Solomon Islands

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Welkam

The Solomon Islandsto

Welkam to the Solomon Islands, where ancient civilisation meets the modern world, where beauty and tranquillity are part of everyday life.If you’re visiting the Solomon’s for the first time, you’re sure to be swayed by its irrestible charm: the generous nature of the locals, the remarkable beauty of its pristine waters and the untouched war history that abounds throughout the region.

The Solomon Islands was first settled by the Melanesian people over four thousand years ago and many old traditions endure today. Locals, for one, are still deeply committed to village life.

Villages are located in small pockets in the region and the villagers speak their own language and regard members of the community as family.

To be regarded as wealthy, a Melanesian person will donate all that he can to his village, which is at odds with the typical understanding of wealth in the western world. This is probably why a Solomon Islander will go to great lengths to assist anybody who is in need.

The Solomon Islands has nine provinces in total: Central, Choiseul, Guadalcanal, Malaita, Makira and Ulawa, Rennell and Bellona, Temotu, Western and Ysabel. The Guadalcanal is the most well known province due to the fact that it is home to the country’s capital, Honiara.

There are nine hundred and ninety two islands in the Solomon’s region, three hundred and forty seven of which are inhabited.

For more information on the Solomon Islands, please visit www.visitsolomons.com.sb.

WelkamtoThe Solomon Islands

The population of the Solomon Islands is approximated at six hundred thousand people. Nonetheless, the population could easily be more due to the remoteness of many parts of the country.

Solomon Islands

Pidgin

ReligionAbout 95% of the population in the Solomon Islands is Christian. The principal religions are: Church of Melanesia (Anglican) about 25%; Roman Catholic 19%; South Seas Evangelical 17%; United Church (Methodist) 11%; and Seventh Day Adventist 10%. More recently, new religions have made an impact notably the Bahai’s faith, Jehovah’s Witness, Assemblies of God and Baptist.

The Holy Cross Catholic Catherdral in Honiara is the most prominent church in the region.

LanguageLanguageThere are ninety local languages spoken in the Solomon Islands with English and Pidgin being the official languages.Officially English is spoken in education, business and government circles in the Solomon Islands. But if this is your first visit to a South Pacific country, you’ll be enchanted by the language that is called Pidgin, Bislama or Tok Pisin.

Based on a torrid history, Pidgin was developed in the 1800s by blackbirders - traders who needed a way to communicate with the locals with the intent of luring them onto ships for plantation labour abroad. Many locals were sent to the canefields in Australia.

Interestingly, most of the traditional South Pacific languages are still spoken today. Hence why Melanesians speak a number of languages, including Ples Tok (the language of their home village), Pidgin, English and other local languages that are often learnt by virtue of moving villages during the course of marriage and so forth.

Many Pidgin words are easily translated if you speak English, but don’t take this for granted. Like all languages, grammatical rules exist in Pidgin. For example, “Fla” is used in front of most nouns and follows adjectives; so to say “the big house” you would say “big f la haus”. Nonetheless, there are exceptions to the rules. Some adverbs are formed by using two words, such as the word for “little” which is “lik lik”. With these types of words you do not use “fla”. To say “little house” you just say “lik lik haus”.

Useful

Phrases• THANK YOU

Tanggio

• THANK YOU VERY MUCH Tanggio tumas

• YES Yia

• NO Nomoa

• GOOD / EXCELLENT Gud tumas / nambawan

• GOOD TO SEE YOU Gud for lukim yu

• I AM PLEASED TO MEET YOU Mi hapi tumas fo lukim yu

• WHERE IS THE POST OFFICE? Wea nao Pos ofis ia?

• WHAT IS YOUR NAME? Wanem blo yu?

• WHERE DO YOU COME FROM? Yu blo wea?

• WHAT DO YOU DO? Wanem nao waka blo iu? Wanem nao iu duim?

• WHERE ARE YOU GOING? Yu go we?

• HELP! Helpem mi!

• CAN I ASK YOU A QUESTION? Mi save askem yu wanfala kuesten?

• HOW ARE YOU? Yu hao?

• I AM FINE, THANKS Mi oraet, tanggio tumas

• CAN I HAVE ONE SOLBREW PLEASE? Mi laekem wanfala Solbru plis

• WOULD YOU MIND WAITING? Hem oraet sapos yu weit

• I WALK Bae mi wokabaut

• THAT’S RIGHT / THAT’S IT Hem nao / hem stret

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FantasticDay TripsIf you’re in Honiara for a weekend, you can drive just 30 minutes west to Bonegi Beach to swim, picnic, snorkel and dive. There are two Japanese war wrecks here, the Hirokawa and Kinugawa - commonly referred to as Bonegi I and Bonegi II. Rainbow coloured coral and rare fish species are abundant in the region, so you won’t be disappointed by a snorkelling or dive adventure.

There is a fee of around $50SBD per car associated with using beaches, which is generally paid on departure. The fee supports the local community and helps to maintain the beaches. Please ensure that you keep your vehicle locked when unattended. If you don’t have transport, there’s a number of small operators that will take you out to local beaches on short notice. Ask at reception for recommendations.

You could easily spend a leisurely day in Aruligo, which is situated further west of Honiara. Kick back and relax on hammocks by the beach, or swim and take in some snorkelling. Fishing is also available for anyone keen to

see what the waters have to offer. Heading southwest past Cape Esperance, you’ll encounter the villlage of Tambea. Tambea is home to a landmark monument which commemorates those who died during the Guadalcanal Campaign. The area also serves as the exit point where 10,000 Japanese soldiers left Guadalcanal. Not too far from Tambea’s shores, the I-1 Japanese submarine offers great diving. Grounded by the Royal New Zealand Navy in 1942, this fascinating historical relic now showcases a kaleidoscope of colourful fish and coral who call the submarine home.

A short stay doesn’t discount a trip out to the Florida Islands. The Florida Islands played an integral part in the region’s war history as it functioned as the backdrop to the most pivotal battle. Tulagi, the main township, is the perfect place to embark on a World War II (WWII)tour, and is also a popular diving location with wrecks USS Kanawha, USS Aaron Ward and HMNZS Moa in the vicinity. Contact Tulagi Dive on 25 700 for dive tour information. Be sure to travel out to the Florida Islands with a licenced operator.

Honiara is the capital of the Solomon Islands. With a population of over 64,000 people, it reigns as the commercial hub of the region. The National Parliament located on Hibiscus Avenue boasts a diverse range of traditional art, while the National Museum and Cultural Centre on Mendana Avenue houses some fascinating cultural displays and imagery.

If you have time, visit the Botanical Gardens on Lenggakiki Street, which is an oasis for nature enthusiasts. The gardens are open from 8am-4pm Monday to Friday and entry is by donation.

If you’re interested in war history, you can visit the US War Memorial, located a 30-minute walk from Mendana Avenue. The memorial honours the lives lost in battles undertaken during the Guadalcanal Campaign.

Wantok Inbound Tours and Travel Services, run by Francis Deve, offer an array of land packages including a tour along the Maryuma Trail. For more information and bookings, please call 747 3290.

Taxis are available in Honiara and charge around $10SBD to travel around town. If you want to rent a car, there’s a number of rental options in Honiara. Alternatively, if you want a fun way of getting around the island you can hire a bike and explore it this way.

DiningOutBamboo Cafe Hibiscus Ave • Ph: 21 205

Cafe El-Shaddai Highway Plaza • Ph: 25 005

Capitana Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel • Ph: 20 071

Club Havanah / Mandarine Restaurant Honiara Hotel • Ph: 21 737

Monarch Bar / Casablanca Restaurant Iron Bottom Sound Hotel • Ph: 28 633

Hakubai Solomon Kitano Mendana Hotel • Ph: 20 071

Heritage Park Hotel Mendana Ave • Ph: 24 007

Lime Lounge Commonwealth St • Ph: 23 064

Doug & Moddies Place Seaside Kukim • Ph: 779 4942

Sea King Restaurant Off Mendana Ave

The Ofis Mendana Hwy • Ph: 20 334

Gizo, located on Ghizo Island, is the capital of the Western Province. Today, Gizo is a renowned tourist hub boasting world class water activities.Flights to Gizo, a short one-hour trip from Honiara, depart daily. Once you arrive in Gizo, it’s easy to travel to the many tourist destinations.

The western region offers some great snorkelling. Nusatupe Island, just off Ghizo where the airstrip is located, features a clam farm where you can snorkel for giant clams. Kennedy Island, the island that John F Kennedy swam to from the sunken PT 109, is a Mecca for viewing beautiful coral and marine life. You can hire snorkelling gear from Fatboy’s and have the island virtually to yourself.

Gizo is a popular destination for diving. Toa Maru - a premier dive site in the South Pacific, Secret Spot, Grand Central Station and American Hellcat Fighter Plane are just a few of the exciting dives that can be undertaken in the region. For more information, contact Dive Gizo on 60 253.

While surfing is still relatively new to the Solomon’s, this doesn’t mean the waves don’t measure up. In fact, between October and April, waves swell to two metres and more. Pailongge on the south coast offers solid point surfing while closer to Titiana you can access a left hand reef break. Dive Gizo has guided surf tours with a local so you know exactly where to catch the best waves.

For fishing enthusiasts there’s plenty of reef and game fishing in the region. Haul in a catch of marlin, dogtooth tuna, Spanish mackerel, bass, giant trevally, just to name a few. Ask your accommodation establishment to recommend a fishing charter.

Gizo DiningOut Fatboys Café & Bar Fatboys Resort • Ph: 744 3107

Lamasa Middenway Road

Nguzu Nguzu Gizo Hotel, Middenway Road • Ph: 60 199

PT 109 Middenway Road

SB Bar Sanbis Resort • Ph: 744 3109

ShoppingGizo offers visitors the essentials with basic food supplies, a butcher and a gift shop. The Gizo Market is open weekdays selling local produce and seafood, with some vendors operating on weekends. Dive Gizo has a gift shop, which is worth visiting. An ANZ ATM and and a Bank South Pacific with Western Union outlet are available in Gizo with internet access available in some office stores.

North east of Ghizo Island sits Kolombangara Volcano. Extending 1,700 metres in height, it takes around two days to trek. The hike offers spectacular views, but be mindful the track is remote and steep. South west, on Simbo Island, the volcanic landscape offers perfect conditions for megapodes to incubate their eggs. Trekking to the volcanic centre takes two hours through thick rainforest.

Solomon’stheDiscover

Get active and trek to the top of waterfalls and volcanoes or take it easy and relax under the shade of a palm tree. One thing is for sure, your trip will not be complete if you haven’t gotten wet!

VOLCANOESSavo, Simbo, Tinakula and Kavachi are four renowned active volcanoes in the Solomon’s. Visitors can enjoy a trekking adventure to Savo and Simbo, which are both low scale volcanoes that feature hot springs, hot mud pools, steam and sulfur.

Tinakula is the most active volcano in the region located in the Temotu Province. The volcano billows smoke and steam on a daily basis and, occasionally without warning, erupts. Kavachi is a submarine volcano and erupts at least once a year to form an island of larvae before being washed away by the ocean current. It then lies idle, bubbling hot water and gas until another year comes around.

WATERFALLSThere are a number of great walks to waterfalls and caves around Honiara. The waterfalls below are well worth a visit, both for their scenery and accessibilty.

• Mataniko Waterfall and Caves

• Tenaru Waterfall

• Barana Cave and Waterfall

• Borare Cascade

• Kahove Waterfall

SURFINGMore surf breaks have been discovered so be the first to surf new breaks in one of the world’s last surfing frontiers. Enjoy the uncrowded surf perfection of this natural and cultural environment. The best season for waves is October to April when the North Pacific awakens. Long period ground swells regularly hit exposed north facing coasts including Malaita, Ysabel and Makira. The same swells which hit the North Shore of Hawaii reach the Solomon’s some days later - at a reduced size over a longer period. Swells are usually 2 to 6 feet but can be bigger. Less reliable southerly swells reach south coasts of Western and Guadalcanal Provinces during the same season from depressions in the coral sea and also occasionally in the winter time from long period swells from the Tasman.

BEACHESThe Solomon Islands is made up of both volcanic islands and coral atolls, each with its unique features of fine white bleached coral sand or striking black volcanic sand. The The Kitano Mendana Hotel and the Point Cruz Yacht Club are the only two places in Honiara that offer a short stretch of white sandy beach. Nonetheless, there are lots of great beaches and picnic spots along the western coast of Honiara. Bonegi Beach, a 30-minute drive from Honiara, is definitely worth a visit, with many beaches dotted along the way.

RAFTING Ko Kama Rafting Adventures offers a Lunga River Day Trip where visitors can enjoy the thrill of rafting through pristine rainforest while taking in the natural surrounds. For bookings and enquiries, call Anita on 749 4777.

FISHINGThe waters of the Solomon Islands are renowned for big game, reef, wreck, beach and estuary fishing. The action is unparalleled and the waters are virtually unspoiled by commercial fishing. You can troll along the sheer drop-offs for Spanish mackerel, wahoo and dog-tooth tuna or cast into the surf for giant trevally, red bass and coral trout. The serious game fishermen can pursue Pacific sailfish, blue, black and striped marlin, and yellow fin tuna. In the quiet jungle rivers you can catch mangrove jack, estuary cods, brassy trevally and spot tail bass.

ARTIFICIAL ISLANDSMan made artificial islands exist on the Langa Langa Lagoon and Lau Lagoon (Malaita Province) and on Duff Island (Temotu Province). These islands have been built by locals with skills that have been handed down from one generation to the next. The largest, oldest and most densely inhabited of these Islands is Sulufou in the Lau Lagoon. In the Langa Langa Lagoon visitors have the opportunity to experience life on an artificial island first hand.

TETEPARE ISLANDCloaked in rainforest and fringed with biodiverse reefs, Tetepare is the largest uninhabited island in the South Pacific, and home to a leading conservation project and locally-run ecolodge. The island’s beaches support nesting populations of three species of turtle including the endangered leatherback turtle. Other species inhabiting the island and surrounding waters include the dugong, the endemic Tetepare white-eye, hornbills, tiny pygmy parrots, huge bump-headed parrot fish, barracuda and pods of inquisitive dolphins.

SAVO ISLANDFrom Vila, it’s 20 minutes by boat to Sunset Lodge on Savo Island. The lodge offers tours, one of which is an early morning sightseeing venture to search for the local megapode. What makes the megapode so fascinating is that, contrary to other bird species, it buries its eggs deep into the earth to incubate them. Locals are known to harvest a sustainable portion of the eggs for eating. Other tours on offer include two volcano treks: one is an easy, family-friendly walk and the other involves a three hour trek through rainforest and areas where lava once flowed. Sunset Lodge has a bar and restaurant if you’re after refreshments, and dolphins are often seen frolicking in the waters here.

FLORIDA ISLANDSAlso known as the Nggela Islands, the main islands here are Nggela Sule and Tulagi. Tulagi served as the Solomon’s capital up until 1942 during the period when WWII afflicted the region. In the same year, the Japanese built a seaplane base on Tulagi but shortly afterwards the Americans gained control of the island in a counter-attack. Today, Nggela Sule and Tulagi are known for their great diving and snorkelling. War tours are also available on the islands.

Solomon’sDiving in the Solomon Islands is reputed to be the best in the world. There are war wrecks scattered all throughout the waters of the Solomon’s. The variety of war relics coupled with pristine waters, tropical reefs, turtles, rare shark species, whales, orcas and dugongs catapult the Solomon Islands into a class of its own. Unlike many countries that offer diving, the Solomon Islands genuinely delivers the full gamut. Whether you are a seasoned diver, or a beginner looking to get your certificate, you will treasure diving in the Solomon’s.

Dive operators in the Solomon’s are all world class and you can rest assured you’re in safe hands. There are numerous diving companies who offer dive courses, day dives and even week long dive adventures.

Contact the Visitors Bureau in Honiara on 22 442 or visit www.visitsolomons.com.sb for a comprehensive list of tour operators.

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TheMonumentAs Japanese forces advanced on the Solomon’s, the Royal Australian Navy assembled an organisation known as The Coastwatchers. It called on Colonial officers and European volunteers who were living in the Solomon’s to hide in enemy territory and report on Japanese activities. The initiative was implemented before American involvement in the Solomon’s.

The local Solomon Islander scouts were the eyes and ears of the Coastwatchers. For each one of the twenty or so volunteer Coastwatchers, there were many more Solomon Islanders hiding and feeding them. The Solomon Islanders spied on the Japanese and warned of Japanese patrols. They also passed on intelligence to the Coastwatchers who in turn reported this to headquarters. The Coastwatcher organisation provided information that was critical to winning the battle for the Solomon’s.

The Monument on Commonwealth Street in Honiara depicts the efforts of the Solomon Scouts and Coastwatchers. Visiting dignitaries and Royals place wreaths at the base of The Monument to show their respect for the brave efforts of the Solomon Scouts. The most renowned scout was Major Jacob Charles Vouza. A monument celebrating the life of Major Vouza can be seen outside the Rove Police Station.

A Solomon Islands Pacific War Centre has been proposed for the future and will be located in a WWII Quonset Hut which will feature interactive displays.

The Solomon Islands asserts a harsh modern history, with World War II having a major impact on the region. Today visitors can visit the many battlefields across the Solomon’s to ascertain just how the final battle was won.

THE BATTLE OF GUADALCANALIn August 1942, the United States (US) began its first land offensive in WWII. It was an American assault on the adjoining Solomon Islands and the Japanese-held island of Guadalcanal. US Marines stormed ashore on the 7th August to win control of the new Japanese constructed airfield now known as Henderson Field and drive the Japanese from the Island of Guadalcanal. Guadalcanal was the most easterly advance by the Japanese as they tried to win control of the Pacific.

In an epic six month land, sea and air battle 38,000 soldiers, sailors and airmen from both sides lost their lives in the fighting. Victory or defeat, however, was in the balance several times with the US assaulting with newly trained troops against the more experienced Japanese forces. Irresistibly the growing might of the US prevailed and took its forces all the way to final victory in the WWII and occupation of Japan. That first step on the road to Tokyo took place on Guadalcanal, the most famous battle in the region ranked by many as the turning point in the war in the Pacific.

THE BATTLEFIELDSThe US memorial on Hill 73 overlooking the Matanikau River provides a wonderful panorama of Iron Bottom Sound and the famous battle ridges - Galloping Horse and Sea Horse. Meanwhile the Japanese observation post on Mount Austen offers spectacular and tactical views overlooking Henderson Field and the Eastern Battlefields.

Nearby you can visit the battle site that took place on the 3rd December 1942 between Japanese forces and the famous Carlson’s “Gung Ho” Marine Raiders.

The Battle of Tenaru, enroute to Edson’s Bloody Ridge, was the first attempt by the Japanese to regain the airstrip (Henderson Field) and was the first major battle that took place on Guadalcanal itself. Edson’s Bloody

Ridge is the site where, on the 12th of September 1942, Japanese forces led by General Kawaguchi attacked US positions on Hills 1 and 2 (Bloody Ridge) adjacent to Henderson Field. The Battle for the Ridge is probably the best known and most famous battle that took place on Guadalcanal.

Crossing the twenty miles of Iron Bottom Sound to Tulagi, reenact what can be regarded as the first step taken by US forces on the long road to Tokyo. Vist the landing spots of the US forces, which were fiercely resisted by the Japanese. For those inclined, snorkel over a Japanese Kawanishi f lying boat just off the wharf at Gavutu. Travelling on to Purvis Bay see the LST342, which broke in half after being hit by a Japanese torpedo. The floating front half was towed to Purvis Bay and beached.

Back on Guadalcanal, visit the area of Coffin Corner, Brigg’s Outpost, Fighter 1, Fighter 3 and the Crash strip. On the 25th October, 1942, the Japanese soldiers from the famous Sendai division using the Maryuma Trail attacked US positions defending this area. For two nights Chesty Puller’s 1st Battalion 7th Marines and the army’s 164th Infantry successfully held off possibly the most dangerous threat on the airfield. Visitors can view the wartime front lines and the position where John Basilone earned his Medal of Honor, and then proceed on to Red Beach, the site of the Original Landing at Guadalcanal. On the 7th August 1942 the 5th Marines and the 1st Marines landed on Red Beach and began the land battle of Guadalcanal. Additionally, visit Carney Field and the Koli Point area, scene of the November actions for the 7th Marines and 164th Infantry and the many Amtracks left after the war.

Tours of the battlefields are a must for visitors to the Solomon Islands, which range from brief two hour tours to a full week-long tour. Tours can be organised through the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau.

War History

Solomon Islands

www.avis.com

Bushwalkingin theSolomon’sBushwalking in the Solomon’s is a unique and exhilarating experience. The tracks and trails vary from easy flat walks to difficult hikes such as Mt. Makarakomburu, which towers at 2,447 metres.If you have time and haven’t planned for any difficult overnight treks, take advantage of some readily accessible walks within a short distance of Honiara. Walks include Mataniko Waterfall and Water Caves, Tenaru Waterfall, Kahove Waterfall, Mt. Austen, Tina River, Bonege River and Savo Island.

The Mataniko River is a large river that passes under the Kukum Highway in the Chinatown area. The famous falls are found further inland and can be easily located by visitors. From Honiara, simply turn right at the roundabout, cross over the bridge and then turn right again to follow the river inland. You will need to ask for directions when you get further inland, but don’t worry as Solomon Islanders are always only too happy to give directions.

The Mataniko walk is not a stroll, so be sure to wear good footwear and pack snacks and a drink to ensure that you get the most from your experience. Mataniko Falls is a veritable oasis so, once you arrive, be sure to indulge in a cool swim, a slide on the rocks or just relax by the edge.

If you want to experience something a little more remote, then try Tenaru Waterfall. A 2 hour trek through the bush (each way), this waterfall is well worth a visit. The walk to Tenaru is fairly easy but there are a couple of river crossings, so check with locals before leaving as the river heights vary seasonally. Tenaru is not easy to find and so employ a local to take you there. When you arrive at Tenaru, you will be enthralled by its 60 metre falls.

Kahove Waterfall (also called Trenches Creek Falls) is a little more difficult than some of the other walks that are local to Honiara; however, these are not outside the realm of possibility for those that are reasonably fit. Drive out to Kakabona Police Station which is west of town and then ask some of the locals for a guide to assist you. Be sure to take your camera and remember to take wet weather protection as you will need to cross deep rivers, some of which will be slippery. Take a towel and change of clothes for when you return to your car.

For some genuine variation, Mt. Austen and the Barana Cave and Waterfall are a real eye opener, as well as they’re still close to Honiara. Drive up the Mt. Austen Road past the Japanese memorial and turn right when you see the Star of David. Follow the road to the end and ask the local villagers to assist you from there. This walk involves some simple river crossings where you will have to go through ankle-deep water. This little pocket of the Solomon Islands was made famous by “The Gifu” which was the name of the ridge where there was intense fighting between the US Army and the Japanese during WWII. Today, the Barana Village stands on the western edge of The Gifu and many war relics can be found in the area. Be sure to take a torch so that you can explore the Barana Cave and the many fox holes dug out during battle.

www.bjs.com.sb

CalendarofEventsFEBRUARY> Choiseul Province Second Appointed Day

MARCH> Easter Celebrations

MAY> Festival of Pacific (May-Jun)

JUNE> Isabel Province Second Appointed Day

> Temotu Province Second Appointed Day

> Kolombangara Biodiversity & Cultural Festival

> Queen’s Birthday

> Central Province Second Appointed Day

> Bonina Vale Ni Vaka Seloga

JULY > National Independence Day

> Rennel & Bellona Province Second Appointed Day

AUGUST> Guadalcanal Second Appointed Day

> Malaita Province Second Appointed Day

OCTOBER> Lagoon Festival

> Anniversary WWII

NOVEMBER> Annual Stunned Mullet Competition

> Association of Solomon Islanders In Creative Fashion (ASIICF) - Fashion Week

DECEMBER> Renga Cultural & Arts Festival

> Western Province Second Appointed Day

> Christmas Day

ART IN THE PARKLast Sunday of every month

8am - 4pm

Children’s Park, Rove

No entry fee

No alcohol or betelnut in the playground

Solomon IslandsServicesEssential

HOSPITALSAuki Kilu’ufi Hospital Ph: 40 272

Honiara National Referral Hospital Ph: 23 600

Gizo Gizo Hospital Ph: 60 224

Munda Helena Goldie Hospital Ph: 62 112

MEDICAL CENTREHoniara Private Medical Center Hyundai Mall, Mendana Avenue Ph: 24 027

MONEY There are modern ATM facilities at the major banks in downtown Honiara, as well as other parts of the Solomon Islands; however, it is wise to check locally if you are going to a remote area and intend on drawing out funds.

Major tourist businesses accept credit cards but you will need to use cash everywhere else.

Westpac, ANZ, BSP and the National Bank of the Solomon Islands (NBSI) will exchange money from most major currencies. The NBSI has a number of branches/agencies throughout the Solomon Islands but only its branches will exchange traveller’s cheques.

CAR RENTALAvis / Ela Motors Prince Philip Highway, Ranadi, Honiara Ph: 30 314

Budget Carpenters House, Ranadi Industrial Area Solomon Islands, Ph: 39 082

Hertz Iron Bottom Sound Hotel, Honiara Ph: 28 633

Hyundai Ranadi, next to BOC Gas, Honiara Ph: 30 081

TOUR OPERATORSContact the Visitors Bureau in Honiara. Ph: 22 442 W: www.visitsolomons.com.sb

The information contained in this publication is provided as a guide only. Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information, John Batman Group disclaims any liability or responsibility for the accuracy of the information contained herein. Advertising material appearing in this publication is supplied by the operator or service provider and John Batman Group is not responsible for the accuracy of advertising content.

This guest services room publication is compiled and produced by John Batman Group – The Hospitality Supermarket, publishers of specialist room directories and magazines. John Batman Group – The Hospitality Supermarket, and Just Brilliant Guides are trademarks of Binders Compendiums Menu Covers Pty Ltd. © Copyright all rights reserved. JBG–P John Batman Group – The Hospitality Supermarket.

PO Box 726, Ringwood, Victoria, Australia 3134.Tel: (03) 9879 8588 Fax: (03) 9879 8688Email: info@johnbatman.com.auWeb: www.johnbatman.com.au

Compiled with the assistance of Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau.

Images courtesy of Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau.

Managing DirectorJarrod La Canna

Advertising SalesJarrod La Canna

Graphic DesignCarolyn Tellus

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Studio EditorKarla Dondio

Operations ManagerEleanor White

Accounts & AdministrationRebecca Zalavary

DistributionMichael McDonaldDeborah Harris

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