Culture & Lifestyle

Culture & Lifestyle in Vanuatu

Vanuatu consistently ranks as one of the happiest places on Earth. Understanding the cultural values helps you integrate and find the contentment that draws people here.

Kastom (Custom)

The concept of "kastom" underpins Ni-Vanuatu society:

Core principles:

• Community over individualism
• Respect for elders and chiefs
• Land belongs to ancestral communities
• Ceremonies mark important life events
• Sharing and reciprocity
• Connection to ancestral traditions

What this means for expats:

• Relationships matter more than transactions
• Community involvement expected
• Patience with traditional processes
• Respect for local customs required
• Gifts and contributions appreciated

Island Time

This is real, not a stereotype:

• Things happen when they happen
• Rushing is seen as rude
• Meetings start when everyone arrives
• Deadlines are flexible
• Patience is a virtue

Adjusting:

• Accept you cannot change it
• Build buffer time into plans
• Bring something to do while waiting
• See it as feature, not bug
• Your blood pressure will thank you

Daily Rhythm

Typical day in Vanuatu:

• Early morning: Cool, active time for work/exercise
• Midday: Hot, slower pace, possibly rest
• Afternoon: Rain possible, work continues
• Evening: Social time, family, community
• Night: Early bedtime (limited nightlife)

Work culture:

• Less pressure than Western countries
• Relationships prioritized in business
• Government/business offices: Standard hours
• Many small family businesses
• Friday afternoon is often slow

Social Norms

Do:

• Greet people - "Halo" goes a long way
• Accept hospitality when offered
• Dress modestly, especially in villages
• Remove shoes when entering homes
• Ask permission before photographing people
• Participate in community events

Don't:

• Rush people or appear impatient
• Dress provocatively outside resorts
• Be loud or aggressive
• Disrespect chiefs or elders
• Assume Western efficiency norms apply
• Criticize local ways publicly

Religion

Important cultural factor:

• ~90% Christian (various denominations)
• Presbyterian, Catholic, Anglican most common
• Church attendance high
• Sunday is rest day in many areas
• Religious holidays observed

For expats:

• Expect most things closed Sunday
• Church can be social connection
• Respect religious practice
• Secular lifestyle is fine but be discreet

Food Culture

Local diet:

• Root crops: Taro, yam, manioc, sweet potato
• Coconut in everything
• Fresh fish and seafood
• Tropical fruits
• "Laplap" - national dish (grated root vegetables)

Expat food:

• International restaurants in Port Vila
• Imported goods in supermarkets (expensive)
• Markets for fresh local produce
• French influence in cuisine

Social eating:

• Sharing food is cultural norm
• Large gatherings common
• Kava ceremonies (traditional drink)
• Hospitality expected and reciprocated

Kava Culture

Kava is central to Vanuatu culture:

• Relaxing drink made from pepper plant roots
• Consumed in "nakamals" (kava bars)
• Social bonding ritual
• Men traditionally drink; women increasingly included
• Mild sedative effect

For expats:

• Participating shows respect
• Don't drive after kava
• Acquired taste (muddy, peppery)
• Nakamals are social hubs

Entertainment & Leisure

What people do:

• Beach and water activities
• Family gatherings
• Church activities
• Village events and festivals
• Kava bars
• Sports (rugby, football)

Limited:

• Nightlife (some bars in Port Vila)
• Cinema (basic)
• Shopping (Port Vila only)
• Cultural events beyond local

The Happy Factor

Why Vanuatu ranks #1 on Happy Planet Index:

• Strong community bonds
• Simple pleasures valued
• Close family connections
• Natural beauty everywhere
• Low stress environment
• Contentment over acquisition

What expats learn:

• Happiness doesn't require stuff
• Relationships are wealth
• Slowing down is healthy
• Nature heals
• Community matters