Beachcomber

The Pacific’s Drone Zone

The Vanuatu National Disaster Management Office has been given a useful boost in their ability to monitor natural disasters with the introduction of the Firetail unmanned aerial system (UAS), or drone, which is Australian-designed and made. Earlier this year one of the Firetail founders, Jack Hurley (seen right with Jenny Da Rin, the Australian High Commissioner) spent time with the NDMO testing and demonstrating the drones capabilities in producing real time mapping in the field. The initiative has been made possible with funding from the Australian Government through the Pacific Humanitarian Challenge with test results being presented to the High Commissioner along with NDMO representatives. The aerial robot is being trialled for use in disaster preparedness planning and rapid assessment of damage after a natural disaster such as a cyclone or earthquake. Australia’s minister of Foreign Affairs, Julie Bishop said of the Firetail “A low-cost, easy-to-use drone that helps rapidly assess damage and humanitarian needs in remote areas following a disaster. With the Australian Government’s support, the Firetail prototype will be improved and tailored to suit the needs of local communities in the Pacific.”

Gallery in the park

If you are looking for a different kind of experience, a visit to Vanuatu’s Foundation Suzanne Bastien is a change of pace.

Their art gallery hosts regular exhibits of local and visiting contemporary artists, as well as Patrice Cujo’s  ‘Maps blong Vanuatu’ for an interesting interpretation of all the islands.

The gallery is situated in a beautiful park, so you can visit the exhibition and then take a stroll down to the lagoon.

They also have an extensive library of art books on the region and a small shop.

This is the only gallery in Port Vila dedicated to promoting all Vanuatu’s contemporary artists.

An interesting way to sample another side of Vanuatu’s culture in a relaxing setting and their friendly staff are there to provide explanations and help you enjoy your visit

www.fondation-bastien-vanuatu.org

Très Bon!

Port Vila is well known to have a touch of France inherited from the colonial days. Luckily for you, you can find your own piece of France at Le Fournil de Vila, a traditional French patisserie located inside the Tana Russet shopping complex. Pick up a fresh sourdough baguette, hot croissants, quiches, and desserts, baked fresh daily. – this is the best bread on Efaté without a doubt. We recommend the chouquettes. Délicieux!

And if you have anything that’s worth knowing about, get in touch and let us in on the secret.

New Fiji Airways club lounges

As part of a global move to enhance customers travel experience, Fiji Airways Business Class Guests and eligible Tabua Club members can now enjoy the brand new Club AUTUS Lounge in Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) as alliance partner of Hong Kong Airlines, and for our guests travelling from Los Angeles, access to the stylish One World Lounge, located on Level 5 of the Tom Bradley International Terminal at LAX.

Conveniently located at the MidField Concourse in the airport’s Departure Terminal, the Club AUTUS Lounge features all the amenities of a world-class lounge, including 1,000 sq. metres (approximate) seating area, food and beverage services, VIP conference rooms, showers, storage, entertainment and personal care service. A Business Zone with printer and fax services are also available, as is a quiet area to allow guests to relax before their flights. The Club AUTUS lounge also offers a unique panoramic view of the Hong Kong Airport Apron.

Access to the AUTUS lounge in Hong Kong is available to premium passengers flying on designated Fiji Airways flight number and guests may enter four (4) hours prior to departure. Business Class guests travelling out of, or through Los Angeles Airport (LAX) will enjoy more space and the premium amenities available at the One World Lounge, including distinctive lounge dining, an impressive bar service, showers and refreshments, wireless internet and a business centre.

One World Lounge guests may enter the lounge three (3) hours prior to their scheduled departure time and must be an adult over 21 years of age or accompanied by one.

Enjoy a taste of the Fijian high life when you book a business class ticket with Fiji Airways. From premium check-in and complimentary access to available business lounges before you board, to a selection of canapés and three course meals served direct to your seat. Enjoy five times weekly flights from Hong Kong to Fiji with Fiji Airways and daily flights from Los Angeles. Your special break begins as soon as you step on board.

Vomo Numero Uno

VOMO has won the coveted award for ‘Best Fijian Property’ at the highly respected HM Awards for Accommodation Excellence. General Manager, Mark Leslie accepted the award saying “This is a wonderful achievement for VOMO … we strive to give all our guests the best experience possible. The property’s authentic Fijian touches and European elegance make it feel like a home away from home. Stunning poolside views, remote island feel, acclaimed food and beverage and unique diving options along with our genuine Fijian Hospitality make it a place quests can truly unwind.”