Two Weeks in the Solomon Islands: WWII History & Tropical Paradise
From Guadalcanal's Battlefields to Pristine Island Waters
Trip Overview
This comprehensive 14-day journey through the Solomon Islands combines rich WWII history with untouched natural beauty. Starting in Guadalcanal with its significant war relics and museums, you'll explore battlefields, sunken vessels, and memorials before venturing to outer islands for world-class diving, traditional village experiences, and pristine beaches. The itinerary balances historical exploration with adventure activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and cultural immersion. Expect a moderate pace with some early starts for island transfers, but plenty of time to relax and absorb the laid-back island atmosphere. This trip offers genuine cultural encounters with Melanesian communities, spectacular marine life, and landscapes that remain largely untouched by mass tourism.
Pace
Moderate
Daily Budget
$120-180 per day
Best Seasons
April to October (dry season, calmer seas)
Ideal For
History enthusiasts, Divers and snorkelers, Adventure seekers, Cultural explorers, WWII buffs, Off-the-beaten-path travelers
Day-by-Day Itinerary
1
Arrival in Honiara & WWII Introduction
Honiara, Guadalcanal
Arrive in the Solomon Islands capital and begin your journey with an introduction to the region's pivotal WWII history at the national museum.
Morning
Airport arrival and hotel check-in
Land at Henderson International Airport and transfer to your accommodation in Honiara. Take time to settle in, exchange currency if needed, and get oriented with the capital city. The airport is approximately 15-20 minutes from central Honiara. Rest and refresh after your international flight before beginning your exploration.
Arrange airport transfer through your accommodation in advance for easier arrival
Lunch
A waterfront restaurant near Mendana Avenue serving fresh seafood
Afternoon
Solomon Islands National Museum
Visit this essential museum to understand the islands' cultural heritage and WWII significance. The collection includes traditional artifacts, shell money, customary tools, and extensive WWII exhibits documenting the Guadalcanal Campaign. This provides crucial context for the historical sites you'll visit throughout your trip. The museum staff are typically knowledgeable and happy to share stories about the exhibits.
Evening
Sunset at Point Cruz and casual dinner
Stroll along the waterfront at Point Cruz to watch the sunset, then enjoy dinner at a local eatery serving traditional Solomon Islands dishes like cassava, sweet potato, and grilled fish
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Honiara (Mid-range hotel near Mendana Avenue)
Central location provides easy access to restaurants, markets, and serves as a base for Guadalcanal explorations over the coming days
The Solomon Islands dollar is the local currency, but Australian dollars are widely accepted. Bring cash as ATMs can be unreliable and credit cards aren't universally accepted.
Day 1 Budget: $150-200
2
Guadalcanal's War Relics & Memorials
Guadalcanal
Explore significant WWII sites around Guadalcanal, including the famous Guadalcanal Memorial and military artifacts at Vilu.
Morning
Guadalcanal Memorial
Visit this solemn memorial overlooking Honiara and Iron Bottom Sound, commemorating the thousands of Allied and Japanese forces who died during the Guadalcanal Campaign. The memorial offers panoramic views of the coastline where some of the Pacific War's fiercest naval battles occurred. Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect on the historical significance of this location in changing the course of WWII in the Pacific theater.
Hire a local guide or taxi driver for the morning to provide historical context and transportation
Lunch
A local restaurant in town serving traditional island fare
Afternoon
Vilu Military Museum
Located about 35 kilometers west of Honiara, this open-air museum showcases an impressive collection of WWII relics including Japanese artillery, aircraft remains, and military equipment left behind after the war. Walk among rusting tanks, cannons, and bomber parts reclaimed from the jungle. The coastal setting adds to the atmosphere, and you can see how the jungle has slowly reclaimed these metal giants over decades.
Combine with morning transport arrangement; the journey takes about 45 minutes each way
Evening
Dinner and cultural show
Seek out an evening featuring traditional panpipe music and local dance performances, typically arranged through hotels or cultural centers. Enjoy dinner featuring local staples like taro, fish cooked in coconut milk, and tropical fruits
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Honiara (Same accommodation as Day 1)
Continuing to use Honiara as your base for exploring Guadalcanal's western sites
The road to Vilu can be rough in places. Bring water and sun protection as shade is limited at the outdoor museum site.
Day 2 Budget: $130-170
3
Underwater History & Coastal Exploration
Guadalcanal Coast
Discover sunken WWII vessels and explore the coastal areas where intense battles once raged.
Morning
MS World Discoverer viewing and coastal tour
Visit the site of the MS World Discoverer, a cruise ship that struck a reef in 2000 and was beached near Roderick Bay. This modern shipwreck has become an iconic sight partially submerged in shallow waters. While exploring the coastline, you'll also see areas where WWII landing craft remains can still be spotted. The combination of recent maritime history with wartime relics creates a fascinating coastal journey through different eras.
Arrange a boat tour through local operators in Honiara; morning light is best for photography
Lunch
A beachside spot serving grilled fish and local vegetables
Afternoon
Snorkeling at Bonegi Beach
Bonegi Beach is home to accessible WWII wrecks including Japanese transport ships lying in shallow water just offshore. Snorkel among these underwater relics now covered in coral and teeming with tropical fish. The larger wreck sits in about 15 meters of water while another lies in the shallows, making it perfect for snorkelers of all levels. The contrast of war machinery transformed into artificial reefs is striking.
Evening
Sunset at Bonegi and casual dinner
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Honiara (Same accommodation)
Final night in Honiara before heading to outer islands
Bring your own snorkel gear if possible, as rental equipment can be limited. The wrecks at Bonegi are close to shore, making them accessible even for novice snorkelers.
Day 3 Budget: $120-160
4
Journey to Malaita Province
Auki, Malaita
Travel to Malaita, the most populous island, known for its traditional culture and artificial islands built by ancestors.
Morning
Domestic flight to Auki
Take a morning domestic flight from Honiara to Auki, the provincial capital of Malaita. The flight typically takes about 30 minutes and offers aerial views of the island chains. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation and get oriented with this smaller, more traditional town. Auki serves as the gateway to Malaita's cultural attractions and the famous artificial islands built by Lau people generations ago.
Book domestic flights well in advance as schedules can be limited and flights fill quickly
Lunch
A simple restaurant in Auki town serving local dishes
Afternoon
Auki town exploration and Langa Langa Lagoon introduction
Explore Auki's small market where locals sell fresh produce, betel nut, and handcrafted items. Visit the harbor area and arrange tomorrow's tour to the artificial islands in Langa Langa Lagoon. The town has a much slower pace than Honiara, offering insight into provincial Solomon Islands life. Browse shell money and traditional crafts that Malaita is famous for producing.
Evening
Quiet evening and early dinner
Enjoy a simple dinner at a local eatery near the waterfront. Auki has limited nightlife, so this is an evening to relax, organize your gear for tomorrow's cultural tour, and rest early
Where to Stay Tonight
Auki town (Basic guesthouse or lodge)
Auki has limited accommodation options; staying in town provides access to lagoon tours and cultural experiences
Malaita is more traditional and conservative than Guadalcanal. Dress modestly and always ask permission before photographing people or villages.
Day 4 Budget: $180-230
5
Artificial Islands & Traditional Culture
Langa Langa Lagoon, Malaita
Visit the remarkable artificial islands in Langa Langa Lagoon, built entirely from coral and stones by ancestors seeking safety from mainland raids.
Morning
Langa Langa Lagoon artificial islands tour
Take a boat tour to the artificial islands built by the Lau people over centuries. These unique settlements were constructed from coral rocks and shells as refuge from headhunting raids. Meet local families who still maintain traditional practices including shell money production. Watch artisans create shell money using ancient techniques, and learn about the complex social systems these communities developed. The islands offer a rare glimpse into Melanesian adaptation and resilience.
Tours must be arranged through local guides; bring small denominations for purchasing crafts directly from artisans
Lunch
Lunch provided by host community on the islands
Afternoon
Continue lagoon exploration and shell money workshop
Spend more time in the lagoon visiting additional islands or participating in a shell money-making demonstration. The intricate process of grinding, drilling, and stringing shells has been passed down through generations. You may also see traditional fishing techniques and learn about the lagoon's ecology. The afternoon allows for deeper cultural exchange and photography opportunities with proper permissions.
Evening
Return to Auki and dinner
Return to Auki in late afternoon. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and reflect on the day's cultural experiences. Consider purchasing shell money or crafts as meaningful souvenirs
Where to Stay Tonight
Auki town (Same guesthouse as previous night)
Convenient for tomorrow's return to Honiara
Bring cash in small bills for purchasing crafts directly from artisans. Shell money makes a unique and culturally significant souvenir, but ensure you're buying authentic pieces.
Day 5 Budget: $110-150
6
Return to Guadalcanal & Western Province Preparation
Honiara, Guadalcanal
Fly back to Honiara and prepare for tomorrow's journey to Western Province, with time for final explorations in the capital.
Morning
Flight back to Honiara
Take a morning flight from Auki back to Honiara. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and rest after the early start. Use the late morning to organize gear and confirm arrangements for tomorrow's travel to Western Province. Restock supplies, charge devices, and prepare for the next phase of your journey to Gizo and the diving paradise of Western Province.
Lunch
A restaurant in central Honiara serving Asian-influenced cuisine
Afternoon
Central Market and last-minute Honiara exploration
Visit Honiara's bustling Central Market, a sensory experience filled with tropical fruits, vegetables, fresh fish, betel nut, and local crafts. This is the social heart of the capital where locals from different islands sell their goods. Browse handicrafts, try local snacks like coconut cakes, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. It's an excellent place to purchase last-minute gifts or provisions for the coming days.
Evening
Farewell dinner in Honiara
Enjoy a nicer dinner at a waterfront restaurant serving international cuisine with local ingredients. Try dishes featuring fresh tuna, lobster, or other seafood paired with tropical vegetables
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Honiara (Mid-range hotel)
Convenient location for early morning departure to Western Province
The Central Market is busiest early in the morning, but afternoon visits are less crowded. Keep belongings secure in crowded areas.
Day 6 Budget: $190-250
7
Journey to Gizo & Kennedy Island
Gizo, Western Province
Fly to Gizo, the diving capital of Solomon Islands, and visit historic Kennedy Island where JFK survived after his PT boat sank.
Morning
Flight to Gizo
Take a morning flight to Gizo, the provincial capital of Western Province and gateway to some of the world's best diving. The flight typically takes about an hour with stunning views of the island chains below. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation on this charming small island town. Gizo has a relaxed atmosphere, clear waters, and serves as the perfect base for exploring the surrounding islands and dive sites.
Book flights early and confirm the day before as schedules can occasionally change
Lunch
A waterfront restaurant in Gizo serving fresh catch of the day
Afternoon
Kennedy Island visit
Take a short boat ride to Kennedy Island (Plum Pudding Island) where Lieutenant John F. Kennedy and his crew swam after their PT-109 was sunk by a Japanese destroyer in 1943. The small island is now a peaceful spot with a memorial plaque. Snorkel in the surrounding clear waters, learn about the dramatic survival story, and enjoy the tranquil beauty of this historically significant location.
Evening
Sunset in Gizo and dinner
Watch the spectacular sunset from Gizo's waterfront, then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Gizo has a friendly expat diving community, and evenings often involve swapping stories at casual waterfront venues
Where to Stay Tonight
Gizo island (Dive resort or guesthouse)
Gizo is the hub for Western Province explorations and diving activities for the next several days
Gizo is small enough to walk around in 20 minutes. The local market near the wharf is excellent for fresh produce and interacting with locals from surrounding islands.
Day 7 Budget: $200-260
8
World-Class Wreck Diving
Gizo waters
Experience some of the Pacific's best wreck diving, exploring Japanese vessels and aircraft from WWII now transformed into thriving artificial reefs.
Morning
Two-tank wreck dive
Join a diving excursion to explore famous wrecks like the Toa Maru, a Japanese transport ship sitting upright in about 35 meters of water, or the Hellcat fighter plane wreck. These sites are encrusted with coral and surrounded by schools of tropical fish, barracuda, and occasionally sharks. The visibility is typically excellent, and the wrecks are remarkably intact. Even non-divers can snorkel above some shallower wrecks.
Book diving through established operators in Gizo; ensure your certification is current and bring your dive card
Lunch
Lunch typically provided on the dive boat or return to Gizo
Afternoon
Relaxation and optional snorkeling
After morning dives, spend the afternoon relaxing or snorkeling in Gizo's calm waters. Many accommodations have house reefs with excellent snorkeling right from shore. Rest in a hammock, read about the area's history, or explore Gizo town's small shops and markets. This downtime is important for surface intervals if you're diving again tomorrow and allows your body to recover from morning dives.
Evening
Casual dinner and dive story sharing
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant popular with divers where you can share stories of the day's underwater adventures. Try local fish prepared with coconut cream or grilled with island spices
Where to Stay Tonight
Gizo island (Same dive resort or guesthouse)
Continuing diving activities from this convenient base
Even if you're not certified, many operators offer Discover Scuba experiences or guided snorkeling to wreck sites in shallower water. The marine life is spectacular at all depths.
Day 8 Budget: $140-200
9
Island Hopping & Village Visits
Islands around Gizo
Explore smaller islands around Gizo, visit traditional villages, and experience local life away from the provincial center.
Morning
Village visit and cultural exchange
Take a boat to a nearby traditional village where communities maintain customary lifestyles. Experience a welcoming ceremony, observe traditional crafts like basket weaving and wood carving, and learn about village governance systems. Many villages are happy to receive visitors with proper arrangements through local guides. This offers authentic cultural interaction and insight into Solomon Islands rural life that has remained largely unchanged for generations.
Arrange through your accommodation or local tour operators; bring small gifts like school supplies for children
Lunch
Traditional village meal if offered by hosts
Afternoon
Island hopping and beach exploration
Continue exploring smaller islands with pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling. Many uninhabited islands offer perfect white sand beaches fringed with coconut palms and surrounded by crystal-clear water. Swim, snorkel, beachcomb, and enjoy the untouched tropical paradise. The lagoons around Gizo are calm and protected, making them perfect for water activities. Look for shells, watch for sea turtles, and simply relax in this idyllic setting.
Evening
Return to Gizo for dinner
Return to Gizo in late afternoon. Enjoy dinner at a different local restaurant, perhaps trying traditional dishes you haven't yet sampled like cassava pudding or fish cooked in bamboo
Where to Stay Tonight
Gizo island (Same accommodation)
Continuing to use Gizo as your Western Province base
When visiting villages, dress modestly covering shoulders and knees. Remove shoes before entering houses, and always ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies.
Day 9 Budget: $110-150
10
Diving & Marine Conservation
Gizo waters
Explore pristine coral reefs and learn about marine conservation efforts protecting these remarkable ecosystems.
Morning
Coral reef diving or snorkeling
Dive or snorkel at pristine coral reef sites around Gizo known for incredible biodiversity. Sites like Helava Bay offer walls covered in soft corals, sea fans, and sponges with abundant fish life including schools of jacks, tuna, and reef sharks. The coral health in Western Province is generally excellent, showcasing what healthy reef ecosystems look like. Spot nudibranchs, octopuses, and countless tropical fish species in their natural habitat.
Lunch
Return to Gizo for lunch at a local cafe
Afternoon
Mangrove exploration or kayaking
Explore the mangrove ecosystems around Gizo by kayak or small boat. Mangroves are crucial nurseries for many fish species and protect coastlines from erosion. Paddle through the quiet channels observing birds, mudskippers, and juvenile fish. Some tours include information about conservation efforts and the importance of mangroves to island ecosystems. The peaceful environment offers a different perspective from open ocean diving.
Evening
Final Gizo sunset and dinner
Watch your last Gizo sunset from a waterfront spot with a cold drink. Enjoy dinner at your favorite restaurant from the past few days, perhaps ordering a special seafood dish to celebrate your Western Province experience
Where to Stay Tonight
Gizo island (Same accommodation)
Final night in Gizo before returning to Guadalcanal
Gizo's waters are generally calm, but ocean conditions can change. Always check weather and sea conditions before heading out, and go with experienced operators.
Day 10 Budget: $130-180
11
Return to Guadalcanal
Honiara, Guadalcanal
Fly back to Guadalcanal and explore areas of Honiara you may have missed, with opportunities for final souvenir shopping.
Morning
Flight back to Honiara
Take a morning flight from Gizo back to Honiara. The flight offers final aerial views of Western Province's beautiful islands and reefs. Upon arrival, transfer to your accommodation and settle in. Use the late morning to rest and reorganize after your island adventures. Consider doing laundry or repacking for your remaining days and eventual departure from Solomon Islands.
Lunch
A restaurant in Honiara you haven't yet tried
Afternoon
Handicraft shopping and cultural center visit
Visit craft shops and cultural centers in Honiara to purchase authentic Solomon Islands handicrafts, carvings, weavings, and shell money. Look for traditional items like carved bowls, shell jewelry, woven baskets, and wooden figures. Many pieces are created by artisans from different provinces, each with distinctive styles. This is your opportunity to find meaningful souvenirs and support local craftspeople. Staff can often explain the cultural significance of different items.
Evening
Dinner and evening stroll
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with views over Iron Bottom Sound. Take an evening walk along the waterfront, reflecting on your journey through the islands and the history beneath the waters
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Honiara (Mid-range hotel)
Convenient location for final days exploring Guadalcanal
When buying handicrafts, look for items with certificates of authenticity from established shops. Bargaining is not traditional in Solomon Islands culture, so prices are typically fixed.
Day 11 Budget: $220-280
12
Eastern Guadalcanal Adventure
Eastern Guadalcanal
Venture to eastern Guadalcanal to explore villages, rivers, and the less-visited areas of the island with stunning natural scenery.
Morning
Drive to eastern Guadalcanal
Take a day trip eastward along Guadalcanal's coast, passing through villages and seeing rural island life. The road hugs the coastline offering ocean views and glimpses of village life. Stop at the Mataniko Falls area or other natural sites accessible from the road. The journey itself is scenic, passing coconut plantations, traditional houses, and locals going about daily activities. This offers perspective on life outside the capital.
Hire a driver-guide for the day who can provide cultural context and handle logistics
Lunch
Packed lunch or stop at a village for simple local food
Afternoon
River swimming and waterfall exploration
Visit freshwater swimming spots where rivers meet the ocean or explore accessible waterfalls. Many locations offer refreshing swimming in clear pools surrounded by tropical vegetation. The contrast between ocean and freshwater environments is striking. These natural sites are popular with local families on weekends. Enjoy the peaceful jungle atmosphere and cool off from the tropical heat in pristine natural pools.
Evening
Return to Honiara and dinner
Return to Honiara in late afternoon. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, perhaps trying dishes you haven't yet sampled during your stay
Roads in rural Guadalcanal can be rough and travel takes longer than distances suggest. Bring water, snacks, and sun protection. Swimming in rivers is generally safe, but always check with locals about conditions.
Day 12 Budget: $100-140
13
Final Historical Sites & Relaxation
Honiara area
Visit any remaining WWII sites you'd like to explore, with time for relaxation and reflection on your Solomon Islands journey.
Morning
Revisit favorite sites or explore new historical locations
Use this morning flexibly to revisit any sites that made a strong impression or explore additional WWII locations around Honiara. Options include the American War Memorial at Skyline Drive, additional beach areas with wreck access, or simply relaxing at your accommodation. This flexible morning allows you to tailor activities to your interests and energy level before departure tomorrow.
Lunch
A favorite restaurant from earlier in your trip
Afternoon
Beach time and final preparations
Spend a relaxing afternoon at one of Guadalcanal's beaches, perhaps returning to Bonegi or discovering another coastal spot. Swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sand reflecting on your two weeks in Solomon Islands. Begin organizing and packing for tomorrow's departure. Ensure you have all souvenirs properly packed and any final arrangements confirmed. This afternoon provides peaceful closure to your adventure.
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at one of Honiara's better restaurants. Consider seafood or a mixed menu showcasing the flavors you've enjoyed throughout your trip. Raise a toast to your Solomon Islands adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Honiara (Same hotel)
Final night before departure, convenient to airport
Confirm your flight departure time and arrange airport transfer the evening before. International flights typically depart early morning, so prepare everything tonight.
Day 13 Budget: $110-150
14
Departure Day
Final morning in Solomon Islands before your international departure, with time for last-minute activities if your flight schedule allows.
Morning
Final morning and airport transfer
Depending on your flight time, you may have a few hours for final activities. If time permits, take a last walk through Honiara, perhaps stopping at the market or waterfront. Check out of your accommodation with sufficient time to reach the airport at least two hours before your international flight. Say farewell to the Solomon Islands, taking with you memories of WWII history, pristine diving, genuine cultural encounters, and the warm hospitality of island communities.
Lunch
Light meal before departure or at airport if time allows
Afternoon
International departure
Depart Solomon Islands from Henderson International Airport. International flights typically connect through Brisbane, Port Moresby, or other Pacific hubs. As you fly over the islands and reefs, reflect on your journey through this remarkable destination that remains off the beaten path. The Solomon Islands offers experiences few travelers encounter, combining significant history with untouched natural beauty and authentic cultural encounters that will stay with you long after departure.
Evening
In transit
En route to your onward destination
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (In transit)
Departure day
Keep some Solomon Islands dollars for final purchases at the airport. The duty-free shop has local products including coffee, honey, and small handicrafts perfect for last-minute gifts.
Day 14 Budget: $50-100
Practical Information
Getting Around
Inter-island travel relies on domestic flights operated by Solomon Airlines, which connect Honiara with Gizo, Auki, and other provincial centers. Book flights well in advance as schedules are limited and planes are small. Within Honiara and Auki, taxis and hired vehicles are the primary transport. Boats are essential for reaching outer islands, dive sites, and coastal attractions. Many activities include transport, but always confirm what's included. Roads outside main towns can be rough, and travel takes longer than distances suggest. Renting vehicles is possible but driving conditions require experience with unpaved roads.
Book Ahead
Book domestic flights as early as possible, especially during peak season (June-September). Diving and tour operators in Gizo should be contacted in advance, particularly for specific dive sites or extended trips. Accommodation in Gizo and Auki has limited options, so book ahead. Most activities can be arranged upon arrival in each location, but having contacts established beforehand reduces stress. Cultural village visits require advance arrangement through local guides to ensure communities are prepared to receive visitors respectfully.
Packing Essentials
Reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, lightweight long-sleeved clothing for sun protection, modest clothing for village visits, quality snorkel gear if you have it, dive certification card, waterproof bag for boat trips, basic first aid kit, prescription medications, water shoes for reef walking, cash in small denominations (USD and Australian dollars widely accepted), headlamp or flashlight, quick-dry towel, waterproof phone case, and copies of important documents
Total Budget
$2,100-2,900 for 14 days (excluding international flights)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Reduce costs by staying in basic guesthouses throughout, using shared taxis and public transport where possible, eating primarily at local markets and simple restaurants, limiting diving to snorkeling at accessible sites, and focusing on free or low-cost activities like beaches, markets, and walking tours. Skip Malaita to reduce flight costs and extend time in Guadalcanal and Gizo. Prepare your own meals occasionally using market ingredients. This approach can reduce daily costs to $80-120, bringing the total closer to $1,400-1,700 for two weeks.
Luxury Upgrade
Upgrade to the best available resorts in each location, book private guides and boats throughout, add liveaboard diving experiences in Western Province, arrange helicopter transfers between islands, include private cultural performances, book premium dive operators with small groups, enjoy fine dining where available, and add extra activities like sport fishing or extended yacht charters. Consider staying at exclusive island resorts accessible only by boat. Luxury upgrades could increase daily costs to $300-500, bringing the total to $4,500-7,000 for two weeks.
Family-Friendly
Focus on snorkeling rather than diving, choose accommodations with family rooms and swimming areas, reduce inter-island travel to minimize time in airports and boats, select gentle cultural activities where children are welcomed, include more beach time and swimming, visit the national museum with child-friendly exhibits, arrange shorter boat trips, pack games and activities for downtime, ensure accommodations have reliable electricity for charging devices, bring familiar snacks for picky eaters, and consider visiting during school holidays when local families are also traveling, creating a more relaxed atmosphere for children.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Solomon Islands