Last minute rescue

I am travelling with my two teenage daughters and meeting my partner in Vanuatu. Booked some accommodation for the first 5 days but just yesterday got an email to say that they have double booked. Alternative offered was AUD$1500 more - and that is just for the first 5 days of our two week trip.

If I was travelling to South East Asia this wouldnt phase me one bit. I know the ropes. However I have never been to the pacific before. We arrive at the airport in Efate at the horrible hour of 1:40am on the 10th of September. Any recommendations about where we should go to spend the last few hours of the night?

My idea was to spend a few days getting the lay of the land staying in some moderate level of comfort. I am also keen to spend some time in a more village like setting.

The information on the web seems to be very resort based - and I wouldnt mind staying in a resort for a few days but would appreciate any tips about places that are more modest but with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Is this possible? All suggestions gratefully recieved.

Have a look for Tradewinds Resort - they have a variety of accommodations including a two bedroom apartment. They are on the smaller scale, have a small pool and on site laundry - about a 10-15 minute walk to downtown Pt. Villa. Not too flash but their prices were quite reasonable when we were there in 2006. Hope this is what you're looking for!

Hi there,

This information is possibly too late, nevertheless, I thought it worth sharing.

Arriving at 1.40am I think you will find little or nothing open in Vila, so your best bet is to organise a hotel to check into during the small hours of the morning. There is a bit of budget accommodation about 10 mins walk from the center of town. Vila Hibiscus is listed in the Lonely planet and has basic but nice accommodation and lovely staff ph. 28289.

You will be able to see villiage life if you stay anywhere outside Vila or Luganville. It's very easy to organise flights if you decide to go to other islands, just visit Air Vanuatu offices in Vila, and owners of hotels on the islands will help you out over the phone to organise accommodation and airport pick-up.