Travel
Exploring Port Vila Market
Exploring local food and craft markets is without a doubt one of my favorite activities. Whether it be a little farmer’s market back home in Virginia or the advent markets of Zagreb, markets are the best way to get an instant snapshot of local culture. And, I’ll be totally honest: I really just like gawking at unusual food and/or produce that I’ve never encountered before. Port Vila Market on Efate island in Vanuatu did not disappoint.
Located on the turquoise waterfront of the country’s capital city, Port Vila Market is a fantastic place to spend a few hours. It’s open all day and night, Monday through Friday and half of Saturday. The entire open-air market is divided into three parts: produce stands, mini restaurants, and craft stalls. Luckily for my social anxiety, the craft stalls were the only place where I felt that all too familiar vendor-to-tourist pressure to buy each thing that the vendors pointed out as I passed. In the produce section, though, we were able to leisurely stroll about. We approached nearly every table, picking up fruit, putting it back down… All without any comment from the sellers. It was bliss.
Anyway, without further ado: here is Port Vila Market in photos. (…Psst: If you’re here just because you want to visit the market yourself, scroll down to my “Know Before You Go” section at the very end).
Tropical bouquets for sale outside the craft side of the market.
Big ole dirty cassava roots on display outside the main entance.
Big ole dirty cassava roots on display outside the main entance.
We entered the market through the produce section, where I was delighted and overwhelmed by the array of food available! The first thing to catch my eye were the beautiful hand-woven banana leaf baskets & wraps that many of the vendors used to store inventory. The second thing was all the items I did not recognize. Some sort of cactus fruit, some pear-shaped vegetables, long gourd-like melons, and… was that cacoa fruit? (Yes it was!) I later found out that the light green pear-shaped vegetables in abundance at the market were choko, also known as chayote. They are a mild-tasting, squash-like veggie that we ate many, many times in stir-fries around Vanuatu. Check them out below on the bottom left going for 200 VT (approx. $2 USD) a bag
I LOVED the look of these banana leaf baskets
More banana leaves, some coconuts, and… a healthy little bit of dirt & trash.
In between the produce stalls and the craft and clothing alleys of the market is a narrow passageway full of tiny restaurants manned by smiling elderly women. We walked through once to get an idea of which place looked best. Honestly, they all seemed to be offering nearly identical fare. So we sat down at an empty table and ordered a vegetable stirfry, the sole vegetarian cuisine on offer throughout Vanuatu. It was filling and well-cooked but bland. The tastiest part of the meal, honestly, was the tamarind juice we were served out of a dubiously cleaned plastic tub. But I could not be bothered by bland taste or questions of hygiene when the food hall offered such a lively and breezy respite from the mid-afternoon heat.
Down a souvenir alley.
The crafts and clothing portion of the market was made up of a labyrinth of small tiled alleys. Most of the vendors were selling the same things: handwoven baskets, wooden carvings, plastic trinkets that were suspiciously uniform (*cough* factory produced), and tropical-print dresses. I’d heard that it was considered more respectful to wear modest-length dresses in smaller villages in Vanuatu, so I picked up a knee-length dress to have on hand for any potential village stays. A few days before we left Vanuatu, we scoured the alleys again to look for some authentic and unique gifts for the folks back home. I couldn’t resist buying a vibrant canvas painting from a talented artist… for myself. Her bold work really caught my eye and I couldn’t resist. (Also, yes: my hair is pink in the picture on the left. CJ helped me dye it in Auckland a day or two before we left for Vanuatu – but the South Pacific quickly washed it away within a few days).
See Also: Richmond, Virginia Street Art Guide
Overall, Emmett and I went to the Port Vila Market on numerous occasions. It was not only within walking distance of our hotel, but it was the perfect place for snacks and people-watching and strange fruit-gawking. One of the last times we visited, we went in the evening. The bi-weekly cruise ship crowds had long since left town and most of the vendors were talking or singing quietly among themselves. We were on a mission to buy some fruit but ended up grabbing some skewer-roasted almonds for a pre-dinner snack. Those almonds were heavenly – tender yet flavorful, almost chewy. If only we’d discovered them sooner!
The market at around 7 PM.
A lot of vendors had a few small bottles of homemade coconut oil. It got me wishing I had access to a kitchen during our stay.
Know Before You Go – Port Vila Market
Where it’s at:
On the waterfront in downtown Port Vila near the Au Bon Marche supermarket. Click here for the Google Map. This google map link is accurate but I do not recommend relying on Google Maps around Port Vila or Efate because they were extremely inaccurate about the location of a rental car agency. Grab a map of Efate from your accommodation or a tour agency.
When to Go:
1. For groceries, go anytime: The produce portion of Port Vila Market is open all hours of the day on Monday through Friday and until noon on Saturday.
2. For souvenirs, go on a weekday before 4:30 PM or on Saturday before closing. Most souvenir/craft vendors close up shop in the evenings. Also, try to AVOID being at the market on the same day as the visitors from a cruise ship. Not only is the market packed with other tourists but some of the vendors jack up their prices a bit for those one-day visitors. While we were there in early July, Wednesdays and Saturdays were cruise days. If you really want to avoid these crowds, a quick search online will let you know when the next ships are coming into port. If you are coming to the market from a cruise, be prepared for crowding.
3. For a meal, go on a weekday around lunchtime. The hall of mini-restaurants seems to have the most going on around lunchtime, and there were also more places open for business here around noon than at any other time of day. This area is also not open past 5 PM.
What to Buy:
These are just my suggestions but if anything you should definitely buy some snacks here. I really liked the cassava and banana chips that are sold in little plastic baggies. And as I said before – you can’t miss those skewered almonds if you see them. But really, all of the produce we tried here was good as well: mandarines, papayas, bananas… Go for it!
As for souvenirs, I think it’s a good general rule to avoid the cheap plastic trinkets – you know, the I Love Vanuatu keychains and other such thingamabobs. There are a couple of local artists selling things like paintings (see the one I got above), hand-dyed clothing, and more. Something like that could be a really unique gift or souvenir. Also, a lot of the baskets at the market are beautiful but I would only buy those if Vila is your only stop in Vanuatu. There are tons of smaller local markets and/or individuals selling their own personally-made weaving throughout the island of Efate and others. Often at better prices. Plus, some islanders have their own distinct style of weaving that you can only buy there. Pretty cool.
Bring cash!
This is easy enough at Port Vila Market because there are plenty of ATMs just up the road. However, having cash is pretty much necessary to buy anything anywhere else in Vanuatu. If Vila is your first stop, this market will be a good opportunity to get into the cash-only mindset.
If you love travel, you know the feeling. The itch to pack a bag. The curiosity about people who live differently. The quiet thrill of landing somewhere new and not knowing exactly what the day will bring.
Movies can’t replace the real thing. But they can come close. A good travel film lets you see the world through someone else’s eyes. It reminds you why you fell in love with the road in the first place.
Here are six of the best movies for travel lovers. Each one captures a different side of adventure, from soul-searching road trips to wild, real-life journeys. And if you’re planning a movie night, you can always watch free movies at losmovies to explore these stories without leaving home.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Directed by and starring Ben Stiller, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is a dream for anyone who feels stuck in routine. Walter works a quiet office job at Life magazine. He spends most of his time daydreaming about bold adventures. Then one day, he has to step out of his comfort zone and travel across the world to find a missing photograph.
The movie takes you from New York to Greenland, Iceland, and the Himalayas. The landscapes are stunning. You see icy seas, dramatic mountains, and wide open skies that make you want to book a flight immediately.
But this film isn’t just about scenery. It’s about courage. It shows that travel often starts with a small decision to say yes. For anyone who’s ever hesitated before buying a ticket, Walter’s journey hits home.
Into the Wild (2007)
Based on a true story, Into the Wild follows Christopher McCandless, a young man who gives up his possessions and savings to travel across the United States and eventually into the Alaskan wilderness.
Directed by Sean Penn and starring Emile Hirsch, this film is raw and emotional. It shows deserts, rivers, forests, and long, empty highways. You feel the freedom of sleeping under the stars. You also feel the cost of isolation and extreme choices.
This movie is perfect for travel lovers who are drawn to the idea of simplicity. It asks hard questions about society, materialism, and what it means to live fully. It also reminds you that nature is powerful and not always forgiving.
If you’re looking for something deeper than a typical adventure film, this one will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Before Sunrise (1995)
Before Sunrise, directed by Richard Linklater, is quieter but just as powerful. The story is simple. An American man and a French woman meet on a train and decide to spend one night walking around Vienna together.
There are no big action scenes or dramatic twists. Instead, you get long conversations, city streets at night, and the magic of a place seen through fresh eyes.
Vienna feels alive in this film. Cafés, parks, trams, and cobblestone streets create a romantic backdrop. It captures something many travelers know well: the intensity of short connections on the road. Sometimes you meet someone for just a few hours, yet it feels unforgettable.
For those who travel for human connection as much as for landscapes, Before Sunrise is a must-watch.
The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)
The Motorcycle Diaries tells the true story of a young Ernesto Guevara, long before he became known as Che Guevara. Played by Gael García Bernal, he sets off on a motorcycle journey across South America with his friend Alberto Granado.
They travel through Argentina, Chile, Peru, and beyond. Along the way, they meet miners, farmers, and families struggling to survive. The trip slowly changes Ernesto’s worldview.
The scenery is breathtaking. From the Andes mountains to the ruins of Machu Picchu, the film offers a sweeping look at Latin America. But what makes it special is how travel becomes a teacher. The journey shapes identity. It challenges assumptions.
If you’ve ever felt that travel opened your eyes to injustice or inspired you to think differently, this movie will resonate deeply.
Eat Pray Love (2010)
Based on the memoir by Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat Pray Love stars Julia Roberts as a woman who leaves her comfortable life behind to travel through Italy, India, and Indonesia.
This film leans into the sensory pleasures of travel. In Italy, it’s all about food and joy. You see plates of pasta, busy streets, and warm conversations. In India, the focus shifts to spirituality and discipline in an ashram. In Bali, the story moves toward balance and love.
Some critics find it idealistic, but for many travel lovers, it captures a real truth. Sometimes you need to leave everything familiar to find clarity.
It’s especially appealing if you’re drawn to solo travel. The movie shows that being alone in a foreign country can be both scary and transformative. And if you’re planning a relaxing movie night before your next trip, you can watch free movies at losmovies and dive into this journey from your couch.
The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
Directed by Wes Anderson, The Darjeeling Limited follows three brothers traveling across India by train in an attempt to reconnect after their father’s death.
The film is visually distinct. Bright colors, carefully framed shots, and detailed sets make every scene feel intentional. The train itself becomes a moving world, filled with strangers, arguments, and unexpected moments.
India is shown in fragments. Bustling markets, desert landscapes, and quiet temples pass by the train windows. The story mixes humor and grief, reminding us that travel can bring unresolved emotions to the surface.
For travel lovers, this movie feels familiar. Long train rides. Awkward conversations. The strange intimacy of sharing space with people on the move. It shows that journeys are not just about destinations. They are about what happens between stops.
Why Travel Movies Matter
Travel movies do more than show beautiful places. They reflect different reasons we leave home. Some characters travel to escape. Others go to search for meaning, connection, or adventure. Sometimes they don’t even know why at first.
Watching these films can reignite your desire to explore. They can also make you appreciate the journeys you’ve already taken. Maybe you’ll remember a late-night walk in a foreign city. Or a bus ride through mountains where you felt small and alive at the same time.
If you’re not able to travel right now, movies can fill part of that gap. You can watch free movies at losmovies and step into another country, another life, another perspective for a couple of hours.
Of course, nothing replaces real travel. The smell of street food, the sound of a new language, the feel of unfamiliar air on your skin. But until your next trip, these six films can keep your wanderlust alive.
So pick one. Make some tea. Turn off your phone. Let the story take you somewhere new.
Understanding Satiety
It is always best to select snacks that allow one to develop a state of fullness (satiety). Satiety is based on different variables like protein, fiber and healthy fats. These slow down the digestion and maintain a constant level of sugar in the blood. Studies indicate that high-protein snacks lower hormones like ghrelin more effectively in comparison to carb-rich ones. Amul Fresh Paneer is a high-protein food item that is easily available in the market, thanks to grocery delivery apps. One can easily come up with different healthy snacking recipes from this.
Swap Processed Snacks for Protein Power
One should always avoid inferior food items like chips or cookies. These increase the blood sugar and leave a person hungry after a short time, consume foods with high contents of nutrients. Amul Fresh Paneer can be regarded as an alternative in this. It offers fresh protein and healthy fat. With online grocery delivery app, it has become easier to get healthy food items delivered to your home. Amul paneer has approximately 18-20 grams of protein per 100 grams and some calcium to keep your bones strong. This paneer is the best snack to have when you need to keep your body going.
Quick Grilled Paneer Recipe
You can make customize your own recipe with amul fresh paneer. You can grill cubes of it with spices such as cumin, turmeric and black pepper to create a simple evening snack. Maillard reaction that happens during grilling provides a desirable texture without the use of oils. Serve it with cucumber slabs or cherry tomatoes as a source of fiber which further adds fullness. This combination can be ready in less than 10 minutes and provides the balanced proportion of macronutrients.
More Satiety-Boosting Snack Ideas
One can also add Greek yogurt and berries to their daily diet to bring together the protein and antioxidants or boiled eggs and avocado that contain healthy fats. But, if you want veg and pocket friendly snacking dishes, then paneer is the best item that you can go for in the current scenario.
To replace meat, roasted herbed chickpeas provide fiber and protein; a video tutorial by NutritionFacts.org shows the simple recipes of roasting chickpeas to achieve the best crunch and nutrition.
Conclusion
Now, it has become so easy to get all required ingredients for healthy snacking at your doorsteps. You can easily search for a “grocery delivery app near me” and place an order of Amul Fresh Paneer and all necessary ingredients effectively. It is important to be indulgent but in a cautious manner, even though protein is a must in our daily diets. Make a note of how much energy you gain when you consume each meal throughout the day. Also, try to select healthier versions of snacks such as grilled paneer or chickpeas which fill your tummy and boost your health levels significantly. This tweak will give you the right blend of health and taste.
Budget Travel Tips for Exploring Expensive Cities in the USA! Traveling to expensive cities in the USA might seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re on a budget. But fear not! With a little creativity and some strategic planning, you can explore iconic destinations without emptying your wallet. From bustling New York City to sunny San Francisco, there are plenty of ways to have an unforgettable experience while keeping costs down. Whether you’re dreaming of art-filled galleries or delectable food from street vendors, these budget travel tips will help you navigate expensive cities with ease. Get ready to discover how to make the most out of your adventures without breaking the bank!
Research and planning tips for saving money on accommodations
Finding affordable accommodations in pricey cities can feel daunting. However, a little research goes a long way.
Start by comparing prices on different booking websites. Often, one platform will have better deals than another. Don’t forget to check for any available discounts or promotions.
Consider staying slightly outside the city center. Neighborhoods that are just a bit further out usually offer lower rates while still giving you quick access to public transportation.
Flexible travel dates can also help you score deals. If possible, avoid traveling during peak seasons or major events when prices skyrocket.
Look into alternative lodging options like hostels or vacation rentals. These can provide unique experiences at much lower costs than traditional hotels.
Join loyalty programs offered by hotel chains and booking sites for additional savings on future stays.
Transportation hacks for getting around on a budget
Getting around expensive cities doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Start by checking public transportation options like buses and subways. Many cities offer day passes that allow unlimited rides for one low price.
Rideshare apps can also be a budget-friendly choice if you travel in groups. Splitting the fare makes it more economical, especially late at night when public transport may not be as frequent.
Consider biking or walking whenever possible. Many urban areas are bike-friendly and feature extensive paths. It’s a great way to explore hidden gems while saving money.
If you’re feeling adventurous, look into car-sharing services or even renting scooters. These options offer flexibility without the hassle of parking fees associated with traditional rentals.
Don’t forget about free shuttle services that some hotels provide to key attractions. Utilizing these can save both time and money during your travels.
Affordable food options and where to find them
When exploring expensive cities, finding affordable food options can make a big difference. Local markets are often gold mines for tasty and budget-friendly treats. Look for farmer’s markets or street vendors that showcase regional specialties.
Food trucks also offer delicious meals at lower prices than sit-down restaurants. They’re perfect for grabbing a quick bite while you roam the streets. Apps like Yelp or TripAdvisor can help pinpoint popular spots favored by locals.
Consider dining during off-peak hours to snag lunch specials or happy hour deals. Many upscale eateries offer discounted menus early in the evening.
Don’t overlook neighborhood delis and cafes; they usually have hearty portions without hefty price tags. Exploring food scenes through local recommendations will lead you to hidden gems that won’t break your budget.
Free or low-cost activities and attractions to explore
Many expensive cities offer hidden gems that won’t cost you a dime. Parks, gardens, and waterfronts provide perfect spots to unwind. Think of places like Central Park in New York or Millennium Park in Chicago.
Museums often have free admission days or discounted rates at specific times. Research ahead for local art galleries or cultural institutions with no entry fees on certain days.
Walking tours can be both educational and budget-friendly. Many cities have guided walking tours based on tips, allowing you to explore while supporting local guides.
Festivals are another great way to experience the culture without spending much. Check local calendars for free events where you can enjoy music, food, and art.
In some areas, street performances bring vibrant energy to public spaces. Grab a seat on the sidewalk and enjoy live entertainment from talented artists at no charge!
Insider tips from locals on how to save money in expensive cities
One of the best ways to save money in pricey cities is to tap into local knowledge. Residents often know hidden gems that visitors overlook. These spots typically offer better prices and unique experiences.
Ask locals for their favorite cheap eats. You might find a taco truck or diner serving delicious meals at half the cost of tourist traps. Also, check out neighborhood markets; they often have fresh produce and affordable snacks.
Public transport can be a lifesaver too. Many locals rely on buses or subways instead of rideshares, which can add up quickly. Look for day passes that allow unlimited travel within certain hours.
Don’t forget about free community events! Many cities host art walks, concerts in parks, or street fairs that are enjoyable without costing a dime. Embrace spontaneity—sometimes the best adventures come from going off the beaten path with tips from those who call it home.
Conclusion: Enjoying the best of expensive cities without breaking the bank
Exploring expensive cities in the USA doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. With some smart planning and a few insider tips, you can experience all that these vibrant destinations have to offer without overspending.
Focus on thorough research ahead of your trip. This way, you’ll uncover budget-friendly accommodations and transportation options that won’t compromise your comfort. Use local transit systems or consider walking—many major attractions are within easy reach.
When it comes to food, seek out hidden gems where locals dine rather than tourist traps. Street vendors or popular food markets often provide delicious meals at a fraction of restaurant prices.
Make the most of free activities available in many urban areas. Parks, museums with discounted entry on certain days, and community events can fill your itinerary with enjoyable experiences at little or no cost.
Don’t shy away from asking locals for their favorite budgeting hacks. They may lead you to surprising spots that aren’t found in guidebooks but offer great value.
By implementing these budget travel tips for exploring expensive cities in the USA, you’re setting yourself up for an enriching adventure filled with memories—not regrets about spending too much money along the way. Embrace every moment while keeping a close eye on your budget!
6 Best Movies for Travel Lovers
Healthy Snacking Ideas That Keep You Full for Longer
