Vanuatu - Bars & Nightlife
The night always begins with a “shell” in Vanuatu. That’s a drink of Kava made from the root of a plant similar to the pepper tree and used for centuries throughout the Pacific. Vanuatu kava is renowned for being the strongest in the world, boasting 32 active components. Note though, if you are thinking of indulging: Kava is not an alcoholic drink. It is an intoxicant, the only legal narcotic in world. It is not addictive, nor does it have damaging side effects. However, it does not taste at all nice, so skull it and then follow it with a sweet chaser. For it to have any effect the locals advise drinking two to three shells over a few minutes on an empty stomach.
Nakamals
Port Vila has loads of kava bars, locally known as Nakamals and so has Luganville on Santo. Enquire at your accommodation for the best one to visit but some of the most popular include Ronnie’s Nakamal in Nambatu, the Red Light Nakamal, near the hospital and Crows Nest Nakamal.
Melanesian Nights
Melanesian Nights are held regularly at most major resorts and hotels which include kastom dancing, kava drinking, local string bands and traditional food. Ask at your hotel for details.
Solo´s feast
Other feasts, not held in resorts , include Solo’s Feast - where villagers prepare local food and drinks as you watch or Secret Garden at Mele Bay in Port Vila where you will learn about the flora and fauna of the island.
Trader VIC
Grab a beer with the locals, Trader Vic’s is a popular nightclub and this is where they hang out.
Waterfront Bar and Grill
Don’t expect any wild nightlife in Port Vila, but if you would like to have a few drinks and a bit of a boogie head to The Office Pub or the Waterfront Bar and Grill Restaurant. The Waterfront Bar and Grill is the focus of cruising yacht activities in Port Vila, and one of Port Vila’s most popular places to dine, dance and enjoy live entertainment.
