South Pacific

The South Pacific region comprises Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Easter Island, and the surrounding islands. Each of these regions is home to its own unique and endemic species:

• Papua New Guinea - Between the flourishing endemic bird populations and an eclectic mix of other wildlife, Papua New Guinea offers exciting ways to experience nature and learn about the Melanesian cultures.
• Solomon Islands - Discover some of the most strategically important islands of World War II, where remnants of the military bases are being reclaimed into the tropical nature.
• Easter Island - Snorkeling, biking, hiking, and swimming are just a few ways you can get to know this ancient island, where the renowned giant Moai statues have mystified travelers for years as to their origin or meaning.
• Australia - Explore the natural beauty of the "Outback," bounding with mammals, birds, and marine life, and home to breathtaking waterfalls and the world-renowned Great Barrier Reef.
• New Zealand - This is not only a great way to get to know the wildlife-rich Southern Islands, where penguins and seals abound, but also serves as a portal to exhilarating Antarctic cruises.

South Pacific FAQs
Do I need a visa to travel to the South Pacific?
It depends on where you are going - New Zealand & French Polynesia (Tahiti) do not require a visa. Papua New Guinea and Australia do. All countries require a passport valid for at least three months and some countries require six months validity from your departure date.

Is tipping customary in the South Pacific?
Generally, tipping is not an expectation in the South Pacific. Unless you receive absolutely phenomenal service at a relatively modern or western-style restaurant or if the guide really impresses you, you shouldn't feel obligated to tip. In certain places, a tip might be included in a bill, but in other places it might actually be considered a bit counter-cultural to offer a tip for service that many islanders consider their obligation to you as a guest.

What is internet access like in the South Pacific?
You will not likely have access to the internet for the majority of your stay in the South Pacific. It's possible that a hotel might offer WiFi, but most ships do not.

Can I use my cell phone while in the South Pacific?
Probably not. You could buy a SIM chip for your phone at the airport, but realistically you will be out of range of a cell signal for most of your trip.

Do I need power adapters?
Depending on where you are going, you will need either a European style two round prong plug adapter or an Australian style three flat slanted prong adapter. Power throughout the South Pacific is 220-240v, so if your 110v devices aren't compatible with this, you will also need a step-down converter.

What are the toilets like in the South Pacific?
Since most of our South Pacific journeys are cruises, you can count on modern flushing toilets in your suites. When you are touring the more isolated areas, you might encounter a squat toilet which requires you to hover and bring your own toilet paper, which you will then throw in a waste basket rather than the toilet.

Can I drink the water in the South Pacific?
No, it is not safe to drink tap water in the South Pacific, so we make sure that you will always have access to clean filtered or bottled water.

Are credit cards accepted in the South Pacific? Will I be able to find ATMs?
When arriving in the South Pacific, you should probably go on the assumption that you will not have frequent access to ATMs. Our trips are all inclusive, so other than souvenirs or if you plan to do things that are not on the itinerary you will not have to worry about using money.

Should I purchase travel insurance?
You should always purchase travel insurance before a trip. Our associates at TravelGuard have some excellent offers on our Once You're Booked page.