Although I love boats, trains, and even bicycles, my favorite way to explore a new place is on foot. In a place as sweltering hot and humid as Vanuatu, a slow stroll along the coast road opened my eyes to things I definitely would’ve missed if I were whizzing past.
Like these children squealing and laughing as they leaped in the cooling waves of the Coral Sea.
And this oh-so-homey line of laundry flapping gently in the salty breezes.
Emerging from the heavenly shade of the bush, I came upon this pretty little village set at the foot of towering hills and overlooking the tree-lined beach.
The brightly colored homes cheered me no end, and if it weren’t so blooming hot I could picture myself happily seated on one of those benches, visiting with a dear friend or just watching the world go by.
I wandered down to the beach and had a lovely visit with a sweet grandma who was babysitting various village children under the shade of the trees. We talked about goats and chickens and gardens and grandchildren and how wonderful the ocean water feels on hot days. 🙂 They told me their names and the name of their village and laughed heartily at my attempts at pronunciation. A linguist I am not! 🙂
I waved good-bye and continued on my way, casting a wary eye up at the sky as I hustled along the path, hoping to outrun the storm.
Alas, I kept getting distracted by cute little kids and tidy gardens and chickens scratching in the underbrush.
I felt like I’d wandered into a Dr. Seuss book as I ambled down this tree-lined lane, marveling at the incredible root system.
And I loved these rustic stone steps leading into a sunny yard dotted with various palms.
What is your favorite mode of transportation when exploring a new place?
Such a lovely walk Krista. I can imagine the heat .
 Thank you, dear Barbara. 🙂 I would’ve loved to walk this island with you, stopping to take pictures every few feet. 🙂
The pictures and your descriptions of the heat, the people and the stimulating colors and ocean breezes remind me intensely of the northeast of Brazil. Â I totally understand what you mean about walking in a new place. That is the best way to discover new things I think. It even works in familiar places, just so long as you keep your eyes and your mind open. Â
 I had no idea Brazil looked like this, Stevie! I would love to visit there one day. 🙂
Krista! This is absolutely amazing! I wish I could visit Vanuatu one day!
 I hope you will, Zita. 🙂 I would LOVE to see your pictures. 🙂
Krista, once again you’ve transport me away on another pleasant daydream / adventure. This island just keeps getting better and better. Great pics as always, but my favourite is the washing line under the shade with a view of the beach. ……I would luv my washing days………..Â
 I’m thrilled to hear it, Neil! 🙂 It is a splendid little island – so very beautiful. 🙂 I love the washing line too. Can’t you imagine going out there every few days, basking in the ocean breezes as you do your “chores”? 🙂
This is absolutely amazing, Krista. It’s like paradise. I’m with you, the best way to explore a new place and really get a feel for how the locals live is on foot! 🙂
 Isn’t it so glorious, Faith? 🙂 Sigh, twas pure heaven. 🙂
That village sounds so incredibly charming. If it weren’t for my love of electricity and guaranteed indoor plumbing I would be all about that trip. I think I could handle a rustic lifestyle for a day. Maybe. Was the food there absolutely fabulous?
 The food was really good, Deanna. Nothing fancy like you’d find in Paris or Rome, but good, hearty food with lots of island flavors. 🙂
My favorite way to get to know a new place is to run through it, so I guess it’s kind of the same thing! This really looks like paradise.
 Ohhh, running sounds like a great idea too, Joanne. 🙂 I’m no runner, but I know my siblings LOVED running through the streets of Montepulciano when we were there for my brother’s wedding. 🙂
I love exploring tropical places – this looks absolutely delicious!
 I’d never been to a tropical place until four years ago, Andrea. But now I’m smitten. 🙂
So beautiful! Reminds me of my time in Noumea… 🙂
 I would love to visit Noumea too, Corinne. 🙂 I know nothing about it and would love to do some exploring. 🙂
Such a great adventure and photos! I am amazed at the colors of Vanuatu, and thanks for bringing this island to my attention!
 You are so welcome! It’s lovely to meet you. 🙂
wow, Krista, this is something straight out of a Gaugin painting! Kudos! Love your site!
 Thank you so much, Jennifer! I’m delighted you stopped by and am looking forward to seeing YOUR site. 🙂
Gorgeous photos! I can’t wait to visit for myself.