Arrive under palm trees

Our first week in Vanuatu was characterized by ups and downs. After we had at least somewhat overcome the jet lag and the big tournament was over, we still didn't feel like we had really arrived. Staying in Ian's garden house was, on the one hand, quite practical because we already knew Ian and the surrounding area, but on the other hand, the garden house, which has two bedrooms, is very overgrown and therefore unfortunately a mosquito paradise and quite dark. The priority was now to find accommodation, which turned out to be not that easy, as many volunteers and tourists have returned after the long Covid period and accommodation is in high demand.

We weren't sure exactly where or what we were looking for either, so we started looking at a few options. We looked at resorts, apartment complexes and detached homes. Everything had its advantages and disadvantages and due to the sometimes very high prices, some offers were canceled.

We decided relatively quickly for an apartment complex with a pool that was only a 5-minute walk from the sea. Everything is included in the monthly rent and so we don't have to worry about registering and deregistering with the various providers now or at the end. Another advantage was that we could move in straight away.

Two days later we said goodbye to Ian and drove 10 minutes to the new apartment. Luckily we were able to borrow a car for a few days and the move was quick. In the bedroom we built a family bed with two double beds and the other free room was set up as a playroom. If visitors arrive, it can quickly be converted into a guest room ;) We were happy to finally unpack all the things and sort them into the cupboards. There is plenty of space in the open living-dining area and the small terrace is a stone's throw from the pool, which Pepe jumps into at least 6 times a day. We are curious to see whether and how quickly he will learn to swim here.

As we continue to set up, another focus is on activities for Pepe. He is currently at the beach volleyball training in the mornings and helps out as an assistant coach, which he really enjoys and where he is also celebrated by the players and the fitness trainer Rob. Despite this, a playgroup and sports courses would be a great addition. We have already picked out offers for swimming, surfing and dancing. Let's see what happens in the coming weeks.

Another priority for us is finding a car. Unfortunately, this is also quite complicated, very expensive and difficult, especially for our “medium-long” time here. However, it would make a lot of things easier for us, because there are hardly any footpaths, there are no bicycles at all and the buses take everyone to their desired destination, which can quickly turn into a long journey. So we continue to look around on the common platforms and keep our ears open.

Another week has now passed and we celebrated Pepe's 4th birthday. We also made other acquaintances, which I will tell you about in the next report.

Lukim yu :)