From artisanal chocolate to birdwatching spots, Outlook recommends the best places to visit and things to do in the Solomon Islands.
Eat:
FOR AN INDULGENT BITE OF CHOCOLATE…
Guadalcanal chocolate is a staple of the Soloman Islands’ artisan chocolate scene, as the country’s organically grown cacao is internationally sought after by the world’s leading chocolatiers. Solomon’s artisan chocolate is forging a new path in the confectionary world, thanks to freshly harvested cacao beans from over 20,000 smallholder farmers across the islands. Named after the mountain, Guadalcanal chocolate has a velvety texture and rich flavour, showcasing the country’s growing culinary culture all in a single indulgent bite.
Do:
TO PLAN THE BEST TRIP POSSIBLE… Guadalcanal Travel Solomons
FOR A TRUE SENSE OF ISLAND LIFE…
Wagosia Festival, known as the Santa Catalina Spear Festival, is a thriving tradition which dates back to the islands’ ancient culture, in which the agricultural practices of spearfishing and yam harvesting are kept alive in the celebration. As a four-day event occurring every year between the months of May and June, both visitors and residents come together to listen to the local chants of ancestors and celebrate the vibrancy of the islands’ tradition.
FOR REACHING RELAXING INDULGENCE…
Tavanipupu Wellness and Spa Retreat
TO GAZE UPON THE SOARING ANIMALS OF THE SKY…
In counterpart to the bustling marine life, the creatures of the sky also can’t go unmissed, with the Solomon Islands heralding some of nature’s most exquisite birds. Any avid twitchers will adore the archipelago’s unique spots, including the mountain of Guadalcanal and the heights of Kolombangara.
Each fluttering species is unique, with many species only being found on one island. Species found exclusively in the surrounding area of Honiara include the swaggering, White-billed Crow, the vibrant Chestnut-bellied Monarch, and the Duchess Lorikeet, amongst many more delicate creatures.
Some of the most-loved bird-watching locations include Maringe Lagoon Lodges on the beachfront, Milkfish Bungalows tucked away on Marapa Island, and the Ropiko Beach Resort.
FOR SOURCING THE PERFECT CATCH…
If you have a passion for fishing, then the Solomon Islands is the place, with long stretches of unspoilt water in some of the most remote lakes teeming with exotic fish. Thanks to the favourable weather conditions throughout the year, the islands remain untouched by mainstream fisheries and tourists. Cast out your bait in the shallow crystal-clear water and behold a plethora of local marine life, including the Spanish mackerel, the striped wahoo, the sprightly yellowfin, and the dogtooth tuna – the fishing opportunities are endless.
Sleep:
FOR AN URBAN RECLUSE…
Honiara Hotel boasts a stylish, but comfortable interior. Be taken back to the older days of the South Pacific, as Honiara oozes the region’s rich history of every turn. Find your happy place having breakfast on the balcony or taking a dip in a pool, and indulge in one of the many delectable dining options.
FOR THE HEIGHT OF SOLOMON LUXURY…
Heritage Park Hotel creates the optimum environment for a decadent and lavish stay, situated in the centre of the Rhondda Valleys. Reap the benefits of the sumptuous recent refurbishment that strikes the ultimate balance between elegance and cosiness, whilst indulging in the hotel’s plethora of facilities, restaurants and function spaces.
