Republic of Vanuatu

Local name: République de Vanuatu...Ripablik blong Vanuatu
Surface : 12,190 sq km (4707 sq miles) - Vanuatu, in the Southwest Pacific, forms an incomplete double chain of islands stretching north to southeast for some 900km (560 miles). Together with the Banks and Torres islands, the chains comprise about 40 mountainous islands and 40 islets and rocks. Tourism is centered on the islands of Efaté, Tanna and Espiritu Santo.
Population : 192.000 inhabitants
Electricity: 240 volts AC. Australian three-pin plugs are in use.
PASSPORTS: Passport valid for a minimum of 4 months beyond return date required by all. VISAS: Required by all except the following, provided they are in possession of confirmed onward travel documents, for stays of up to 30 days: nationals of Commonwealth countries, and dependencies of the United Kingdom; nationals of Bermuda, Brazil, Chile, China (PR), Cuba, Korea (Rep), French Overseas Territories, Kuwait, Marshall Islands, Mexico, Micronesia (Federated States), Morocco, Norway, Palau, Peru, The Philippines, Poland, Russian Federation, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates and Vatican City;  transit passengers continuing their journey by the same or first connecting aircraft, provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport.
Climate: Subtropical. Trade winds occur from May to October. Warm, humid and wet between November and April. Rain is moderate. Cyclones are possible between December and April.
Capital : Port-Vila (Island of Efaté). Population: 30,139
System : Republic. Gained independence from the UK/France in 1980 - There is a unicameral parliament with 52 members, elected for 4 years by popular vote and responsible for legislation. Executive power is the responsibility of the Council of Ministers, appointed by the Prime Minister, who is elected by the parliament. The president, who is Head of State, is elected by an electoral college consisting of the parliament of the heads of the regional councils.
Languages : English and French are the official languages - pidgin (known as Bislama or Bichelama)
Religions : Mostly Christian, including Presbyterian, Anglican, Roman Catholic and several other denominations.
Money : Vatu (Vt) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denominations of Vt5000, 1000, 500 and 200. Coins are in denominations of Vt100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Australian Dollars are also accepted in some shops and restaurants.
Country
Travel - Tourism
Phone code   + 678
Greenwich Time + 11