Yandina: A Hidden Gem in the Solomon Islands

• HelloAlu
  [ah-loo]
• GoodbyeKwaheri
  [kwa-heh-ree]
• YesEo
  [eh-oh]
• NoKore
  [kor-reh]
• Please/You're welcomeTangio
  [tan-gee-oh]
• Thank youTanem
  [tan-em]
• Excuse me/SorryKwarae
  [kwa-rye]
• How are you?Kae mae?
  [kai-mai]
• Fine. And you?Mae. Eo?
  [mai. eh-oh]
• Do you speak English?Kae mae follo Ingris?
  [kai-mai foh-loh in-gris]
• I don't understandKoreo moa
  [kor-reh-oh moh-ah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKae mae follo lokol menu, tangio
  [kai-mai foh-loh loh-kohl men-oo, tan-gee-oh]
• I don't eat meatKoreo mae follo mea
  [kor-reh-oh mai foh-loh meh-ah]
• Cheers!Verevere!
  [veh-reh-veh-reh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKae mae follo pei, tangio
  [kai-mai foh-loh pay, tan-gee-oh]

• Help!Tulim
  [too-leem]
• Go away!Lusim
  [loo-seem]
• Call the Police!Kaulim Polis!
  [kow-leem po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kaulim dokta!
  [kow-leem dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMae follo lusim
  [mai foh-loh loo-seem]
• I'm illMi sick
  [mee sick]

• I'd like to buy...Kae mae follo osi...
  [kai-mai foh-loh oh-see...]
• I'm just lookingMae follo luk olsem
  [mai foh-loh look ol-sem]
• How much is it?Hao moa?
  [hah-oh moh-ah]
• That's too expensiveDiswan i no gudfala
  [dees-wan ee noh good-fah-lah]
• Can you lower the price?Kae yu save kisim daon pris?
  [kai yoo sah-veh kee-sim da-ohn prees]

• What time is it?Hau taem nao?
  [hah-oo tah-em now]
• It's one o'clockIuwan taim
  [yoo-wahn tah-eem]
• Half past (10)Haf pasten
  [hahf pahs-tehn]
• MorningMornin
  [mohr-neen]
• AfternoonApunun
  [ah-poo-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
• YesterdayYestede
  [yes-teh-deh]
• TodayTude
  [too-deh]
• TomorrowTamoro
  [tah-moh-roh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fah-eev]
• 6Siks
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Hao longes...
  [hah-oh lohn-gehs]
• What's the address?Hao dress?
  [hah-oh dress]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kae yu save soem mi (long map)?
  [kai yoo sah-veh soh-em mee (lohn map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hao longes next (bus)?
  [hah-oh lohn-gehs nekst (buhs)]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht (lohn ....)]

Yandina, located in the Russell Islands, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The indigenous Melanesian people, primarily the Lavukal, have inhabited this region for generations. Their culture is deeply rooted in traditions, oral histories, and a close relationship with the land and sea. The Lavukal people are known for their navigation skills, traditional dances, and intricate carvings, which are integral to their cultural identity.

The 19th century ushered in a new era for Yandina with the arrival of European explorers and missionaries. The first significant contact was made by British and German traders. The establishment of missionary stations brought about significant changes, introducing Christianity and Western education. This period also saw the beginning of the copra industry, which became a major economic activity in the region.

Yandina and the surrounding Russell Islands played a strategic role during World War II. The islands were used as a base by both Japanese and Allied forces. The Battle of the Coral Sea, a major naval battle fought in 1942, had significant implications for the region. The remnants of war, including plane wrecks and military installations, can still be found scattered across the islands, serving as poignant reminders of this tumultuous period.

After World War II, Yandina underwent considerable development. The establishment of the Levers Pacific Plantations (later known as Solomon Islands Plantations Limited) in the mid-20th century marked a period of economic growth. The copra and timber industries flourished, providing employment and contributing to the local economy. However, this period was also marked by challenges, including labor disputes and environmental concerns.

The late 1990s and early 2000s were a challenging time for Yandina and the Solomon Islands as a whole, marked by ethnic tensions and civil unrest. Known locally as 'The Tensions', this period saw conflict between the Guadalcanal and Malaita ethnic groups. Yandina, like many other communities, experienced disruptions and instability. The intervention of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands (RAMSI) in 2003 helped restore peace and stability to the region.

In recent years, there has been a significant effort to revive and preserve the traditional culture of Yandina. Festivals celebrating Lavukal traditions, music, and dance have become more prominent. Additionally, eco-tourism and community-based tourism initiatives are being developed to attract visitors and provide sustainable economic opportunities. Today, Yandina is a vibrant community that blends its rich cultural heritage with modern development.

Yandina is located on Mbanika Island in the Russell Islands of the Solomon Islands. The nearest international airport is Honiara International Airport on Guadalcanal Island. From Honiara, you can take a domestic flight to Yandina Airport, which operates a few flights weekly. Alternatively, you can take a boat from Honiara to Yandina, which offers a scenic maritime journey. Boat trips can be arranged through local tour operators or directly from the Honiara port.

Yandina is small and many of its attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis and minibuses are available for longer trips or for those who prefer not to walk. Boats are also a popular means of transport to visit nearby islands or for fishing trips. Renting a bike or a scooter can be a convenient option for exploring the area at your own pace.

The official currency in the Solomon Islands is the Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD). Credit cards are not widely accepted in Yandina, so it is advisable to carry cash. There are no ATMs in Yandina, so be sure to withdraw sufficient cash before leaving Honiara. Some larger businesses and accommodations may accept foreign currency, but this is not guaranteed.

Yandina is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Yandina does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. There is a local police station and a small medical clinic in Yandina. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. For more serious medical issues, you may need to travel to Honiara.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of religious sites or ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly wave or handshake. A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Yandina like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Solomon Islands crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the World War II relics scattered around the island, which offer a glimpse into the area's historical significance. For a unique experience, join a local fishing trip or a guided tour of the mangroves.