Carved over
millenniums, the Solomons of today remain practically untouched, even
though the succession of Polynesian incursions and Spanish explorations,
followed by British colonization and eventually World War II, contributed
to shaping the customs established long ago by the first settled
Melanesians. From the Spanish discovery in the 16th century all through
the early British protectorate, until WWII, the fearsome commonness of
cannibalism and head-hunting along with insalubrity and malarial
conditions kept foreigners away. Then came the war, brutally imposing
itself on this heedless country, and bringing starvation along with its
deadly fires, as many village gardens and plantations were devastated by
the Japanese. Although victorious, the fierce campaign led by the Allied
to recover the islands scattered nightmarish memories, sadly rekindled by
the rusted relics sprayed over land and sea. The final toll for the
islanders speaks of 40 000 lost souls, and the island of Guadalcanal best
remembers . . .
Fortunately, besides moving the capital from Tulaghi to Honiara, and
providing a string of airfields, this bloody episode also brought the
vision of a new world to the distant shores. And the wind of independence
began to blow, until the final gust that shoved the British Protectorate
in 1978 and gave birth to the Solomon Islands. Nowadays, the long-hidden
and feared country is opening its shell, inviting the rest of the world to
have a glance at its wonders and establishing the first bridges with
industrialization. Still, not so far from the main islands of the
Guadalcanal and Western provinces, echoes of the ancient and primitive
ways remain strong in the deep bush, where human presence is only given
away by fragile wisps of smoke over the dense canopy of leaves. The
people, although they are segregated in more than 80 ethnic groups and
offer varying features, seem all proud of their rugged, fertile land and
sea.
But
the latent danger of exploitation, mostly by foreign industries, draws it
shadow over the abundant resources. Already, logging has scared the dense,
luxuriant forests with muddy scratches that bleed into the surrounding
lagoons, threatening to smother the colourful reef life. Fortunately, some
natives are already becoming aware of the precious jewel they have to
protect. Let's not forget that it is also up to us outsiders, to learn the
virtues of looking without touching, if we want the earth and oceans to
cherish those secret refuges of peaceful and exuberant life....
Still sheathed in their original primitive beauty, the Solomon Islands
perfectly fit the description of an exotic paradise, although they have
much more to offer than crystal clear lagoons, powdery beaches and
deserted islands. Visitors can treat themselves to an unforgettable
village stay, which combines the discovery of a superb wilderness and a
colourful culture. The concept is blooming and visitors currently have the
choice between nearly 20 destinations all around the archipelago. While
the villagers obviously cannot offer the facilities of a luxurious resort,
they provide a charming leaf hut, proper toilets and a shower while
sharing their delicious cuisine and custom activities.
The
secrets of basket weaving, woodcarving and fishing are well worth
discovering. And who can better introduce you the exuberant wildlife than
the people who interact with it every day? Some communities even host
giant clam and pearl oyster farms, giving you a rare opportunity to
observe these jewels of the sea.
Camping on deserted islands, jungle trails and splendid underwater
explorations are equally interesting alternatives. But if you ever get
bored of perfect palm-fringed beaches and hotel terraces, and if you are
looking for a different way of exploring the Solomon Islands, you might
consider a very unconventional and unique cruise on the MV Iuminao,
a half cargo, half passenger vessel that runs between several islands of
the archipelago.
Dreaming
of the Solomon Islands?
Several airlines
(Qantas, Continental, Malaysia Airlines, etc.) can bring you to the
Solomon Islands via Los Angeles or Vancouver, with usual stopovers in
Australia, New Zealand or Fiji.
North American citizens
need only to have a valid passport.
Vaccination against
several diseases including typhoid fever, tuberculosis, tetanus,
hepatitis and diphtheria is strongly recommended. A preventive
treatment against malaria should also be taken.
The equatorial climate
of the islands has a dry season from April to October and a wet season
between November and March. Temperatures can easily rise above 30-35
°C and humidity is ever present.
The currency is
the Solomon dollar (SBD).
The electrical current
(where available) is 230/240 Volts, 50 cycles, with Australian plugs.
The time difference
between Montreal (eastern standard time) and Solomon Islands is 16 h.
For more information on
the destination, contact the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau, PO Box
321, Honiara, Solomon Islands, Tel: 677-23847, Fax: 677-23986, E-mail:
visitors@welkam.solomon.com.sb
