A three-hour flight away from Brisbane, Australia lie the Solomon Islands. The cluster of islands that make up the Solomons is one of the Pacific’s lesser-known gems.
The people who live here, the culture, and the scenic beauty are unique to the Solomons. This makes these islands a perfect tourist destination. Rightly enough, travelers refer to these islands as “Paradise”. If you’re looking to kick it back a notch and relax, you can’t go wrong with the Solomons. But, as perfect as they may seem, it would still be best to buy travel medical insurance in case of any unexpected mishaps.
Solomon Islands Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
The risks involved in traveling to the Solomon Islands are reason enough to get a travel insurance plan. Although the plan will not eliminate the risks, it will provide you with much-needed financial aid in unforeseen situations.
Do I need travel medical insurance for the Solomon Islands?
There is no specific legal requirement for a traveler to have medical insurance while traveling to the Solomon Islands. However, for your own peace of mind, it’s a wise decision to get a comprehensive travel insurance plan before you travel.
Why buy travel medical insurance for the Solomon Islands?
The medical facilities in the Solomon Islands can treat routine illnesses. However, if you face a serious medical condition, then you would need an air evacuation. Without travel medical insurance, you will need to spend thousands of dollars in treatment.
Injuries due to indulging in adventure activities can also require medical attention. The financial security that comes with having a travel insurance plan can ease the mental strain and help with recovery. So, ensure that you buy travel medical insurance.
Things to Do for Travelers in the Solomon Islands
The Solomons have plenty to offer when it comes to tourist-worthy activities. The Islands offer visitors mountains, wildlife, the ocean, and various cultures. Adventure is brewing, and the limit is only how far you are willing to go.
Here are the top 5 things you should not miss doing in the Solomon Islands:
Visit Skull Island
History has it that this particular island has skulls belonging to enemies, while also having prominent chiefs’ skulls. The skulls that the chiefs appropriated became signs of their rank and power.
As a traveler, you may feel eerie entering the Skull Island. For the locals, however, it is a sacred island.
It is perhaps the eerie feel that drives tourists to this spot.
Travelers also cannot visit this sacred island without the knowledge of the village chief. The villagers believe that if travelers do visit the skull island unbeknownst to the chief, their lives could be in grave danger.
The Kolombangara Mountain Trek
Kolombangara is the third-highest mountain in the Solomon Islands at 1,800 meters (5,905 feet) above sea level. This volcanic mountain last erupted 10,000 years ago. Since then, it has been calm and has provided adventurers with beautiful trekking experiences.
Trekkers have mentioned that you will be going through the paths that aren’t used often. Added to that, the thick forests make for a difficult walk and pose a possibility of losing your way. Hence, you will need a guide or two with a machete.
Tenaru Falls
Cascading 60 meters (almost 200 feet) over a cliff, the Tenaru Falls are a sight worth trekking to. While many travelers have found that going to the falls is no easy task, each of them will tell you that it is worth all effort.
The paths to the falls are slippery and muddy, so make sure you have a good pair of hiking boots. Naturally, trekking is not easy, so being reasonably fit is also important. But, the fatigue of an hour's journey to the waterfall almost disappears when you’ve reached your destination.
Bird Watching
The Solomon Islands are home to a variety of bird species. You can find species like the Duchess Lorikeet, Cardinal Lory, White-billed Crow, Yellow-billed Lory, Chestnut-bellied Monarch, Ultramarine Kingfisher, the White-winged Fantail, and the Black-headed Myzomela.
Gizo is where bird watchers usually set out from. The areas of Kolombangara, Ranongga, and Vella Lavella and popular spots. The stunning White-eye also calls Gizo home. If you’re a bird lover, then the Solomons are the best place for you.
Vilu War Museum
Historical sites leave you with a visceral connection to them. The Vilu War Museum is home to a unique set of World War II memorabilia. You’ll see everything from planes and tanks to the “Bloody Ridge” – where U.S. Marines repelled Japanese onslaughts.
This open-air museum in the Solomon Islands showcases planes that crash-landed on the Island. Among the planes found here is the P-38 Lockheed Lightning that was a part of the mission that shot Yamamoto. If you’re a history lover, Vilu War Museum is something you can’t miss.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in the Solomon Islands
Travel to the Solomon Islands is undoubtedly going to be a great experience for you. But, you must stay aware of risks so that you can avoid them efficiently.
Top risks that international travelers face in the Solomon Islands include the following.
- In the Solomon Islands, weather extremes are common. Keeping tabs on official weather updates on the local radio broadcasts will help.
- Insect-borne diseases are the major health risks in the Solomon Islands. These diseases are widespread, so your accommodation must be insect-proof. If traveling with a child, ensure proper vaccination and maintain proper hygiene.
- Trip cancellations are also a risk that you must prepare for. Due to unexpected events, you may have to cancel the trip you have already paid for. In such times, having an insurance plan will give you financial security.
Before You Travel to the Solomon Islands – Do This
Consider this quick checklist of things you need to consider before you begin your travel to the Solomon Islands.
- Ensure you have all important travel documents like your passport and visa. Keep these documents in a safe place.
- The element of risk in the Solomon Islands is high. Ensure you have a guide for your treks, have the necessary medicines, and don’t travel alone at night.