As far as beautiful, paradise-like, destinations go Vanuatu is the crème de la crème, and any visitor would be spoilt for choice on most of the 83 islands that make up Vanuatu, but if you are pondering a get away to the jewel in the crown of the South Pacific, then read on about Lonely Planet’s Top Five Vanuatu Destinations.
We will begin with the Banks Islands, named after the patron of British Naval officer William Bligh, Sir Joseph Banks. One can carve his or her own trail through the natural treasures offered by these wonderful white-rimmed islands. Not only are there many natural treasures, but there are cultural treasures one should not miss. For instance, the least endangered language spoken is Mwotlap, with 1800 speakers; some of the other languages spoken on the Banks Islands may only be spoken by a few people. Rugged terrain and active and inactive volcanoes place the Banks Islands at the top of the list for the nature lover.
The next of the Top Five is Ambae, also known as Aoba Island. Colourful crater lakes and the large volcano located in the centre of the island are what stand out geographically. It is said that there appears to be nearly unbroken vegetation covering the island. One can navigate through misty cloud-forest to the wonderful world of colourful crater lakes on Ambae.
Third in Lonely Planet’s list of the Top Five is Espiritu Santo, or as some call it “The Capital of Adventure.” This, the largest island of Vanuatu and can be considered a diver’s paradise. The wreck of USS President Coolidge is accessible to anyone, as long as he or she is properly certified, the beauty of the coral reefs shows Vanuatu diving at it’s best. This particular island has just about everything, including caves and rivers, cattle and coconuts, and jungle villages; this is where the bulk of Vanuatu history has been carried out. This island, as one can imagine, draws many travellers.
The next island to feature in Vanuatu’s top five is Pentecost. Perhaps the biggest claim to fame for the Island of Pentecost is that it is the birthplace of bungee jumping, although it was the ancient ritual of gol, or land diving that the natives of Pentecost performed. Today, the ritual is used to symbolize acceptance into manhood, and it is an event for which a good sum of money is paid by tourists to observe.
Ambrym is the final of the Top Five Vanuatu destinations. This particular location is not the apparent paradise of the others; however, the people are fabulous. Travelling north or south, the landscape opens up and boasts hot springs, villages and traditional tourist activities. One such activity may include a jaunt to the volcanoes.
Vanuatu is a paradise, easily accessible from most places in the Pacific, by only a half-day’s journey. Anyone looking for a unique excursion or a peaceful holiday will find these top five destinations to offer adventure, peace and luxury, the range of Vanuatu Hotels and Resorts will excede your expectations leaving you with a very memorable experience.
