Vanuatu’s tropical and subtropical climates guarantee the stretch of Polynesian islands always lives up to its reputation as an idyllic coastal paradise.
Tag: Oceania travel
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Weather in Vanuatu – Tropical Climate and Conditions in Polynesia
However, tourists should be aware of the country's changing weather conditions throughout the year before planning to travel around Vanuatu. There is little climate variation between the seasons; whether it’s around 85 degrees Fahrenheit in summer or 65 degrees Fahrenheit in winter tourists will still be able to swim in the ocean or laze about on the sand. Showers rarely set in either, with rain typically lasting a day at most. However, if you want to avoid wet weather completely you’re best steering clear of Vanuatu between November and April. The famous Southeast Trade Winds bring sunny, warm days and cooler nights all year round. However, they can be more unpredictable during the wet season. A squall can blow up seemingly out of nowhere, so make sure you hold on to your hat! Bungalows have even been known to blow away in blustery weather, but tourists needn’t be too concerned. Resort staff are used to these kind of winds, and will build you another one before too long. Visiting outside the wet season is the best way to avoid any extreme conditions in Vanuatu, but if that's not possible the woolly weather shouldn't interrupt your stay too much.
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Unspoiled Beauty of Yap, Micronesia’s Tropical Paradise
With so much of the Pacific now transformed by tourism, the unspoiled wonder of Yap in Micronesia is even more enticing.
This is the kind of place which gives us a glimpse into what all of the Pacific must have been like centuries ago.
The locals don loincloths and hibiscus skirts. They build their houses from thatch and bamboo, and exchange currency made of stone. It might sound like something from The Flinstones, but Yap's stone money is used primarily for traditional reasons. Villages might give the large donut-shaped discs, which can weigh as much as five tons, as a gift to another village. The oversized coins are also used to buy canoes or land. While many Pacific Islanders invite tourists into their villages, the Yapese people are notoriously shy. However visitors to Micronesia can learn more about their way of life at the Bechiyal Cultural Center. One of the treats you'll experience here is the Betel nut, a food that is revered by the Yapese as Westerners do coffee. The nuts are dusted with dry coral lime, wrapped up in pepper leaves, and then crunched. The nuts give a mild high which lasts approximately 10 minutes. There's no hiding that you've had some either, as your lips will turn bright red! [caption id="attachment_3350" align="alignright" width="150" caption="A giant manta ray off the coast of Yap"]
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As you might imagine, the ocean surrounding Yap is as clear and untouched as dry land. Scuba divers enjoy swimming in the warm waters amongst giant manta rays, tuna, dolphins, and reef fish. Ocean kayak tours can also be arranged for travelers preferring to explore the ocean while staying dry.
There are several small hotels in Yap, including The Pathways Hotel, Trader's Ridge Resort, and The Manta Ray Bay Hotel, the first dedicated dive resort in Micronesia.
Continental Micronesia, a subsidiary of Continental Airlines, makes regular flights to Yap International Airport.
[Image Source: Bartek.cieslak at pl.wikipedia]
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Stay in New Caledonia for Less – Your Budget Guide to the Isle of Pines
The picturesque charms of the Isle of Pines, the southernmost tip of New Caledonia, attract travelers from far and wide.
But most come away from their Oceanic vacation stay with a rather hefty bill. A getaway in the location known as the Jewel of the South Pacific doesn't have to cost the earth though, if you follow our advice. Rather than bunking down at one of the area's many resorts, consider camping at Roller Bay instead. Its beachfront views are just as good as you'll find in any luxury hotel, and with each site offering water and electricity you won't feel like you're slumming it. Each site has its own thatch covered table, but if you want to make new friends you can eat in the central dining area. You can prepare your own meals, but if you'd prefer to take it easy your hosts will happily whip up breakfast or dinner on a day's notice. You'll need to travel with your own tent, but the oceanside sunsets are free. [caption id="attachment_3231" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Beautiful Upi Bay in the Isle of Pines, New Caledonia"]
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If you plan to make your own meals, you'll need to be organized. The area has no supermarkets or stores, so you'll need to visit the weekly markets for your fresh fruit and vegetables. Local fishermen sell seafood, and there is a bakery but you'll need to get up early. Most days all the food is sold out by 11 am, so sleeping in is discouraged!
Some of the greatest activities around the Isle of Pines won't cost you a cent. The weather is ideal for swimming all year round. If you have a snorkeling mask, you can take a look at the area's ocean residents, or you could simply enjoy a walk along the sea shore.
With some careful planning, you can enjoy a stay in New Caledonia for much less than you'd think.