QOM

So, you’ve soaked up the sun, dived into turquoise waters, and perhaps even witnessed the raw power of a volcano in Vanuatu. As your unforgettable journey draws to a close, you’ll naturally want to bring a piece of this magic home with you. But beyond the typical tourist trinkets, what are the truly authentic souvenirs that reflect Vanuatu’s unique cultures and natural beauty, and where’s the best place to find them?

Vanuatu’s authentic crafts are deeply rooted in “Kastom” – the traditional customs, beliefs, and practices that define island life. By choosing these items, you’re not just buying a memento; you’re supporting local artisans and preserving cultural heritage.

Here’s a guide to what to buy and where to find the most authentic souvenirs in Vanuatu:

1. Carvings: Symbols of Ancestry and Spirit

Vanuatu’s carvers are incredibly skilled, transforming local hardwoods into powerful representations of ancestral figures, spiritual beings, animals, and symbols.

• What to look for:
  • Tamtams (Slit Gongs): While the massive ceremonial ones are too big to take home, smaller, beautifully carved versions are popular. These aren’t just decorative; they are traditional musical instruments used in ceremonies.
  • Ancestral Figures: Stylized human figures or faces, often with intricate details, reflecting the unique tribal aesthetics of different islands.
  • Fish and Bird Carvings: Representing the rich marine life and avian diversity.
• Where to Buy:
  • Port Vila Markets: The main handicraft market in Port Vila (next to the Mama’s Market) has a good selection, but prices can be higher.
  • Direct from Villages: The most authentic and often best-priced pieces come directly from the villages, especially on islands like Ambrym and Malekula, where carving traditions are very strong. Your local guide can often facilitate this.
  • Art Galleries/Shops: Dedicated art shops in Port Vila might offer higher-quality, curated pieces, often with provenance details.

2. Traditional Basketry and Weaving: Functional Art

The art of weaving pandanus leaves, coconut fronds, and other natural fibers is central to daily life in Vanuatu, producing beautiful and practical items.

• What to look for:
  • Baskets: From large market baskets to smaller, intricately woven decorative pieces.
  • Mats: Sleeping mats, floor mats, or smaller decorative mats, often with geometric patterns.
  • Fans: Hand-woven fans are both beautiful and practical in the tropical climate.
• Where to Buy:
  • Local Markets: The Mama’s Market in Port Vila is a fantastic place for this. You’ll often see the women weaving right there. This is a great way to support local families directly.
  • Roadside Stalls: On Efate and Santo, you’ll find small stalls by the road where villagers sell their woven goods.

3. Vanuatu Coffee: A Taste of the Highlands

Vanuatu’s rich volcanic soil, particularly on islands like Tanna and Santo, produces excellent coffee beans. It’s often organic and shade-grown.

• What to look for: Locally grown and roasted coffee beans.
• Where to Buy:
  • Port Vila Markets: Look for stalls selling packaged local coffee.
  • Duty-Free Shops: Some duty-free stores in Port Vila (especially at the airport) will stock local brands.
  • Direct from Farms/Villages: If you visit Tanna, you might be able to buy directly from the growers, ensuring freshness and direct support.

4. Spices and Vanilla: The Aromatic Delights

Thanks to its fertile lands and tropical climate, Vanuatu produces high-quality spices, especially vanilla.

• What to look for: Vanilla pods (often plump and fragrant), turmeric, ginger, and other local spices.
• Where to Buy:
  • Port Vila Markets: Look for the spice section.
  • Duty-Free Shops: Some export-quality spices might be available.
  • Small Farms/Stalls on Santo: You might find locally grown vanilla on farms during tours.

5. Sand Drawings (Reproductions): UNESCO Heritage Art

The unique art of sand drawing from northern Vanuatu (a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage) involves drawing intricate, continuous patterns in the sand.

• What to look for: While you can’t take the sand itself, some artisans reproduce these designs on paper, fabric, or even carved wood.
• Where to Buy:
  • Art Galleries/Souvenir Shops in Port Vila: Look for pieces that explicitly state they are reproductions of sand drawings.
  • Cultural Centers: Some cultural centers on Efate or Santo might have examples or reproductions.

6. Coconut Products: The Island’s Abundance

The coconut palm is central to island life, and its versatility extends to souvenirs.

• What to look for: Virgin coconut oil (great for skin and hair), coconut shell bowls, carved coconut figures, or traditional coconut soaps.
• Where to Buy:
  • Mama’s Market (Port Vila): Abundant with fresh coconut products.
  • Roadside Stalls: Common on most islands.
  • Local Pharmacies/Health Shops: For high-quality virgin coconut oil.

Tips for Authentic Souvenir Shopping:

• Bargain Gently (If Appropriate): In local markets, a little polite bargaining is often accepted, but always with a smile. Be respectful of the artisan’s time and effort.
• Ask About Origin: If you’re serious about authenticity, ask the seller where the item came from or who made it.
• Support Local, Directly: Buying directly from villages or individual artisans (especially through a local guide) ensures your money directly benefits the community.
• Consider Customs Regulations: Be aware of any restrictions on bringing natural items (shells, certain woods, plant matter) back to your home country.

Choosing authentic souvenirs from Vanuatu is a wonderful way to keep the spirit of the islands alive in your home. Each piece tells a story, carrying with it the rich traditions and the warm heart of the ni-Vanuatu people.