Tafea Province: The Jewel of Vanuatu's Southern Isles

• HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeBaebae
  [bae-bae]
• YesIoe
  [yo-eh]
• NoTata
  [ta-ta]
• Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
• Thank youTankiu
  [tan-kyu]
• Excuse me/SorrySori
  [so-ree]
• How are you?How yu stap?
  [hao yu stap]
• Fine. And you?Bae. Yu?
  [bae yu]
• Do you speak English?Yu save toktok long Inglish?
  [yu sa-veh tok-tok long in-glish]
• I don't understandMi no save lukluk
  [mi no sa-veh look-look]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wantem lukluk long menu, plis
  [mi wan-tem look-look long me-nu, plees]
• I don't eat meatMi no kakae mit
  [mi no ka-kae meet]
• Cheers!Chea!
  [chea]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMi wantem pei, plis
  [mi wan-tem pay, plees]

• Help!Helpem!
  [help-em]
• Go away!Go we
  [go we]
• Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [ko-lim polis]
• Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [ko-lim dok-ta]
• I'm lostMi las
  [mi las]
• I'm illMi sik
  [mi sik]

• I'd like to buy...Mi wantem bae...
  [mi wan-tem bai]
• I'm just lookingMi jas lukluk
  [mi jas look-look]
• How much is it?Hao moa nomo?
  [hao mor nomor]
• That's too expensiveNom nomo
  [nom nomor]
• Can you lower the price?Yu save katem nomo?
  [yu sa-veh ka-tem nomor]

• What time is it?Hao moa taem nao?
  [hao mor ta-em now]
• It's one o'clockI wan taem
  [i wan ta-em]
• Half past (10)Haf pas (10)
  [haf pas (10)]
• MorningMoning
  [mo-ning]
• AfternoonApinun
  [a-pi-nun]
• EveningIfinun
  [i-fi-nun]
• YesterdayDei we oli bin
  [dei we oli bin]
• TodayDei
  [dei]
• TomorrowTumoro
  [tu-mo-ro]
• 1Wan
  [wan]
• 2Tu
  [tu]
• 3Tri
  [tri]
• 4Fo
  [fo]
• 5Faev
  [fa-ev]
• 6Sikis
  [si-kis]
• 7Seven
  [sev-en]
• 8Eit
  [ate]
• 9Nain
  [nine]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Wea hemi...?
  [we-a he-mi]
• What's the address?Wea hemi adres?
  [we-a he-mi a-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save soem mapa hemi?
  [yu sa-veh so-em ma-pa he-mi]
• When's the next (bus)?Taem nao hemi kamin (bas)?
  [ta-em now he-mi ka-min (bas)]
• A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (long ....)
  [wan ti-ket long]

Tafea Province, like much of Vanuatu, was first settled by Melanesian people over 3,000 years ago. These early inhabitants arrived by canoe and established small communities, relying on fishing, agriculture, and hunting for sustenance. Evidence of their early settlements can still be found in archaeological sites throughout the islands.

In the 18th century, European explorers began to chart the waters of the South Pacific. The Spanish explorer Pedro Fernández de Quirós is believed to have been the first European to sight the islands of Tafea Province in 1606. Later, British and French navigators, including Captain James Cook in the 1770s, made contact with the local populations.

During the early 19th century, Tafea Province became a hotspot for European traders seeking sandalwood, a highly valued commodity at the time. This period saw increased interaction between the islanders and Europeans, though it also brought conflict and exploitation. The sandalwood trade had a lasting impact on the local economy and environment.

In the mid-19th century, Christian missionaries began to arrive in Tafea Province, aiming to convert the local populations. The London Missionary Society was particularly active, establishing missions on several islands. This era saw significant cultural changes as traditional beliefs and practices were influenced by Christian teachings.

From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, Tafea Province was affected by the practice of 'blackbirding,' where islanders were coerced or deceived into laboring on plantations in Australia and Fiji. This dark period in the province's history resulted in the displacement and suffering of many local people.

During World War II, Vanuatu (then known as the New Hebrides) served as a strategic base for Allied forces. While Tafea Province was not a major military hub, the war brought about infrastructural developments and increased interactions with the outside world. The legacy of this period can still be seen in remnants of wartime installations and airstrips.

Tafea Province played a role in the broader movement for Vanuatu's independence from colonial rule. After years of joint British and French administration, Vanuatu achieved independence in 1980. The people of Tafea, along with other provinces, celebrated this newfound autonomy and began to shape their own future.

Tafea Province is rich in cultural heritage, with each island boasting its own unique traditions and customs. Traditional ceremonies, dances, and festivals are an integral part of life, reflecting the deep connection of the people to their history and environment. Visitors can experience these vibrant cultural expressions first-hand.

Mount Yasur on Tanna Island is one of the most accessible active volcanoes in the world and has been a significant cultural and spiritual site for the local people for centuries. The continuous activity of Yasur has made it a focal point for both indigenous beliefs and scientific study, drawing visitors from around the globe.

Tafea Province is located at the southernmost part of Vanuatu. The nearest international airport is Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. From Port Vila, you can take a domestic flight to Tanna Airport, which is the main gateway to Tafea Province. Several airlines operate regular flights between Port Vila and Tanna. Alternatively, you can travel by sea; cargo and passenger ships frequently sail from Port Vila to Tafea Province, although this option takes longer.

Within Tafea Province, transportation options include local buses, taxis, and rental vehicles. Local buses are the most common and economical way to get around, though they may not adhere to strict schedules. Taxis are available but can be more expensive, so it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand. For greater flexibility, consider renting a 4WD vehicle, especially if you plan to explore remote areas. Note that roads can be unpaved and rough in some parts of the province.

The official currency in Vanuatu is the Vanuatu Vatu (VUV). While larger hotels and some businesses accept credit cards, it's advisable to carry cash, especially for transactions in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are available in main towns like Lenakel on Tanna Island, but they can be scarce in more remote locations. It's wise to withdraw enough cash before venturing into less populated areas.

Tafea Province is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Tafea has a low crime rate, petty theft can occur. Exercise caution when visiting isolated beaches or remote areas. Always inform someone of your travel plans and expected return time.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The main hospital in Tafea Province is located in Lenakel on Tanna Island. For less urgent medical needs, there are smaller clinics and pharmacies in the main towns. It's highly recommended to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, including evacuation if needed.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Many locals are devout Christians, so be mindful of church services and religious holidays. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient, as schedules can be flexible. Don't argue over fares; negotiate politely. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm smile and a handshake. Learning a few words in Bislama, the local language, can go a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like lap lap and drink kava responsibly. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tafea Province like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don’t miss visiting Mount Yasur, an active volcano on Tanna Island, which offers a spectacular and unique experience. Participate in a traditional kava ceremony to gain insight into local customs. For a special experience, arrange a visit to one of the local villages to learn about their way of life firsthand.