Australians are being cautioned about travel to Vanuatu following a 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Port Vila and nearby areas on Dec. 17, 2024.
The earthquake caused significant damage to roads, buildings, and other infrastructure, leading to ongoing disruptions.
Port Vila’s central business district remains closed as authorities assess structural damage, while landslides have cut off access to some areas. Essential services – including power, water, and telecommunications – are being restored, but progress is uneven across the affected regions.
The Australian government advises travellers to follow the directions of local officials and monitor updates.
Port Vila International Airport reopened for commercial flights on Dec. 22, 2024. Travelers requiring assistance can contact the Australian High Commission in Port Vila or the Consular Emergency Centre.
The advice comes as international travel rebounds, with younger Australians driving the resurgence, according to research by 1Cover Travel Insurance.
The study, which surveyed 1,000 Australians, found that nearly half (49%) of respondents aged 18 to 29 travelled overseas in the past year, a stark contrast to the 23% of those aged 70 and older who did so.
The research indicated that younger Australians are travelling at levels comparable to those before the COVID-19 pandemic. Among respondents aged under 29, 76% reported travelling as frequently as they did pre-pandemic, while 18% said they were travelling even more often. In comparison, 67% of respondents over 70 reported a decline in travel frequency.
The survey also revealed a preference for adventure travel among younger Australians. About 38% of respondents aged 18 to 29 listed adventure as their primary motivation for travel. Popular activities included moped riding (17%) and skiing or snowboarding (14%), reflecting their interest in high-energy experiences.
Despite this enthusiasm, the data pointed to a concerning trend: younger travellers are less likely to purchase travel insurance. The report noted that 30% of those aged 18 to 29 had recently travelled without insurance, exposing them to potential financial risks in emergencies.
“It’s dangerously misguided to assume you won’t need travel insurance, regardless of your destination or trip length. Travel is unpredictable, and assuming you’re impervious to risk can leave you hugely exposed in the event of an emergency,” said Natalie Smith, head travel expert at 1Cover.
