Cheap “do it yourself’ trips around Port Vila are: Visit the Cascade Waterfalls (bus 200 Vatu one-way, entrance fee 1000 Vatu), take the ferry to Erakor Island and hang out/swim at the beach for free (bus 200 Vatu one-way), take the ferry to Iririki Island (free), walk to the lookout and sit on the beach. Or take the ferry to Hideaway Island (bus 200 Vatu one-way, ferry 500 Vatu return) and spend the day snorkelling around the island or at the beach.


Places to stay for backpackers in and around Port Vila would be for example: Erakor Island (Starfish Lodge), Hideaway Island, Room with a view, Vila Hibiscus, Treetops Lodge, Wild Pig Hotel, Hotel Formule Holiday or La Maison Blue. Some of them have cooking facilities in the rooms, some have a share-kitchen. Enquire before booking I would say. Having access to a kitchen is a good way to save lots of money that you could use for much better things! A new place named “City Lodge” just opened in the middle of town (opposite the markets). Double room with ensuite bathroom costs 4700 Vatu. Shower is very good, the only downside is that the beds are a bit too hard.