Commercial Guesthouse, Craig Cove, Ambrym Visitor Ratings

The Commercial Centre guest house at Craig Cove has been operating for many years. Only 15 minutes walk from the airport, it is convenient accommodation for people arriving or departing by air. Most tourists who stay there are just passing through. It was a bit rundown in July 2005 although people say it is improving.

Costs and Booking
Accommodation at Craig Cove costs 1500 Vatu per person, per night, payable in Vatu cash. You can make enquiries and bookings at the Craig Cove Commercial Centre store (telephone 48547). There are French and English speaking villages in the Craig Cove area. Exchange rates.

Accommodation and Food
The Commercial is a modern guesthouse with generator electricity in the evenings. There are three bedrooms; two have a pair of bunk beds and a single bed in each, one has a double bed and a single bed. The main door is lockable. There are no mosquito nets in the guesthouse and apparently no mosquitos at Craig Cove.

The guesthouse has a shared shower (bucket shower) and modern flush toilet (bucket flush). The gravity feed water system was out of order in July 2005. You have to haul your own water from the rainwater 'well' behind the guesthouse. Bring your own bath soap and towel. Toilet paper is provided.

The guesthouse kitchen has a gas cook top and a basic set of saucepans, plates, cups and cutlery. There are two stores at Craig Cove. Fresh local bread is available and they often have fresh fish. The Commercial Centre Store has beer and alcohol. There are no markets around and no places selling meals. To get fruit and vegetables you must trade with the villagers.

Services and Suggestions
The Commercial Centre includes a National Bank of Vanuatu branch (open on Tuesday and Friday). There is a Post Office and a Police Station by the main road outside of Craig Cove. Nearby Baiap Village has a medical clinic.

First surveyed: June 2005 by Stephen.
Last updated: July 2005 by Stephen.