*HAM FRIENDLY* Tradewinds Resort, Vanuatu

– April 10, 2020Posted in: Holiday Shacks

When it comes to rare DXCC on ham or 11m frequencies, the Republic of Vanuatu (197 Division) and its staggering archipelago of 100+ Melanesian islands are one of the most keenly hunted of Islands On The Air DXstinations in the South Pacific.

In the New Hebrides IOTA Group (OC-035) and Shefa Province, Efate Island (Île Vate) is one such QTH and is guaranteed to generate plenty of pile-ups.

Efate Island is also home to the Tradewinds Resort which is perfect for any dx adventurist or dx adventure team wanting to operate from this island.

Whilst this resort doesn’t offer a rental shack, radio equipment or established antenna systems, it does offer ham friendly accommodation that has everything you’d need to achieve a successful IOTA activity.

Importantly, this Resort has been given very positive reviews from visiting ham mini-ped ops in the past 5 years.

A stone’s throw from the tranquil waters of Erakor Lagoon, Tradewinds Resort has a variety of bungalow choices for the avid dx adventurist, most of which have water views and a large lawn area, ideal for the installation of antennas.

The Tradewinds Resort is a smoke-free hotel and features an outdoor pool, dry cleaning and WiFi in public areas which is essential for keeping in touch with DXpedition Sponsors, club members, friends and family on social media.

WiFi also allows dx adventurists to monitor the online DX resources such as clusters for propagation patterns.

Additionally, a library, tour/ticket assistance and a garden are on-site and self-parking for rental cars is free.

All 8 rooms of the Tradewinds Resort have TVs with satellite channels, and feature kitchenettes with full-sized fridge/freezers, hobs and microwaves.

Other amenities available to guests include balconies and DVD players.

Limited housekeeping is available while DXpedition downtime can be spent at the Ekasup Village and Pango Point which are local landmarks.

The area’s natural beauty too can be seen at Iririki Island — a possible DXstination — and Erakor Lagoon while Wet ‘N’ Wild Zorbing and the Summit Gardens are also worth visiting.

Furthermore, kayaking and scuba diving offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ziplining and ecotours nearby.

An airport shuttle fee is available at AUD $20 per person (one way).

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