Location #5: Vanuatu - Espiritu Santo
We’re back, with another Expedition Log from our time in the South Pacific island nation called Vanuatu. As you know, we're journeying to the most remote and interesting dive sites in the world, connecting with people who have dedicated their lives to ocean conservation and restoration.
In the midst of alarming environmental news, this log highlights the progress and positive impact made by individuals and communities—from those living on the fringe to those in the center of it all.?
From our in-field team: we’re excited to share this one with you, as it’s one of our most personal and touching legs of the expedition to date. We hope these stories and insights from the edges of earth offer a fresh perspective, reminding you there's progress and impact happening all around us.
WHERE WE’VE BEEN?
June 2023 - Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu?
Yes, the sandy beaches, shipwreck diving and cruise ships in the distance make it seem like you’re on a far away vacation in Vanuatu. The archipelago nation located in the South Pacific is known for its stunning tropical landscapes, vibrant culture, and diverse array of volcanic islands. But, when you get past the first layer of tourism, this wild country is truly for those in love with off-the-map traveling.?
READ ABOUT IT
Touching down in Espiritu Santo, we had no idea what to expect. We soon came to find ourselves documenting uncharted dive sites, living like locals and finding the spirit of Santo was sitting right on the doorstep of the homestay we were fortunate enough to call home for a moment.?
WANT TO SEE IT?
领英推荐
PEOPLE WE LOVE
This one hit a little different. This leg of the expedition was a stark reminder of why we are doing this in the first place. We were taught how to treat perfect strangers as if they are family and how to only take what’s needed from nature. We discovered that genuine listening and empathy bridge distances, fostering lifelong friendships even in the most unfamiliar places. We left Espiritu Santo feeling like it was a second home, with family that we would miss until the next time our paths crossed.?
Elysee and Marie Rite: Owners of the eco-homestay, Little Bay Bungalow in Vanuatu, Elysee and Marie navigated through the pandemic to open their doors in January 2023. Offering more than just a place to stay, they provide a unique, conservation-focused experience on their family-owned stretch of protected coastline. Whether taking guests on educational dives around their home reef or teaching the delicate balance between human needs and environmental conservation, the Rites show that sustainable tourism and ecological stewardship can harmoniously coexist.
Jaimeen Kenni: As a Content Writer for the Vanuatu Tourism Office and a student double-majoring in Public Administration & Management and Human Resource & Employment Relations, Jaimeen is not just academically invested but emotionally connected to her homeland. Fueled by her love for Vanuatu, she crafts compelling stories that showcase the beauty and culture of her island home, making her an integral voice in the country's tourism industry.
FOLLOW US
Want to follow us in real time? You can!?
Subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates from every location we are visiting around the world. And you can also visit our website.