Vanuatu
... "Another time, another pace"
The Republic of Vanuatu is an island nation located in the South Pacific Ocean. The archipelago is some 1,750 km east of Australia, 500 km north-east of New Caledonia, west of Fiji and south of the Solomon Islands. During its colonial period, it was called New Hebrides.
Vanuatu is only 2.5 hours flying time North East of Brisbane and 3.5 hours from Sydney. There are regular flights from New Zealand, Honiara, Australia, Noumea and Fiji.
Vanuatu is a land of natural, scenic and historical
heritage. This Y-shaped chain of islands is covered with
green tropical forests and fertile soils, while on the
shores, sandy beaches are washed by the clean waters of
the Pacific Ocean. These are the natural beauties with
which Vanuatu is blessed
The country is a melting pot of unique experiences providing
a platform for everything from a relaxing holiday with
a laid-back atmosphere, to outdoor mountain top and undersea
adventures. The islands offer a diverse range of scenery
from towering volcanic cones to raised coral atolls with
sandy beaches and deep natural harbours. Most of the 83 islands
are volcanic in origin and each has its own distinct culture
and language.
Art, in it's many forms, from body decorations and tattoos, to elaborate masks, hats and carvings are also a vital part of ritual celebrations and the social life of the village.
Similar to Australian Aboriginal stories of the dreamtime, and Maori legends of the past, ni-Vanuatu culture is also abundant in mythic legends. Natural formations, the presence and causes of volcanic eruptions and other natural disasters, are
all imbibed with legends of significant cultural importance.
With its carefree lifestyle, multi-cultural heritage, natural wonders and excellent tourist facilities, Vanuatu is able to fulfill all your holiday expectations. There is so much to see and so much to do.
"Welkam long ol islan blong mifala!" ..... Welcome to Vanuatu - the happiest place in the world!
Essence Tours would like to thank Richard Chesher from The Rocket Guide for much of the photography of Vanuatu
