You’re going to love Vanuatu. But it’s not just a decadent escape with balmy breezes and gourmet food. It’s also home to several best-in-the-world experiences that very few people know about: a luxury liner, like the Titanic, shipwrecked in clear diveable water; the world’s most accessible active volcano on the island of Tanna; a giant banyan tree the size of a soccer field; pounding, cascading waterfalls; extraordinary cultural ceremonies and dances on the island of Malekula; primitive villages where you can witness an ancient living culture; and picture-perfect beaches where there’s nobody but you and your snorkel gear. It’s also a snorkellers’ and divers’ Mecca.

Port Vila, the national capital on the island of Efate, buzzes at the centre of Vanuatu’s tourist trade, all colonial and cool, with a view for every restaurant, and hotel beds that float you out over lagoons. If you’ve come on a package deal, you’re just starting your adventure. Stay on when it ends to discover a few of the unique things that are Vanuatu, and to try out the sporty options, like abseiling down a waterfall, parasailing over the glorious harbour, zapping out of a cave of stalactites through a ravine on a blow-up float-ring, turning nature-child for the night on a tiny offshore island.

The best thing about Vanuatu, though, is that you feel safe and happy here. The people are a delight. They love their country and want you to enjoy its pleasures, but they aren’t after the ‘tourist dollar’ It is so refreshing.

[View with PicLens]