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| Solomon Islands Travel & Holiday Information |
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History
The origin of the present Melanesian inhabitants is uncertain. Although archaeological and linguistic evidence shows that Solomon Islands was probably settled 4,000 - 5,000 years ago by Austronesian, neolithic people from South-East Asia.
Archaeological evidence also shows that one group of people settled on islands from the Bismarcks to Polynesian and became the ancestors of all Polynesians, some eventually returning to the outlying islands of Solomon islands.
The first documented European contact was made in 1568 by the Spanish explorer, Alvaro de Mendana. Mendana discovered alluvial gold on Guadalcanal and, perhaps thinking he found the source of King Solomon's great wealth (the Biblical King Solomon's mine), named the islands the
"Isles of Solomon ".
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Because of Mendana's Spanish heritage, many of the islands in the Solomon Islands bear original Spanish names.
Great Britain declared a Protectorate in 1893 over the southern Solomons, adding the Santa Cruz group in 1898 and 1899. The islands of the Shortland group were transferred by treaty from Germany to Great Britain in 1900.
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Time Zone
The Solomon Islands is one hour ahead of Australian time.
Population
Approximately 300,000. These are primarily Solomon Islanders, but also Melanesian, Polynesian, Gilbertese, most of whom are Christian.
Language
Predominantly English speaking, although Melanesian Pidgin is spoken by locals.
Airport
Henderson Field Airport, eight kilometres from the capital Honiara. (SI$40.00 on departure)
Telecommunications
International communication services are available in Honiara and in the main centres of the Solomon Islands. These include fax, telephone and email.
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Visas
Visas are not required by visitors from Commonwealth countries, the United States, and other visitors who are in possession of onward bookings by air or sea, except for certain nationals of certain countries who require visas, even if in direct transit by air (detailed requirements can be checked with a British Embassy, Consulate, or High Commission, or direct with the Principle Immigration Officer, Hibiscus Avenue, Honiara, Solomon Islands).
Banking / Currency
Solomon Island Dollars (SI$). Banks in Honiara include Westpac, ANZ and the National Bank of the Solomon Islands. Most major credit cards are accepted at major hotels and businesses in Honiara, but Australian dollars will be accepted at most lodges. Commerce in the native villages (for carvings, etc.) is conducted in Solomon Island dollars (SBD) or occasionally by barter. ATM facilities are also available in Honiara
Climate
Tropically warm and humid with coastal temperatures averaging 28 degrees Celsius. Check today's weather in Honiara.
Dress
Take along clothing which is light and airy. Preferably cottons. If you like, take along a sweater for the rare cool evening. Female dress should be modest in public areas.
Electricity
240 Volts AC power in Honiara and some outer islands centres.
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Health
Chloroquine resistant malaria exists in some regions. It is advisable to take anti-malarial medication during a stay and for four weeks after departure. Recommended immunizations are Hepatitis A, malaria, polio, tetanus, typhoid. A Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if arriving within 6 days from or via infected areas. Boil or sterilize drinking water and milk. All food should be well cooked. We suggest you consult your doctor a few weeks in advance for the necessary medication or advice.
Medical Services
Dental, medical and hospital services are available in main centres.
Newspapers
Solomon Star and selected overseas papers.
Entertainment
Usually very quiet. The King Solomon Hotel operates Honiara's only nightclub two nights a week and Gizo Hotel has cultural dancing and BBQs on some week nights.
Both the King Solomon Hotel and the Gizo Hotel have fully licensed restaurants with fish and seafood specialties. In Honiara there are numerous restaurants with a predominantly Asian cuisine.
Tipping
Not expected and not encouraged.
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