Handy things to know about

Location
The Solomon Islands is third largest archipelago in the South Pacific, comprising 992 islands ranging from large landmasses with rugged mountains and virgin forests, to low lying coral atolls. Click here to see an overview of where we are. They are scattered in a double chain of islands covering 1.35 million sq km of sea and extend for 1.667k, in a south-easterly direction from Papua New Guinea. The country's capital, Honiara, is situated on the north-west coast on the island of Guadalcanal.

To check out the current Solomon Dollars (SBD) exchange rates click here.

Western Province
The Western province is an essential stop. The combination of pristine lagoons, prime dive sites and lush forests have immense appeal to visitors. The lagoons are a visual delight from the air and the combination of dark greens, white strips and light and dark blues is breathtaking. Often colloquially called "The West" the Western Province which has now become the country's hub for tourism, was formerly the largest administrative area in the Solomons with it's people describing themselves as westerners.

Western Province boasts thelargest salt water lagoon in the world, Marovo Lagoon. Several tourist-lodges are based there including the beautiful Sanbis Resort.

Climate
Tropical, with average daytime temperatures around 29 degrees and high humidity. Evenings may be as cool as 19 degrees. There are no defined seasons but November to May are wetter months and squalls and cyclones may occur.

Language
There are 87 indigenous languages including Melanesian Pidgin English which is used predominantly. English is used and understood throughout the Solomon Islands.

Dress
Informal light attire is appropriate for both day and evening wear. Pack a sweater for the occasional cool evening. Bikini's and swimming briefs should be confined to resort pool areas.

Health
Like many other tropical countries, malaria can be a problem in the Solomon Islands. Appropriate malarial medication should be taken and it is wise to consult your doctor a few weeks before leaving home. Water is normally safe in the major resorts, but precautionary boiling is recommended in other areas. If in doubt, ask.

Entry Requirements
Commonwealth, US and most EC visitors do not need visas. Others may obtain visas through British Consulates. However a visitors permit not exceeding three (3) months may be obtained on arrival in the country after meeting minimum requirement s of a valid passport and a return or onward ticket.

Duty Free/Departure Tax
200 cigarettes or 250 grams of tobacco, 2 litres of spirits or equivalent. Goods in excess of SI$500.00 are dutiable. Departure Tax is SI$40.00.

Time
11 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Electricity
240 volts. Available to Honiara and other major resort areas. Sanbis Resort lighting is all 12V powered by Solar.

Currency/Banking
The standard unit of currency is the Solomon Islands Dollar. One Australian dollar will buy approximately three Solomon Island dollars. Westpac, ANZ and the National Bank of the Solomon Islands (NBSI) open Monday to Friday 9:00am to 3:00pm, and offer the best exchange rates. There are ATM's available at several locations in Honiara. There is an ATM in Gzio (ANZ BAnk). Credit cards and travellers cheques are not usually accepted beyond the main resort areas. Sanbis Resort accepts Visa and Mastercards. NBSI offers full banking services throughout most parts of the country.

Telecommunication
24 hour international telephone, fax, telex and telegram service is available through Telekom from Honiara, provincial centers and all major hotels and resorts. There is also an internet cafe in the NPF Plaza, Mendana Avenue, Honiara. Sanbis Resort now also offers wireless high speed internet access.

Observing Customs
The people of the Solomon Island have a rich culture which observes many traditional "kastoms" which vary from province to province. Please ask about appropriate behaviour and always ask permission before taking pictures of people or places.