The Republic of Vanuatu consists of 82 small volcanic islands that stretch over 1,300 kilometers/ 808 miles, and they are all part of the „Ring of Fire“. The island state is home to some of the most active and easily accessible volcanos in the world. And there are not too many white sand beaches with palm trees…. It is a different kind of paradise.

The so-called Ni-Vans are Melanesians, most of them still live a traditional life in villages (tribal communities), and some of their ancestors were cannibals (until the 1970s).

For about 75 years, until 1980, France and the UK jointly governed the country before it gained independence. This is why the lifestyle is a blend of European and South Pacific habits and traditions.

Occasionally, disastrous cyclones hit the islands, the last being famous „Pam“. Until today – and even ongoing – the inhabitants of all impacted islands are still rebuilding their homes and businesses. Even nature remains in recovery mode.

But whatever happens, the Ni-Vans always smile and take life easy, one of the friendliest nations we’ve ever visited 🙂