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Frequently Asked Questions
About "Dive Gizo" and Gizo in the Solomon Islands

 

When is the best time to come to Gizo?:
The weather is relatively mild all year round, with a gentle south east trade wind that prevails from April to October. There is no distinctive monsoonal "wet season", and it is rare to get more than 2-3 days of rain in a row at any given time. We haven't missed a day of diving because of weather in 23 years! Without a doubt the month of November has the least amount of wind.
   
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How Can I find Accomodation?:
We will be happy to find you accommodation and book it for you, however now you may also visit http://www.solomonislands-hotels.travel/ where you can view and book accommodation online, and pay by credit card.

   
Where is Gizo located?:
Gizo is the capital of the Western Solomons and it's harbour is located at 8.06 deg South & 156.5 deg East.
   
What is the best way of getting there?:
From the United States, most people come through Nadi Fiji, with Air Pacific or Air New Zealand. You can check your bags all the way through to Honiara (HIR) on a weekly flight from Los Angeles (LAX). Coming from Australia, the main port of access is Brisbane (BNE), with flights nearly every day direct to Honiara (HIR), with Solomon Airlines and SkyAirWorld. Schedules are being ammended as services are increased.
   
What sort of dive boats do you have?:
We operate three 7.5m "Ray" boats and one 7m utility boat. They are powered by twin 50HP engines and have covers to protect you from the tropical sun.  The boats are equipped with radios and O2 is provided on all dive boats.
   
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What does a typical day of diving entail?:
Well this depends on your groups itineraries.  Since we operate small boats we can cater to your needs. However a typical day of diving starts at 9 am at the dive shop where the staff will set up your gear and load it on the boat.  Set off on a short trip to your morning dive followed by a lunch break on one of our gorgeous islands, where the staff makes a picnic lunch of fish, fresh fruits, and basic salads (Will cater for other dietary needs).  After an hour or two of snorkeling, relaxing or exploring the islands, divers set off on their second dive, and return to town around 3 pm.

   
What can I expect to see when I am diving at Gizo?:
Gizo has everything - A reasonably intact Japanese WWII transport ship Wrecks, three WWII fighter planes, walls, shallow beautiful pristine reefs, big fish action with the currents, and all the little critters for the macro enthusiast.
   
What is the normal visibility and range of temperatures?:
Visibility on an "average" is about 20M - 24M (70' - 80') year round with long periods even greater. The air temp rarely gets over 32C and the water temp is 29C year round - no wet suits required!
   
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What is the night life like in Gizo?:
Most nights are quiet around town, however there are two local water holes, PT109 across from the dive shop, and Gizo Hotel.  Each place does offer a dance one night a week, where you can go and enjoy some disco music, and mingle with locals and other guests.  Grabbing a beer and sitting on the dive boat jetty is a favorite for logging dives and swapping stories.

   
rest What resaurants are in town ?
For breakfast there are stands that sell fresh bread, and cooked eggs.  Swinging through the open air market and picking up some fruit is a favorite morning meal by many travelers here.  For Lunch there are 5 or 6 restaurants that offer a variety of meals of fish and chips, sea food meals, and local cooking.  These however are often closed for dinner.

When looking for dinner, the Gizo Hotel is always open, as well as PT109.  PT109 offers a nice dinner at the best price, and will cater to large groups.  For other restaurants many will accommodate a dinner but it is best to let them know what time you will be eating so they can serve you promptly.

   
What sort of gifts can I bring for the local people?:
In the villages, the older population appreciate old, but still useful reading (magnifying) glasses. Pencils and school items for the young ones, and those old t-shirts in the cupboard are great for bartering.
   
How many dives in a day can I do?:
Most hardcore divers will do 2-4 dives a day.
A normal days operation would be to do one dive in the morning, a surface interval on a nice secluded beach with a picnic lunch followed by an afternoon dive.
   

Is it possible to mix cultural activities with diving?:
Yes, there are a number of cultural activities that we can co-ordinate with dives and/or snorkelling excursions. Travellers enjoy safe,
trouble free, memorable holidays in the "Happy Isles" as they once were known.

   
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I'm a non diver - what can I do?:
There are a number of very nice walks along the coast, or village tours near-by. If you are a snorkeller, we will drop you off at a nice island prior to the divers going to a site. Perhaps a morning of bird watching appeals or finding a good book and kick back and relax at FATBOYS resort and restaurant.
For those who are interested in WW11 history, tours by boat can be arranged. Surfing is a great water alternative.

   
Malaria Is malaria really a problem?:
Malaria is probably the most over rated tropical disease in the Solomon Islands. Repellent is highly recommended at dusk and dawn. People do not have problems if they protect themselves, and treatment is readily available. Medical attention is available if needed at the local hospital.
 
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