The island nation of Vanuatu is a symbol of the great Pacific hospitality and beauty which is truly unforgettable in nature. The country is noted for being a tax favourable country and has a strong passport which is why people around the world have made investments in Vanuatu Passport. The country being a prime tourist location is a wonderful spot for shopping as well. Here, we provide you with a complete guide to shopping in Vanuatu to ensure that you do not leave the country without getting the best souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones
You will be encountering chaotic markets in the country especially in the capital city of Port Vila where you will be witnessing spectacular pieces of arts and crafts. While the country can boast of its traditional goods, you will also encounter modern stores during your stay in Vanuatu.
Here is your guide on how to spend your money wisely and properly in Vanuatu
Table of Contents
Markets
In Vanuatu, you can find souvenirs as well as food in prime markets. The main market is of course located in the capital city where most of the residents of the country reside however you can find small markets throughout the islands. These small markets will be selling local food, local agricultural products, shells, and even memorabilia from the Second World War
Things you Can Find in the Vanuatu Markets
If you want to purchase local and traditional handicrafts, then you should be visiting markets first of all. Here you can find a variety of handicrafts and locally produced items include traditional jewellery and island clothing. You can even find shells, corals, and volcanic stones in these markets. Local food can also be found in the markets from locally grown coffee, exotic fruits, kava, vegetables, and freshly harvested shellfish
Things to Remember While Shopping in Markets
All the transactions in Vanuatu are conducted in cash; cards are not accepted at the majority of the shops in the market thus it is advised to carry the local currency that is Vanuatu Vatu. Australian currency means Australian Dollars are accepted in the capital city, Port Vila however in other cities, transactions are mostly in Vatu. Cards including MasterCard and Visa are acceptable in Port Vila but they cannot be used in rural areas. The card charges are usually between 3 to 5 percent on the price.
Also, it is not felt appropriate in Vanuatu to ask to reduce prices and is considered rude.
Timings of Market
The majority of the shops and businesses in Vanuatu close down for two hours between 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM for siesta which is a short nap in the afternoon. Banks, supermarkets, and restaurants are an exception to this and remain open during this time as well. On Sundays, the major supermarkets are either closed or operate for only some time.
Shops and Stores
In the modern shops and stores, you can find almost everything from local goods to imported French perfumes.
Purchasing Alcohol
Under the Vanuatu law, the purchase of alcohol is banned from stores from Saturday noon to Sunday the whole day therefore you should keep this in mind during your stay and if you want to enjoy on weekends, then remember to stock up on Fridays. The best and cheapest place to buy beer and other beverages is supermarkets.
Shopping Destinations in Port Vila
The largest variety of goods can be found in the capital city as Port Vila is the only duty-free port in the country. It has a wide range of markets and handcraft stores for traditional crafts while hand paint clothing and accessories can be bought from Hebrida Market.
Not only tourism is growing in Vanuatu, but the demand to Get Vanuatu Citizenship is also increasing. The road to passport in Vanuatu is through the process of investment, called Investment for Vanuatu Passport.
