Multi Island Tour

I'm a senior adult male, travelling alone, and planning a trip from Melbourne to New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tonga & Samoa, in that order.
I'll have between 5 & 7 days in each location (determined by flight times and dates).
I'm keen on beaches and snorkelling, meeting the local people and getting a taste of their culture, their foods, and the scenery.
I'd like accommodation in a private room with en-suite, such as Travellers Budget Motel in Vanuatu, for about $US80 per night.

I've started researching the Thorn Tree and other travel sites, but if readers can recommend appropriate accommodation, and beaches with good snorkelling, it will be appreciated.

Also, recommendations for a good massage in the above countries will also be appreciated.

I too am a 50 something single traveller … here’s a few tips from my experience in Vanuatu …

It’s very safe.

Use local buses – they’re cheap, you’ll meet the locals and be supporting the locals. On Efate don’t pay more that 3 Vatu for any trip within 20km of Port Vila and $A15 for trips further afield will get you a bus and driver for the day. On Santo don’t pay more than 5 Vatu for any trip and $20 for trips further afield will get you a bus and driver for the day (as far north as Port Olry). If you’re going to Tanna Island (some times throughout the year you can fly direct from New Caledonia) it’s best to book a tour as the distances are great – check the Vanuatu website.

http://www.cheaperthanhotels.com.au/Vanuatu/Port-Vila/Blue-Pango-Motel-Port-Vila/ Brilliant location and cheap accommodation with regular local buses into Villa a short drive away. There is other cheap accommodation in the main street of Vila … but it’s VERY noisy.

When in Vila, take a tour to Lelepa Island and their World Heritage Site; Chief Roy Mata’s Domain. Fabulously friendly, welcoming locals who love to host you and have you enjoy their island paradise.

Espiritu Santo is less touristed and less populated and the locals even more friendly (if that’s possible) than on Efate: fly direct form Brisbane. There are several cheap hostels in Lugainville and Turtle Bay Resort (http://www.turtlebayresort.vu/index_files/EspirituSantoInformation.htm) is a cheap, waterfront option (I can’t stay away from the place!) Kayaking to the Blue-Hole from here is a magic experience. Port Olry is right up the top of the east-coast (the road stops here) it’s paradise on earth – in November last year the locals were building huts on the beachfront to rent out, they should now be complete. Anyone in Lugainville will be able to tell you and a bus or taxi will take you to the top. It’s an easy island to cycle, if you’re that way inclined?