Fly to Vanuatu (Port Vila)

You're in Vanuatu: you know what that means. Time to hit the beach! With its white sand, tranquil water and kid-friendly rock pools, Eton Beach (40 minutes north of Port Vila) is postcard perfection. Catch a banana boat to Hideaway and Lelepa Islands, both famous for brilliant snorkelling. Soak up the soul-soothing beauty of Port Olry and Champagne Beaches (Espiritu Santo) or buck the trend and head to Tanna's volcanic black sand beaches. Meanwhile, surfers will rejoice at Vanuatu's world-class (and wonderfully uncrowded) breaks.

Get a fascinating glimpse into Vanuatu's rich heritage through 'kastom', the country's traditional culture. Visit a tribal community such as Ekasup Cultural Village (not far from Port Vila) and learn about time-honoured customs from the village chief. Wander the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, take a hiking tour with a local guide, buy locally handcrafted jewellery, and be hypnotised by a fire-dancing ceremony. Spanning everything from art, dance and medicine to the UNESCO-listed practice of sand-drawing, kastom will show you another side of Vanuatu.

Not all of Vanuatu's aquatic charms are coastal so make time for some freshwater fun inland. Expect glorious waterfalls nestled amid tropical jungle and blue holes with water so iridescent it looks Photoshopped. Within easy reach of Port Vila, you'll find the aptly named Blue Lagoon as well as several tumbling falls, including the iconic Mele Cascades. Hop from one magical blue hole to another on Espiritu Santo (which boasts more than a dozen!) or get adventurous on a guided hike to the South Pacific's tallest falls, Siri Waterfalls (Gaua).