Comments on: Vanuatu: the Happiest Place on Earth?

By: suresh kumar

suresh kumar — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 18:54:47 +0000

most poor people in,say india-
it is paining.

we may be poor because all the riches
have been swindled by invaders.

but we are having unity in diversity
consisting many states with different cultures,languages but unity.

By: pamelaf

pamelaf — Thu, 07 May 2009 20:19:00 +0000

Hi. We are an organic farming family from the usa looking for a place in the world to live with others who share the same vibe. we’ve read a lot about vanuatu and would love to know if there are villages open to a family who loves to farm. we lived in dominica for 4 years so we have tropical farming experience. contributing our work on another families land would be fine or leasing a spot is fine too. do you have any advice on islands or any contacts in vanuatu to help us out. it’s a long, expensive flight, and we are feeling a bit scared to take the leap and go. hope to hear from you. thanks.

By: Prague Hotel

Prague Hotel — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 18:13:00 +0000

You sure traveled alright! Try going to Fiji the next time – it’s great. Or come over to Prague and stay at one of the cheaper hotels and then traipse through its historic buildings! :)

By: Kelly

Kelly — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 17:58:00 +0000

My word, Vanuatu. Nice pick. I never hear of people going there. I got to spend some time there a few years ago. And you did it justice. Good observation on the fact that, though incredibly poor, they aren’t needy. They live so well from the land and sea, and make most anything they need. Only thing they’re lacking is really good medical care and peanut butter.

By: Laura

Laura — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 04:36:00 +0000

Awesome, awesome job with this post, which reminded me of the 10 days I spent with a family in Fiji back in February. Life is so different (but so beautiful) in the Pacific Islands.

Do you do a lot of travel writing? If so, I’d love to read more.

By: Lindsey

Lindsey — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 03:55:00 +0000

I second the recommendation of the J. Maarten Troost books!

By: Ransom Riggs

Ransom Riggs — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:28:00 +0000

@ scubagirl —

the diving was amazing! stay tuned in future blog posts, I’ll definitely be writing about that.

By: ScubaGirl

ScubaGirl — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:11:00 +0000

And how was the diving?

By: sisterpinkylee

sisterpinkylee — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 22:21:00 +0000

I spent 2 months in Vanuatu when I was 16 with a team of teens doing humanitarian work. I was struck by the joy of the nationals, the amazing food (their grapefruits are sweet!), and the beauty and cleanliness of the islands. Thanks for the article! It was fun to go back, and your adventure sounds great!

By: Chellis

Chellis — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 21:45:00 +0000

Very insightful entry and photos, Ransom. I had never heard of Vanuata until your trip. Cool.