Sam's Bungalow, Kaska Bay, Gaua Visitor Ratings

Sam's Bungalow was not formally open for business in May 2004 but might be one day. It's at a windy place by Kaska Bay, about 3.5km southeast of the airport (40 minutes walk). Old fellow Sam manages the bungalow.

From Kaska Bay you can experience fine views of tiny Merig Island and cone shaped Mere Lava Island on a clear day. The sheltered waters inside the bay are good for snorkelling. A reasonable white sand beach can be found at Parvet, by a coconut plantation on the other side of the Mbe Solomul River, about 1 hour walk south from Kaska Bay (1 hour 40 minutes from the airport). Kaska is also a good starting point for walking to Lake Letas and the volcano.

Update December-2006: We hear that Sam's bungalow is being upgraded and will probably become properly operational and commercial in early 2007. It's worth a look!

Costs
Sam expects to charge 1500 Vatu per night per person including all meals. Presently he charges about 1000 Vatu per night (it's negotiable). If you want to stay at Sam's bungalow you may just make enquiries when you land at Gaua. Near Kaska Bay you will need to ask for directions to find the place. There's a public phone at the airport (38514) and one far away to the south at Vaget Primary School (38588) but the system was down in May 2004 and appears to be down most of the time. Expenses are payable in Vatu cash. Exchange Rates.

Sam can find someone to guide you up to Lake Letas. The fees aren't fixed at present but expect to pay less overall than what Wongras charges. 1000 Vatu per day is reasonable for guiding. You can borrow Sam's tent which sleeps six people.

Accomodation and Food
The bungalow is built on a concrete slab with stone and bamboo walls and a Natangura palm thatch roof. It was originally intended to be someone's house but not completed. There are no locks on the doors. You can sleep on the floor for which Sam will give you a mattress and bedding. You might bring your own mosquito net but there aren't many mosquitoes. Kerosene lamps are used for lighting.

The water supply ends at Sam's house so you take bucket showers at the bungalow. The water is sourced from a spring near the Siri waterfall and is safe to drink. Sam has a western flush toilet, water pipe and some other things needed to finish the bungalow. In May 2004 there was only a bush toilet

Food is basic at Sam's bungalow. Lunch or dinner may include rice, yam, tin fish, chicken, fresh fish, beef stew and pamplemousse. Breakfast may be fresh bread or crackers with tea.

Services and Suggestions
The Co-op store at Kaska bay is nearby but the nearest telephone is back at the airport.

First surveyed: May 2004 by Stephen.
Last updated: June 2004 by Stephen.