Erromango

Accommodation on Erromango is limited with only one bungalow and one guesthouse at Upongkor village (Dillon's Bay). Elsewhere, accommodation can be arranged in the village. There are two airstrips on Erromango, one in the Northwest (Dillon's Bay) and another in the Southeast (Ipota). There's only one road on Erromango, from Upongkor to the Dillon's Bay Airstrip, so most transport around Erromango is by speedboat or walking.  A speedboat charter from Dillon's Bay to Pongkil Bay is about 5000 Vatu and to South River about 10,000 Vatu.

Dillon's Bay, Erromango
Upongkor (Dillon's Bay) is the largest of Erromango's villages. It has a few basic stores (that might be empty), telephones (that might not work), a water supply, generators and a medical dispensary. There are two places to stay at Dillon's Bay:

• Meteson's Guesthouse
• PWMU Guesthouse

Dillon's Bay itself is picturesque and, if you're lucky, you might see whales hanging about in the bay. Turtles and dolphins can also be seen around Erromango when traveling by boat —excursion(s) may invite you to see a Kauri Reserve in the Dillon's Bay area. It's about three hours walk away and the kastom fee. The Dillon's Bay airstrip is 9km by road from Upongkor. A truck charter costs 3000 Vatu or a shared ride is about 500 Vatu. Don't be surprised if the truck doesn't turn up to meet your flight or breaks down (be prepared to walk, about two and a half hours). The Dillon's Bay water supply is pumped from the river and may not be OK to drink (ask for rain water). In the mornings the supply tank is empty and it's common practice to fill a bucket or two in the afternoon. There's a community telephone at Dillon's Bay (88993). Fresh local bread can be bought at the stores.

Meteson's Guesthouse, Dillon's Bay Erromango
Island: Erromango
R: TO BOOK
Meteson's bungalow is a modern building with two rooms. There are three or four single beds with space for one more. There are no mosquito nets but coils are available. Solar power is used for lighting only (no inverter). Cooking can be done in a separate kitchen, where there's a gas stove with oven.

 

PWMU Guesthouse, Dillon's Bay Erromango
Island: Erromango
R: TO BOOK
Inside the PWMU Guesthouse, mattresses are placed on top of Pandanus mats on the floor, with space for eight to ten people. Blankets are provided. There are no mosquito nets (few or no mosquitoes) and no bath towels. A gas burner and good selection of pots, pans, plates, mugs and cutlery are available for cooking. Rain water is available for drinking. The PWMU Guesthouse, while just a tin shed, is a comfortable place to stay in Upongkor (Dillon's Bay). 

 

Futuna

Futuna is an island in the Tafea province of Vanuatu. It is the easternmost island in the country. It was formed by the uplift of an underwater volcano, which last erupted at least 11,000 years ago. It reaches a height of 666 m. It is sometimes called West Futuna to distinguish it from Futuna Island, Wallis and Futuna. It is a Polynesian outlier.

It has ten regions: Iraro, Itapapa, Itapasiesi, Matangi, Matowei, Nabao, Nariari, Rakaoroa, Serinao, and Tchinaroa.

The inhabitants of the island have a style of hymn singing, established by 19th century missionaries, which is distinctive among Pacific islands. The Chiefs of Futuna have recently decided not to involve their island in tourism as they believe it may diminish their cultural values.  However, they invite you to view and perhaps purchase examples of their craft at 'Futuna Village', situated near Isangel on Tanna Island. Accommodation in Futuna is in village homes - there is no commercial guest house or bungalows. Visitors should bring their own food supplies, beverages and some extra tea, coffee, and sugar that can be left behind as a small gift.

Community Guesthouse, Futuna
Island: Futuna
R: TO BOOK
There are now four bungalows at Whispering Lodge. They have a total of 12 single beds and 6 doubles. The showers/toilets have a piped water supply connection. The restaurant has nice views towards the western mountains and meals are reported to be generous. They have a bar however BYO is acceptable.

Aniwa

Aniwa is a raised coral atoll 24 km NE of Tanna Island in the Tafea Province. The highest point is only 42m above sea level. Most of the island's residents live in the south. Aniwa was the first island in the archipelago to have missionaries. Itcharo lagoon in the north of the island is surrounded by white beaches and coconut trees. Long beach walks on the secluded lagoon are a feature of your stay on Aniwa - guides are available to point out plants, shells and fish indigenous to the island.  They will also take you to the newly created Turtle Sanctuary. Swimming is safe for all ages in the lagoon which is not deep even at high tide.  Outside the lagoon, the open waters are host to beautiful coral reefs.  This is where guides on outrigger canoes will accompany you to view the vast reefs and many fish species.

From November to April each year you can witness Green and Hawk Nosed turtles laying eggs on the white sand beaches of the lagoon - guides are available on request to assist locating them. Coconut crabs also inhabit the west shoreline of the lagoon and again, guides will again assist you in hunting them down for a photograph or two. Because the people of the Isavai Village intend for you to enjoy a 'Robinson Crusoe' type visit, it is suggested you consider bringing the following provisions:

1. Torches.  Kerosene lamps are available; however you may prefer using your own means of lighting after dark.
2. Basic food items. Cooking facilities (gas stove) is provided for your personal use. You must bring along most food items you wish to enjoy if you intend doing your own cooking, however, meals will be provided at your request if you prefer.

 

Fatutu Bungalows, Aniwa
Island: Aniwa
R: TO BOOK
Fatutu Bungalows nestles along a stunning white sandy beach on an untouched location capturing an amazing view of all 5 islands that make up the Tafea province. Fatutu Bungalows is located north west of Aniwa Island approximately a 50 minute flight from Port Vila —landing 3 times a week, via 10 minutes reroute from Lenakel Airport on Tanna Island.  There are 6 bungalows altogether, offering comfort in privacy, a spectacular view of the ocean, and sunset. Rooms are clean, serviced daily, and display a beautiful blend of Melanesian architecture that consists of bamboo, wild canes, coconut thatch roof, and pandanus matting on the walls

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