Upongkor
(Dillon's Bay) is the largest of Erromango's villages. It
has a few basic stores (that might be empty), telephones (that might not work),
a water supply, generators and a medical dispensary. There
are two places to stay at Dillon's Bay :
Meteson's Guesthouse 
PWMU Guesthouse
Dillon's
Bay itself is picturesque and, if you're lucky, you might
see whales hanging about in the bay (they visit tropical
waters from July to September). Turtles and dolphins can
also be seen around Erromango when traveling by boat.
You
may be invited to see a Kauri Reserve in the Dillon's Bay
area. It's about three hours walk away and the kastom
fee is 1500 Vatu, so you might then decline. Return transport
to where the walking track begins is 2000 Vatu.
Transport
The Dillon's Bay airstrip is 9km by road from Upongkor.
There was one operational truck in August 2004. A truck
charter costs 3000 Vatu or a shared ride is about 500 Vatu.
Don't be surprised if the truck doesn't turn up to meet
your flight or breaks down (be prepared to walk, about two
and a half hours).
Services
and Suggestions
The Dillon's Bay water supply is pumped from the river and
may not be OK to drink (ask for rain water). In the mornings
the supply tank is empty and it's common practice to fill
a bucket or two in the afternoon.
There's a community telephone at Dillon's Bay (68993). Fresh
local bread can be bought at the stores.
Last
updated: May 2005 by Stephen.
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