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With 24 hours’ notice, AFAR sent writer Wells Tower into the mazelike markets and Lucha Libre dens of Mexico’s notoriously misunderstood megalopolis.

Built by Kaiser Wilhelm I in the late 19th century as a gesture to parliamentarians, Berlin’s famed Reichstag came into its own during the Weimar era—Germany’s first attempt at democracy. The parliament building burned under mysterious circumstances in 1933, leading to the suspension of civil rights and Hitler’s ensuing dictatorship. Seized and shot to pieces by Soviet troops in 1945, then abandoned during the city’s division, the traumatized building reentered public life when the German government returned to Berlin following reunification. Today the Reichstag stands proud, topped by a glass dome designed by British architect Sir Norman Foster as a symbol of political transparency. Going inside the dome is very popular; you can look down on plenary sessions as well as admire sweeping city views.

When in Port Vila, this is definitely not-to-be-missed. The best time to go would be the morning when there would be the least amount of visitors. The hike to the waterfall takes about 10-15 minutes and you’re free to go at your own pace. It is quite a pleasant hike and the paths are well laid-out. When you reach the waterfall, make sure you climb to the top, which is the best spot. The water is cool, fresh, perfect to go for a swim on a hot day. Alternatively, the most cost-effective way to get here would be by a tour. There are two departure times, at 9am or 2pm, whereby a shuttle picks you up from and then drops you off at your hotel. The duration is two and a half hours and it costs 2,500 Vatu, which is approximately $25. You can also go there solo, by bus or taxi.

The east coast of Santo is dotted with blue holes—freshwater marine pools that develop like sinkholes on land composed of limestone or coral reef. Nanda Blue Hole, also known as Jacquie’s Blue Hole after the landowner, is one of the most popular on the island, thanks to its captivating blue hue, accessibility for swimmers and beautiful green forest surroundings. The area also offers a bar, picnic area and boardwalk.


It’s one of the bluest on the Espiritu Santo island. You’ll see lots of fish in this natural fresh water spring. The site is well-constructed, has a picnic area and the water is a deep blue unlike no other.


There is an entrance fee of 500 Vatu about $5 USD, which includes a hot drink or a coconut from their cafe- well worth to spend at least half your day here.

This famous underwater sight, which lies a 10-minute drive away from the center of Luganville, is where hundreds of tons of American military equipment worth around U.S. $1 million—hence the name—was deliberately dumped after the end of World War II to prevent the “greedy British” from taking it for free (the Brits had refused to pay even nominal prices). Still rusting away beneath the water’s surface, the equipment is a boon for divers and snorkeling fans, who are free to explore the coral-covered bulldozers, cranes and forklifts.

The grassy landing strip on this tiny island just off Anatom was originally cleared to serve the Allied forces during WWII and still receives two commercial flights a week. Except for those briefly busy days, and the days when cruise ship tenders arrive at the dock, Mystery Island is completely uninhabited. On cruise ship days, though, Anatom islanders arrive early to greet the visitors. In thatched stalls near the dock, locals sell souvenirs and tropical fruit and sometimes set up grills to prepare simple meals. (These days represent a major source of income for Anatom Island, so consider buying at least a small remembrance.) Visitors wander the shoreline and along groomed sandy paths to find the stretch of sugar-sand beach that best suits their vision of a day spent in a deserted island paradise.

Inspired by Hawaii itself, the Big Island Brew Haus blends Island-grown ingredients into their own creative concoctions like Mele Mai Bock, Pau Hana Pale Ale, and Overboard Ipa. Like any pub, the Big Island Brew Haus brings people together over porters, stouts, and lagers. Live music creates a livelier atmosphere and the food selection keeps people around for dinner. Tacos are the main event on the menu, but there are plenty of other choices from vegetarian dishes to grilled Big Island steak. For the extra thirsty folks, the Brewhaus provides beer to-go in refillable jars. The jars are great for the environment and encourage people to keep coming back.

Port-Vila’s friendly and inviting handicraft market is a great place to while away a morning or afternoon. Stallholders are always happy to chat, and the quality of the products, which range from clothing like sarongs and T-shirts to woven textiles and other souvenirs, is generally high. There are also a few other shops to browse in the vicinity. Always purchase goods with a “Handmade in Vanuatu” sticker to be sure they are not imported.

This family-run retail and wholesale business in downtown Luganville is a boon for locals and visitors alike. In addition to stocking a decent array of grocery items, including fresh vegetables and fruit, the store sells everything from furnishings to electrical appliances, clothing and DVDs. There’s also a decent assortment of fishing, camping and snorkeling gear. The store accepts credit cards and can arrange delivery for larger purchases.