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The Solomon Islands has strong traditional cultures which vary from province to province. Handy information is provided to assist you in your travels. Time ZoneThe Solomon Islands is one hour ahead of Australian time. Population.- approximately 300,000. These are primarily Solomon Islanders, but also Melanesian, Polynesian, Gilbertese, most of whom are Christian.LanguagePredominantly English speaking, although Melanesian Pidgin is spoken by locals.AirportHenderson Field Airport, eight kilometres from the capital Honiara. (SI$40.00 on departure)TelecommunicationsInternational communication services are available in Honiara and in the main centres of the Solomon Islands. These include fax, telephone and email.VisasVisas are not required by visitors from Commonwealth countries, the United States, and other visitors who are in possession of onward bookings by air or sea, except for certain nationals of certain countries who require visas, even if in direct transit by air (detailed requirements can be checked with a British Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission, or direct with the Principle Immigration Officer, Hibiscus Avenue, Honiara, Solomon Islands).Banking/CurrencySolomon Island Dollars (SI$). Banks in Honiara include Westpac, ANZ and the National Bank of the Solomon Islands. Most major credit cards are accepted at hotels and businesses in Honiara, but generally not in the outlying islands. Commerce in the native villages (for carvings, etc.) is conducted in Solomon Island dollars (SBD) or occasionally by barter. ATM facilities are also available.ClimateTropically warm and humid with coastal temperatures averaging 28 degrees Celsius.DressTake along clothing which is light and airy. Preferably cottons. If you like, take along a sweater for the rare cool evening. Female dress should be modest in public areas. Medical ServicesDental, medical and hospital services are available in main centres. Electricity240 Volts AC power in Honiara and some outer islands centres.HealthChloroquine resistant malaria exists in some regions. It is advisable to take anti-malarial medication during a stay and for four weeks after departure. Recommended immunizations are Hepatitis A, malaria, polio, tetanus, typhoid. A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving within 6 days from or via infected areas. Boil or sterilize drinking water and milk. All food should be well cooked. We suggest you consult your doctor a few weeks in advance for the necessary medication or advice.NewspapersSolomon Star and selected overseas papers.EntertainmentUsually very quiet. The King Solomon Hotel operates Honiara's only nightclub two nights a week and Gizo Hotel has cultural dancing and BBQs on some week nights.Both the King Solomon Hotel and the Gizo Hotel have fully licensed restaurants with fish and seafood specialties. In Honiara there are numerous restaurants with a predominantly Asian cuisine. TippingNot expected and not encouraged. |
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