VANUATU

Vanuatu is the last group of islands we visit in the South Pacific before Australia. We are moored in Port Vila, Efate. We flew to Tanna to see the active volcano (note the co-pilot). The natives speak a form of pigeon English which looks impossible until we speak it as it is spelt. Again we were well entertained with local fierce dancing. This was where Rev John Williams was eaten. Waiting for a weather break to leave for Mackay in Australia. Should take 10 days.

FIJI

We arrived in Fiji at Savu Savu which is on one of the bigger islands. Savu Savu is a working town with local atmosphere. We were welcomed with a Kava ceremony

at the Coprashed. Kava tastes of boiled socks and looks like dishwater. Cannot see what the locals get out of it unless it has a cumulative effect. Had to join the locals in wearing the Sula (Fijian skirt). All parts of the coconut palm are used including the leaves to make baskets. We spent a week cruising inside the reef to Musket Cove a holiday resort just off the main island in the south. We are now chilling out again! Leaving for Vanuatu in a day or two which should take 4 days.

TONGA

The Pacific Ocean is not always peaceful. Tonga is made up of a group of islands with some beautiful anchorages. The atmosphere is very laid back. The boys and men wear Tongan skirts and often have rush matting around the waist. Very strange vegetables in the market. Basket making is very common.