Lamap: The Hidden Gem of Vanuatu

• HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeOro
  [o-ro]
• YesIoe
  [i-o-e]
• NoTata
  [ta-ta]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plis]
• Thank youTankiu
  [tan-kiu]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [so-ri]
• How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yu stap gut]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Yu?
  [gut. yu]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yu sa-ve tok-tok long in-glish]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [mi no sa-ve]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wantem lukim menu, plis
  [mi wan-tem lu-kim me-nu, plis]
• I don't eat meatMi no kakae mit
  [mi no ka-ka-e mit]
• Cheers!Apinun!
  [a-pi-nun]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wantem pai, plis
  [mi wan-tem pai, plis]

• Help!Helpem!
  [help-em]
• Go away!Go long we
  [go long we]
• Call the Police!Kole Polis!
  [ko-le po-lis]
• Call a doctor!Kole dokta!
  [ko-le dok-ta]
• I'm lostMi las
  [mi las]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mi sik]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wantem blong bae...
  [mi wan-tem blong bae]
• I'm just lookingMi jas lukim
  [mi jas lu-kim]
• How much is it?Hao mas ia?
  [hao mas ia]
• That's too expensiveHao i stap traem
  [hao i stap tra-em]
• Can you lower the price?Yu save katdaon pris?
  [yu sa-ve kat-da-on pris]

• What time is it?Hao taem ia?
  [hao ta-em ia]
• It's one o'clockIa i wan
  [ia i wan]
• Half past (10)Long haef long
  [long ha-ef long]
• MorningMornin
  [mor-nin]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [af-ta-nun]
• EveningIvinin
  [i-vi-nin]
• YesterdayDei we
  [dei we]
• TodayTudei
  [tu-dei]
• TomorrowTumora
  [tu-mo-ra]
• 1wan
  [wan]
• 2tu
  [tu]
• 3tri
  [tri]
• 4foa
  [fo-a]
• 5faef
  [fa-ef]
• 6siks
  [siks]
• 7seva
  [se-va]
• 8et
  [et]
• 9nain
  [nain]
• 10ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?We i stap...?
  [we i stap]
• What's the address?Hao nem ia?
  [hao nem ia]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save soem long mi (long map)?
  [yu sa-ve so-em long mi long map]
• When's the next (bus)?Hao taem we i kam?
  [hao ta-em we i kam]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wan tik-et long]

Lamap, located on the island of Malekula in Vanuatu, has been inhabited for thousands of years by indigenous Melanesian people. The area is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly the traditional customs of the Small Nambas and Big Nambas tribes. These tribes are famous for their unique art, dance, and ceremonies, which have been passed down through generations.

The first recorded European contact with Lamap came in the 18th century when explorers and traders arrived in the region. However, it was in the 19th century that European influence began to take hold, particularly through the efforts of Christian missionaries. These missionaries established schools and churches, significantly impacting the local customs and way of life.

During World War II, Vanuatu (then known as the New Hebrides) played a strategic role as a base for Allied forces. Although Lamap was not directly involved in major military actions, the presence of Allied troops brought significant changes to the island's infrastructure and economy. After the war, the influence of colonial powers waned, leading to a resurgence of interest in local traditions and self-governance.

Vanuatu gained independence from British and French colonial rule in 1980. This period marked a new chapter for Lamap, as the community began to navigate the challenges and opportunities of self-governance. Modern development has been gradual, with efforts to balance progress with the preservation of cultural heritage. Today, Lamap is known for its vibrant cultural festivals and as a destination for eco-tourism.

Lamap is renowned for its cultural festivals, which attract visitors from around the world. One of the most significant events is the Nalawan Festival, where traditional dances, music, and rituals are performed, showcasing the rich heritage of the Small Nambas and Big Nambas tribes. These festivals play a crucial role in keeping the local culture alive and vibrant.

Lamap is located on the island of Malekula in Vanuatu. The nearest airport is Lamap Airport (LPM), which has flights from the capital, Port Vila, and other major islands. Flights are operated by the national carrier, Air Vanuatu. Alternatively, you can reach Lamap by boat from other parts of Vanuatu, but this can be dependent on weather conditions and may require advance planning.

Lamap is a small community where most places are within walking distance. For longer trips, local trucks and buses are available, but schedules can be irregular. Taxis are not common, so arranging transportation in advance through your accommodation is advisable if you plan to visit more remote areas.

The official currency in Vanuatu is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). Credit cards are rarely accepted in Lamap, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash. There are no ATMs in Lamap, so make sure to withdraw enough money in Port Vila or another major town before arriving. Some accommodations may accept payments in Australian Dollars (AUD) but confirm in advance.

Lamap is generally a safe destination with a low crime rate. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving belongings unattended and avoiding walking alone at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always good to stay vigilant.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Lamap has a small health clinic for minor medical issues, but serious conditions may require evacuation to a larger medical facility in Port Vila. It is highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering private or sacred areas. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient, as schedules can be irregular. Don't expect Western standards of punctuality. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Hello'. A firm handshake is not common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept hospitality graciously. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Lamap like a local, visit the local markets and interact with the villagers. Participating in traditional activities such as weaving and dance can provide a deeper understanding of the local culture. Be sure to attend any local festivals or ceremonies if you have the chance. Respect the environment and local customs by not littering and asking for permission before taking photos of people or private property.