Here's cheers to 70 years, Port Vila and Platinum 🤞

[Flyfrequently]

The countdown is on for my special birthday and for once I will be actually be home, but am treating myself to a few holidays to celebrate.
We have Sunshine Coast booked for June as my brother graciously offered to host a family catch up - but he has now rented his house out, and it is going on the market shortly so will cancel that.

Ok, where too that we hadn't been before....
Last year AFF had a give-away for a consult with a Concierge trial which I was lucky enough to randomly win - thanks @WilsonM

It gave me food for thought, maybe I could make WP with a DSC offer? The planets aligned and bingo DSC was announced in October with very reasonable J flights to Vanuatu.
I had never really considered going via Brisbane but these flights will give me the required 480 SC.
Of course things don't always go to plan but with the knowledge gained from AFF think I've got ourselves sorted

 

[Denali]

My first visit to Port Villa (and outter islands) was 25yrs ago and it was fun and loved the atmosphere. My last vist was about 10yrs ago and not so much.

With the recent earth quake I hope things are improving for the locals and you have a great visit and wonderful birthday

 

[Flyfrequently]

Booked this trip in October and by February was notified by AmexTravel, the flight schedules to VLI had been changed. No  big deal, but catching the first flight to from MEL to BNE with MCT shortened by 1 hour +, didn't sit well with me.
This was the first time I had booked through Amex Travel and found the consultant very obliging and she moved our flight to the day before without penalty.
Easy - booked Pullman Brissie
And as per our usual practice (being 100 minutes from Tulla on a good day) booked Novotel Melbourne Airport for the preceding night
Also realised this trip will give me a Loyalty Bonus and LTS along with WP and DSC plus a very pleasant week away.

 

[Ansett]

As of this Tuesday there are still many places not open after the December earthquake and many roads impassable. Taxi from the airport is 2500 Vut. For drinks I suggest buying from the supermarket. Days trips would be my suggestion as not much to do in Port Villa itself. Expect to pay more for most things than we do in Australia. The Earthquake early hours of Monday morning didn't seem to create any issues, other than waking me as the bed shook violently. And not for the right reason lol. People were very friendly and courteous. There are a number of small casinos that offer some good specials for drinks. Shopping is very limited with lots of tourist traps.

I found it a great place to relax and veg by the pool for a few days and recover from a hectic first Quarter. Have a great time and happy birthday