Spotlight on Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands lie in the South-Western Pacific Ocean, northeast of Australia. They are a collection of volcanic islands and coral atolls and, together with Papua New Guinea, form an archipelago.

The tropical climate of the Solomons normally varies between 15 and 32°C, with a dry (April to October) and a wet season (November to March), caused mainly by trade winds and monsoons.

The Solomon Island local residents are mostly Anglican Christians and an interesting mix of Melanesians, Micronesians, Polynesians, mostly speaking local languages, although English is the official language.

Honiara Market is the melting-pot of the Solomon Islands. Here you can see the islanders in all their finery and buy local fruit, fresh fish, betel nuts, jewellery and traditional shell money. The Forestry village and Botanical Garden are also worth visiting.

At the Busu Cultural Centre, traditional warriors, tabu sites and even bride price demonstrations can be seen. In the Cultural Centre of Honiara traditional architectural styles contrast with leaf houses in the parkland setting.

The National Archives, consisting of the most complete collection of local historic materials and artefacts, are open to the public.

You can also visit the spectacular raised atolls of the dish shaped islands of Rennell and Bellona and snorkel the warm clear waters crammed with tropical fish. The Marovo salt water Lagoon of the Western Province is the largest in the world and contains a very diverse range of marine creatures. For the dedicated diving enthusiasts, Kavachi in the Western Province is an active submarine volcano.

Savo is the place to observe wild dolphins as they welcome the sunrise by emerging from the coves. They then head into the open sea with great frivolity and acrobatics. Green and Leatherback Turtles nest on Tetepare, while Hawksbill Turtles are also common in the Solomon Islands. However, be aware that most of these species are endangered.

Photo  credits: Luigi Guarino, Xplore Dive, Kris H, Scott Zona, Mark Robinson, Christopher John SFF, Angell Williams

As well as writing about travel, Karen Bryan offers tips on saving money, frugal living and how to live well on less, on her site Help Me To Save