Guadalcanal I Solomon Islands

Destination: Solomon Islands

the 'Hapi' Isles

Both times that I’ve visited the Solomon Islands were while I worked for It Is Written Oceania. We were there working with the Seventh-day Adventist Solomon Island Mission to record an audio Bible in Solomon Island Pidgin. This audio Bible recording was then placed on a small, solar-powered MP3 player nicknamed a Godpod.

In total, I spent about 5 weeks in the capital city of Honiara, and while I didn’t have the opportunity to explore too far afield, I learned a lot about the ‘hapi’ isles and fell in love with the Solomon Islands!

Travel Guide: Solomon Islands

Situated in the Pacific Ocean, East of Australia, between Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu, the Solomon Islands are made up of hundreds of small islands in the Solomon Island archipelago.

While the Solomon Islands have been the epicentre of significant military conflict between foreign powers alongside ongoing ethnic tensions, rioting and economic struggles, you’ll often be greeted with smiles everywhere you go.

Head to the markets or a roadside stall and admire the workmanship of a local carver or try the fresh produce for some of the sweetest pineapple, papaya and coconut you will ever taste! Then, of course, there is the humble banana. Close to the banana ‘centre of origin’ in neighbouring Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands are home to hundreds of varieties of banana that get used in all sorts of dishes, both sweet and savoury.

Take a step out of your comfort zone and explore the ‘Hapi Isles’.

Inspiration:

Historic Experiences

Land, air and sea battles have occurred throughout the history of the Solomon Islands with the most recent being in World War 2. The significant military presence of both the Japanese and the Allies following the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour has left the islands and ocean littered with relics of war.

Can you find them?