In the South Pacific, Vanuatu is a nation with untapped potential. The archipelago consists of 83 islands and is undergoing great development as investors realize the possibilities present. A rich culture and history in the nation dates back thousands of years, giving Vanuatu a character and intrigue that draws tourists from far and wide. For those seeking investment opportunities abroad and those who have always dreamed of owning island property, Vanuatu presents some impressive options.
The nation’s largest island, Espiritu Santo, is home to Luganville, Vanuatu’s busiest export port and the country’s second-largest city. The largest city, Port Villa, resides to the south of the island of Efate. The last ten years have seen an upward trend in property prices and real estate development in Efate and Espiritu Santo that is exciting investors internationally.
Santo has been a focal point of activity since the Pacific war. When American troops were stationed on the island in large numbers, the development of Luganville began. Large streets were built so that trucks could drive in fours, and many commercial businesses sprang up along the main roads.
Development continued after the war and people began to visit the islands for holidays more than anything else. Diving is a big draw to the islands, and Espiritu Santo is no exception. The SS President Coolidge was a converted 200-meter luxury cruise ship used to transport troops during World War II. The remains of her see the visit of divers from all over the world and now she is a protected marine reserve. Being one of the largest cities and home to many luxury resorts and accommodations, many tourists choose Santo when looking for a place to stay during their trip. Beaches, golf courses, and village tours are other popular attractions on the island.
For those looking to escape the confines and stress of city life and the bureaucracy of the western world, Vanuatu offers investment opportunities with good returns and an exciting change in lifestyle.
The island’s local people continue to farm and fish in the trade, and help support the developing tourism industry that shows so much potential.
Away from the cities, many still live largely in the ‘custom’ way of their ancestors, and for many visitors this is what makes Santo a unique destination.
Although Luganville has not developed as much as its Port Villa counterpart in terms of westernization, the potential for development and investment, as well as the possibility of cheap residential property purchases, remains strong. Santo’s unspoilt nature is its draw.
Its proximity to Australia (two hours direct flight from Brisbane), New Zealand and other Pacific nations gives investors a good reason to buy and develop land. With blocks of beachfront island property available for the same price as a modest home in other countries, it’s certainly an attractive option! The Espiritu Santo waterfront blocks are available for as little as $60,000 USD and the islands are for sale for as little as four hundred thousand dollars. So why hesitate? Now is the time to get a prime property on the island.