort, Mr John Marsh, had the following to say upon accepting of the award; “after winning the best outer ISLAND RESORT IN 2008, WGOR had a major rebuild and refurbishment in 2009, and this award is the culmination of the past 7 years hard work and continual upgrading of facilities and upskilling of staff.

My thanks to the awards committee and judges and also to our resort managers, Sabine & Wayne and of course our wonderful staff, many who have been with us for 15 years.

WGOR continues to expand and this year has seen the Padi Dive Centre and Nabisa Day Spa open and in 2017 we will undertake an expansion, adding additional upmarket bures and family facilities.”

BEST LUXURY RESORT AWARD: Ratua Private Island – Santo

This prestigious award was accepted by the resorts General Manager, Mr Wilbur 'Bong' Sarmiento, who went on to say “I wish to dedicate the award to all staff, trade partners, valued guests, the tourism board and hospitality providers, as well as Marc and Isabelle for creating a unique luxury resort.

I feel that tourism in Vanuatu should be dispersed in many islands in order to promote sustainable tourism activities that will trigger economic growth.”

About White Grass Ocean Resort: Tanna Island languishes in the blue waters of the South Pacific, and is one of the southern-most islands of the Vanuatu archipelago.

Fourteen island-style bures nestle into beautiful tropical gardens, 100m from pristine coral reef. Each has a private terrace with ocean views, en-suite bathroom with hot water, ceiling fans, tea & coffee making facilities and 24 hour electricity.

The restaurant, bar and lounge have beautiful uninterrupted views of the Ocean and are the perfect places to relax with a cocktail and to enjoy amazing sunsets. The menu changes daily, incorporating Tanna's fresh organic seasonal vegetables & fruits and the renowned freshly caught fish and lobster.

Facilities include swimming pool, Nabisa Day Spa and a jetty for easy access to our spectacular reef. Enjoy complimentary use of mountain bikes, snorkeling equipment, grass tennis court, petanque, croquet & 6 holes pitch and putt golf.

The resort is perfect for singles, couples and is family friendly - a resort that offers the relaxed 'out of the way' Vanuatu and the perfect base to explore the adventure activities this stunning island has to offer.

For more information please go to www.whitegrasstanna.com

Ratua Private Island: 

Located in the Vanuatu Archipelago, off the South East tip of Espiritu Santo, Ratua Island is only a 30-minute motorboat journey from the mainland on our own private motor launch.

Ratua Island is a wild, magical place with authentic people who offer a simple and warm reception in a naturally beautiful environment. The 146-acre island is also home to horses, ponies, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens that roam free across the land.

Resort Management Team
Bong, Marieanne, Aillyn & Award

15 Indonesian-style villas are shared between 3 villages: Fish Village, West Point Village and South Point Village. These individual 200-year-old homes were brought specially to Ratua and reconstructed on sites offering stunning views with a private deck or beach. Surrounded by lush gardens, each villa is beautifully furnished with eclectic, vintage pieces, a separate ensuite bathroom with toiletries and bathrobes, bar refrigerator, in-room safe, ceiling fans, private terrace and sun lounges with private beach/water access.

For more information please go to www.ratua.com

Flight Centre's Top 10 Destinations for 2016

Destinations that dominated the headlines for all the wrong reasons in 2015 are now considered to be the must visit hotspots for travellers in 2016.

From Bali, to Greece and some home grown favourites like the Northern Territory, Flight Centre's team of experts has issued a medley of 10 must-visit destinations for 2016.

Flight Centre's head of leisure travel Tom Walley said the top 10 destinations for 2016 have been selected based on previous years' booking data, key factors such as what customers are enquiring about and what the travel industry has to offer in 2016.

“Event based travel and up-and-coming destinations are high on the priority list for customers and we expect these trends to continue,” Mr Walley said.

“Old favourites such as Vanuatu and Bali will continue to be popular regardless of the events of 2015 and we expect Australian destinations will also be high on the list as travellers choose to explore our own backyard due to uncertainties surrounding the dollar.”

1. BALI

Despite suffering under a harsh media glare in 2015, the popular holiday destination is a resilient Aussie favourite that can't be matched. Numbers don't drop even during intense media scrutiny, which just proves that Bali can't be beaten.

Flight Centre expects it to remain a popular destination in 2016 with the island consistently the number one destination for customers.

The choice of flights has never been wider or more competitively priced with Tigerair boosting allocation, Air Asia X entering the market with new direct flights from Sydney and Qantas meeting the demand for a premium option to the island.

2. GREECE

Greece's financial woes may have dominated the news headlines in 2015 but Australian travellers were not deterred, with Flight Centre bookings up more than 52 per cent.

Greece's default notice and resulting referendum was a major, world-wide news event with economist worried about the future of the Euro and travel companies concerned about the impact to bookings.

Despite this, Flight Centre bookings surged with the uplift expected through 2016.

Greece is also often found to be a cheaper entry point to Europe than London, Paris or Rome; when it comes to Greece, Flight Centre believes the question really is why shouldn't you go?

3. TASMANIA

It might be small but Flight Centre is predicting big things in the way of travel for Tasmania in 2016.

Interest in the small island state is increasing and Flight Centre has seen a 24 per cent increase in bookings to Launceston while Hobart is up 27 per cent year-on-year.

Tasmania's unique wilderness, art and culture, focus on food and nod to its colonial history make it a big drawcard and the state is perfect for driving holidays attracting families and grey nomads alike.

Back in early 2016 is MOFO Festival from Hobart's MONA which is an ever growing event on the scene for art lovers and music fans while the winter festival Dark MOFO has a cult following that's set to increase.

4. VANUATU

Vanuatu has experienced a surge in popularity in recent months, despite the region's recent cyclone devastation. Recovery efforts have moved at a significant pace, with 85 per cent of hotels and resorts open and welcoming guests and more than 90 per cent of tours and activities operating as normal. This tourism resurgence is showing no signs of slowing down, with 2016 set to be a big year for bookings.

Offering a diverse range of island activities and some of the most authentic cultural experiences in the South Pacific, Vanuatu is perfect for families with children who don't want to give up their dream of an overseas island getaway.

The island is also great for those who enjoy being a bit more adventurous. Vanuatu is home to one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes, Mt Yasur, where you can stand on the rim and look into the bubbling lava below. You can also snorkel at the underwater post office at Hideaway Island, river kayak, take a buggy tour to the famous Mele Cascades Waterfalls and dive for ship wrecks with the world's largest wreck, SS President Coolidge, in Vanuatu's waters.

5. THE NORTHERN TERRITORY AND TOP END

Flight Centre has seen a 25 per cent year-on-year increase in bookings to Uluru and the Northern Territory is anticipated to be even more popular with tourists in 2016 thanks to recent hotel refurbishments and the introduction of some unique touring options.

Next year will see the launch of scenic flights over Australia's Red Centre, taking in Uluru and Mt Conner, and some unique on the ground tours such as a bush tucker trail and an overnight option to neighbouring Kings Canyon.

Nearby, Darwin is also growing in popularity and is brimming with new products including accommodation, touring, restaurants and quirky bars. For the ultimate "Top End" Aussie adventure Flight Centre suggests travellers combine a trip to the red centre with some time in Darwin as well.

6. BRAZIL

It barely seems like yesterday that Brazil played host to FIFA football fans and now the country is gearing up for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.

A total of 7.5 million tickets have been made available for the 16-day sporting event and a further 1.8 million tickets have been released for the 12-day Paralympic Games, creating what is expected to be Brazil's biggest and busiest tourism influx in history.

Flight Centre is anticipating a big surge in multi-stop fares ahead of the Games that are an economical way for savvy travellers to get there, plus increased bookings to other areas of Brazil and South America as travellers make the most of their long-haul holiday.

As the largest country in South America, Brazil is jam-packed with things to see and do. It's one of the sexiest destinations in the world, known for its samba music, soccer stars and supermodel exports.

7. PORTUGAL

An up-and-coming European river cruise region with the next generation of ships on its way, Flight Centre believes 2016 is Portugal's year. Many travellers have already cruised the major rivers of Europe, including the Rhine and Danube, making Portugal's Douro River a less travelled alternative that is high on the wish list.

The increased interest has sparked rejuvenation in the industry with Scenic Tours leading the charge with a new luxury vessel launching in April, while Uniworld and Viking also present a high standard of cruise accommodation.

Because it is still developing, travellers can get an authentic taste of life in Portugal as they port in rural villages that are unaccustomed to tourists. Cruising during harvest season in September and October is a great option for wine lovers while spring is also a picturesque time to cruise.

8. HONG KONG

Hong Kong is no longer just a stopover destination and Australians can't seem to get enough, with 60 per cent of travellers to the culturally diverse Chinese territory return visitors.

Best known as a shoppers' paradise, Flight Centre believes Hong Kong will be a mecca for travellers in 2016 with food, nightlife, attractions, sporting events, outdoor activities and the culture all big drawcards for Australian travellers.

Whether it's riding the Peak Tram to The Peak for a breathtaking view over the city and Victoria Harbour, experiencing a day of non-stop fun at Hong Kong Disneyland, riding with the locals on Star Ferry from Hong Kong island to Kowloon, enjoying the world's best dim sum or shopping at the countless malls and markets; there is something for everyone in this dynamic metropolis.

9. NEW CALEDONIA

Why New Caledonia for 2016? Because the country is one of the most overlooked beach destinations in the world. 2015's bookings have been up 178 per cent and this time Flight Centre won't let it slip under the radar.

A French country stranded on one of the world's largest lagoons, so very far from Paris but right on Australia's doorstep, New Caledonia is a unique destination not to be missed. Boasting the glamour of France with the hospitality of the South Pacific, New Caledonia is steeped in French colonial history yet has the beach vibe and culture of an exotic paradise.

Key to its growing popularity among Australians is its proximity to Australian soil with Noumea a short two hour flight from Brisbane and less than three hours from Sydney.

10. NEW ZEALAND

Another Aussie favourite, New Zealand is a much-loved destination by Australians of all ages with the popular country just a hop, skip and jump from our shores.

New Zealand has something for everyone and with increased competition for flight pricing between Air New Zealand and Jetstar and the dollar back in our favour, Flight Centre is confident Australians will continue to visit.

New Zealand's magnificent landscape and coastline has been a backdrop to famous films and is rich in history and culture, has thousands of kilometres of walks and trails, spectacular islands and not to mention the geothermal areas and volcanoes; this small country is filled to the brim with things to do.

Vanuatu Celebrates 35 Years of Independence

Vanuatu

The South Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO) conveys its congratulations to the government and people of Vanuatu on the 35th anniversary of the island nation's independence.

SPTO Chief Executive Ilisoni Vuidreketi stated: “We convey our hearty congratulations to the people of Vanuatu for 35 successful years as a nation. 2015 has been a particularly trying year for Vanuatu in the aftermath of Cyclone Pam; however the resilience shown by the ni-Vanuatuans is testament to the core of nationhood and pride of the people of Vanuatu and is a truly admirable trait.”

“We wish you all the best in your celebrations and we look forward to continuing to work with our Vanuatu tourism counter parts to develop and market Pacific tourism to the world. The steady growth of 1.8 percent over the last five years in visitor arrivals ensures exciting work ahead for SPTO and the Vanuatu Tourism Office”, Mr. Vuidreketi added.

Mr. Vuidreketi also expressed his sorrow at the passing of the former Vanuatu Prime Minister, Edward Natapei.

“Vanuatu has lost a committed and great leader and we offer our sincere condolences to Mr. Natapei's family, the people and government of Vanuatu”, Mr. Vuidreketi added.

Pacific Islands: The best snorkelling spots

Patricia Greig looks at the best spots to get eyeball-to-eyeball with fish on your next visit to the islands of the South Pacific. The water around Niue is largely considered the clearest in the world because it is filtered by the island's coastal limestone

Rarotonga

Aro'a Marine Reserve has no boats, so swimmers can observe marine life undisturbed. Perfect for first-timers, with guides on hand and gear for hire nearby. The reserve sports clear waters and a healthy population of sea creatures such as parrotfish, moorish idols, wrasse and angelfish. Tours run at night time, too, so visitors can see nocturnal critters. In this protected reserve, conservation and awareness of the delicate eco-system are promoted.

The Lagoon opposite Fruits of Rarotonga is also a great place to snorkel - and get a snack.

Aitutaki

The Cook Islands' classic. Because of the dynamic flow of water through the Full Moon Channel there's a rich food source for marine life, making it a rewarding area for snorkelling. Once again, this is a reserve, so there are no boats to disturb a snorkeller, and looking but no touching is essential to help preserve the environment.

With no deep channels into the lagoon, the waters are warm, the currents are gentle and the swimming is fantastic. But definitely don't forget your reef shoes - a cut from the coral can get nasty and stonefish bask in the warm waters. Another good spot is Honeymoon Island, next to Maina, where you can spot sea turtles sunning themselves.

Tahiti

Take in tropical snorkelling right off the beach at Moorea. At the northwest corner of the island, snorkellers can find spots to swim and sunbathe, or rent a boat to head over to Motu Moea for lunch. Tamae Public Beach has some of the island's best snorkelling, is shared with the Sofitel resort and is relatively safe despite the sharks and stingrays. The lagoon around the islets off Haapiti is also an ideal snorkelling spot, but keep an eye out as the currents can be strong coming in and out around the nearby reef.

Vanuatu

The adventure capital of the Pacific has some of the world's best diving sites. Snorkellers Cove, near Iririki Island Resort, on the main island of Efate is a must visit. A shop near by hires out gear and sells food and drinks so your time at the cove is almost guaranteed to be the furthest thing from a mission as possible. Take a day trip to Hideaway Island to observe some truly spectacular marine life. Again, protective footwear is a must as the beach is all coral. The staff at Hideaway are very hospitable and so equipment hire and tours of the reef are very accessible. There are many buses from Port Vila to the jetty, and a ferry to Hideaway is easy to catch.

Niue

The water around Niue is largely considered the clearest in the world because it is filtered by the island's coastal limestone. Caves and rock pools along the coast are perfect for snorkelling and the pristine environment makes for marvellous marine life observation - the Limu Pools are highly recommended, as is the Matapa Chasm. The areas are relatively easy to find with signs, information boards and picnic areas. Sea snakes and flying fish are common in these parts, and from July to October humpback whales migrate through the waters.

South Pacific Tourism Organisation Hosts!

South Pacific Tourism Exchange in Melbourne on 19 and 20 June 2015.

Following the unprecedented success of last year’s inaugural South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) in Auckland in 2014, the South Pacific Tourism Organisation will host its second annual tourism exchange in Melbourne on Friday 19 and Saturday 20 June 2015 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC).

The SPTE programme of meetings and events will officially open with a cocktail reception for over 50 domestic and international media on Thursday 18 June. The South Pacific Tourism Organisation’s CEO, Mr. Ilisoni Vuidreketi will welcome and officially open the South Pacific Tourism Exchange. Guests will be entertained with a performance by Melbourne-based South Pacific Islanders and served authentic South Pacific dishes prepared by MCEC’s award-winning catering team.

Ideally placed on the tourism calendar dove-tailing into ATE, the exchange will showcase over 80 tour operators and products from no less than 16 member countries of the region including " American Samoa, Cook Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Caledonia, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tahiti, Timore Leste, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

Boasting exhibitors from popular holiday destinations and lesser-known isles alike, the exchange promises to be an informative, interactive and innovative forum for sharing highlights and news from this dynamic region as well as updating the travel industry about the region’s progress since Cyclone Pam.

There are over 20 resorts attending including well known destinations such as Sofitel French Polynesia in Tahiti and Hilton’s Moorea Lagoon Resort and award-winning Yasawa Island Resort and the popular Irikiki Island Resort and Castaway Island to family-friendly resorts such as Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort and low key resorts on Lomani Island and Plantation Island.

From Treasure Island’s Eueiki Resort and Totatoka Resort Nadi to the exotic-sounding Royal Sunset Island Resort to relaxed, authentic accommodation such as Beachcomber Island Resort and newly opened Tarawa Boutique Hotel, there will be something to appeal to even the most seasoned Pacific Island traveller.

Those interested in marine life and conservation will be keen to hear about the largest fully protected marine reserve in the world around the Pitcairn Islands. In an area slightly larger than New South Wales, the reserve is home to over 1200 species of marine life.

For adrenalin junkies, there are representatives of Papua New Guinea’s Highland Adventure Tours, Trekking Adventures and Buna Treks and Tours attending the tourism expo.

For spa devotees, The Rarotonga Beach Resort & Spa, Aga Reef Resort & Spa, Pearl South Pacific Resort & Spa and Te Manava Luxury Villas and Spa will all be exhibiting.

Tahiti’s Dream Yacht Charter and Aranui Cruise as well as Captain Cook Cruises will satisfy those with an appetite for finding out more about travel at sea.

Exhibiting airlines include Fiji Airways, Naura Air, Air Rarotonga, Real Tonga Airlines and Air Vanuatu.

From resorts and bures, spas and treks to airlines and cruises and tourism organisations, the South Pacific Tourism Exchange offers attendees an opportunity to meet the best of the South Pacific at the same time.

South Pacific Tourism Exchange (SPTE) is the region’s largest travel and tourism business-to-business event.

The SPTE presents an excellent opportunity to learn the latest details about this sun-drenched must-see collective of islands.

Vanuatu travel guide: 20 reasons to visit

Vanuatu

Vanuatu was recently devastated by Cyclone Pam, and as a country so reliant on tourism, it depends heavily upon foreign visitors to get back on its feet.

1. HELP: YOU CAN LEND A HAND

Vanuatu was recently devastated by Cyclone Pam, and as a country so reliant on tourism, it depends heavily upon foreign visitors to get back on its feet. If you want to lend a hand to some of the friendliest, most hospitable people you could hope to meet, the best way to do that is simply by spending your tourist dollars in Vanuatu. Most hotels (particularly the ones mentioned here in Port Vila, and on Espiritu Santo, which was untouched) and tourist activities have now reopened, meaning there's never been a better time to visit this Pacific nation and support it simply by having a good time See vanuatu.travel

2. STAY: ERATAP RESORT

Vanuatu is not a country of mega-resorts or worldwide chains, but one of character-filled boutique hotels, often set in secluded locales. One of the best is Eratap, a beach resort tucked away about 40 minutes outside of Port Vila. With only 12 luxurious villas facing on to Teouma Bay, the staff are friendly, the service is personal, and it's often easy to imagine that you have the entire place to yourself. Settling back with a cocktail to watch the sunset here is about the best thing you can do. See eratap.com

3. BE STUNNED BY MOUNT YASUR VOLCANO

The world's most accessible live volcano, Mount Yasur, is constantly bubbling away on Tanna Island, a 45-minute flight from Port Vila. Just how accessible is it? You can drive almost to the top – it's about a 10-minute walk from the car parking area to the lip of a constantly erupting volcano. The experience up the top is one you won't readily forget, as molten rock glows red when it's thrown into the air, and the boom and hiss of escaping gases causes one of the best natural shows on the planet. See whitegrassvanuatu.com.vu

4. DO: MARKET SHOPPING

Vanuatu

There are two ways to do markets in Port Vila. You could head up to the new handicraft market, which is a tourist-focused place selling paintings, carvings, and a few slightly less authentic items like tacky T-shirts. Or you could wander down Port Vila's main street to the fresh produce markets for a truly local experience. Dine on freshly grilled fish and rice, wander through the fruit and vegetable stands, or check out the live produce – you can buy packs of five live crabs, all strung together, or "chicken in a box". It's a live chicken. In a box. See vanuatuhandicraftmarket.com

5. EAT: PALM COVE BEACH BAR AND GRILL

The South Pacific isn't exactly known for its world-class cuisine, but Vanuatu has some of the best food in the region. At Palm Cove Beach Bar, a beautiful waterfront eatery that has recently opened in Port Vila, you can dine on locally caught lobsters and fish, as well as Vanuatu beef, which is of surprisingly high quality for an area you'd more readily associate with seafood. Kiwi owner Kevin Bradshaw started Palm Cove after losing everything he owned in Cyclone Pam – the restaurant is a testament to locals' desire to get Vanuatu back on its feet. See vanuatu.travel

6. DRINK: KAVA

Warning: this is serious stuff. You might have tried kava – the mildly sedative brew made from the ground root of the piper methysticum plant – in Fiji and thought to yourself, "meh". What's the point? But kava in Vanuatu is a different beast, and one that's not treated with quite as much reverence as it is elsewhere. You don't have to go to special ceremony to try it – you can go to a kava bar. Just look for the bare light globes outside certain buildings that indicate there's a kava bar inside. It's a great local experience, but go easy. This kava is strong. See thekavaemporium.com

7. DO: WRECK DIVING

For lovers of the underwater world, this is heaven. Not only are the natural environments some of the best around, but Vanuatu offers some very easily accessible wreck diving – there are sunken ferries, yachts, cargo ships, sea planes, and perhaps the most famous site of them all, the wreck of the SS President Coolidge off the island of Espiritu Santo. The Coolidge is more than 200 metres long, and it's possible to do more than 20 different dives on the site. See santodive.com

8. SEE: THE BLUE HOLES OF ESPIRITU SANTO

Vanuatu

There are you in a kayak, paddling through one of Espiritu Santo's pristine waterways, when the riverbed just drops away beneath you, and you're suddenly in a 30-metres-deep "blue hole". These geological phenomena can be found throughout the island: large, karst-formation springs, anywhere from three to 30 metres deep, filled with stunningly blue water. People leap from overhanging trees into the deep pools, while others go snorkelling to properly marvel at the unique underwater landscapes. See vanuatu.travel

9. DO: BUGGY FUN RENTAL

Like to combine your cultural tourism with a touch of adrenalin? Then try Buggy Fun Rental, which offers half-day, self-drive buggy tours through some great little villages near Port Vila that you'd never ordinarily visit. It also takes you through some very muddy fields and patches of jungle that you'd never ordinarily visit. The tour is one half cultural enlightenment, one half mud-soaked excitement. It's a good idea to wear very old clothes for this one, particularly if it's been raining recently. See buggyfunrental.com.vu

10. SEE: TANNA ISLAND CARGO CULTS

Tanna Island is home to several "cargo cults" – groups of people, often whole villages, who worship westerners who are thought to have visited during World War II and promised to return with supplies, or cargo. They've never come back, but that hasn't stopped the devotion of some to this quasi-religion that has slowly melded with elements of Catholicism. Some villages follow "John Frum", a maybe-mythical white man in a long coat. Others worship Prince Philip as a god. Seriously. All can be visited by tourists. See whitegrassvanuatu.com.vu

11. STAY: BREAKAS BEACH RESORT

Vanuatu

You don't have to pay thousands of dollars a night for beachfront accommodation. Breakas Beach Resort, which recently reopened after being damaged by Cyclone Pam, is an adults-only, mid-priced way to spend your holiday by the sand. The resort offers beachfront or garden-view bungalows, each built in a simple, traditional style with ceiling fans, mosquito nets and an open-air bathroom. There's also a pool, a restaurant, and enough deck chairs to keep all your guests occupied. See breakas.com

12. DO: OASIS SPA

In case lying on a beach all day sipping cocktails wasn't relaxation enough, it's also possible to book in for a massage at the Oasis Spa at Warwick Le Lagon Resort. The beautiful little spa offers everything from regular massages to volcanic ash body scrubs, clay wraps, pedicures, and their signature "frangipani mani". Afterwards, relax around the Warwick's pool, which has views over the ocean. See warwickhotels.com

13. STAY: RATUA PRIVATE ISLAND

Vanuatu

Thirty minutes by boat from Espiritu Santo lies Ratua, a boutique, luxury eco lodge in which guests have an entire island to themselves. The resort has 15 Indonesian-style villas, each with private beach access, and there's a limit of 38 guests on the island at any one time, meaning you'll have this stunning, secluded getaway almost to yourself. Activities on the island include horseback rides, mountain-biking, snorkelling, canoeing, and visiting the Sunny Spa. See ratua.com/en/

14. DO: VANUATU HELICOPTERS

Nothing says "imminent marriage proposal" quite like a helicopter flight to a private island and a bottle of champagne. Prepare for the one-knee treatment if you find yourself on Vanuatu Helicopters' "Love Is In The Air" tour, a 1½-hour experience that takes you and your smitten partner from the harbour at Port Vila up to the top of a mountain on Lelepa Island, site of a series of Survivor and home to some of the best views around. Even without a proposal, this is a beautiful way to spend an afternoon. See vanuatuhelicopters.com

15. SEE: CULTURAL DIVERSITY

With 83 inhabited islands and more than 1000 spoken languages in a country of only 250,000 citizens, Vanuatu is about as culturally diverse a destination as you could hope to find. Some languages are only spoken in one village, which is why Bislama, a sort of pidgin English, has developed as the common tongue (it's also quite simple to learn). For a snapshot of the country's different cultural practices, head up to the handicraft markets in Port Vila. See vanuatu.travel

16. DO: SURFING

Though it's overshadowed by neighbouring Fiji and that country's famous Cloudbreak, there's plenty on offer for surfers in Vanuatu, including perfectly shaped reef breaks that you'll find yourself sharing with barely a soul. Some of the most popular spots include Erakor Point, Pango and Breakas on the main island of Efate, and Port Resolution on Tanna Island. All of these spots are as good for watching as they are for participating. See surftravelcompany.com

17. DO: SNORKELLING

While it's extremely popular with scuba divers, Vanuatu is also a good place to don a mask and snorkel and observe the underwater world from the surface. At Hideaway Island, a popular snorkelling spot just off the coast of Port Vila, you'll find not only huge schools of reef fish, eels, rays and richly coloured coral, but also an underwater post office box that's actually serviced by Vanuatu Post. See hideaway.com.vu

18. DO: MERIDIAN CHARTERS CRUISE

Port Vila is a major destination for cruise ships, meaning it's easy to combine a stay here with a cruise through some of the surrounding Pacific Islands. Lines such as P&O, Royal Caribbean and Holland America regularly call through. Another sea-bound option is to take a sunset cruise around the Port Vila area with Meridian Charters. Two-hour cruises include drinks and snacks, and the best views around. See meridianchartersvanuatu.com/html/

19. EAT: AU FARE RESTAURANT

As a former colony, Vanuatu still retains some of its French culture – the local supermarket chain, Le Bon Marche, sells jars of pate, while at restaurants like Au Fare you'll find many of the wait staff and customers conduct all of their proceedings au francais. Au Fare is a great place to indulge in French cuisine – the chef serves up dishes like house-made parfait and steak frites down by the waterfront in Port Vila. See vanuatu.travel

20. SEE: NAGHOL LAND-DIVING

Vanuatu

Every April and May, local villagers on Pentecost Island erect huge wooden towers, then climb to the top of them and leap off with only two vines tied to their ankles to break their fall. Sound frightening? It gets better: the idea is to fall as close to the ground as possible, meaning if vine lengths are misjudged, injuries ensue. This festival, an appeasement to the gods, a blessing for the soil and a demonstration of manliness and virility, has become something of a staple tourist attraction on Pentecost, despite the fact only very limited numbers of visitors can witness it. See vanuatu.travel