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Few scams

Melanesia

Tourist scams in Vanuatu

Vanuatu is generally safe and friendly, and no specific tourist scams are identified here. The main concerns are crime in Port Vila at night and travel costs such as exchange losses, card surcharges and ATM fees. These fees are not, by themselves, signs of fraud.

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    Habits that keep you safe

    Money

    • Exchange only what you need. Vatu can be difficult to exchange outside Vanuatu.
    • Compare the final amount you will receive. Cash exchange spreads are around 7% for Australian dollars and higher for other currencies.
    • Ask for the price in vatu before paying in Australian dollars. Some businesses in Port Vila accept Australian dollars at an unfavourable rate.
    • Check the total price and count your change before leaving.

    Cards and ATMs

    • Budget for a flat 700 VT withdrawal fee when using a foreign card at a bank ATM.
    • Ask about card charges before paying. Processing surcharges of 3–5% are expected.
    • Carry enough cash for travel beyond Port Vila, where card acceptance is rare.
    • Cover your PIN and check your account for unfamiliar transactions.

    Your belongings

    • Keep your phone, wallet and bag secure when out.
    • Carry only the cash and valuables you need for the day.
    • Keep copies of important documents separately from the originals.

    Nights out

    • Take extra care in Port Vila at night, where crime is a greater concern.
    • Choose well-lit routes and arrange your return journey before going out.
    • Stay with your companions and keep your belongings close.

    Where you stay

    • Ask your hotel whether it offers payment in Australian dollars, either in cash or to an Australian bank.
    • Compare the full cost of that option with paying in vatu, including any exchange costs or card surcharge.
    • Keep the agreed bill and your payment receipt.

    Questions

    Are tourist scams common in Vanuatu?

    Vanuatu is generally described as safe and friendly. No specific tourist scams are identified here, so there is no basis for naming a common scam or estimating how often it happens.

    Where should I be more careful at night?

    Take extra care in Port Vila at night. Keep valuables secure, choose well-lit routes and plan your return journey.

    Is a card surcharge a sign of a scam?

    A processing surcharge of 3–5% is expected. Ask about it before paying and check the final total.

    What should I expect to pay to withdraw cash?

    Banks charge a flat 700 VT fee for withdrawals with foreign cards. ATMs are available in Port Vila and Luganville.

    How can I limit currency exchange losses?

    Exchange only what you need and compare the final amount offered. Cash spreads are around 7% for Australian dollars and higher for other currencies. Vatu is difficult to exchange outside Vanuatu.

    Should I pay in Australian dollars?

    Some places in Port Vila accept Australian dollars, but the rate is often unfavourable. Some hotels offer Australian-dollar payment options that may save money. Compare the full cost before choosing.

    Can I rely on cards outside Port Vila?

    Card acceptance is rare outside Port Vila. Carry enough cash for your plans, but avoid taking all your money out with you each day.

    How should I handle a disagreement over a bill?

    Stay calm, speak quietly and ask for a clear explanation of the charges. Keep receipts and payment records. Anger, raised voices and abusive language can make cooperation harder.

    What should I do if my wallet or passport is stolen?

    Get somewhere safe, freeze any missing cards and report the theft to local police. Keep a record for your insurer. Contact your embassy or consulate if your passport is missing.

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