Cultural Insights: Understanding the Solomon Islands
Download the PDF Guide: Cultural Insights Understanding the Solomon Islands (GS Agencies PDF6)
Embracing the Melanesian Way: The Solomon Islands, a vibrant mosaic of cultures nestled in the heart of the Pacific, invites you to delve into its rich traditions and customs. With over 900 islands and a diverse array of languages and customs, understanding the local way of life is key to truly appreciating the soul of this enchanting archipelago.
- Language & Communication: English is the official language, serving as a lingua franca among the islands’ diverse linguistic groups. However, the heart of local communication beats in the rhythms of Pijin, the widely spoken creole language, alongside numerous indigenous languages that paint a picture of the islands’ rich cultural diversity.
- Customs and Traditions: The Solomon Islands’ culture is deeply rooted in community and respect. Customary practices, often passed down through generations, play a central role in daily life, from social interactions to elaborate ceremonies celebrating milestones such as births, marriages, and feasts.
- Respectful Greetings: A simple, respectful greeting goes a long way. When meeting locals, a gentle nod or a softly spoken “hello” in Pijin demonstrates respect and openness to learning about their culture.
- Dress Modestly: Modesty in dress is valued, especially when visiting villages or attending local events. Opt for attire that covers shoulders and knees to show respect for local norms.
- Community & Sharing: The concept of ‘wantok’, meaning ‘one talk’ or people from the same language group, underscores the importance of community support and sharing. Visitors will find that generosity and hospitality are hallmarks of the Solomon Islands’ culture, with communal meals and shared experiences forming the cornerstone of social life.
- Arts and Crafts: Artistic expression is a vibrant thread in the cultural fabric of the Solomon Islands. From intricate wood carvings and woven baskets to shell jewellery and traditional tattoos, the islands’ crafts tell tales of history, identity, and connection to the natural world.
- Market Visits: Explore local markets to witness the artistic diversity first-hand and perhaps acquire a piece of traditional craft. It’s also a tangible way to support the local economy and artisans.
- Cultural Etiquette: Observing local etiquette is crucial for a harmonious visit. Always ask permission before taking photographs, especially in villages or of people. If invited into a home or village, a small gift or token of appreciation is a respected tradition.
- Land & Environment: The Solomon Islanders’ relationship with their land and sea is profound, marked by a deep reverence for the environment. Practices such as sustainable fishing and agriculture reflect an ancestral guardianship of the earth, a principle that visitors are encouraged to respect and adhere to.
- Navigating Cultural Sites: Many cultural sites, including war memorials and sacred spots, are imbued with deep significance. Approach such sites with respect, adhering to any guidelines or customs outlined by local guides or community leaders.
- Engaging with Local Communities: Participation in local events, festivals, and markets offers a window into the soul of the Solomon Islands. Engaging with communities not only enriches your travel experience but fosters mutual respect and understanding.
The Solomon Islands, with its rich tapestry of cultures, offers a journey not just through breath-taking landscapes but through the heart of its people. Embracing the local customs, traditions, and etiquette opens the door to a more meaningful and respectful experience in this Pacific paradise.
Top Attractions: 15 Must-Visit Spots in the Solomon Islands
Download the PDG Guide: Top Attractions 15 Must-Visit Spots in the Solomon Islands (GS Agencies PDF5)
Explore the Solomon Islands’ beauty and culture with our guide to 15 essential spots. From rainforests to beaches, we blend celebrated attractions with hidden gems, informed by local and traveller recommendations.
1. Marovo Lagoon: The world’s largest saltwater lagoon enchants with its breath-taking coral gardens and exceptional diving spots. A UNESCO World Heritage site candidate, Marovo offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural art.
2. Guadalcanal Battlefield: A pivotal WWII site, this battlefield tells the tales of courage and sacrifice. Explore war memorials and relics scattered across the island, offering a solemn reminder of the past.
3. Mataniko &Tenaru Waterfalls: Hidden within the lush jungles, these waterfalls promise an adventurous trek with a rewarding view. The cascading waters and serene pools make for a perfect refreshing dip.
4. Tavanipupu Private Island Resort: Once visited by royalty, this luxury resort on a private island offers an exclusive getaway with stunning overwater bungalows and unparalleled serene beauty.
5. Bonegi Beach: Famous for its snorkelling and diving sites, Bonegi Beach is home to two sunken Japanese warships accessible directly from the shore, offering a hauntingly beautiful underwater experience.
6. Skull Island: A testament to the islands’ headhunting past, Skull Island holds the remnants of tribal chiefs and warriors, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the lagoons.
7. Honiara Central Market: The bustling market in the capital city offers a colourful array of local produce, crafts, and a glimpse into the daily lives of the islanders.
8. Kennedy Island: Named after the late US President JFK, this tiny island offers pristine snorkelling opportunities and a slice of WWII history.
9. Lake Tegano: Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this freshwater lake on Rennell Island is known for its unique biodiversity and enchanting natural beauty.
10. Gizo Island: Explore the vibrant market, dive into crystal-clear waters to witness the underwater wonders, or simply soak in the sun on this lively island.
11. Malaita Island: Famous for its traditional kastom culture, Malaita offers a look into the Solomon Islands’ rich traditions with its unique music, dance, and crafts.
12. Roviana Lagoon: Experience the traditional Solomon Islands lifestyle, with excellent spots for fishing, diving, and exploring historical sites.
13. Florida Islands (Nggela): A perfect mix of history and natural beauty, the Florida Islands offer serene beaches, war relics, and stunning marine life.
14. Uepi Island: Renowned for its spectacular diving spots, Uepi Island is a paradise for underwater adventurers looking to explore coral reefs and marine trenches.
15. Western Province’s Eco Lodges: Stay in eco-friendly accommodations that offer sustainable tourism experiences, connecting you directly with nature and local communities.
Navigating the Waters: Weather and Water Terrain in the Solomon Islands
Download the PDF Guide: Navigating the Waters Weather and Water Terrain in the Solomon Islands (GS Agencies PDF4)
Welcome to the Solomon Islands, a majestic archipelago nestled in the heart of the Pacific. Renowned for its pristine waters and lush landscapes, the islands offer an unparalleled yachting experience. This fact sheet aims to guide you through the maritime climate, optimal yachting seasons, and the diverse water terrains you’ll encounter on your journey.
Maritime Climate Overview
The Solomon Islands enjoy a tropical rainforest climate, with temperatures consistently around 27°C (80°F) year-round. This equatorial paradise experiences two main seasons: the wet season from November to April, characterised by higher humidity and frequent rainfall, and the dry season from May to October, known for its milder weather and lower precipitation rates. The dry season is generally preferred by sailors for its more predictable weather patterns and comfortable sailing conditions.
Best Seasons for Yachting
While the Solomon Islands’ waters can be navigated year-round, the optimal period for yachting is during the dry season (May to October). During these months, you’ll enjoy clearer skies, steadier winds, and less frequent rainfall, making for ideal sailing conditions. Additionally, the visibility underwater improves significantly, enhancing the diving and snorkelling experience.
Water Terrain and Conditions
The Solomon Islands are surrounded by a variety of water terrains, from calm lagoons and sheltered bays to open ocean passages. The islands lie on the edge of the Pacific’s “Ring of Fire,” giving rise to a unique underwater topography of volcanic islands, coral atolls, and submerged reefs. Navigators will find waters teeming with life, including diverse coral ecosystems and a plethora of marine species.
- Calm Lagoons and Sheltered Bays: Ideal for beginners or those seeking a leisurely sail. These areas offer safe anchorages and are perfect for snorkelling, swimming, and paddleboarding.
- Open Ocean Passages: More suited to experienced sailors, these passages offer the thrill of open-water sailing. Conditions can vary, with stronger currents and wind patterns, providing an exhilarating challenge.
- Underwater Terrain: Divers and snorkelers will be delighted by the visibility and biodiversity found within the Solomon Islands’ waters. From WWII wrecks to vibrant coral gardens, the underwater landscape is as varied as it is fascinating.
Safety and Navigation Tips
Always check local weather forecasts before setting sail and remain vigilant for sudden weather changes.
Familiarise yourself with local sailing regulations and protected marine areas. Consider hiring a local guide for navigating through more complex terrains or for exploring off-the-beaten-path locations.
The Solomon Islands offer a yachting paradise for sailors of all skill levels. With its temperate climate, stunning water terrains, and rich biodiversity, the archipelago promises an unforgettable maritime adventure. Whether you’re here to explore the serene beauty of sheltered bays or the vast expanse of the open sea, the Solomon Islands beckon with the promise of discovery and exhilaration.
For a deeper dive into the Solomon Islands’ enchanting waters, consider consulting additional resources or local experts to ensure a safe and rewarding journey. Happy sailing!
Solomon Islands: Province Information for Yachting Tourists
Download the PDF Guide: Solomon Islands Province Information for Yachting Tourists (GS Agencies PDF3)
The below guide provides a snapshot of the unique offerings of each province in the Solomon Islands.
Choiseul Province: Choiseul offers a blend of adventure and natural beauty, featuring cascading waterfalls and serene local villages.
- Activities: Explore the lush landscapes, visit local villages to understand the unique culture, and keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles.
- Key Attraction: Choiseul Bay is a must-visit for its tranquillity and opportunities to witness unique wildlife in their natural habitat.
Isabel Province: Isabel, also known as Santa Isabel, is rich in biodiversity, including lush forestation, coconut plantations, and secluded mountain villages.
- Activities: Take treks through wild interiors, experience local traditional dances, and visit Hawksbill turtle breeding sites.
- Key Attraction: The Hawksbill turtle breeding sites offer a rare opportunity to see conservation efforts up close and personal.
Western Province: Comprising 11 main islands, the Western Province is a diverse and vibrant part of the Solomon Islands.
- Activities: Enjoy panoramic hikes, invigorating dives, market visits, and fishing in some of the clearest waters.
- Key Attraction: The myriad of islands provides a perfect backdrop for nature lovers, with Gizo offering a lively atmosphere and beautiful vistas.
Central Province: A diver’s paradise, the Central Province is home to some of the most fascinating underwater explorations in the Solomon Islands, with WWII wrecks and vibrant coral reefs.
- Activities: Dive into the history with underwater explorations of wrecks, snorkel among the coral reefs, and enjoy the serenity of the natural landscapes.
- Key Attraction: The coral reefs and WWII wrecks make for an unforgettable diving experience.
Guadalcanal Province: Guadalcanal, housing the capital city of Honiara, is a hub of activity.
- Activities: Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless hiking trails and diving spots, alongside significant WWII historical sites.
- Key Attraction: The WWII relics and the natural beauty of Guadalcanal’s landscapes offer a deep dive into the island’s past and present.
Malaita Province: Known for its cultural richness, Malaita features unique panpipe music, mountain villages, and a deeply rooted culture that dates back centuries.
- Activities: Experience the local culture through music and village visits, and immerse yourself in the island’s stunning natural beauty.
- Key Attraction: The mountain villages stand out for their cultural experiences and breath-taking views.
Temotu Province: Rich in history and natural beauty, Temotu offers an escape to a world of excellent diving, snorkelling spots, and captivating historical tales.
- Activities: Explore the crystal-clear waters, dive into history with visits to significant sites, and snorkel among the vibrant marine life.
- Key Attraction: The diving and snorkelling sites here are among the best, offering a glimpse into the underwater world and the islands’ past.
Rennell and Bellona Province: This province is home to the world’s largest uplifted coral atoll, featuring the unique Lake Tengano, surrounded by endemic species.
- Activities: Enjoy the tranquillity of Lake Tengano, engage in wildlife watching, and explore the natural wonders of the province.
- Key Attraction: Lake Tengano, with its calm waters and endemic species, offers a peaceful retreat into nature.
Makira-Ulawa Province: Makira-Ulawa is known for its rugged terrain, rich biodiversity, and strong cultural traditions. It offers a less-travelled path filled with natural beauty and cultural depth.
- Activities: Bird watching for the ornithologically inclined, cultural tours for a deeper understanding of the local way of life, and exploration of the lush landscapes.
- Key Attraction: The province’s untouched nature and vibrant culture make it a hidden gem for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist paths.
Solomon Islands: A Province-by-Province Tourist Guide
Download the PDF Guide: Solomon Islands A Province-by-Province Tourist Guide (GS Agencies PDF2)
Each of the provinces offers a unique slice of what makes the Solomon Islands a remarkable destination for yachting tourists. From diving in crystal-clear waters to exploring rich cultural traditions and breath-taking natural landscapes, there’s something for every adventurer in this Pacific paradise.
Choiseul Province
Choiseul offers an adventurous retreat with its cascading waterfalls, local villages, and untouched natural landscapes. Key attractions include snorkeling in the clear waters of Choiseul Bay and crocodile spotting. It’s a haven for those who love the outdoors and want to explore off the beaten path.
Isabel Province
Isabel, also known as Santa Isabel, is covered with dense forests, coconut plantations, and mountainous villages. It’s perfect for trekkers looking to explore wild interiors and for those interested in witnessing traditional dances and the breeding sites of endangered Hawksbill turtles.
Western Province
The Western Province is known for its verdant islands, white beaches, and the capital of Gizo. Here, tourists can enjoy open-air markets, invigorating hikes, stunning panoramic views, and excellent fishing spots. It’s the most developed area in the archipelago for tourists.
Central Province
The Central Province is a diver’s dream with its coral reefs and WWII wrecks ready for exploration. The province is rich in natural wonders and coconut groves, steeped in history and full of exciting experiences for visitors.
Guadalcanal Province
Guadalcanal is home to the capital city of Honiara and is abundant in natural wonders and landscapes. It offers unlimited hiking opportunities and diving spots where tourists can explore WWII wrecks along the coastline.
Malaita Province
Malaita is renowned for its unique panpipe bands, mountain villages, and rich culture. It offers unparalleled natural beauty and a host of unforgettable experiences, making it a must-visit for those interested in the cultural depth of the Solomon Islands.
Temotu Province
Temotu is rich in historical cultures and boasts gleaming sandy beaches, excellent diving, and snorkelling spots, plus a wealth of historical tales. It’s a province that offers a glimpse into the Solomon Islands’ past and present.
Rennell & Bellona Province
Rennell & Bellona is known for Rennell Island, the world’s largest raised coral atoll. Lake Tengano, a former lagoon, is the main feature here, offering outstanding views, calm crystal waters, and a habitat for endemic species.
This guide was enriched by the insights and expertise from various sources, including:
- YachtCharterFleet: www.yachtcharterfleet.com
- Adventures N Sunsets: www.adventuresnsunsets.com
- Out of Your Comfort Zone: www.outofyourcomfortzone.net
- FlySolomons: www.flysolomons.com
Solomon Islands A Yachting Paradise Guide
Download the PDF Guide: Solomon Islands A Yachting Paradise Guide (GS Agencies PDF1)
Welcome to the Solomon Islands, a hidden gem in the Pacific, perfect for yachting enthusiasts seeking an authentic and untouched paradise.
Discover the Provinces
The Solomon Islands are split into nine unique provinces: Choiseul, Isabel, Western, Central, Malaita, Guadalcanal, Makira, Temotu, and Rennell & Bellona. Each offers distinct experiences, from the cultural richness of Malaita to the historic allure of Guadalcanal, home to the capital city of Honiara.
Must-Visit Destinations
- Guadalcanal & Honiara: Start your journey in the capital, exploring WWII relics and diving spots.
- Munda (New Georgia Island): A diving paradise with spectacular reefs and WWII history.
- Ghizo Island & Gizo Town: Enjoy open-air markets, panoramic views, and unique dive sites.
- Savo Island: Known for its megapode birds, hot springs, and historical sites.
Hidden Gems
- Tulagi: Famous for its WWII sites and the ‘Iron Bottom Sound’ with an array of wreck dives.
- Marovo Lagoon: Offers pristine diving in crystal-clear waters, known for its stunning coral reefs and WWII wrecks.
- Rennell Island: The world’s largest raised coral atoll, featuring Lake Tengano, a haven for endemic species.
Yachting Specifics
With almost a thousand islands, the Solomon Islands present an unspoiled oasis. The waters are a diver’s dream, offering sunken warships, abundant coral reefs, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.
Cultural Insights
The Solomon Islands’ rich tapestry is woven with diverse cultures and traditions. From the unique gene that produces blonde hair among dark-skinned Melanesians to the fascinating history of WWII, there’s much to learn and experience.
Practical Information
- Climate: Enjoyable year-round, with a dry season from April to October, perfect for yachting and diving activities.
- Getting Around: Yachting is an ideal way to explore, but for inland adventures, local buses and taxis in Honiara are available. For more remote islands, consider arranging transport with your shipping agent
- Accommodation: Options range from eco-tourism friendly properties to more luxurious choices, depending on the island.
Final Tips
For an immersive experience, dive into the local culture, try the traditional betelnut, and if possible, participate in a local dance or music session. Remember, the Solomon Islands are a place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature and simplicity.
This guide barely scratches the surface of what the Solomon Islands have to offer. We hop you enjoy your journey through the Solomon Islands, a true paradise waiting to be discovered.
This guide was enriched by the insights and expertise from various sources, including:
- YachtCharterFleet: www.yachtcharterfleet.com
- Adventures N Sunsets: www.adventuresnsunsets.com
- Out of Your Comfort Zone: www.outofyourcomfortzone.net
- FlySolomons: www.flysolomons.com
Yachting around the Solomon Islands
For anyone taking a trip to the Solomon Islands, one of your immediate concerns is likely to stem from how you get around the place. Locations such as this can often be a challenge to navigate, which might make getting around a touch tougher for you than you would have originally intended. If you would like to avoid such an issue, then we recommend that you consider taking part in a yachting experience.
Yachting around the Solomon Islands is a very easy, luxurious way to travel. Many people choose to take the yacht experience as it allows them to see more of the islands. From a spot of pacific fishing to catch something special to watching the crocodiles and other amazing wildlife go about their business, a yacht trip in the Solomon Islands is by no means a bad idea. You will also be able to make sure you can enjoy seeing a bit more of the islands, where your unspoiled view from the sea often makes it look even more impressive.
There is much to see and explore when you take a trip here, which is one of the main reasons why people come here. Why, though, do so many choose to go yachting around the Solomon Islands?
What’s to do on a yacht trip around the Solomon Islands?
- Visit the coconut plantations. With your yacht, all you need to do is take a trip to the Isabel Province. You will see stunning plantations and mountain-based villages, with numerous treks available if you choose to dock up. Great for seeing the amazing work that goes on here on a daily basis.
- See the ‘other’ world. Take a trip out to the Central Province and bring some diving equipment. A quick trip under the sea will help you to see a huge amount of underwater exploration, with natural wonders and amazing coral reefs to explore, still untouched by the excesses of society.
- Head to the Guadalcanal. An absolute must for passionate explorers, here you will find the amazing city of Honiara, the capital. You’ll also be able to enjoy hopping underwater from the yacht to take on underwater diving trips of old WWII wreckages and other similar wreckages along the beaches.
- Listen to the sounds of the Solomon Islands. All that you need to do is head on over to the Malaita Province, where you will hear the amazing panpipe music of the locals. It’s a fascinating location that has a very old-school culture, making it easy to immerse yourself in the lifestyle of these amazing people.
- Take in the sealife. For those who enjoy a spot of fishing, take your yacht over to the Western Province, where you will find some amazing fishing spots. Ask around for a local guide, and they can take you to the locations where you will find the finest catches.
Yachting in the Solomon Islands is an untapped method of exploration that allows you to see this amazing location for all that it is worth. If you wish to have total control over where you go, then, consider yachting around the Solomon Islands.
List of Activities in the Solomon Islands that Tourists Can Participate
When you come to the Solomon Islands, one thing that you might find hard to work out is what to do. Unlike other nations, this is not a location populated by tourist traps and other such tricks to keep you busy. Instead, many of the events which tourists can take part in enjoying will seem a little different from the norm. Taking a trip here to the Solomon Islands, though, is never going to be the ‘normal’ holiday experience – in fact, it’s quite exceptional instead.
So, what can you do if you choose to come here as a tourist?
Explore on your own
Part of the fun of the Solomon Islands is that you are not constrained by tourist spots and the like. You can go for a hike; you could go for a dive or you could go for a kayaking trip. Whatever you want to do, the untouched natural paradise of the Solomon Islands will make sure you have all the opportunities to simply lose hours exploring.
Learn the past
Part of what makes this location so special is its unique and satisfying history. We recommend that you take a trip around the Solomon Islands and visit various cultural hot spots. For example, you can easily take one of the numerous tours to see the old WWII relics and spots of war.
You’ll find everything from old war slots to locations where the skulls of the fallen still sit out in plain sight – it’s one for those who like to put themselves front and center with a history.
Take a trip
From a trip to the amazing Marovo lagoon in the Western province to a visit to the amazing underwater diving wrecks at the Toa Maru, you can take your trip underwater or stay above the water – whatever you prefer.
Free from having to stick to dull tourist markets and the like, you can enjoy exploring an untouched piece of natural paradise. You might even wish to head over to Lake Tegano, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Also, be sure to come to the Kavachi underwater volcano in the Ngatokae area: an absolute must-see.
Surf with freedom
Another fine example of just how fun the Solomon Islands comes from the fact that you have numerous opportunities for enjoying a unique surfing experience. Here, you will be able to take part in surfing along the Lau Lagoon in Malaita, or the Tagovave on the Guadalcanal.
You will find that part of the fun here is getting to take on the elements, using the perfect landscape to make sure you can have some fun and really integrate with nature.
Meet the people
Lastly, we recommend that you just spend some time mingling with the many amazing people of the Solomon Islands. Head on down to Honiara, and you will soon find yourself experimenting with local cuisine, meeting people from the Solomons, and simply engaging with a new culture that totally different from your own. The people here are part of the attraction, too!
For more tourist information on the Solomon Islands we recommend looking through this site: www.visitsolomons.com.sb
Diving Around the Solomon Islands
When you arrive in the Solomon Islands, you will immediately be caught up in its rampant natural beauty. Few locations offer the promise of a rich and satisfying life quite like the Solomon Islands. However, part of what makes coming here so fun is that you can take part in the immense diving opportunities around the islands themselves. Not sure why you should come here? Then if you appreciate diving, use that as your reason.
Whether you choose to dive around the capital of Honiara or you choose to go to the more rustic Gizo and Munda locations, you’ll find plenty of amazing diving experiences to take on. Let’s take a look at what some of the most popular diving spots on the islands are, though.
Capable of seeing as much as 15m in front of you as you move, sometimes you’ll be able to see as much as 30m in front of you. the diving ranges can go as far as 80ft deep, too, so you will be able to enjoy a lot of deep diving here. What, though, waits for you if you are happy to go under the sea?
See the ‘other’ side of the Solomon Islands
Part of the best diving experience that you will likely find here is the deeply satisfying trip from Gizo to Honiara. If you were to take a trip from the provincial capital to the national capital, you’ll come across all manner of marine life and wrecks to see.
Take a quick trip under the water of the province, and you will very quickly get to enjoy some truly special sights. Indeed, one sight we recommend that you go and see is the famous island where former United States President John F. Kennedy met a Japanese torpedo when aboard the PT-109.
Also, be sure to take a trip under the sea as you’ll get to enjoy some amazing sights along the way – many underwater wrecks and coral reefs exist for you to go through. However, we recommend that you do this with the help of a diving guide: the area is so diverse, a non-local may find it hard to navigate.
Take a trip to Munda
Outside of the vast expanse of things to see from Gizo to Honiara, we recommend that you head on over to Munda as well. This offers some amazing underground caverns and coral gardens for you to sail through. You’ll also find numerous plane wrecks from the Second World War, which are well worth exploring.
However, if you wish to really see the amazing side of the Solomon Islands, dive underwater with a guide. You’ll come into contact with everything from Whitetip Reef sharks, Hammerhead sharks, Dogtooth Tuna fish, Barracuda, and various other pelagics.
You’ll also see things like the Pygmy Seahorse and the Fiery Dartfish. For lovers of nature and ecology, this is almost certainly something that you should look to check out under the sea.
Diving in the Solomon Islands is easily among the most satisfying way to enjoy this untouched paradise. Come here, and you will soon get to appreciate the rich quality of life which awaits both underwater and above the sea.
Introducing Honiara, the capital of Solomon Islands
For anyone coming to the Solomon Islands, a trip to the capital of Honiara is almost a requirement. This is the cultural hub of the whole islands and plays a major role in the development of the wider nation. Often your first port of call upon arrival, you will find this makes it perfect for you to take your time visiting the various parts of the archipelago.
Indeed, head back a decade and you would have found nothing more than a small port town. Massive urbanization of the city, though, has seen it become one of the busiest points in the region. At first, you might feel a little let down by the architecture and the layout of the city, with little ‘tourist traps’ to capture you. That, though, will soon disperse – take a look into the deeper heart of Honiara, and it grows on you very quickly.
Part of what makes a trip to the capital of the Solomon Islands so fun is that you just get to enjoy its total freedom. Head to most capital cities, and the desire to be economically viable ensures the heart and soul of capital often goes missing. However, take a trip through the bustling old-school marketplace, or take refuge in the many Melanesian museums, and you will get to enjoy a capital city with its heart well and truly still intact.
What should I do in Honiara?
Part of what makes a trip here so fun and so satisfying, though, is the immense nature of the things to see and do from here. For example, you could easily take part in the numerous range of outdoor activities waiting for you in places like Guadalcanal.
We recommend that you take the time to check out the beautiful Botanical Gardens and also take a trip to the National Parliament. One offers you a sense of natural beauty and immense beauty, the other shows you the massive change which has taken place in this nation.
In terms of things to do and see, you should also check out their fine culinary ranges. From outstanding Indian cuisine at the Taj Mahal to a trip to the Hukubai restaurant for some Japanese foods, you’ll find all manner of awesome cuisine to try out. for something a touch more local, check out The Ofis or Mambo Juice.
For those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, a trip to the White River Village is a must-have. This awesome little Gilbertese settlement sits just outside of the capital, and it’s famous for its amazing betel nuts. Take a trip down here, and you will soon appreciate just how well-respected and appreciated the betel nut is!
Overall, though, a trip to the capital of Honiara is something you absolutely must take part in. Few capital cities can feel like such a fine example of their nation’s culture and overall style. Here, you should immediately feel at home – and, crucially, feel welcome in the Solomon Islands.