Port Vila

Port Vila is the capital of Vanuatu, sitting on Efate Island's southern coast. Ships dock at the commercial pier or anchor and tender. The town has a waterfront market selling produce, kava, handicrafts, and woven baskets. The mixture of Melanesian, French, and British influences shows in the food and the fact that the country has three official languages (Bislama, English, and French). Mele Cascades, a tiered waterfall about 10 minutes from town, has pools for swimming at different levels. The Ekasup Cultural Village offers demonstrations of traditional cooking, weaving, and kava ceremony. Hideaway Island, a short boat ride from the mainland, has a famous underwater post office where you can send waterproof postcards. Iririki Island is another nearby option with a resort and beach. Kava bars are everywhere and worth trying if you haven't had it. The Vatu is the currency.