ATM / Money exchange in Port Villa on 26th December?? Accomodation?

Hello,

we will be flying from Sydney to Port Villa on 26th December and onward to Tanna on 27th December. Can anyone tell me if there are ATM's around town in Port Villa and ife they are likely to work and are accessible on 26th December? Alternately is there any possibility to exchange money on this day? Is money exchange possible on Tanna? Which is the best currency to exchange into Vatu?

Does anyone have experience with accomodation between the end of december and the beginning of january? We are budget travellers. Will there be availability around or is it absolutely necessary to book in advance for this time of year? What about camping, is it too hot and sticky then? What will the weather be like?

Thanx a lot for feedback!
Brenda

I have JUST returned from crewing on a yacht from Tanna to Port Vila, can't help you with accommodation questions although we saw no signs of any Westerners camping. Lenakel is the main (but not the most attractive) town on Tanna, one small bank where you can change money, but better to arrive with local currency. Most people go up the volcano - Mt Yasur, make sure your tour arrives before sundown and stays as it gets dark, the eruptions are not as exciting in daylight. Take a torch/flashlight. Port Resolution Yacht Club on Tanna has accommodation, arranges volcano trips. Port Vila - The main currencies exchanged seem to be US/AUS/NZ/FIJI. I am not sure if Banks will be open on 26th December but there are several ATMs. If you want to save money, buy a fresh baguette and small packet of ham from Au Bon Marche supermarket near to the market (open in the evening too), a tomato and a lettuce from the market - and you should have lunch for 2 for about 500VT. Try the DELICIOUS local ngali nuts, about 20 threaded on a leaf spine for 100VT. Watch out for the mozzies!