Port Vila: An Island Paradise of Vanuatu

• HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeDadau
  [da-dow]
• YesIa
  [ee-ah]
• NoAe
  [eye]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTankiu
  [tan-kyoo]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [sor-ee]
• How are you?Yu stap gut?
  [yoo stap goot]
• Fine. And you?Gut. Yu?
  [goot. yoo]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yoo sah-vey tohk-tohk lawng Ing-gleesh]
• I don't understandMi no save
  [mee no sah-vey]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wantem lukluk long menu, plis
  [mee wan-tem look-look lawng men-oo, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kakae mit
  [mee no ka-kai meet]
• Cheers!Wanem long laef!
  [wah-nem lawng layf]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wantem pei, plis
  [mee wan-tem pay, plees]

• Help!Helpem!
  [help-em]
• Go away!Go lusim!
  [go loo-seem]
• Call the Police!Kolem Polis!
  [kol-em Po-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kolem dokta!
  [kol-em dock-tah]
• I'm lostMi lasim
  [mee la-seem]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wantem bae...
  [mee wan-tem buy]
• I'm just lookingMi jas lukluk
  [mee jas look-look]
• How much is it?Hao mambae?
  [hao mam-by]
• That's too expensiveTumas espensive ia
  [too-mas es-pen-sive ee-ah]
• Can you lower the price?Yu save lukluk nomo long pris?
  [yoo sah-vey look-look no-mo lawng prees]

• What time is it?Hao taim ia?
  [hao time ee-ah]
• It's one o'clockI wan o'klok
  [ee wan oh-klock]
• Half past (10)Haf past (10)
  [haf past (10)]
• MorningMoning
  [moh-ning]
• AfternoonApinun
  [ap-ee-noon]
• EveningEvenin
  [ee-ven-in]
• YesterdayDei we ia
  [day way ee-ah]
• TodayTudei
  [too-day]
• TomorrowTomoro
  [toh-mor-oh]
• 1Wan
  [wahn]
• 2Tu
  [too]
• 3Tri
  [tree]
• 4Fo
  [foh]
• 5Faiv
  [fayv]
• 6Siks
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eit
  [ate]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wea i stap...?
  [way-ah ee stap]
• What's the address?Wea nomo blong hem?
  [way-ah no-mo blong hem]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save soim mi (long maemap)?
  [yoo sah-vey soy-mee me (lawng may-map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Hao long taem bae i kam?
  [hao lawng time buy ee kam]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wah-n tee-ket (lawng)]

Port Vila's history dates back to ancient times when it was originally settled by Melanesian people around 1300 BC. These early inhabitants established small communities and lived off the land and sea, developing a rich culture that would lay the foundation for Vanuatu's diverse heritage.

The first recorded European contact with Port Vila occurred in 1606 when Portuguese explorer Pedro Fernandes de Queirós arrived in the area. Believing he had discovered Terra Australis, Queirós named the island 'Espiritu Santo' and claimed it for Spain, although the settlement did not last.

In the mid-19th century, Christian missionaries from Europe and Australia began arriving in Port Vila. They established missions, schools, and churches, significantly influencing the region's cultural and social landscape. Their presence led to the spread of Christianity and Western education among the indigenous population.

From 1906 until 1980, Port Vila was part of the New Hebrides Condominium, a unique colonial arrangement where France and the United Kingdom jointly administered the islands. This dual governance led to a complex blend of British and French cultural influences in the city, shaping its administrative and social systems.

During World War II, Port Vila became a strategic military base for the Allied forces. The town's infrastructure expanded rapidly as airfields, hospitals, and military installations were built. The presence of American troops introduced new cultural elements and economic opportunities, leaving a lasting impact on the city.

The push for independence gained momentum in the 1970s, leading to the formation of political parties and increased activism. On July 30, 1980, Vanuatu gained independence from the Franco-British Condominium, with Port Vila becoming the capital of the new nation. This marked a significant turning point in the city's history, as it transitioned to self-governance.

Today, Port Vila is a bustling city that serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of Vanuatu. It has grown into a vibrant urban center with a mix of traditional Melanesian customs and contemporary influences. The city is a popular destination for tourists, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Port Vila, the capital city of Vanuatu, is serviced by Bauerfield International Airport (VLI). Direct flights are available from Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, operated by airlines such as Air Vanuatu, Qantas, and Fiji Airways. From the airport, it's a short 10-minute taxi ride to the city center. Alternatively, hotel shuttles and private transfers can be arranged in advance.

Port Vila has several transportation options. Public buses, which are actually minivans, are a popular and affordable way to get around. Taxis are also widely available, but make sure to agree on a fare before starting your journey, as meters are not commonly used. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore on their own. Additionally, some hotels offer bicycle rentals for a more leisurely way to see the city.

The official currency in Vanuatu is the Vatu (VUV). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Port Vila, but ensure you notify your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

Port Vila is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure and be cautious in crowded places. Areas such as Blacksands and Freshwater are known for higher crime rates targeting tourists, so it is best to avoid these neighborhoods after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police assistance, fire services, or medical emergencies. The main hospital in Port Vila is Vila Central Hospital, which provides basic medical services. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as more serious cases may require evacuation to Australia or New Zealand. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages or religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property. Public Transport: Do be respectful and greet the driver when boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour'. 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 Port Vila like a local, visit the Port Vila Market House where you can buy fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Engage with the local Ni-Vanuatu people, who are known for their friendliness and willingness to share their culture. Don’t miss out on trying the traditional dish 'laplap', and make sure to visit Mele Cascades for a refreshing swim in the natural pools. For a unique experience, consider taking a boat trip to the nearby Iririki Island for stunning views and relaxation.