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Vanuatu InformationInternational » South Pacific » Vanuatu Information
The islands of Vanuatu are located in the South Pacific Ocean, about 1,750 kilometres northeast of Australia. Located on the island of Efate, Port Vila is the capital of Vanuatu.
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An archipelago of 83 islands make up this tiny South Pacific nation, many of which have a surface area of under 100 kilometres. Most of the islands are mountainous and of volcanic origin.
In fact, there are still several active volcanoes in Vanuatu and the danger of a major eruption is always present.
The population of the Vanuatu islands is just over 200,000 and almost a quarter of the Vanuatu people live in Port Vila. English, French and Bislama (a pidgin language) are the three official languages, although over 100 other languages are also in use.
Originally settled by Melanesian explorers, French and British settlers also came to Vanuatu in the late 18th century. Today, the majority of Vanuatu's inhabitants are still of Melanesian descent.
There are four distinct cultural areas in Vanuatu, each with its own rules relating to status and privilege, however they all share a similar devotion to ritual events.
Having no traditional written language, story telling, songs and dances are of huge importance to the Vanuatu people. Elaborate body decorations and tattoos, masks, hats and carvings also form a vital part of their ritual and social life.
Much like the ancient legends of New Zealand's Maori people, Vanuatu culture is also abundant in mythical legends. Natural formations, volcanic eruptions and other natural disasters are all interwoven with legends of significant cultural importance.
The official currency of Vanuatu is the Vatu, although Australian dollars are usually accepted by shops, restaurants and hotels in Port Vila.
There is no public transport system in the Vanuatu islands, although mini buses and taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. Vanair offers regular flights between the islands and there are a limited number of aircraft available for charter. Trading vessels also travel between the islands on a semi-regular basis.
International » South Pacific » Vanuatu Information
Vanuatu Information | Vanuatu Accommodation | Vanuatu Attractions
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