THE SOLOMON ISLANDS

IMPORTANT NOTICE!

Due to recent political instability in the Solomon's we have been unable to operate this trip for some time. The following information is necessarily subject to change. We anticipate commencing this trip again in the near future.

This trip is a popular one because of the variety of interests that can be catered for. It can be as adventurous as you want or your can relax and let the world go by. The exchange rate with Australian currency makes this a value for money trip.

Day One: Fly to Honiara and stay in the Solomon, Mendana, Kitano Hotel. A tour of the city is organized with visits to several of the main World War Two sites and memorials. Many Americans lost their lives fighting the Japanese on the surrounding hills and Iron Bottom Sound. (So called because of the number of ships sunk in naval battles).

Day Two: This is a magnificent flight over hundreds of islands, coral atolls and lagoons to the small island of Gizo. This has to be one of the most beautiful flights in the world. We land on a tiny island that is the air strip and nothing else. We then transfer by boat to Gizo and settle into the comfortable Hotel Gizo, positioned right on the water front. This is our base for the remainder of the time. The main township of Gizo has a fascinating mix of cultures, trade stores and markets. Throughout the day and night the waterfront is a hive of activity with boats of all types coming and going. One could fill a full day just exploring the waterfront.

Days Three to Five:These are spent doing your own choice of the following half day and full day options.

(A) Explore Gizo: Mountain bike riding along the island and guided four wheel drive tour of interesting sites. These include historical war sites and picturesque villages.

Plum Pudding Island

(C) Scuba Spectacular: If you are a qualified scuba diver you can dive any of several top diving spots. One of these is the Toa Maru. This is a Japanese supply boat that is one of the safest wreck dives we have ever seen, and is still intact from souvenir hunters. The radio room, officers mess and bar are fascinating as most of the associated gear is still there including plates, radios and hundreds of bottles of Saki. There is also a tank, motor bike and many rounds of ammunition.

(D) Fishing: Local guides who know the best fishing spots can be arranged for those who are keen on catching the big one. A boat, fishing gear, ample provisions and the knowledge that your catch will be cooked to perfection for you on your return makes this a day that will be long remembered.

Traveling between islands

Days Six to Seven: Travel by the famous Simbo express boat to the live volcanic island of Simbo. Overnight in the village where a feast is prepared and cooked with steam from a lava heated pool. If you are adventurous you can even walk into the caldera of the volcano. Return the next day to Gizo.

Day Eight: Return flight to Australia via Honiara.