Vanuatu?

Hello everyone,

A few weeks ago I booked a trip to vanuatu without really looking into it, and now am thinking I have made a big mistake...

Usually when I go overseas its really long trips, but this time instead of quitting my job I've just taken two weeks off (like normal people do?!) and wanted to go somewhere not in Australia, not expensive, with nice beaches, to just do nothing.... sunbaking, walking, relaxing etc. Now that the flights are booked I'm starting to think I should have just gone to Bali like everyone else!! Sounds like Vanuatu is expensive, full of resorts, not good for independant/solo travellers... what should I do?! I bought the lonely planet book but it didnt give me any hope... should i change my flights and go somewhere else, or just get there and wing it???

Vanuatu is expensive, but is NOT full of resorts and a perfect place for adventurous independant travellers.
It is MUCH less touristy than Bali.

This site has better info than LP on Vanuatu.

I was going to link you to the same site! I think the reputation of touristy and overpriced comes from Efate--Port Vila in particular. Vanuatu is great. I would spend your time on some of the outer islands--Santo, Tanna, Epi, Malakula are all pretty easy to get to and worlds away from the 4 and 5 star resorts of Vila.

Of 50 countries I've been to Vanuatu is my favourite. Much nicer than Bali. And the Lonely Planet is possibly the worst I've ever read, it really gives you a totally false impression of the place. As mentioned above its a great place for adventurous independent travelers who want to go to places really off the beaten track

I've also travelled to many places and Vanuatu is also my favourite. I keep going back. I find it totally intriguing, like no other place. I find I learn very profound lessons about life from observing and engaging with the Ni-Van people.

Port Vila is ok, but not the best place for adventure, I would try to go further afield to Tanna or Santo.

You won't be sorry you went.