Just Got Back from Port Vila

Have to say I had a beautiful time in Port Vila, despite staying there only 4.5 days. Upon arrival at the airport, we were all greeted by a local band playing some catchy tune. Was able to record it on my camcorder so I can listen to it anytime I want (though only 2 songs).

From the airport I took a taxi to my hotel...The Sebel. (NOTE TO LONELYPLANET EDITORS: It now costs 1,500 vatu to take a cab from the airport to Port Vila hotels). The Sebel is a nice hotel...definitely 4-5 stars by Vanuatu standards but more likely a 3-4 star if you compare it to hotels globally. People there were helpful, nice, and friendly. There is one employee...perhaps a manager...who checked me in that I have to give props to. Her name is Mildred and she is very helpful. I checked in on a Wednesday, did some own stuff on Thursday, and was scheduled to go out on the Lelepa Island tour on Friday (which I confirmed via email with the tour operator ahead of time). After I waited for nearly an hour, Mildred called me by my name (which is surprising to know she remembers your name) and asked what I was waiting for. Gave her the scoop and she called up the tour operator to see what was going on. Mildred eventually got them to come and pick me up.

Lelepa Island was very nice and peaceful...though a little too much downtime during the siesta. I should have gone out snorkeling some more. The second spot we snorkelled at was beautiful. We jumped from the boat and watched all the small (and some big) fishes eat the bread that were being thrown from the boat. We even saved some chicken bones from lunch to feed to the fish...which they gladly nibbled the remaining meat off of. Actually watched a large snapper swallow the entire bone!

There were also some good snorkeling spots off of Iriki island and snorkelers cove. You kind of have to go further offshore to the right from this area to find some beautiful coral gardens. Generally speaking, lots sea horses in rocky structures closer to shore, and some snorkelers claimed to have seen a lion fish (which sadly, I could not find). However, there is a white eel residing in one of the small rock that I tried to entice to come out with pieces of bread. No luck. And yes, bring some bread with you and the fishies will go nuts.

Also snorkelled at Hideaway Island. Best coral garden is to the left of the beach as you enter the water, and some nice rocky fixtures to the right. In between is the underwater post office, which was closed by the time I got there in the late afternoon.

My last full day in Port Vila was suppose to be spent on Pele Island, but that was cancelled due to the weather condition. Lost the $78 to do this trip because I could not reschedule, but as long as the islanders got the money then I don't mind. Felt this way after Lelepa Island...figure they could use the money more than myself.

Overall, it was a great experience and the time spent was too short. Would have loved to stay there for at least an entire week. The people were just too friendly, though they appear a little shy at first...until you smile at them and say "hello"! Food was a little expensive, but not outrageously so. Still manageable! =)

Oooh, my last day there was Vanuatu's Constitution Day. Got to watch a little bit of the opening ceremony with their military before I had to take off for the airport.

Lastly, the minivans are a hoot. Definitely the way to travel in Port Vila. It cost me 300 vatu to go from The Sebel to the Mele Cascade Waterfall....which is another must see site. Water is so cool in the mild temperature I experienced. Makes me think October is definitely the time to visit Vanuatu...not too hot, not too cold. Just right for me...though I did see some locals wear jacket. ;o)