So, you’ve landed in Vanuatu, and you’re ready to embrace that tropical, stress-free, barefoot-on-the-beach lifestyle. Good choice. But before you go full islander, there are a few things you should know—because island life is not just about sipping piña coladas (although, let’s be real, that’s a solid part of it).
Step 1: Accept That Shoes Are Optional (And Probably Unnecessary)
At first, you’ll feel weird walking around barefoot. Then, you’ll realize no one else is wearing shoes either. Before you know it, your flip-flops will be collecting dust in your suitcase, and you’ll be casually strolling into shops, restaurants, and even the airport with your toes in full display. Welcome to freedom.
Step 2: Kava – Your New Favourite (Or Least Favourite) Drink
You can’t do island life properly without trying kava. This traditional drink, made from the root of the kava plant, looks like muddy water and tastes… well, earthy. But don’t let that stop you! A few shells in, and you’ll feel a wave of relaxation wash over you. Bonus: locals say it helps with everything from stress to good sleep. Just don’t chug it like a tequila shot—pace yourself, rookie.
Step 3: Get Used to Island Time (Things Happen When They Happen)
If you’re used to rushing around and sticking to tight schedules, good luck with that. In Vanuatu, life moves at its own pace. Your tour might start “around” 9 AM. Your food will come out when it’s ready. And if the ferry says it leaves at 3 PM? Well… it might. The key? Relax. You’re on island time now.
Step 4: Coconut Everything (You’ll Never Be the Same Again)
Coconut here isn’t just a flavour—it’s a lifestyle. You’ll drink coconut water straight from the shell, eat coconut in your meals, and probably start wondering why you’ve been paying $5 for a tiny carton of coconut water back home when you could be cracking them open for free.
Step 5: Make Friends With the Locals (It’s Easier Than You Think)
Ni-Vanuatu people are some of the friendliest on Earth. Smile, say “halo” (hello), and don’t be surprised if you end up in a deep conversation about life, family, and the best places to visit on the island. Bonus points if you pick up a few words in Bislama—just saying “tankyu tumas” (thank you very much) will earn you some smiles.
Final Thoughts: You’ll Never Want to Leave
Once you’ve adjusted to the no-shoes, kava-drinking, coconut-loving lifestyle, there’s no going back. Regular life? Too fast. Too stressful. Too many shoes. So enjoy the chaos, embrace the calm, and let Vanuatu show you how island life is really done.
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