Port Vila City Guide
In less than four hours, you can fly from Australia's eastern coast to Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. While it may be tropical and relaxing, Port Vila is Vanuatu's economic hub. It's also a cultural melting pot - with the Melanesian, French, and British cultures being the most influential.
If you want to do something that you can't do anywhere else on the planet, head to Port Vila's underwater post office. Located three metres below sea level, you can scuba dive down, buy some stamps, and mail all of your postcards! It's only open about an hour each day, but it's an errand you won't want to miss!
Back above the water, Port Vila offers some great kayaking. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, you can head out with the locals and kayak your way around the waterfront sights. Along the way, you'll see plenty of coral reefs.
For something totally different, head to Club Hippique. It may sound more like a trendy nightclub, but it's actually the perfect daytime adventure! About 10 minutes outside of Port Vila, Club Hippique offers rides through the rainforests, horseback rides along the beach, and sunset tours.
Being the biggest harbour in Vanuatu, Port Vila is home to some of the best fishing in the South Pacific. You can watch the professionals in action every spring during the Easter Challenge Fishing Competition.
If you're looking for something more spontaneous, take part in the annual Vanuatu Ocean Swim. Held every June, hundreds of people swim around the country's islands.
Port Vila may not be very big, but there is plenty of accommodation. Most hotels can be found overlooking Fatumaru Bay and Vila Bay.
While some of the hotels have a distinctly French or Melanesian influence, all of them strive to live up to Port Vila's relaxing reputation.