Current Time in Vanuatu
Time culture in Vanuatu
Time culture in Vanuatu
"Vanuatu time" is the norm
In Vanuatu, a very flexible sense of time, called "Vanuatu time," is common, and schedules are considered to be merely a guideline. A delay of a few hours is normal.
Natural phenomena are the clock of life
The tides, the position of the sun, and seasonal winds determine the schedule of daily activities. Fishermen and farmers in particular are faithful to the cycles of nature.
Meetings don't start until people are gathered
Village meetings and events don't start until everyone is there. Even if a start time is written, it is normal for them to actually start 2-3 hours late.
Time values in Vanuatu
Relationships are more important than time
Relationships with family and community take precedence over punctuality. Being late for an appointment is not considered a problem if the reason is a family matter.
Cherish the here and now
Enjoying the present moment is more important than planning for the future. Rather than being pressed for time, they value the atmosphere and relationships of the place.
Rushing is unnatural
Acting in a hurry is considered "unnatural." There is a culture that prefers doing things at a natural pace.
Things about time that foreigners should know when traveling or relocating to Vanuatu
Domestic flights change frequently
Schedules change easily depending on the weather and number of passengers. Flights to small islands in particular can be canceled even the day before.
Inter-island boat services are irregular
Schedules of boats connecting the islands are unreliable. It is not uncommon for departures to be delayed by several days, so you need to plan well in advance.
Shop opening hours are fluid
Many stores do not open according to the opening hours written on their signs, and may suddenly close due to the owner's convenience. Be sure to secure necessities in advance.
Interesting trivia about time in Vanuatu
Traditional ways of measuring time
In some islands, the growing period of a yam (about 6 months) was used as a unit of time. Even today, expressions such as "two yams" remain.
Volcanic activity influences the sense of time
In islands with active volcanoes, the cycle of volcanic activity is linked to the sense of seasons. There is also traditional wisdom of estimating time by the state of smoke.
Time management in custom dances
The start time of traditional custom dances is determined by the physical condition and mood of the dancers. It is customary to wait until the dancer is "ready" rather than by the clock.