Luganville: The Hidden Gem of Vanuatu

• HelloAllo
  [ah-loh]
• GoodbyeBayo
  [bah-yoh]
• YesIah
  [ee-ah]
• NoTale
  [tah-leh]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTankiu
  [tahn-kyoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [soh-ree]
• How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yoo stap goot]
• Fine. And you?Bikos mi gut. O yu?
  [bee-kohs mee goot. oh yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo sah-veh tohk-tohk long eeng-leesh]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [mee noh sah-veh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wantem lukluk long menu, plis
  [mee wahn-tehm look-look long meh-noo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kakae meet
  [mee noh kah-kah-eh meet]
• Cheers!Hem blo yu!
  [hehm bloh yoo]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wantem peim, plis
  [mee wahn-tehm paym, plees]

• Help!Helpem mi!
  [help-em mee]
• Go away!Go we!
  [goh weh]
• Call the Police!Kolem Polis!
  [koh-lehm poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolem dokta!
  [koh-lehm dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMi les
  [mee lehs]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wantem bae...
  [mee wahn-tehm by...]
• I'm just lookingMi jes lukluk
  [mee jehs look-look]
• How much is it?Hao mami ia?
  [how mah-mee yah]
• That's too expensiveHem tufala espensiv tumas
  [hehm too-fah-lah es-pehn-seev too-mahs]
• Can you lower the price?Yufala ken jasim prais?
  [yoo-fah-lah kehn jah-seem price]

• What time is it?Hao taim ia?
  [how tah-eem yah]
• It's one o'clockIa i wan o'klak
  [yah ee wahn oh-klok]
• Half past (10)Haf past i ten
  [hahf past ee tehn]
• MorningMornin
  [mohr-neen]
• AfternoonAftanun
  [ahf-tah-noon]
• EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
• YesterdayIstad
  [ees-tahd]
• TodayTude
  [too-deh]
• TomorrowTamara
  [tah-mah-rah]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faev
  [fah-ev]
• 6Siks
  [seeks]
• 7Seven
  [seh-vehn]
• 8Eit
  [ayt]
• 9Nain
  [nayn]
• 10Ten
  [tehn]

• Where's a/the...?Wea hemi...?
  [weh-ah heh-mee]
• What's the address?Hao nom hemi?
  [how nohm heh-mee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save soem mi (long map)?
  [yoo sah-veh soh-em mee long map]
• When's the next (bus)?Hao nao hemi next (bisi)?
  [how now heh-mee nekst bee-see]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wahn tee-keht long]

Before European contact, Luganville and the surrounding Espiritu Santo island were inhabited by Melanesian people for thousands of years. The indigenous communities developed complex societies with unique languages, traditions, and customs. Archaeological evidence indicates long-standing trade networks and agricultural practices that sustained these early settlements.

The first recorded European to sight Espiritu Santo was the Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queirós in 1606. Queirós named the island 'La Austrialia del Espiritu Santo,' believing he had found the long-sought Terra Australis. His brief stay marked the beginning of European interest in the region, though it would be centuries before sustained contact was established.

In the late 19th century, both the British and the French showed interest in the New Hebrides, leading to the establishment of the Anglo-French Condominium in 1906. This unique form of joint colonial administration lasted until 1980. Luganville, due to its strategic location and harbor, played a significant role during this period as a center of administration and commerce.

During World War II, Luganville became an essential base for Allied forces in the Pacific theater. The United States established a major military base here in 1942, transforming the town into a bustling hub of activity. Infrastructure such as roads, airstrips, and hospitals were rapidly constructed. The remnants of this era, including Quonset huts and the Million Dollar Point where surplus military equipment was dumped into the sea, remain as historical landmarks.

After World War II, Luganville returned to a quieter pace of life but continued to develop as a key economic and administrative center in Vanuatu. The infrastructure left by the Allies provided a foundation for growth, and the town gradually expanded its facilities and services, becoming a vital port and hub for the northern islands.

Vanuatu gained independence from the British and French in 1980. Luganville, as the second-largest town in the newly formed nation, played a critical role in the transition. The town has since grown, balancing its rich historical legacy with modern developments. It remains a vibrant community with a mix of indigenous and expatriate influences, contributing to its unique cultural tapestry.

Luganville is not only a historical landmark but also a cultural hub. The town hosts various festivals that celebrate the diverse heritage of Vanuatu, such as the Santo Rodeo and Independence Day celebrations. Traditional dances, music, and ceremonies are regularly performed, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the island's inhabitants.

Luganville is located on the island of Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu. The main gateway to Luganville is through the Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON), which has regular flights from Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu, and other regional destinations. Air Vanuatu is the primary airline servicing these routes. Alternatively, travelers can reach Luganville via inter-island ferries and cargo ships that connect from other islands in Vanuatu.

Luganville is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around. Additionally, minibuses operate within the town and connect to nearby areas. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore the island at their own pace, but be aware that road conditions can vary, especially outside the town.

The official currency in Vanuatu is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Luganville, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Luganville, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash in Port Vila or upon arrival to ensure you have enough funds for your stay.

Luganville 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 there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Luganville has a police station and medical facilities, including the Northern Provincial Hospital. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites. Avoid wearing very revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering a village or taking photos of people. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'good day.' A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Luganville like a local, visit the local markets, such as the Luganville Market House, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Vanuatu goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss exploring the Million Dollar Point, where you can see World War II relics, and the blue holes, which offer unique and stunning natural swimming spots. For a unique experience, consider joining a village tour to learn more about the traditional way of life in Vanuatu.