Solomon Island Surf and Village Life
If you're looking for a real Solomon Island experience living in a village on the shores of a world class reef break, Solomon Isalnd Surf and Village Life may well be just what you're looking for. At its best the right hander in front of the village runs for over 150 metres and the left hander just down the beach, whilst not as long, is still a goofy footers d
ream wave. During the surf season from November to April the reef is hit with consistent Pacific Ocean swells that bring surf ranging from chest height to double over head. If surfing is not your thing or you're unlucky enough not to have swell, there is a reef lined lagoon which is prefect for swimming, snorkeling and fishing or you can just hang out with some of the friendliest people on earth. It must be noted that Pailongae is a very small village that has none of the luxuries most tourists are used to. Whilst there is running water, it is recommended that you use bottled water. If you need to go to the toilet you'll have to take a dip in the water and let nature do its thing. Showers are available but there is no screen and you'll be in view of the whole village. Cooking is done on an open fire and you'll probably sit on one of Frank's parent's graves when eating dinner. If you're still keen you're up for one of the greatest travel experiences in your life!! Accomodation is a newly built hut 30 metres from the water's edge. Whilst it is small, it can fit 4 people quite comfortably. If it's too hot there is a ledge under the hut that can comfortably sleep 2 people. Frank and his family have plans to make the hut bigger but for now it is quite simple but very clean and comfortable. All cooking utensils and cutlery will be supplied. If you have more than 4 people Frank would be able to organize accommodation with other families. Rates are as follows: (at time of writing $1AUD =$6SD)
$100 Solomon per night: Bring own food (About$16AUD)
$200 Solomon per night: Includes all meals and fruit snacks plus laundry. If you want extra luxuries you can buy in Gizo. Franks's brother in-law Lawrence offers traditional Solomon Islands massage at $50 SD for a full massage (he usually gives 2)
If you've got any other request just ask. Pailongae is a 20 minute taxi ride from Gizo village ($150SD) or you can jump in one of the local taxi trucks at $10 SD per person. Alternatively you can organize for a boat to take you from Gizo market. You should be able to get something for around $300-$400SD. Frank is happy to meet you at the market and help organize transport. It would be worth stocking up on supplies whilst there as there aren't any shops in Pailongae. To get to Gizo you will need to fly to Honiara and then get a local flight to Gizo which takes just over an hour. If you have a bi big board or several boards make sure you organize flight on a Dash 8 airplane. The local planes are quite good but they are very flexible with their times. Try and send Frank a text just before you board from Honiara so he can meet you at the market. You actually arrive on a very small island just off the main island so it would be best to try and organize a boat ride from there going via the market to buy supplies and meet up with Frank. If you have any questions feel free to drop Frank's son John an email (Frank does not have access to a PC) at [email protected] or I'd be happy to answer your questions at [email protected]
