Travel Bug

Issue 55 - September 2009

Vanuatu Tourism Awards Entries Invited

Now in its 5th year, Vanuatu is set to recognize the 2009 “Tourism Stars”. We are pleased to advise that entries are now being accepted in the 2009 Vanuatu Tourism Awards. This year’s award categories give tourism operators and associated entities an opportunity to be recognised for their contribution to Vanuatu tourism.

The 2009 Award Categories are: Best Resort, Best Hotel, Best Boutique Accommodation, Best Self Contained Accommodation, Best Standard / Low Cost Accommodation, Best Outer Island Accommodation, Best Employee – Front of House, Best Employee – Back of House, Best Tour Guide, Best Cultural Tour, Best Scenic Tour, Best Adventure/Eco tour, Green Award, Best Restaurant / Catering Services, Best New Tourism Business, Best Specialist Tourism Business, Outstanding Contribution (by and individual) to Vanuatu Tourism. (Source: VTO Island Nius)

Tripadvisor rates Nirvana Resort top Specialty Lodging

Nirvana Resort has been rated top Port Vila Specialty Lodging in Tripadvisor. Even though Nirvana has only opened a few months ago, its’ first lot of guests are already raving about the resort in Tripadvisor. As a result, Nirvana’s popularity has upped the par and is placed number one in Tripadvisor, under Specialty Lodging in Port Vila category.

Nirvana Resort is 18kms from the airport, and a world away from daily realities. The resort is small and unpretentious, presiding over private white sand beach of Paradise Cove bay. Here guests relax and exchange stories in Nirvana’s handmade beach hut that is secluded but not isolated with extraordinary sunsets melting into the horizon. (Source: VTO Island Nius)

The ATR-72 aircraft expected by October

Air Vanuatu’s acting Chief Executive Officer Dimitri Politis has confirmed the national carrier will be taking delivery of a brand new ATR-72 aircraft by October this year. The new aircraft will enable more capacity from Tanna and Santo to Vila as well as regional international flights to Fiji and Noumea. “We are very excited about the arrival of the new aircraft. It will help with increased traffic to the islands, particularly Tanna, Santo and Pentecost,” Mr. Politis said.

The airline is currently preparing the schedule for the ATR and is looking at international connections for Santo and Tanna, the acting CEO said. “The domestic market has grown significantly, at times it has been difficult to keep up with demand. “Upgrading from the ATR-42 to the 72 will enable an additional 320 passengers a week to fly from Vila to Santo and at least 180 more to Tanna,” Mr. Politis said. Business and tourism groups throughout the country have welcomed confirmation of delivery of the ATR-72. (Source: VTO Island Nius)

Tui Lodge - hot new property on Ambae island

The 8th Tui Lodge is a newly established accommodation property at Saratamata, east Ambae island - catered to suit any taste of travelers with six (6) appointed rooms, hot/cold running water, self contained kitchen and a large living room. The property, which has just released a beautiful flyer designed by JAMConsulting , also has an in-house restaurant serving appealing menus to compliment your stay.

For a little adventure, your local host can also organise trekking tours up to Lake Vui and Lake Manaro, camping options are available for interested guests. Other tours can be arranged to cultural sites and historical sites in the area. All tour packages comes with a friendly local guide and land transport. For more information, contact the Lodge on +678 5379267. Email: bookattuilodge@gmail.com. Tui Lodge is a proud member of Penama Tourism Association.

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