Hellen & Jimmy Iarapia, Owner/Managers |
 |
|
|
|
Hellen is somewhat a rarity in the male dominated Vanuatu society. She first worked for the now defunct Tanna Beach Resort, then worked for many years at the Lenakel Tafea Coop shop (the largest General Store in Tanna).
Saving her money in order to build her own "Bungalows", she is now fully engaged in running her own business.
A kind hearted, and natural hostess, Hellen had this to say to us:
"I decided to build the Guest House in order to provide job opportunities to the school leavers, because most school leavers are now jobless and especially for my children because they are all in secondary level.
Through my experience at the Tanna Beach Resort in the 1980's, I wanted to continue with the industry and build my own place and deal with visitors from all over the world and experience new ideas."
Silvana and I are delighted to help Hellen in her endeavours.
Caring for destination
This accommodation provider has taken action to address one or more issues (whether environmental, social or cultural) which will contribute positively to the long term viability of the destination and hence their site displays a Caring for the destination rating.
Main area of focus in Caring for the Destination:
To become self sufficient; provide employment to the local youth, and respect the local culture and environment.
Detailed description of the Caring for the Destination Initiative:
These bungalows are built by the local people with basic hand tools. Materials used in the construction are primarily found in their local surroundings such as bamboo for making walls by splitting, flattening and weaving. Natangora Palm fronds layered on top of each other; Coconut Palm leaves are used for matting and roofing material. Pandanus leaves are used extensively in floor matting and bags, or other areas requiring tight weaving.
Cement is used, mixed by hand using aggregate and sand from the beach and water from the local well or creek. Wood beams are cut from local wood with bush knives.
Food
The menu centres around what is available from local producers, all of it grown 100% organically. Beef is grazed on 100% organic food and fish are fresh from the local waters.
As is common in the islands, local people try to imitate what they think "western" people eat and consequently add a lot of "western" additives to their food such as Maggie stock meat, Soya, or whatever concentrates can be found.
As food flavour, presentation and nutritional value to most NiVanuatu is of little importance (...you eat what you're given, whatever it is, and be happy that you have something to eat... approach), the pursuit of gastronomy is not high on their list.
Ask for your food to be cooked without all the extras if you want to taste the real flavours of your lobster, fish, steak or vegetables.
People
All Bungalows are built, owned and operated by local people hence all income generated by these businesses go directly back into the local economy.
Traveller Feedback
Not impressed
Mr William B.
- Australia
on 31 Aug 2009 Helen is very caring and her home cooking was a delight as my mum use to cook similar .
