We are currently anchored at Lolowai, Vanuatu 15.16S, 167.58E which used to be a volcano. Years ago the crater blew out one side and the sea level rose and created a 40 foot deep lagoon. The entrance is tricky and usually done during high tide since you do have to enter through the blown out rim. On a catamaran we don't need to worry about this as much but it's still scary seeing the reef in less than 9 feet of very clear water...which makes it look like less than a foot. We are surrounded by black sand beaches and sheer cliffs on one side. The village here holds the largest hospital in the NE islands of Vanuatu. But, if you need to check into the hospital make sure you bring your own plate, cup and utensils if you want to eat. It's an open air hospital and by the looks of things I could see, not somewhere I would want to be. We took a 3 hour hike along the mountain ridge today with spectacular views of the bays below. Fruit grows EVERYWHERE!!!! We met several people from the peace corp who have lived here for 2 to 4 years and have nothing but great things to say about Vanuatu. We caught another huge Wahoo and had a fantastic fast sail here yesterday with speeds steady 9 knots.
Quick safety tips we have learn here:
1. Always check with the village if it's safe to swim before jumping in the water. Some areas the sharks are fierce since it is where they clean their cattle.
2. Don't pick up shells as one might have the snail which will inject you with a poison which will kill you. If you make it after 6 hours you might live.
3. Black sand beaches are usually off limits for swimming since the gray sharks rule the area and are aggressive.
4. There are some resident crocs in some anchorages, another reason to talk to the locals first.
5. You have to be cautious on some islands because of Malaria...get local knowledge.
6. They have rocks that shimmer like diamonds in the water and when banged together they create a glow...legends have it that if you bang these rocks you are calling the storm gods. We won't try to see if legend is true!
These are some of the things I need teach my kids along with not talking to strangers.
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Wow... your rules are super cool and very dangerous.
ReplyDeleteMine are: No hitting or you will lose a limb.
2. Keep the gum in your mouth or I take it.
3. No whining until I have had either my coffee in the morning or wine at night.
4. Don't bother me while I am on the phone or I will stand in front of the television while you are playing the wii.
The list goes on!
I miss you so much!!! I am so addicted to your blog.