Polibetakevar
is a small inland village on west Ambrym. They have a simple
community guest house, built in 2005, and hope to attract
some tourists. It's a friendly place where you can experience
village life and make friends without feeling like a tourist.
It's basic but certainly genuine and unique.
Activities
around Polibetakevar are not organised, just ask. There's
good bush walking in the hills and Polibetakevar is one
of the best places in west Ambrym to witness traditional
culture.
Costs
and Booking
Polibetakevar Guesthouse is good value for money at 1500
Vatu per person, per night including meals. Local tours
are informal and prices are not set. Volcano tours are arranged
through Meltungon village (see our Walking
Ambrym page for details). All expenses are payable in
Vatu cash. Exchange rates.
Ambrym
now has mobile phones and you can telephone Polibetakevar.
The key person to call is Terry Bong (5432109) and you can
also try Bae Titus (5422562) or Elder Wary (5496767). People
at Polibetakevar speak Bislama and English, some speak French.
Accommodation
and Food
Polibetakevar's bungalow is a simple dormitory style house
built in the local style. It has three single beds inside
and room for more. Minimal bedding is provided. It's a good
idea to bring a light blanket or sleeping bag and maybe
a mosquito net as well. The door is lockable with a small
padlock. Candles are used for lighting.
The
guesthouse has one basic pit toilet and one haos
blong swim (bucket showers). Bring your own bath towel,
soap and toilet paper. Water comes from rainwater tanks
and is restricted during the dry season. Please conserve!
Basic
aelan kaekae meals
are available at Polibetakevar; mostly vegetables like kumala,
taro, manioc,
corn, lap-lap, aelan
kabis and beans. Megapode (Vanuatu Scrubfowl) eggs should
be available except during the closed season. Sometimes
you can get fresh bread, baked in a saucepan, with coconut
jam for breakfast. Bring your own tea and coffee.
Services
and Suggestions
Polibetakevar has one small store, others are at Baiap and
Craig Cove. Plan ahead and bring your supplies with you.
First
surveyed: June 2005 by Stephen.
Last updated: April 2009 by Stephen.
|
(3 Votes) 
