Vanuatu offers a holiday like no other with its ‘greatest hits’ including some of the most spectacular and authentic experiences on earth. Channel 9’s Travel Guides went live on 10 May with their everyday presenters experiencing the best of the Isle of Smiles. To celebrate, we’ve pulled together Vanuatu’s top hits to showcase the country’s star quality.
While a flop-and-drop may be what you first associate with Vanuatu, there’s so much more to see and do. Sure, you can – and should – enjoy a leisurely beach break, but as you’ll see in the Travel Guides episode, don’t have that be all you do in Vanuatu.
With awe-inspiring natural wonders, invigorating thrills, and authentic cultural experiences, whatever you seek on your travels, you’ll find it in Vanuatu.
We nabbed the Fren Family’s week-long Vanuatu itinerary (check it out here) to create our pick of the smash hit highlights featured on the show.
Smash hit #1: Swim Vanuatu’s Blue Holes
A trip to the Matevulu Blue Hole in Espiritu Santo makes you consider never leaving this island paradise. Surrounded by lush rainforest, a dip in this stunning freshwater pool makes for the most serene swim you’ll probably ever have.
The deep blue colour of the pool comes from the high mineral content of the underground spring. Its hues perfectly contrast the verdant trees that fringe the pool. The crystal-clear waters of the Riri Blue Hole are fab for snorkelling!
When you see them both on Travel Guides, you’ll want to dive right into your TV!
Smash hit #2: Go jungle buggy riding
Every vacay needs fun and new adventures, and one of the top ways to experience thrills in the Vanuatuan jungle is on a buggy ride.
The made-for-adventure 2-person buggies get you off the beaten track to the bush and beach. For some, the buggies are a low-key way to explore off-road. For others, this is how you get the adrenalin pumping. Be warned: how fast you go will determine how muddy you get!
Smash hit #3: Water music performance
The Travel Guides team were fortunate enough to spend three nights at the luxury beachfront Aore Resort on the private island off Espiritu Santo. This tranquil oasis is a fabulous place to experience Ni-Vanuatu culture, including basket weaving and sand drawing.
It is the sunset women’s water music performance, however, that truly wows. These traditionally garbed women dance, sing and use the ocean as a percussion instrument in a centuries-old performance.
Smash hit #4: The Port Vila Market mamas
Heading to a market when travelling gives you first-hand insights into authentic local life and the Port Vila Markets do not disappoint! As you wander the bustling stalls chock-full of produce, food, and handicrafts, witness life at its most vibrant and colourful.
One of the Port Vila Markets’ greatest hits is to meet the mamas selling their handwoven crafts. With over 50 Vanuatu Made Handicrafts vendors, learn about the crafts that have long been a part of the local culture. That you’re contributing to the local economy, whether shopping for home décor, jewellery, artwork, or carvings, is the feel-good bonus of shopping here.
Smash hit #5: Leweton Cultural Village
Continue your deep dive into Ni-Vanuatu customs at Leweton Cultural Village. Upholding the ancient traditions of Gaua and Mere Lava Islands, this is your chance to learn the stories, dance, and music passed down through the generations.
An interactive experience, get hands-on as you have a go at weaving, spear-throwing, and see how good your moves are with the women of the village.
Smash hit #6: Turtle Sanctuary
A trip blending sunshine, stunning natural wonders, and fun-filled attractions is great enough, but add in wildlife and we’re completely smitten! The Turtle Sanctuary at Tranquillity Island Resort is dedicated to conservation and protection of endangered sea turtles.
During your Turtle Sanctuary visit, learn about conservation and the importance of turtles to the ecosystem. You’ll also meet the star of the show – turtles! With up to 200 juvenile turtles living at the sanctuary until they are a year old, this is the best way to get close – and maybe hold – a turtle! Awww.
Smash hit #7: Tanna Islands’ Mt Yasur
Okay, so we snuck this one in as you actually won’t see it on the Travel Guides show, but if you’re travelling to Vanuatu then Mt Yasur needs to the ‘on the list’, too! Being on the Pacific Ring of Fire, it’s no surprise that Vanuatu is home to 17 volcanoes. This includes the world’s most accessible active volcano, Mt Yasur.
Found on Tanna Island, Mt Yasur is known as “the lighthouse of the Pacific” thanks to its regular eruptions. On tour, safely watch Mt Yasur spit, spew, and rumble on a heart-stopping (in the best way) adventure.
Agents, read this
Tune into Travel Guides on Channel 9 and 9NOW to check off our Vanuatu greatest hits list for yourself. Which is top of your must-do list?
For more Vanuatu inspiration and to become a Vanuatu Specialist, visit vanuatuspecialists.com.
Psst: did you catch the episode with us at our recent event with Vanuatu Tourism Office and Air Vanuatu? Check out the recap here!
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