Australians account for nearly half of all international visitors to the Solomon Islands. Omniche Holidays product coordinator for the Solomon Islands, Kristie Hill explains what makes this South Pacific archipelago such a special destination.
What makes the Solomon Islands different to other South Pacific destinations?
The untouched nature of the islands – it has a rich culture, a diverse history, natural beauty, and when you experience it for yourself it’s almost as if you’re the first ones to ever see it – it really is one of the richest experiences you can have in the South Pacific.
What are your top tips for selling the Solomon Islands?
Qualify your clients – work out why they have chosen the Solomons, where they have travelled before and what experiences they are hoping for. This will make it a lot easier to narrow down where they should stay. And call your wholesale partner for access to wholesale fares and a wealth of information on the destination!
How can travel agents improve their Solomon Islands product knowledge?
Take the time to familiarise yourself with the different areas in the Solomon Islands utilising the www.visitsolomons.com.sb website. You can also have a look at our new Omniche Holidays website which has destination information and product listings, plus we have a brochure with a four-page spread on the Solomons, or call us if you have any questions! We’re here to help!
Which destinations or resorts in the Solomons are best suited to couples and honeymooners, families, adventure travellers?
For couples, Seghe. Uepi Island Resort is a great option for those who just want to get away and explore at their own pace, set on a private island covered in rainforest and fringed by beaches and reef. The activities on offer here are incredible, and it’s a great place to learn to dive if you haven’t tried it before. It’s cost effective too as all meals are included in your stay here. For honeymooners, Marau Sound. Tavanipupu is the highest quality resort in the Solomons and is set on a 13 hectare island that used to be a coconut plantation. There are only a small number of bungalows, and none of them have telephones or televisions. It’s a place you can disconnect from technology, really connect with each other, all in beautiful surroundings. For families, Gizo. Fatboys Resort in particular is quite a popular place to stay as it offers family bungalow accommodation that can sleep up to five. There are pristine beaches to relax on, islands for hiking, World War II wrecks and abundant marine life to dive with, reef breaks to surf just 20 minutes from the resort, and a great overwater restaurant. For adventure travellers, Munda. Zipolo Habu is a great place to base yourself while you explore WWII history, Skull Island, rainforests, go snorkelling, surfing, or fishing – there is something for all adventure lovers!
What experiences do you recommend as a ‘must’ in the Solomons?
I would say that exploring the history of the Solomon Islands, particularly it’s significance within WWII, is a must do – you can do this on land or underwater with a number of wrecks just a short snorkelling distance offshore. And seeing the gorgeous Marovo Lagoon with your own eyes – the water there is paradise!
Are there any challenges to selling the Solomon Islands?
The speed of communication can make things difficult sometimes, but we’ve got some great relationships in place so if there are any delays we can call right away.
