Manners in Vanuatu

Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country

Oceania / Oceania

Greetings

  • Handshake
  • Light nod
  • Traditional nose-touching greeting still exists among some tribes

Etiquette

  • Do not greet village elders with hat on in public places
  • Always request permission before photographing individuals or villages
  • Many attend Sunday worship; keep noise down
  • Women should wear clothing covering shoulders and knees when visiting villages
  • Left hand considered unclean in some villages; give gifts with right hand
  • Tribal lands are private property; trespassing strictly forbidden
  • Accepting kava when offered shows respect
  • Express gratitude with "Tank yu tumas" before and after meals
  • Remove shoes when entering homes in many areas
  • Do not cross barrier ropes when observing Naghol
  • Follow local guide instructions during volcano tours
  • Keep public affection displays modest
  • Commercial collection of shells and coral prohibited
  • Pay custom fees (entry fees) for villages as quoted without negotiation
  • Respect flexible "island time" schedules

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