Solomon Islands Travel Guide

The Solomon islands are not that Pacific Paradise: since 2000 a sort of civil war broke out on Guadalcanal and Malaita, and although in october 2000 a peace agreement was reached, there are still a few hotspots on the islands where you might run into "armed groups".

When things settle down a bit further visitors to the islands are in for a treat. The Solomons are extremely rich in cultural diversity. Melanesians, Polynesians, Asians, Micronesians and the odd Westerner all call the Solomons home. This exciting mix of cultures makes a visit very interesting.

Getting to the Solomons is the hard part. The islands have a well-deserved reputation as possibly the world's best destination for scuba divers, snorkellers and fishing freaks. Despite its long, often bloody history, most historical interest in the Solomons surrounds its pivotal role as a strategic site in the Pacific in WWII. The waters of Iron Bottom Sound (so called because of all the sunken world War II vessels there). Harrington sound are testament to the ferocity and destructive power of battle. For more information see the People First Network www.peoplefirst.net.sb - the section on Provinces contains detailed background and 1000+ searchable photographs.

In July 2003, 2500 Police and troops arrived from Australian, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga and other Pacific Nations. Known as RAMSI (Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands) they quickly re-established law and order. Solomon islands is now as safe as any other Pacific country to visit. It is well worth a visit too.

Although tourist "resorts" are none existent and accommodation is basic the whole experience of getting there and finding somewhere to stay is part and parcel of the uniqueness of Solomon Islands.