Port Vila Markets

A huge selection of arts, crafts, foods and cultural activities

Where in the world can you buy an authentic French pastry along with a native grown cup of hot coffee, stroll between aisles of South Pacific carvings and hand dyed sarongs and grab a quick Chinese take away lunch? All of this and more is available to visitors of the Port Vila markets and shopping areas.

Fusion of cultures

The unique cultural fusion that takes place in the small city has created a wonderful environment heavily influenced by a number of cultures and tastes. The Melanesian culture of the native population has merged with the English, French and Chinese cultures to create a huge selection of foods, crafts, arts and cultural activities in the area.

Port Vila markets cover relatively large area in the town centre, offering a great assortment of locally handmade goods and locally grown fresh produce.

The Port Vila markets greatly illustrate this interesting cultural phenomenon as visitors can purchase a wide range of goods from a number of backgrounds and inspiration.

Port Vila Market

The Port Vila Market runs along the city’s Main Street and is open several days a week. Guests can purchase fresh produce from the many island farmers, they can buy island raised beef and fresh fish and shellfish from some of the local vendors. Shoppers will be able to select from an excellent variety of native wines, locally grown coffees and fresh baked pastries.

Port Vila markets also make a great assortment of handcrafted goods and local merchandise available to tourists and residents alike. Shoppers buy flowers and shells, antiques and souvenirs along with the many wonderful snacks and beverages sold by local and friendly vendors at the markets.

Shoppers at Port Vila markets can purchase locally handcrafted wooden carvings, to take home as unique souvenirs from Vanuatu.

Traditional Island Carvings

Some traditional island carvings are a popular purchase among the thousands of tourists who visit the area each year. These carvings are made of wood, stone, coral or volcanic materials. They are occasionally painted, and are in the shapes of canoes, bowls, animals, birds and fish. The islanders will also craft masks, weavings such as baskets and mats, and some pottery is still produced, as well as a great deal of traditional jewelry and clothing. Many of the native artisans and crafters make daily or weekly trips to the Port Vila Market and shops and it is a good idea to visit the area a few times to see the largest variety of local goods and crafts.

Duty Free Goods

With the increase in the tourist trade, a large emphasis is being placed on the “duty free” opportunities in Port Vila. Shoppers in the commercial area of the city can enjoy duty free t-shirts, perfumes and electronics, but they will also find real bargains in jewelry and other handcrafted goods. It is a good tip to remember that most goods will have to clear customs, so shoppers should not invest in anything containing any kind of seeds, shells or leaf products.

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