Well needless to say we have been busy exploring with very little time to keep you updated. So will rectify that without further ado!
So Bob's last update let you know we had arrived safe and sound in Luganville,but unfortunately for us it was on Saturday morning and so we had wait like sitting ducks, albeit old ducks (!), until Monday. Even then,it took us half a day to clear through Customs which was done by 12:00pm. Next stop was Immigration but they had just gone on their lunch break, for 1hr and 30mins; l would say we are working in the wrong country!
With all the legal documents completed and accepted, plus two lots of payment, thank you very much, we were finally free to explore.
Provisions needed replenishing, which took us off to the local market. We scouted round the market then went off in different directions to buy the best produce from different stalls.
The chef was given a night off on Monday. We wined and dined at a local resort who is owned by an Australian with 2 brothers that live in Mackay! Food was yum and will most probably return there when we restock for the return passage.
Sailed round to Palikulo Bay and stopped off at Million Dollar point en route. The point provided excellent snorkelling as a number of military vehicles were driven into the sea by the Americans following WW2.So we jumped in to have a look only to be told by a local from the shore line we were required to pay even though we had provided our own transport and equipment!
Palikulo Bay was picturesque. Bright blue clear water and sandy beaches. Met a few locals and started giving away our gifts; the delightful smile on a young boy's face as we gave him a soccer ball will remain impregnated in our memories. Managed to get our first dive in; much of the reef has been damaged by the cyclone, but there was evidence of recovery happening.
Currently, we are moored up at Aore island and have been snorkelling this morning. Just waiting for my dough to rise before I bake some rolls for lunch. So will have to say au revoir for now.
PS There is a prize for the first person who can identify Alfie's bird in the attached photo.....good luck!