Where are the Solomon Islands on the world map. Solomon Islands map in Russian. Capital of the Solomon Islands, flag, history of the country. Where are the Solomon Islands on the world map Population of the Solomon Islands

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SOLOMON ISLANDS, an island state in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, in Melanesia, between 5 and 12° S. and 155 and 170° E. It occupies most of the archipelago of the same name (except for the islands of Bougainville and Buka), the island groups of Santa Cruz, Swallow, Duff, as well as the islands of Rennell, Bellona, ​​etc. The largest islands of the country are Guadalcanal and Santa Isabel. San Cristobal, Malaita and Choiseul. There are more than 900 islands in the country. The total length of the coastline is 5313 km. The area of ​​the Solomon Islands is 28,450 square meters. km.

Nature.

The Solomon Islands stretch in two chains from northwest to southeast for more than 1,400 km. Most of the islands of the archipelago are volcanic peaks of an underwater ridge. Mountain ranges occupy almost their entire surface, only narrow lowlands stretch along the coast. A fairly wide coastal lowland exists only on the northeastern coast of Guadalcanal. On the same island is the highest point of the country - Mount Makarakomburu (2447 m.). On the islands there are extinct and active volcanoes, hot springs, and earthquakes often occur. Many islands are framed by coral reefs; In addition to volcanic islands, there are coral atoll islands.

The Santa Cruz island group includes seven volcanic islands: Ndeni, Utupua, Vanikoro, Tinakula, etc. They lie on an underwater mountain ridge and are surrounded by coral reefs. The Swallow Islands group is formed by 12 small islets - the remains of an uplifted atoll. Duff Islands – 10 volcanic islands. The peaks of the underwater volcanoes are the eastern islands of Anuda, Miter and Tikopia. Sikaiana and Ontong Java (Lord Howe) are coral atolls, while Rennel and Bellona are raised coral islands.

The climate is equatorial-tropical, moderated by the influence of the ocean. From April to November the weather is relatively dry and cool, with south-east trade winds blowing. From November to April the hot and humid season lasts, dominated by the north-west monsoons, sometimes turning into hurricanes. The average monthly temperature in February is +27°C, in August +24°C. The amount of annual precipitation is 2500–3500 mm, with 2100 mm in the Honiara region and 8000 mm in more humid areas.

On all large islands there are many mountain rivers that fall steeply from the slopes. There are few lakes. The most common fertile red soils are found on river terraces and river deltas. The mountains of the volcanic islands are covered with dense rain forests, in which valuable tropical tree species grow. Lowland areas are used for the cultivation of coconut palms, sweet potatoes, taro, yams, rice, cocoa and other crops (1.5% of the area is cultivated). Lowlands are often swampy. The vegetation of the northeastern plains of Guadalcanal is represented by savannas.

Minerals: gold placers, deposits of iron and ferronickel ores and magnesites, bauxites, phosphorite reserves.

Population.

Population. Population in July 2003 was estimated to be 509,190. 43% of the population is under 15 years of age, 54% is between 15 and 64 years of age, and 3% is over 65 years of age. The average age is 18.2 years. Average life expectancy is 69.6 years for men, 74.7 years for women.

Population growth in 2003 was 2.83%. Birth rate – 32.45 per 1000 people, mortality – 4.12 per 1000 people, infant mortality – 22.88 per 1000 newborns.

The largest city is the capital of the country, Honiara (44 thousand inhabitants). 30% of the population lives on the island of Malaita.

The vast majority of the islands' inhabitants are Melanesians (93%). 4% are Polynesians from remote atolls; 1.5% - Micronesians; 0.8% – Europeans; 0.3% – Chinese; 0.4% – others.

The official language is English, but only 1–2% of residents speak it. The language of interethnic communication is Melanesian pidgin English. The peoples of the islands speak a total of 120 languages.

Religiously, 45% of the population belongs to the Anglican Church, 18% to the Roman Catholic Church, 12% to the Methodist and Presbyterian Church. 9% are Baptists, 7% are Seventh-day Adventists, 5% are other Protestants. 4% of residents adhere to local traditional beliefs.

State structure.

Until July 7, 1978, they were a possession of Great Britain; since 1978, they were an independent state with a parliamentary democracy. According to the 1978 constitution, the head of state is the monarch of Great Britain, who simultaneously bears the title of king (queen) of the Solomon Islands. Currently Queen Elizabeth II. On the islands, the monarch is represented by the governor-general (a citizen of the Solomon Islands), appointed by him on the advice of parliament for a period of at least 5 years. Since 1999, John Lapley has been Governor General.

Legislative power belongs to the unicameral National Parliament of 50 deputies elected for a term of 4 years in single-mandate constituencies by popular vote of citizens over 21 years of age.

Executive power belongs to the government, headed by the prime minister. The Prime Minister is elected by Parliament. This usually becomes the leader of the party or coalition that has the majority of seats in parliament. The Prime Minister forms the government. The Deputy Prime Minister and members of the Cabinet of Ministers are approved by the Governor-General on the advice of the Prime Minister from among the members of Parliament. Prime Minister since December 17, 2001 - Allan Kemakeza, leader of the People's Union Party.

The English legal system is maintained. The Supreme Court consists of chief and junior judges. Territorial courts have been established in administrative units to deal primarily with land disputes. Appeals are heard by the Supreme Court. Traditional customary law is widely used locally.

Administratively, the Solomon Islands are divided into 9 provinces and a capital territory. Provincial councils are elected by the population and have a fairly wide range of responsibilities: they are in charge of communications, healthcare, and education.

Political parties.

People's Union Party(PNS) is a political party of social democratic orientation. Formed in 1980 as a result of the unification of the People's Progressive Party led by Solomon Mamaloni (head of government in 1974–1976), part of the United Solomon Islands Party, the Rural Union Party. In 1981–1984, the leader of the PNS, S. Mamaloni, headed the coalition government; in 1984–1989, the party was in opposition, but in 1989 it won the general elections. S. Mamaloni served as prime minister in 1989–1993 and 1994–1997, but left the party in 1990. In 2000, GNA leader A. Kemakeza became deputy prime minister of the government of national unity, created after bloody inter-ethnic clashes. In the 2001 general elections, the PNS campaigned under the slogans of declaring a federal republic, creating a special department under the Prime Minister to establish peace and revive the economy, introducing a code of conduct for political leaders and automatically removing deputies who left the party from which he was elected. Having received about 40% of the votes and 16 seats in parliament out of 50, the PNS formed a coalition government with the support of some independent deputies (a total of 18 independents were elected to parliament). The leader of the party is Allan Kemakeza (Prime Minister since 2001). In the 2006 elections, the party received only 6.3% and lost the elections, as a result of which Prime Minister Kemakeza resigned.

Solomon Islands Alliance for Change Coalition– formed in 1997 as an alliance of a number of political parties led by the leader of the Liberal Party, Bartholomew Yulufaalu (including the National Party, the Labor Party, the United Party and the Independents). She won the 1997 general elections, and B. Yulufaalu took over as prime minister. The coalition declared its intention to establish “genuine democracy” in the Solomon Islands, to carry out political and economic reforms with the support of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, as well as donor countries and organizations. Yulufaalu's government fell as a result of ethnic violence in 2000. In the 2000 elections, the Alliance promised to implement policy and constitutional changes, restore a credible police force, carry out economic reforms and reconstruction of the country, and implement monetary and tax policies that would promote the development of the private sector of the economy. The organization collected 40% of the votes and won 13 seats in parliament. Is in opposition. Leaders: Bartholomew Yulufaalu (Prime Minister 1997–2000) and Francis Billy Hilley (Prime Minister 1993–1994). In the elections of December 5, 2001, the alliance received 5 seats out of 50. In the elections of April 5, 2006, the Alliance received 12 seats.

Liberal Party was formed by Bartholomew Yulufaalu in 1988. He was its leader until his death in May 2007. In the elections on April 5, 2006, the party received 2 seats in parliament

People's Progressive Party(NPP) is one of the oldest parties in the Solomon Islands, created in 1973 by S. Mamaloni. It was in power from 1974–1976, and in 1980 it merged with part of the United Party into the People's Union Party. In 2000, the NPP was restored under the leadership of the Prime Minister of the transitional government, Manasseh Sogavare (2000–2001). The party promised to maintain peace in the islands, revive the economy, decentralize political power to the provinces, reform the education system, revitalize and maintain traditional cultural values, promote rural development and establish harmonious relations with other countries, including Australia and New Zealand. In the 2001 elections, the party collected 20% of the votes and won 2 seats in parliament. The leader of the NPP is Manasseh Sogavare (Prime Minister in 2000–2001). In the elections of December 5, 2001, the party won 3 out of 50 seats in parliament.

Labor Party– formed in 1988 by activists of the trade union movement who sought to contribute to the development of parliamentary democracy. Labor has participated in two coalition governments, including the Alliance for Change government from 1997–2000. In the 2001 elections, she put forward slogans for a transition to a federalist government system, holding an economic conference to develop plans for reorganizing the tax system, immediately freezing all debt relief in the country and conducting a dialogue with donor countries regarding their participation in the economic recovery of the islands. The party received 1 seat in parliament. Leaders: Joseph Tuanuku, Tony Kagovai.

United Democratic Party(UDP) - created in 1980 on the basis of part of the former United Party led by Peter Kenilore (head of government in 1976-1981). The UDP achieved success in the 1980 elections, and Kenilorea remained as prime minister until 1981, and after the 1984 elections led a coalition government (until 1986). In the 2001 elections, it called for the restoration of peace, law and order, improved governance, transparency in public spending and the establishment of a fair system of compensation for property damage caused during ethnic clashes in 2000. Leader - John Maetia. In 2003, the UDP agreed with the PPP to merge. After a long decline, the party regained strength by the 2010 elections. Its new leader, Joel Moffat Konophilia, declared that God had punished the country because the Solomon Islands voted against the people of Israel at the UN. In 2003, the UDP agreed with the NPP to create a single organization.

Democratic Party– founded in 2005 by lawyer Gabriel Suri. The main idea of ​​the new party is “ethical leadership”, because leadership is based on relationship with God and eternal values. John Kenyapsia was elected general secretary of the party. In the 2006 elections the party won 3 seats. In May the party joined Sogavare's broad coalition. But already in November 2007, the party stopped supporting Sogavare; on the contrary, the Democrats voted for a vote of no confidence, and Derek Siqua became the new prime minister. The Democrats were part of the broad Siqua coalition, in which they played a key role. The party was an important factor in the implementation of reforms and the creation of an anti-corruption commission. During the pre-election campaign for the 2010 parliamentary elections, the new party leader Steve Avana announced a course to improve the standard of living in rural areas and change the electoral system. The party won 13 seats, winning the largest number of seats in parliament. However, he failed to become prime minister without receiving the required number of votes. The party went into opposition, but some of its members began working in the government.
In November 2011, Matthew Whale became the new party leader. By this time, although the party was in parliament, almost three-quarters of the party members, including Steve Abana, went to work in the government.

National Party. In the elections of April 5, 2006, the party received 4 seats in parliament out of 50.

Solomon Islands Rural Promotion Party, successor to the Rural Union Party. In the elections of April 5, 2006, the party received 4 seats in parliament out of 50.

Association of Independent Members. In the elections on April 5, 2006, the party won 13 seats in parliament out of 50.

Armed forces, police.

There is no army on the islands. The Royal Solomon Islands Police forces, led by a police commissioner (there were local police commissariats), disintegrated during inter-ethnic clashes in 2000. Subsequently, the police force was created anew. The National Intelligence and Surveillance Forces were established.

The Solomon Islands is a member of the UN and its specialized organizations, the Commonwealth and regional associations (Pacific Forum, Pacific Community, etc.). The country maintains close ties with other countries of the Melanesian group - Papua New Guinea, Vanuatu and Fiji, as well as with New Zealand, Australia, Great Britain, Japan, Taiwan and the countries of the European Union.

Economy.

Most of the population is employed in agriculture, fishing and forestry (75% in 2000). Only 5% of the working population is employed in industry, and 20% in the service sector. Most industrial goods and petroleum products are imported. The islands are rich in natural resources (lead, zinc, nickel, gold), but they are poorly developed..

The Solomon Islands' GDP in 2001 was estimated at $800 million, which corresponded to $1,700 per capita. In 2001, the real decline in GDP was 10%. In 2000, the share of agriculture in GDP was 42%, industry - 11%, and services - 47%. The inflation rate in 2001 was 1.8%.

The main products of agriculture and forestry are cocoa beans, coconuts, palm grains, copra, palm oil, rice, sweet potatoes, vegetables, fruits, and wood. Cattle and pigs are raised. Bauxite deposits have been explored on some islands, and gold and silver are mined in small quantities. They produce canned fish, furniture, clothing, and souvenirs. Before ethnic clashes, tourism developed; the Solomon Islands were visited by tourists from Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and the USA.

Export volume in 2001 was estimated at US$47 million. The main export items are timber, fish, copra, palm oil, cocoa beans. Main export partners in 2002: Japan (21%), China (19%), South Korea (16%), Philippines (9%), Thailand (8%) and Singapore (4%). The volume of imports in 2001 was $82 million, the main partners in 2002 were Australia (31%), Singapore (20%), New Zealand (5%), Fiji (5%), Papua New Guinea (4.5% ). The main import items are food, fuel, machinery and vehicles, consumer goods, and chemicals.

The Solomon Islands is dependent on economic and financial assistance from abroad. As of 2001, they received $28 million, mainly from Japan, Australia, China and New Zealand. The amount of external debt in 2001 reached 137 million dollars. USA.

The monetary unit is the Solomon Islands dollar (5.1 Solomon Islands dollars were equal to 1 US dollar in 2000).

There are no railways on the islands. Of the 1360 km of roads, only 34 km. have a hard coating. More than half of the roads belong to plantation owners. Communication between the islands is carried out on different types of vessels (mainly boats) and by aviation. The main ports and harbors are Honiara, Aola Bay, Lofung, Noro, Viru Harbour, Yandina. The main airfields are Henderson and Kukum on Guadalcanal Island and Munda on New Georgia Island. There is also approx. 30 small airports.

The Solomon Islands government became insolvent in 2002. Following the intervention of the Solomon Islands Regional Assistance Mission in 2003, the government made changes to the budget. The domestic debt has been renegotiated and negotiations are underway to renegotiate the external debt. The main financial assistance comes from Australia, New Zealand, the EU, Japan and China.
Most of the population lives from agricultural, fishing and forestry products. But only 1% of the land is used for agriculture.

The main crops are copra, palm oil, cocoa and palm berries.

Most industrial goods and petroleum products are imported. The islands are rich in minerals such as lead, zinc, nickel and gold, but the mining industry is undeveloped. Due to ethnic conflicts and rising tensions in the country, major enterprises were closed and the treasury was not filled, which led to economic collapse. Gradually, with the arrival of peacekeeping forces and the restoration of order, the country experienced a relatively small economic recovery.

GDP per capita – $3,300. USA (as of 2011).

Society.

A significant part of the Solomon Islands population still lives in a traditional society, maintaining clan and community structures. Folk songs, dances, music, and folklore have been preserved. Wood carvers, potters, weavers, etc. are famous. The country has its own poets, and collections of poems are published. A national museum was opened, a Museum Association was created, a library and botanical gardens were organized.

Colleges began to be established in the late 1950s. There is a Teachers' College for young men (1959), a Catholic Teachers' Institute of co-educational education in Vutulak (1961), a Technical Institute in Honiara (1969), a Trade School, a School of Nursing at the Central Hospital in Honiara, etc. In 1977, a branch of the South Pacific was opened in Honiara university.

The number of telephone subscribers in 1997 was 8 thousand, there were 658 mobile phones. There were 3 radio stations, including the government broadcasting service. There were 57 thousand radios and 3 thousand televisions in the country. In 2002 there were 8400 Internet users.

Weeklies “Solomon Star”, “Observer”, etc. are published. The government published the newspaper “Solomon News Drama”.

Story.

Settlement of the islands.

The settlement of the Solomon Islands began no later than 1 thousand BC. The first to appear here were probably the Papuan tribes from New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago; groups of Papuans still live on the islands of Vella Lavella, Rendova, Savo, Russell and New Georgia. Melanesians then moved to the islands; their pottery found on Santa Ana and Swallow Islands has been dated to 140–670 AD. Later, Polynesians also appeared on some of the islands.

By the time the first Europeans appeared in the 16th century. It is believed that about 200 thousand people lived on the islands. In the interior of the large islands, people practiced agriculture, clearing forest and growing yams. Fishing was developed in coastal areas. Villages in the coastal zone consisted of several dozen houses, and in the hinterland - of two or three, in which the closest relatives and their families lived. The population united into unions that occupied an area of ​​several tens of square meters. km. every; The unification was based on kinship and common language. Origin was determined in some places by the female line, in others by the male line.

Economic ties were maintained between the unions, and goods were regularly exchanged, and shells were used as money. Markets were located on the coast of all the largest islands; The market at Auqui on the northwest coast of Malaita was especially famous. By the 19th century Stone tools were almost no longer used; they were replaced by iron.

Fierce and violent clashes often broke out between the alliances. The unions were headed by chiefs who, in coastal areas, had significant administrative powers and passed them on by inheritance. They kept order, supervised economic life, sacrifices and military operations, and had the right to sentence a fellow tribesman to death. In some places, the chiefs used other members of the community to work in their gardens, build houses and canoes. In the interior regions, the rights of the leaders were less, their power was not inherited.

The islanders believed in the spirits of their ancestors, who had a special power - “mana” and could inhabit objects or living beings.

The emergence of Europeans.

The first European to see the Solomon Islands (in 1568) was the Spanish navigator Alvaro Mendaña de Neira, who set out with two ships from Peru in search of rich lands in the Pacific Ocean. The Spaniards believed that they had discovered the legendary land of Ophir, from where the biblical king Solomon exported gold in ancient times; therefore, the archipelago was given the name Solomon Islands. In 1574, Mendaña received the title of Marquis from the King of Spain and the order to organize a new expedition. He was to find gold mines, build three cities on the islands and rule them. But only in 1595 Mendanya managed to set off on a new voyage on 4 ships, accompanied by 300 people. He failed to land as he had intended on the island of Guadalcanal and founded a colony on the Santa Cruz Islands, where he soon died of illness. Due to disease and continuous skirmishes with the islanders, Spanish settlers were evacuated to the Philippines. A member of the Mendaña expedition, Pedro de Quiros in 1606 tried to organize a new colony, which he called “New Jerusalem”. But he also failed to discover any precious metals. Suffering from tropical fever, the Europeans retreated after a month.

The Dutch expedition of Jacob Lemaire and Willem Schouten in 1616 failed to find the Solomon Islands. Another Dutch navigator, Abel Tasman, also passed by them in 1643.

The secondary discovery of the islands occurred already in the 18th century. In 1767, a British ship under the command of Captain Philip Carteret discovered the Santa Cruz Islands and other islands of the Solomon Archipelago, once discovered by Mendaña. Believing that this was a previously unknown land, Carteret named them after Queen Charlotte. An attempt to land on shore was repulsed by the warlike islanders. Almost at the same time, in 1768, the French navigator Louis-Antoine de Bougainville discovered the islands of Buka, Bougainville and Choiseul. The French captain Jean-François-Marie de Surville made a great contribution to the study of the Solomon Islands. In 1769, he walked almost the entire chain of islands up to the southeastern tip of the archipelago, described the coasts of the islands of Choiseul, Santa Isabel, Malaita and San Cristobal and discovered a number of new ones. Surville's expedition was accompanied by armed clashes with the islanders.

In subsequent years, the following sailed in the waters of the archipelago: a ship under the command of the Spaniard Francisco Antonio Maurel (1780), the American ship Alliance (1787), the French expedition of Jean-François La Perouse (1788) and the English expedition of John Shortland (1788). After this, visits by European ships became frequent: in the late 18th and first half of the 19th centuries. British warships and merchant ships of the British East India Company, French merchant and research ships, American merchants trading with China, whalers, sandalwood traders, and sea animal hunters visited here.

European missionaries settled in the Solomon Islands later than in other Oceanian archipelagos due to the hostility of the local population. In 1845, a mission led by Catholic Bishop Jean Epallier landed on the island of Santa Isabel, but in a skirmish with the islanders the bishop was mortally wounded. Attempts to open missions in other parts of the island also failed, with four more missionaries killed. The survivors left Santa Isabel in 1848. From the early 1830s, plans to convert the Solomon Islanders to Christianity were put forward by the Anglicans. Bishop A. Selwyn and D. Patterson of New Zealand tried to launch missionary activities on the islands in the 1850s, but they also did not achieve success. Patterson was killed by islanders on Nukapu in 1871. Alfred Penny conducted missionary work on St. Croix from 1875–1885. In 1898, Bishop Vidor created a Catholic mission in Rua Sura in the northeast of Guadalcanal; a year later, another Catholic mission appeared on this island. In 1902, a Methodist mission led by George Brown opened in Roviana. The Methodists soon took a dominant position in the western part of the archipelago. In 1904, evangelists appeared in the Solomon Islands, and in 1914, Seventh-day Adventists.

From 1870, European slave traders and recruiters began bringing Solomon Islanders to work on plantations in Fiji, and from 1871 on the Australian colony of Queensland. In Fiji they were used on cotton plantations, and then, as in Australia, on sugar cane. They were also sold to New Caledonia and Samoa. The islanders put up armed resistance. The slave traders mercilessly killed those who resisted or those who tried to escape, organized bloody punitive expeditions and burned villages. The British authorities issued orders that the recruitment of islanders on plantations should only be carried out with the help of government agents, but this did not change the situation, since the agents were closely connected with the planters and shipowners. After 1890, the Solomon Islands became the main supplier of forced laborers to Fiji and Queensland. They had to work in extremely difficult conditions, and the mortality rate was very high. According to some reports, during the period 1863–1914, merchants transported about 40 thousand inhabitants of the Solomon Islands to European plantations in Australia and Oceania. According to others, by 1904, when the cessation of recruitment to Queensland was officially announced, at least 19 thousand people were taken there, of which only 14 thousand survived and returned to their homeland. Recruitment in Fiji officially continued until 1911, and of the 10 thousand taken home, less than half returned.

In 1885, Germany, which began conquests on the island of New Guinea, turned its attention to the Solomon Islands. An agreement was reached between Germany and Great Britain on the division of spheres of influence in the archipelago. The German sphere recognized the islands of Choiseul, Santa Isabel and Bougainville, the British - Guadalcanal, Savo, Malaita and San Cristobal. In 1893, taking advantage of bloody clashes between islanders and recruiters, Great Britain proceeded to directly seize the Solomon Islands.

In June 1893, British Captain Gibson established a British protectorate over the southern group of islands, including Guadalcanal, Savo, Malaita, San Cristobal and New Georgia. In June 1897, Captain Pollard annexed the islands of Rennel, Bellona and Sikaina Atoll. In August 1898, the islands of Santa Cruz and Tikopia became part of the protectorate, and in October - the islands of Duff, Anita and Fatutana. Finally, according to the Anglo-German Treaty of 1899, Great Britain received the remaining islands of the archipelago - Santa Isabel, Choiseul, Shortland and Ontong Java Atoll. Only Bougainville and Buka went to German New Guinea. By the time the British protectorate was established, about 50 European traders and planters had already settled on the islands. Traders bought goods from the population and delivered them by sea to Australia.

British protectorate.

Power in the protectorate was exercised by British resident commissioners, whose residence was in Tulagi. The first of these, C. M. Woodford (1896–1918), arrived in June 1896. Administratively, the Resident Commissioner was subordinate to the British High Commissioner for the Western Pacific, whose residence was in Fiji. The Solomon Islands did not have their own legislative bodies; laws were issued on behalf of the king by the high commissioner. In 1921, an Advisory Council was created under the Resident Commissioner, which, in addition to him, included up to 7 members, including 3 officials. The local administration was represented by two commissioners and four district commissioners subordinate to them.

The colonial administration received very small sums for managing the protectorate, which were not enough for the development of healthcare and education. Various epidemics and other diseases (tuberculosis, malaria, etc.) were widespread. There was only one government hospital, opened on Tulagi in 1910. The remaining medical institutions and all schools were in the hands of missionaries. Intertribal clashes did not subside, and there were not enough funds to organize serious police forces.

Since the beginning of the 20th century. Large European plantations began to be created on the islands, which produced, first of all, copra. In 1905, the Levers Pacific Plantation Company began buying land for coconut palm plantations, and by 1940 it owned more than 8 thousand hectares. land. The local population was very reluctant to agree to work for them, and the farms experienced a constant shortage of workers. In 1928, according to official data, more than 6 thousand people worked on the plantations, in 1934 - only 3.5 thousand. From 1931 until the Second World War, copra production in the archipelago experienced a deep crisis caused by a sharp drop in copra prices. Trade since the beginning of the 20th century. was in the hands of the Australian trading companies Burns Philp, Malaita Company, as well as W.R. Carpenter, which absorbed the latter in the 1930s.

The islanders repeatedly opposed taxes levied by the British authorities. Clashes often occurred. So, in 1927, in Malaita, local residents killed the district commissioner W.R. Bell and the policemen accompanying him. To suppress the riot, the Resident Commissioner sent a detachment of European volunteers with the support of a British cruiser sent from Sydney. Almost 200 people were arrested - the entire male population of the rebellious village. 25 people died during the investigation, 6 were sentenced to death, and 18 were given various prison terms. In the mid-1930s, residents of Gizo Island refused to pay their personal tax, and authorities arrested 40 people.

During the period between the two world wars, the first calls for greater community participation in governance began to be heard on the islands. Anglican priest Richard Follows in 1939 called on the inhabitants of the islands of Santa Isabel, Savo and Nggela to demand the creation of an advisory council with the participation of representatives of the indigenous inhabitants. On the island of Santa Isabel, the "chair and ruler" movement arose in support of this demand (these objects served as symbols of power), but it was suppressed, and Follows was expelled from the Solomon Islands.

By the outbreak of World War II, only a small military force was stationed in the Solomon Islands: a group of Australian riflemen guarding a seaplane base near Tulagi, and a defensive force of officers and 120 volunteers. These units were clearly not enough to hold back the advance of the Japanese army.

In March 1942, Japanese forces began systematic bombing of the Solomon Islands; the resident commissioner fled to Malaita, and sent the workers employed on European plantations to their homes. The population happily destroyed the documents of the protectorate administration and destroyed its buildings.

In April 1942, Shortland was captured, and on May 3, Japanese naval forces under the command of Admiral Goto approached Tulagi and landed troops that captured the island. Japanese units managed to occupy the western part of the archipelago, the islands of Guadalcanal, Nggela and Santa Isabel, and also established a post on the northwestern tip of Malaita. They immediately began building military facilities, primarily airfields. An airfield for 60 aircraft in the north of the island of Guadalcanal was supposed to become, according to their plans, a strategic base for bombing large areas located to the south and west of the islands.

However, in August 1942, US troops landed on Guadalcanal, Tulagi and neighboring islands. The American forces were joined by New Zealanders, Australians and other allies.

Despite crushing attacks by Japanese forces and heavy losses, the Allies managed to gain a foothold in the territory they occupied. In December 1942, the number of American troops on Guadalcanal reached 50 thousand, and Japanese - 25 thousand. Local residents helped American units, acting as scouts, guides, rescuing pilots and sailors, and even creating small partisan detachments. At the end of December 1942, the Japanese command decided to leave Guadalcanal and strengthen the islands of the New Georgia group. In February 1943, the remnants of Japanese units left the island.

After this, the fighting moved to the central part. In February 1943, the Americans occupied the Russell Islands, erecting a radar station, a torpedo boat base and an airfield there. In April, they managed to repel the largest Japanese air attack since Pearl Harbor in 1941 and, together with Fijian and Tongan commandos, landed on New Georgia in June-July. Within a month, 30,000 Allied forces broke the fierce resistance of 38,000 Japanese. In August–September, Arundel Island was cleared of Japanese troops. From July to October 1943, fierce naval battles took place in the inter-island waters. At the beginning of October 1943, the last Japanese units left the island of Kolombangara, and then Vella Lavella. By December 1943, the battle for the Solomon Islands was over.

Even during the period of fighting, an anti-British movement of the indigenous population developed, called “Marching rul”, or “Maasina Ruru” (from the English words “rul” - rule and “marching” - going, going, going, or from the local word “masinga” - Brotherhood). Communicating closely with American troops, receiving high pay for their maintenance work and observing huge warehouses of various goods, the islanders hoped that the Americans would bring them prosperity and free them from British rule. But in 1944, the Americans told one of the leaders of the Nori movement that after the end of hostilities they would leave, returning power to the British. However, many island residents believed that they would return and bring abundance with them (on this basis, the “cargo” cult developed on many islands of Oceania).

Already in 1944, actions of disobedience to British authorities began. In the same area in Malaita where the 1927 uprising took place, residents refused to recognize the authority of the headman appointed by the Resident Commissioner. In 1945–1946, the Marching Rule movement spread to the islands of Guadalcanal, Malaita, Ulava, San Cristobal, and later to Florida. Its leaders removed colonial elders and appointed their own. The indigenous inhabitants left the villages and settled in the new “towns” they created, which were essentially fortified camps. They had meeting houses for discussing common problems and warehouses for goods that the islanders believed would be delivered by American ships. The leader of the movement on Guadalcanal, Jacob Vousa, declared himself paramount leader of the island; residents refused to pay taxes, attacked representatives of the colonial authorities, and set up roadblocks.

The rise of the movement took place in difficult post-war conditions. The Solomon Islands suffered greatly from the fighting. Many buildings and houses were destroyed, coconut plantations were abandoned, planters and traders left the islands. Recovery was slow. The administrative center was moved from the devastated Tulagi to Honiara on the island of Guadalcanal, where the American command post was located during the fighting.

Initially, the British authorities tried to negotiate with the Marching Rule participants, then moved on to repression. Vose was arrested and exiled to Fiji, and the islanders were ordered to demolish the fortifications. The police, supported by warships, destroyed the main centers of movement. In September 1947, Marching Rule leaders were put on trial in Honiara, charged with terrorism and robbery, and sentenced to between one and six years' hard labor. In 1949, about 2 thousand islanders were sentenced to prison for refusing to destroy the fortifications they had built. The protest movement reorganized into the "Federal Council". Despite repressions and arrests of leaders, it existed until the mid-1950s.

The British authorities undertook a series of administrative reforms. In 1948, they divided the protectorate first into two parts - North and South, and then into four regions led by district commissioners. The districts, in turn, were divided into subdistricts, which were governed by elders appointed by the resident commissioner. Under the resident commissioner and elders there were appointed advisory councils. In 1952, the residence of the British High Commissioner for the Western Pacific was moved from Fiji to Honiara, and on January 1, 1953, the post of Resident Commissioner of the Solomon Islands was abolished, and management of the islands passed to the High Commissioner. An important step was the formation of the Malaita Local Council in 1956 in order to strengthen the participation of the population in matters of local government. By 1964 local councils had been created in almost all districts.

The economy of the islands developed. In 1959, copra production finally exceeded pre-war levels for the first time. It grew slowly in the 1960s and 1970s, with the share of islanders exceeding that of European planters. Since the second half of the 1950s, cocoa began to be cultivated on the archipelago.

The movement against the colonial authorities did not stop. In 1957, the local prophet Moro on Guadalcanal began to preach the inevitability of a return to pre-colonial times and the restoration of the traditional way of life. Moreau and a number of his associates were arrested, but his popularity quickly grew, and after his release the movement spread along the entire coast of the island, and by 1964 it covered half of Guadalcanal. Moreau's supporters demanded complete independence. They collected money and created their own plantation farms. In 1965, Moreau offered the British High Commissioner 2 thousand pounds sterling in exchange for granting independence to Guadalcanal. The proposal was rejected, but the British authorities no longer risked resorting to harsh repression.

On October 18, 1960, they introduced a new constitution. Instead of the Advisory Council under the High Commissioner, the Executive and Legislative Councils were created. Their members were also appointed, but now they included islanders (6 of 21 members of the Legislative Council and 2 of 8 members of the Executive Council). In 1961–1962 the Protectorate judicial system was reorganized: instead of the High Commissioner's Court, a Western Pacific Supreme Court was created, consisting of a Chief Justice in Honiara and two judges (in the Gilbert and Ellice Islands and in the New Hebrides). Magistrates' courts were established throughout the protectorate.

A new constitution for the islands was adopted in 1964 and came into force on February 1, 1965. Indigenous people now made up 8 of the 21 members of the Legislative Council and 3 of the 10 members of the Executive Council. At the same time, 8 members of the Legislative Council were elected. In Honiara the elections were direct. In other districts - indirect. 2 elected people organized the first political party - the Democratic Party, but already in 1967 it collapsed. In 1967, a new constitution expanded the number of elected members of the Legislative Council to include representatives of the indigenous population. In 1968, two deputies formed the United National Party of Solomon Islands, but it also disbanded shortly after the elections.

The Constitution, introduced by the British authorities on April 10, 1970, replaced the Legislative and Executive Councils with a new body, the Council of Government, all of whose members were elected. The High Commissioner was obliged to consult with the Government Council on state and political issues, but this did not constrain his actions in solving problems related to defense, foreign relations, internal security, police management, and appointments to the civil service. In December 1970, the council voted to grant independence to the Solomon Islands in 1975. A Select Committee on Constitutional Development was formed. In 1972, his proposals for the creation of a government responsible to an elected legislature were adopted by the Government Council. In 1973, elections for a new council were held. New parties emerged - the United Solomon Islands Party (USP) led by Benedict Kinika and the People's Progressive Party (PPP) of Solomon Mamaloni.

In 1974, in accordance with the new constitution, the Government Council was transformed into the Legislative Assembly. NPP leader S. Mamaloni became the chief minister. In 1975, he resigned due to a scandal over an agreement he signed with an American company to issue commemorative coins, but was re-elected again and led a delegation to London to negotiate independence for the country.

In January 1976, the Solomon Islands were declared a self-governing state. In July 1976 parliamentary elections were held. The OPSO and the NPP had actually disintegrated by this time due to internal disagreements, and their members acted as independents. 8 seats went to the new National Democratic Party (NDP), led by Bartholomew Yulufaalu, which was supported by trade unions. In July 1976, the Legislative Assembly elected Peter Kenilorea, a former OPSO figure, as chief minister. In 1977, negotiations for independence took place in London. The Constitutional Conference decided that on July 7, 1978, the Solomon Islands would become an independent state.

Independent state.

After the declaration of independence, the government of Kenilorea remained in power, and took over as prime minister. From the very beginning he had to deal with economic problems, lack of funds for socio-economic development and threats of secession from the Western Isles. The latter was prevented after the Western Solomon Islands Council was paid $7,000 in 1979. Before the 1980 elections, a regrouping of political forces took place. The NPP and most of the OPSO united to form the People's Union Party (PNA), led by Mamaloni. Prime Minister Kenilorea, along with his supporters, created the new UPSO, or United Democratic Party. After the elections, Kenilorea headed a new government of representatives of his party and independent deputies; the PNS and the NDP were in opposition. However, already in August 1981, the ruling coalition collapsed because the independents refused to support Kenilorea. Mamaloni returned to power, including representatives of the PNS, NDP and independents in his cabinet. During his reign (1981–1984), the country experienced signs of economic growth. NDP leader Yulufaalu, who took over as finance minister, undertook a number of important financial and tax reforms. So, in 1983 he managed to strengthen the Solomon Islands dollar, equating it to the Australian dollar. The government expanded local government by passing the Provincial Government Act in 1981. However, his credibility was undermined by a conflict with Chief Folofu, who did not allow elections to be held in his area, and a strike organized by the employees' union in September 1984 demanding higher wages. During the 1984 elections, the PNS managed to slightly increase the number of its seats in parliament, but the overall balance of forces changed not in its favor.

In November 1984, Kenilorea formed a new government with the participation of his United Party, the Independents and the new Ano Segufenula party. His office paid compensation of $1,000 to Chief Folofu, but after resolving the dispute, it faced other problems. The agriculture minister has come under fire in connection with a scandal surrounding the sale of government buildings, sparking a new nationwide strike by civil servants. The government was forced to conduct an investigation, and the minister was removed. In addition, in 1986, Cyclone Namu, one of the strongest in the history of the archipelago, hit the islands. It claimed 90 lives, caused millions of dollars in property damage, and significantly undermined the government's prestige. Finally, the Prime Minister himself was accused of wasting the aid he received from France on the restoration of his native village on the island of Malaita. As a result, Kenilorea was forced to cede the post of head of government to his deputy Ezekiel Alebua in December 1986.

In the 1989 general elections, the opposition PNS won a complete victory, winning 21 of 38 seats. The opposition included the United Party, the Liberal Party (formerly the NDP) and the Nationalist Front for Progress (NFP). Ano Segufenula did not receive a single seat and soon disbanded. Mamaloni formed a new one-party cabinet. However, he did not last long. In the ruling PNS, disagreements between the prime minister and party chairman Kaushimae have intensified. Conflict and open split followed in mid-1990. Mamaloni dismissed 5 ministers and announced his resignation from the GNA. He created a new “government of national unity and reconciliation”, including 5 representatives of the opposition, including Kenilorea, who left the ranks of the United Party, Sam Alasia, who was previously elected on the lists of the NFP, and others. Later, supporters of the government officially formed into a political organization - “ Group for National Unity and Reconciliation (GNEP).

In 1993, the GNEP won 21 seats in parliament out of 47, but the remaining parties united into the National Coalition Partnership (NCP) and removed it from power. Francis Billy Hilly was elected Prime Minister of the country.

The NCP government (1993–1994) introduced a number of reforms (including the creation of a constituency development fund), but was not able to remain in power for long. Already in mid-1994, the Minister of Finance was forced to resign due to allegations of corruption, and the Minister of Internal Affairs was accused of illegally issuing a casino license in Honiara. In October 1994, the NKP began to disintegrate. Billy Hilly formed a new minority government, but it fell within two weeks. On November 7, 1994, Mamaloni, the leader of the GNEP, transformed into the Progressive Party of National Unity and Reconciliation of the Solomon Islands (PPNEP), returned to the post of head of the cabinet.

Mamaloni promised that his government would try to make maximum use of the country's natural resources to increase income, create jobs and provide services to the population. In order to conserve resources, the cabinet tried to stop predatory logging and refused to issue new fishing licenses to companies. Measures were taken to develop tourism, a new air terminal was opened in Honiara with Japanese help, and road construction expanded. The priority project was the launch of a gold mine in Gold Ridge. The government also signed a lease agreement with the landowners and Australian mining company Ross Mining.

In December 1996, Parliament passed the Provincial Government Act, which abolished the system of provincial governments introduced in 1981 and replaced them with regional assemblies. The premier of the province of Guadalcanal got the judicial authorities to repeal the act; the government filed an appeal.

At the beginning of February 1997, disagreements intensified within the ruling PPNEP. Mamaloni ousted deputy chief minister Danny Philip and replaced him with former opposition National Action Party leader Francis Samala.

The 1997 general elections again led to a change of government. PPNEP received 24 seats in parliament out of 50, and the coalition of opposition parties, the Alliance for Change, received 26. The leader of the Alliance, Bartholomew Yulufaalu, head of the Liberal Party, headed the country’s new government, which declared its intention to establish “genuine democracy” in the country, carry out political and economic reforms with the support of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, as well as donor countries and organizations. Economic turmoil in Asia led to a sharp decline in the forest industry, as well as an overall decline in production of 10% in 1998. The government implemented wage cuts for government employees and budget cuts. The economic situation in the Solomon Islands improved somewhat in 1999 due to a significant increase in world gold prices and the expansion of gold mining in the country. But soon the authorities had to face the most difficult crisis in the entire history of the independent state.

Interethnic conflict and reconstruction.

In early 1999, a long-simmering conflict between the Gwale people on Guadalcanal Island and settlers from the neighboring Malaita Island led to armed clashes. The emerging Guadalcanal Revolutionary Army began attacking Malaita people in rural areas, forcing them to leave the island. The fighters, mostly young men armed with homemade weapons, came from the southern coast of Guadalcanal, where traditional customs were strong. They later renamed their organization the Isatabu Freedom Movement (an ancient aboriginal name for Guadalcanal). About 20 thousand Malayans found refuge in Honiara, many returned to their home island. On the contrary, the Gwale fled from Honiara; the city became a Malaite enclave. The Malaita Eagle Force (MEF) began to form. The Solomon Islands government sought Commonwealth assistance and former Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka was appointed as mediator. On June 28, 1999, after a series of meetings, a peace agreement was signed in Honiara.

However, the problems were not resolved, and in June 2000 fighting between the parties resumed. The Malaitans took possession of the police arsenal at Auki on their home island, entered into an alliance with opposition elements in the police force, and established control over Honiara, where they occupied another arsenal of modern weapons at Rowa.

On June 5, 2000, the SFR seized the country's Parliament. They accused the Yulufaalu government of failing to protect the lives and property of the Malai people. The prime minister was captured and forced to resign. In the following days, fighting broke out in the capital between the CFR and the Isatabu Freedom Movement. On June 15, the CFR handed over control of Honiara to the police. On June 30, parliament elected the leader of the People's Progressive Party, Manasseh Sogavare, as the new head of government, who served as Minister of Finance until 1999, but came into conflict with Yulufaalu. Sogavare formed the cabinet of the Coalition for National Unity, Reconciliation and Peace, putting forward a program to resolve ethnic conflicts, restore the economy and more equally distribute the benefits of the country's development.

But Sogavare could not cope with the country's problems. His government has been repeatedly accused of corruption, failure to support the economy and restore order. Since the beginning of the clashes in 1999, at least 100 people have been killed, approx. 30 thousand people (mainly Malayans) were forced to leave their homes, and the Guadalcanal economy was destroyed.

Growing pressure from society, business and the international community prompted the CFR, the Isatabu Freedom Movement and the government to sign a new peace agreement in the Australian city of Townsville on October 15, 2000. Its compliance was to be monitored by a group of international observers consisting of 35 Australians, 14 New Zealanders and 4 police officers from the Cook Islands, Vanuatu and Tonga. The agreement provided for the dissolution of armed groups, a general amnesty for all warring parties, police reform and the inclusion of officers who joined the SFR and the Isatabu Freedom Movement. During the implementation of the agreement, more than 2 thousand weapons were handed over to international observers in the 20 months before June 25, 2002. But the most powerful weapons were never surrendered, and some of the former militia fighters escaped the control of their commanders and joined criminal groups.

The interethnic conflict and its consequences had a catastrophic impact on the islands' economy. Exports, estimated at $150 million in 1991, fell to $55 million in 2001, and government revenues fell by more than half. The Gold Ridge gold mine, which provided a significant portion of export revenue in 1999 and early 2000, was destroyed in June 2000 and closed. Government attempts to replenish the treasury through taxes failed in 2001, and foreign aid almost ceased. The government decided to stop public investment and sent employees on unpaid leave. Paying compensation to refugees and participants in the conflict placed a heavy burden on finances.

During the confrontation, a significant part of the industry was disabled, including the production of palm oil, mining, and partly forestry. Basic services in the capital were under threat due to frequent power outages and interruptions in water and fuel supplies. After Telikom's solar panels were looted, telecommunications services in Malaita stopped working. By some estimates, the conflict has weakened the Solomon Islands economy by 40%.

Solomon Islands in the 21st century

During the Sogavare government there were scandals and internal contradictions. In 2001, a week before the dissolution of Parliament, the leader of the People's Union Party (PNU), Allan Kemakeza, was removed from his post as deputy prime minister, accused of misusing funds to pay compensation to people who lost property during the conflict.

In the December 2001 elections, the GNA achieved success, and Kemakeza became prime minister. His party entered into a coalition with some independent MPs led by former finance minister Snyder Reaney, who has now received the post of deputy prime minister and minister of national planning.

The country continues to experience economic difficulties. During the first quarter of 2002, copra production fell by 77% compared to the same period in 2001, cocoa production by 55%, and timber production by 13%. The fish catch doubled, but was mostly consumed on the domestic market. According to the authorities, the process of economic recovery will take at least 10 years. The first signs of revival have appeared, but many mines, fishing and agricultural enterprises are still closed.

In December 2002, the government signed an agreement with the international organization “Royal Assembly of Nations and Kingdoms” to provide the Solomon Islands with $2.6 billion. However, in February 2003, the government terminated the agreement as information emerged that the organization was serving as a front for a number of former members of the separatist group. "Bougainville Revolutionary Army" from Papua New Guinea.

The Solomon Islands authorities remain in a difficult position. Former participants and victims of the armed conflict were dissatisfied with the pace and size of payment of compensation, and in December 2002, the Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, New Zealander Lloyd Powell was forced to flee the country, fleeing threats from former fighters of armed groups. There are differences within the ruling party. In February 2003, a number of its members criticized Prime Minister Kemakeza's visit to South Korea and planned to replace him with Finance Minister Michael Maina.

As part of the fight against financial abuse, the government took action in May 2003 against the Family Charity Foundation, whose leaders made threats against commercial banks. In protest against these threats, the banks closed for one day and resumed operations only after the arrest of the fund's managers.

The Kemakeza government is counting on help from other countries, primarily Japan, to restore the economy. In 2003, the Prime Minister held talks in Tokyo about Japanese assistance in establishing public services, establishing commercial rice farming in Malaita and Choiseul, developing an international airport in Henderson, and supplying copra to Japan.

During 2002 and 2003, clashes and conflicts became more frequent, and in June 2003 the Prime Minister asked for help from abroad. Peacekeeping forces from Australia and other countries of the Pacific region arrived in the country under the auspices of the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands. The military contingent ensured the restoration of law and order and the disarmament of militants on Guadalcanal. 4,000 people were arrested: members of the government, police leadership, group leaders, including one of the most prominent leaders of the Guadalcanal Revolutionary Army, Harold Keke. The criminal group “Malaita Eagles” also laid down their arms. Peace began to gradually return to the country, and the military presence of peacekeepers was reduced.

In December 2004, an Australian police officer was killed by a local resident. The peacekeepers returned, but nevertheless, even after the incident, the military presence was reduced.

Although the People's Union Party was defeated in the 2006 parliamentary elections, Deputy Prime Minister Snyder Reaney managed to gain the support of independent members of parliament, and he was elected prime minister and formed a government. However, he was soon accused of receiving bribes from Chinese businessmen and bribing members of parliament. Chinese businessmen were accused of trying to influence the political situation in the country. This led to new riots, in particular pogroms of the Chinese diaspora. In this regard, the mission forces were again increased.

In May 2006, Rini was forced to resign or face a vote of no confidence. Manasse Sogavare was nominated for the post of Prime Minister. He received a majority of votes in the parliamentary vote on May 4, 2006 and again became the country's prime minister.

During this period, the country was largely left with civilian specialists who advised the government on economic and financial matters, which drew sharp criticism from Sogavare, who accused the Regional Mission of interfering in domestic politics.

On December 13, 2007, Sogavare was removed from office as a result of a vote of no confidence. Several ministers from his government joined the opposition.

On December 30, 2007, parliament elected a new prime minister. He became the former Minister of Education, opposition candidate Derek Sikua. The new prime minister supported the mission, and with his arrival the situation regarding the peacekeepers changed.

He served in office until 25 August 2010. In August 2010, elections were held and Danny Philip became the new Prime Minister. In November 2011, he resigned due to the fact that they were also going to announce a vote of no confidence in him.

On April 2, 2007, a tsunami hit the country, which was caused by a strong earthquake of magnitude 8. As a result, over 50 people died and thousands of people were left homeless.

Political parties in the Solomon Islands are quite weak, they form unstable coalitions, and in this regard, parties are often subject to votes of no confidence, including prime ministers.

Problems in the economic and political development of the country, the inability of governments to resolve internal conflicts leads to the fact that the capacity of the state is greatly reduced, and in fact such a state can be called a “failed state.”

Literature:

Oceania. Directory. M., 1982
Rubtsov B.B. Oceania. M., 1991

The Solomon Islands are a country located in Melanesia, in the southwestern part of the Pacific Ocean. It consists of 992 islands.

In 1568, the Spanish traveler A. Mendaña de Neira discovered these islands. The navigator managed to exchange a lot of gold from local residents. And he gave the name to the Solomon Islands in honor of the magical country Ophir, where, according to legend, King Solomon hid his treasures.

For the next two centuries, Europeans did not visit here. Only in 1767 the islands were discovered a second time by the Englishman F. Carteret.

Since the 1860s Europeans began to actively develop the territory of the Solomon Islands. The Aborigines quickly realized the danger posed by the white man and killed any European who set foot on their land. That is why the Solomon Islands at that time had a reputation as the most hostile islands in the Pacific Ocean.

In 1893, the islands came under British rule. And from the beginning of the 20th century, the British created the first coconut palm plantations here.

During World War II, part of the islands was captured by the Japanese. Bloody battles were fought here for a long time, and many warships sank.

The Solomon Islands gained independence only in 1978.

The ethnic composition of the islands' population is heterogeneous. The majority are Melanesians (more than 90%), followed by Polynesians (3%), Micronesians (1.2%), Europeans and Chinese.

Holidays in the Solomon Islands are suitable primarily for those who want to enjoy the untouched nature of this region, as well as extreme sports enthusiasts, lovers of diving, snorkeling and fishing.

Climate and weather

The climate of the Solomon Islands is subequatorial, very humid and hot. The thermometer does not fall below +21 °C in winter, but in summer the temperature often exceeds +30 °C. Winter falls here from April to November. This is a dry season, characterized by cool (+23...+27 °C) weather. The time from December to March is called the wet season. The air temperature reaches its maximum and humidity rises to 90%. Rainfall varies depending on the region of the archipelago.

Hurricane winds are possible in the summer, but here they are not as destructive as east of the Solomon Islands.

The most favorable time to travel to the Solomon Islands is June - December. At this time there is no sweltering heat, and in June-August various festivals and celebrations are held.

Nature

About 80% of the islands are covered with dense equatorial forests (ficus, palm trees); dry places are characterized by savannas; mangrove forests and swamps grow on the coasts.

The flora of the Solomon Islands is represented by more than 4,500 plant species, including more than 200 species of orchids alone. You can often find sumai, nalato, and hibiscus.

The fauna of the islands is also diverse: crocodiles, snakes, lizards, rats, bats, parrots, wild pigeons and others. You can often see rare giant butterflies here. The coastal waters are home to green turtles, tuna, dolphins, barracuda, sharks and many other species of fish.

The Solomon Islands are also rich in minerals: silver, gold, copper, nickel.

In the east O. Rennell The National Wildlife Park was created with the support of UNESCO.

The Solomon Islands are of volcanic origin. The highest point in the country is the peak Popomanaseu (Guadalcanal Island). Its height reaches 2335 meters.

Attractions

The Solomon Islands attract tourists, first of all, for their naturalness and lack of desire to create something specifically for tourists. They offer relaxation in natural conditions, and this is why the islands are valuable for the traveler.

Traveling around the islands usually starts from the capital of the state - Honiara. Here is a place called Point Cruz. According to legend, a Spaniard first landed here Mendana and erected a cross in honor of the discovery of the island.

It will also be interesting to visit the National Museum, Parliament, Botanical Gardens, colorful Chinatown.

Just a few kilometers from the capital are the famous waterfalls Mataniko. The water falls into a cave filled with stalagmites and stalactites, after which it disappears into the bowels of the island.

A trip to the lagoon will be unforgettable Marovo. Here is the best tourist village in the country - World Heritage. The state, trying to preserve the unique flora and fauna of this place, limited logging. Local residents receive their main income from tourism.

Village Nusambaruku (Gizo Island) is an example of a traditional isolated village. It consists of several buildings that are located high on stilts. The village can only be reached by boat or along a narrow dam.

Islands Anarvon are located 280 km from the capital. This is a group of 100 islands, none of which are permanently inhabited, and many of them protrude only 20-30 cm above the sea, but this place is famous for being home to rare sea turtles. A natural reserve was organized here: several dozen specially trained people monitor the safety of turtles’ lives and accompany tourists.

The Western Province is famous for the beauty and richness of the underwater world. Fans of extreme sports and water sports flock here. The most comfortable resorts are also located here.

The lagoon can rightly be called the pearl of the Western Province Marovo. This is the largest salt lagoon in the world (150 by 96 kilometers). Thousands of islands and coral reefs surround the lagoon.

Almost the entire southern part O. Rennell occupies the lake Tengano. It is the largest freshwater lake in the Pacific region. The lake and surrounding areas form a National Wildlife Park, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Nutrition

The cuisine of the Solomon Islands is a mixture of culinary traditions of Southeast Asia, Europe and Oceania. It is characterized by the use of yams and colocasia leaves, tapioca (obtained from the roots of the cassava plant), and coconut. Chefs at local restaurants mix ingredients in random order and often create new, unique dishes.

Food is often cooked in special earthen ovens called umu. Meat and fish are usually baked over coals with little spice.

In addition to Melanesian and Polynesian dishes, European and Asian dishes are excellently prepared here. Moreover, they are no different from similar dishes prepared in Beijing or London.

Honiara has several European, Chinese and even Japanese restaurants. All of them are popular with tourists and locals.

The choice of drinks here is huge: local alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, as well as wines and beer imported from Chile, China, New Zealand.

Accommodation

The Solomon Islands has a poorly developed tourism infrastructure. Comfortable accommodation is provided only on the largest islands of the archipelago: Guadalcanal, Hueli, Mangalonga, Gizo.

The hotels on these islands are something like resort complexes with tennis courts, swimming pools, and children's playgrounds. This could be several colorful eco-huts or bungalows.

Prices range from $30-150 per night.

Before checking in, be sure to check if there are mosquito nets in your room: the local insects can be dangerous.

IN Honiara, right on the beach, the most modern and prestigious hotel in the country is located - Heritage Park. To fully enjoy the nature of the Pacific coast, you can rent an apartment at the hotel. An excellent double room will cost you $300 per night.

Outside the capital and other large cities, it is possible to stay directly in the homes of local residents. In this case, payment is agreed upon in advance (guide the amount around $12-20 per day). Housing is often paid for with food.

Entertainment and relaxation

The underwater world of the Solomon Islands literally attracts extreme sports enthusiasts from all over the world. Sunken ships and planes, coral reefs, and a variety of underwater inhabitants allow you to fully enjoy diving and snorkeling.

Good area for snorkeling O. Guadalcanal. About 50 huge warships are buried in these waters. In most cases, they are located at a depth to which scuba diving is prohibited. However, the transparency of the water and the features of the bottom topography make it possible to see details without deep immersion.

Island Savo called a paradise for divers. The island, which is of volcanic origin, is constantly shrouded in clouds. There are no comfortable conditions for tourists here, but all this is more than compensated for by the abundance of sunken ships, many hot mineral springs, and crystal clear water.

The most picturesque reefs can be seen near the lagoon Marovo, nearby islands Tavanipulu And Arnavon.

Diving in the Solomon Islands cannot be called a cheap pleasure. For one dive you will have to pay from $50-70.

Another way to spend time on the islands is fishing. The local waters are known for the variety of species of fish and marine animals. Some travel agencies organize entire fish tours to Lola Island, to the lagoons Marovo And Wona-Wona.

Those wishing to get acquainted with the strange and fascinating rituals of the local residents simply need to visit the outskirts of the city Auki(100 km from Honiara). Here you will witness a most dangerous ritual. "shark challenge". Local sorcerers somehow manage to put the shark to sleep right in the water, and then manually raise it to the surface.

Center for cultural life of the state - Honiara. The Queen's Birthday is celebrated here on the second Friday of June. The celebration is accompanied by a police parade, dancing and sports competitions. On July 7, the whole country celebrates Independence Day.

If you find yourself in the Solomon Islands in mid-December, you can take part in the Western Seas Festival. At this time, numerous fishing competitions, canoe races and other competitions take place.

There are many good hiking trails in the Solomon Islands. Trekking enthusiasts will be pleased with the walking tour routes organized from Honiara to the waterfalls Mataniko, from Guizot before Titians.

Purchases

Large shops and supermarkets are concentrated in the capital of the Solomon Islands. Prices for imported goods are very high.

When purchasing food products, carefully monitor the shelf life: often the goods take a long time to travel from Singapore, China and other countries and spoil on the way.

Prices in stores on the islands are not regulated by the state, so do not be surprised if the cost of the same goods in neighboring stores differs significantly.

Be sure to visit the colorful markets of the country. Here you can buy all kinds of vegetables and tropical fruits, fresh fish, shells, and handicrafts. Markets are open throughout the week. Remember that bargaining is not encouraged here.

As a souvenir from the Solomon Islands, you can bring handmade wooden figurines that symbolize peace and tranquility.

Ritual wooden balls are very popular among tourists. According to legend, with their help you can summon the spirit of a deceased ancestor and ask for advice.

Local hand-painted wooden masks are also unusual. They, according to popular belief, give strength and dexterity to their owner and protect against evil spirits.

Brooches, keychains, beads, bracelets made of shells and corals would be a good gift.

Some goods (especially handmade goods) have two different prices: the first for local residents, the second for tourists.

Transport

international Airport Henderson Field is located 11 km from the capital and is named after a US major who died in the Battle of Midway. For the runway, which later became the airport, there were hot battles between the Japanese and the Americans. The airport is small, but there is everything you need: taxi, car rental, ATM and exchange office. There are also about 30 small airports on the islands that serve local flights.

Only 2% of all roads in the Solomon Islands are paved. Most of the roads belong to private plantation owners.

The most common transport that allows you to move from island to island is a ferry, or, as the locals call it, a water taxi. You will get a lot of impressions from your sea voyage. In most cases, sea transport does not follow any schedule, and the fare is quite low.

The most convenient way to get around in Honiara is by taxi. You can “vote” on the street or call him in advance. Taxi cost is $1.5 per kilometer.

There are few buses in the capital; the most common form of transport here is minibuses, the ticket price is $0.4.

You can also rent a car. But drivers should be especially careful: the roads outside Honiara are in poor condition.

Connection

In the Solomon Islands, standard cellular communications GSM 900. The level of communication is not very high yet. The only mobile operator Solomon Telekom provides good reception only in the area of ​​Honiara, Auki, Gizo. In other areas, coverage is partial.

While on the islands, you can either buy a SIM card from a local operator or rent a phone.

There are about 300 payphones in the country, and almost all of them are concentrated in Honiara, near banks, large shops and hotels. To use a payphone, you need to buy a prepaid card. It is sold in stores, kiosks, and communication shops.

If you need to make an international call, it is better to use the services Solomon Telekom. The company's offices operate around the clock and are located in the capital, in many provincial centers, and in all major hotels.

Internet connectivity is available in Honiara and some provinces. There is a whole network of Internet cafes in the capital. The Wi-Fi network has just begun its development. Trial sites are only open in Honiara and Gizo.

Safety

Residents of the Solomon Islands are quite friendly towards tourists. Theft is rare here, but in crowded areas, beware of pickpockets. Do not leave valuables and documents unattended, and do not visit isolated areas alone.

It is recommended to visit picturesque local settlements only with experienced guides who will tell you about certain features of local traditions. To avoid omissions and insults from the natives, it is necessary to obtain consent before visiting their home.

Property rights are very important to Melanesians. A tree, flower or fruit in the vicinity of a populated area may well belong to one of the residents. Therefore, in order not to provoke a conflict, do not tear anything without permission.

Be careful with your clothing: swimsuits and shorts are only allowed on the beach; in other cases, you need to hide your body as much as possible.

Local water can be hazardous to health, so drink only boiled or bottled water. Milk, meat, and fish can be eaten only after heat treatment. Wash vegetables and peel fruits thoroughly.

The wildlife of the islands also poses danger. Scorpions, Javan centipedes, blood-sucking insects, poisonous fish and snakes, some reptiles, and forest ants can pose a threat not only to health, but also to life. To avoid meeting them, move around the islands (especially the jungle) only accompanied by an experienced guide.

Business climate

The economy of the Solomon Islands has recently developed rapidly and offers good business opportunities in areas such as mining, tourism infrastructure, agricultural industry, fishing, and forestry.

Resident companies (shareholders who have voting rights and are residents of the islands) pay 30% tax on profits from any source, regardless of their location. Non-resident companies are subject to 35% tax on income received on the islands.

Real estate

Exotic nature, good climate, low prices explain the demand for real estate in the Solomon Islands. You won't see high-rise apartment buildings here. Most of the local population still lives in rural houses. Only in the capital there are luxurious modern buildings.

The law allows the purchase of real estate by foreigners. But for this you need documents confirming the legality of the transaction.

Buying property in the Solomon Islands is quite problematic. The fact is that 95% of all the islands' land belongs to indigenous peoples. For a foreign investor to buy a house, for example, it is necessary to conduct lengthy negotiations with members of various clans in order to find the owner of the land and agree on a deal. Usually such negotiations take a lot of time and there are no guarantees that everything will be resolved in your favor. Community lands are rarely sold. But it is possible to lease them for up to 75 years.

In the Solomon Islands, as in most other countries in Polynesia and Melanesia, it is not customary to leave a tip. According to local tradition, a tip is perceived as a gift and implies a gift in return. By smiling and saying “thank you,” you are fully expressing your gratitude for the services provided.

Currency can be exchanged at a bank, in large stores and restaurants, some hotels, and special exchange bureaus. There are also exchange machines in the capital, which are located mainly near bank offices. In the provinces, the easiest way to exchange currency is at branches National Bank of the Solomon Islands. They are located in shops and post offices.

In Honiara you can pay by credit card, in the provinces you can only pay in cash.

Often, especially in the southern regions of the islands, US and Australian dollars are accepted for payment.

Jewelry and gold must be declared upon entry.

The export and import of items of historical value is prohibited: products made of coral, skins of tropical animals, bird feathers, sea turtle shells.

When planning a trip, make sure that your first aid kit has all the necessary medications. In the Solomon Islands it may be difficult to purchase them.

Visa information

Useful information for tourists about the Solomon Islands, cities and resorts of the country. As well as information about the population, currency of the Solomon Islands, cuisine, features of visa and customs restrictions of the Solomon Islands.

Geography of the Solomon Islands

The Solomon Islands are a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, in Melanesia, occupying most of the archipelago of the same name, as well as some other island groups.

The Solomon Islands stretch in two chains from northwest to southeast for more than 1,400 km. Most of the islands of the archipelago are volcanic peaks of an underwater ridge. Mountain ranges occupy almost their entire surface, only narrow lowlands stretch along the coast. A fairly wide coastal lowland exists only on the northeastern coast of Guadalcanal. On the same island is the highest point of the country - Mount Makarakomburu (2447 m.). On the islands there are extinct and active volcanoes, hot springs, and earthquakes often occur. Many islands are framed by coral reefs; In addition to volcanic islands, there are coral atoll islands.

State

State structure

The Solomon Islands is a parliamentary democracy with elements of a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the monarch of Great Britain, represented by the governor general. Executive power belongs to the government, headed by the prime minister. The Prime Minister is elected by Parliament. Legislative power belongs to the unicameral National Parliament.

Language

Official language: English

English, although it is the official language, is spoken by only 1–2% of residents. The language of interethnic communication is Melanesian pidgin English. The peoples of the islands speak a total of 120 languages.

Religion

45% of the population belongs to the Anglican Church, 18% to the Roman Catholic Church, 12% to the Methodist and Presbyterian Church. 9% are Baptists, 7% are Seventh-day Adventists, 5% are other Protestants. 4% of residents adhere to local traditional beliefs.

Currency

International name: SBD

The Solomon Islands dollar is equal to 100 cents. In circulation in the archipelago are banknotes in denominations of 2, 5, 10 and 50 dollars, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1 dollar.

US and Australian dollars are often accepted for payment, especially in the southern regions of the country.

In cities, travel checks are quite easily exchanged and used, credit cards are also available, they are mainly serviced by three large banks in the capital - ANZ, Westpac and NBSI. In the provinces, the use of credit cards and checks is difficult; cash is preferred.

Popular attractions

Tourism in Solomon Islands

Popular hotels

Tips

Tips are not accepted, but if the service is good, you can leave the staff 5% of the bill or an additional 1-2 dollars. According to Polynesian tradition, tips are a gift and must be given, so almost all establishments do not have them at all. A smile and a simple “thank you” are considered sufficient compensation for services rendered.

Office hours

Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday, from 08.30-9.00 to 15.00.

Medicine

All tap water in the country must be assessed as potentially hazardous to health.

Safety

Thefts and other violent acts against tourists are quite rare, but in areas with large crowds of people you should be wary of pickpockets and well-organized fraudulent groups. It is under no circumstances recommended to exchange money on the street.

There are many dangerous animals on the islands - these include numerous local blood-sucking insects that carry many diseases, various arthropods (primarily the Javan centipede and scorpions), some of the 20 species of reptiles, as well as numerous species of poisonous fish and sea snakes.

Emergency numbers

Unified rescue service (fire, police and ambulance) - 911.

The Solomon Islands are an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean located east of New Guinea, part of Melanesia. This archipelago is a state and has its own flag and coat of arms. The archipelago is shown in white on the world map, with Bougainville, the largest of the components, marked not far from where the main group is located.

In contact with

Geographical position

The flag has its own designations. It depicts 4 colors:

1. blue is water;
2. green – these are fertile lands;
3. yellow is sunlight;
4. white - 5 stars symbolizing the provinces of the country, over time their number has increased.

The coat of arms also has its own symbolism, but it is not so simple. If you are interested in the meaning of the coat of arms, you can find it by searching for “Coat of Arms. Solomon islands. Wikipedia." Also speaking about symbols, it can be noted that the state has its own motto.

Solomon Islands area

The state consists of 992 islands, which have many volcanoes in their area. They are in a seismic zone, and large islands are very mountaineers. The archipelago, with an area of ​​40.4 thousand square kilometers, consists of 10 large islands and 4 groups of small ones. Some of them still remain uninhabited.

Archipelago history

This archipelago was discovered by the traveler A. Melania de Nera. The islands were named Solomon Islands, in honor of the country of Ofer, in which, according to legend, King Solomon hid his treasures.

In the 1860s. European residents began to explore the entire territory. The Aborigines, realizing this, destroyed everyone who set foot on their lands. In 1893, the Solomon Islands became part of Great Britain. At the beginning of the 20th century, the British began to create the first coconut plantations on the islands. Then some were captured by the Japanese. It was only in 1978 that the Solomon Islands received independence.

The ethnic composition of the state is diverse: Melanesians (90%), Polynesians (3%), Micronesians (1.2%), the rest of the population are Europeans and Chinese.

Climate and nature

The climate in the Solomon Islands is subequatorial, very hot and humid. Winter comes from April to November. The temperature is + 24 - 27°C, and in the summer, from December to March, it rises to + 26 - 32°C. The maximum amount of precipitation falls during the summer. Hurricanes are also common in the summer season. The least precipitation is in Honiara (the capital of the Solomon Islands).

About 80% of the archipelago's area is covered in dense tropical forests. Savannahs are typical for dry areas. There are mangrove forests and swamps on the coasts.

Vegetable the environment is made up of more than 4,500 plant species. 200 species of them are orchids. The fauna of the islands is also diverse: crocodiles, snakes, lizards, giant butterflies, turtles, many insects and a variety of aquatic life. When you search (Solomon Islands photo) you will understand what beautiful nature we are talking about. The state is rich in precious metals such as gold, silver, copper, nickel. Therefore, this place attracts investors.

Solomon Islands vacation

If you decide to buy a tour to these islands, then you are definitely a connoisseur of living and natural nature and thrills. The islands attract attention due to the lack of desire to create modern comfort. After all, being among forests, in specially equipped dwellings, is truly paradise. Many tourists prefer to retire to villages where they can enjoy life like the islanders.

One of these villages is Medana Avenue, where there are buildings made of palm leaves and branches, and also, having visited it, you can get acquainted with the rituals and traditions of the archipelago.

For diversity relaxation, you can admire the Mataniko waterfall and visit the Marovo lagoon.

In Internet sources you can find many photographs related to these attractions.

For those who want to enjoy the ocean, time can be devoted to diving and snorkeling. During the war, a large number of ships sank in the ocean. When diving even to a shallow depth, you can see the details of these ships.

Also for fishing lovers, these places will bring indescribable pleasure. The Solomon Archipelago is specially provided with a fish tour; this type of fishing tour is very popular, because fishing is provided in the most favorable places for marine life.

But in this state there is also civilized life. Travel usually starts from the capital, Honiara. This is where the modern world is centered. ​

The first place you can visit is Puento Cruz. According to legend, the explorer-discoverer put a cross there as a symbol of discovery.

Then, it’s worth visiting the unusual building of the National parliament, which has a conical shape and is the center of Honiara.

The old Government House now houses the National Museum. It contains all the culture and history of the islands. In the vicinity of the museum you can stroll through the park, which is rich in vegetation.

The capital has a library, the archives of which contain more than 600 thousand books.

A tour of the World War II Museum will be very unusual and entertaining, due to the fact that it is not located in a building, but on the street.

All comfortable hotels are located in Honiara. Some hotels are separate resort complexes and provide guide services. Despite the fact that the state has preserved its culture, you can see restaurants, nightclubs, bars, and various other things here. But it’s worth noting that holidays on the paradise islands are quite expensive. The price of a hotel room varies from $30 to $400.

Archipelago It is also famous for its holidays. These are: the Spiritual Day Military Parade, which takes place 8 weeks after Easter; and also the Queen's Birthday. But the most memorable and beautiful celebration is the Western Seas Festival, during which they organize canoe races, fishing competitions and various other competitions and competitions.

These days you can photograph the outfits of the islanders and the inhabitants of the local fauna at photo celebrations.

Since Honiara is the center trade, then when leaving home, you should buy souvenirs. There are a huge number of them on the island. These include figurines and wooden magic balls. If you forget to visit the Central Market, you can deprive yourself of fresh exotic fruits, seafood and bright tropical flowers. But you need to remember that in the Solomon Islands it is not customary to bargain; this is considered an offensive gesture for traders.

Transport and nuances for vacationers

Another important factor in recreation is transport. Anyone who doesn’t particularly like walking can take a taxi, its price is $1.5 per 1 km, and the price for public transport is $0.4. For the convenience of this type of movement, drivers place signs with route maps on their windshields. Or you can purchase a map of the entire city or a specific area.

Vacationers who have chosen such a tour should remember:

• It is not customary to leave a tip in a cafe; it is better to thank them with a sweet smile and politely say “thank you”
• Pedestrians and drivers do not follow traffic rules, so you need to be very careful.
• The export of historical objects is prohibited.
• It is worth purchasing medications in advance, this may cause problems.
• Currency that is imported into the territory must be declared.

Holidays in the Solomon Islands can be very enjoyable if you follow these rules.

Solomon islands- a state in the western part of the Pacific Ocean, east of New Guinea, located on the southeastern part of the islands of the same name.

The name of the country is associated with the legend of the land of Ophir, where the treasures of King Solomon are hidden.

Official name: Solomon islands

Capital: Honiara

The area of ​​the land: 28,450 sq. km

Total Population: 610 thousand people

Administrative division: The state is divided into 7 provinces and 1 city.

Form of government: A constitutional monarchy.

Head of State: The Queen of Great Britain, represented by the Governor General.

Population composition: 92% are Melanesians, 4% are Polynesians, 1.5% are Micronesians, 1% are Europeans.

Official language: English; pidgin (a mixture of Melanesian and English languages) is also common among the country's residents.

Religion: 45% of the population belongs to the Anglican Church, 18% to the Roman Catholic Church, 12% to the Methodist and Presbyterian Church. 9% are Baptists, 7% are Seventh-day Adventists, 5% are other Protestants. 4% of residents adhere to local traditional beliefs.

Internet domain: .sb

Country dialing code : +677

Climate

Subequatorial monsoon, very hot and humid.

The air temperature throughout the year is practically unchanged - +25-30 C. From late April to early November (local winter) the weather is relatively dry and cool (+24-27 C), due to the south-east trade winds blowing at this time ( sometimes the direction of the winds shifts to northern or even western points - this serves as a clear harbinger of storms and hurricanes).

In summer (December-January - April-March) northwest winds prevail, and the air temperature rises to +26-32 C with air humidity of about 90%.

Up to 3500 mm of precipitation falls annually (in Honiara - 2250 mm). The maximum amount of rain falls between December and March, with the windward coasts of the islands receiving 15-30% more rain than the leeward coasts in both summer and winter.

Hurricanes are most likely in the summer, but most of the paths of tropical typhoons lie significantly east and south of the coast of the Solomon Islands, so here they reach destructive power noticeably less often than on the more eastern islands.

Geography

An island nation in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea. It occupies the southeastern part of the Solomon Islands archipelago (with the exception of the islands of Bougainville and Buka, which are geographically part of the same archipelago, but politically belonging to Papua New Guinea) and nearby islands (a total of 992 islands and reefs, 347 of them are inhabited).

In the west (Murua Island and Pocklington Reef) and north (Nukumanu Atoll) it borders with Papua New Guinea, in the east with Tuvalu, in the southeast with Vanuatu (Torres Islands), in the south with French overseas territories (Bampton Reef , all borders are sea).

The Solomon Islands group consists of six large islands (Choisul, Santa Isabel, Malaita, San Cristobal, Guadalcanal and New Georgia) forming a double chain in the center of the archipelago, and approximately 20 medium-sized islands (Vella Lavella, Florida, Rennell, Santa Cruz, etc.), as well as a huge number of small islands and reefs scattered around them.

The group stretches more than 1,800 km from Shortland Island in the west to Tikopia and Anuta Islands in the east, and almost 1,000 km from Ontong Jawa (Lord Howe) in the north to Indispensable Reefs in the south. The islands of Santa Cruz (Vanikoro (La Perousa), Ndeni, Utupua, Tikopia, etc.) lie 230 km southeast of the main group.

The total area of ​​the islands is 27.5 thousand square meters. km (1.35 million sq. km including adjacent waters), making it the third largest island group in the region.

Flora and fauna

Vegetable world

Mangroves and coconut groves protect the coastal strips of most of the islands, while the interior is covered by dense tropical forest with a colossal diversity of plant species - about 4,500 species grow on the islands, with new species being discovered every year.

Many of the major islands' coastal natural forests have been cleared by agriculture and logging (timber exports account for up to 12% of the country's GDP), but the interior remains largely impenetrable due to dense vegetation and difficult terrain.

The mountains of the volcanic islands are covered with dense rain forests, in which valuable tropical tree species grow. Lowland areas are used for the cultivation of coconut palms, sweet potatoes, taro, yams, rice, cocoa and other crops (1.5% of the area is cultivated). Lowlands are often swampy. The vegetation of the northeastern plains of Guadalcanal is represented by savannas.

Animal world

The few endemic mammals (bats, marsupial cuscus, rats and mice) are mostly nocturnal, so sightings are unlikely. On the other hand, the forest crowns are literally teeming with all kinds of birds (about 223 species), insects (about 130 species of butterflies alone), and all kinds of amphibians and reptiles (about 70 species) have found their home under the canopy.

Every year, thousands of rare birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish and butterflies are exported from the Solomon Islands for sale in Asia, North America and Europe. Rare sea turtles regularly lay eggs on the shores of the islands (from November to February). The isolated group of Santa Cruz Islands has a significantly smaller species composition of native flora and fauna than the main chain.

Dangerous plants and animals

There are many dangerous animals on the islands - these include numerous local blood-sucking insects that carry many diseases, various arthropods (primarily the Javan centipede and scorpions), some of the 20 species of reptiles, as well as numerous species of poisonous fish and sea snakes.

It is recommended to move around the country accompanied by an experienced guide or guide, since the rugged local jungle is a potential source of threat in the form of many latently dangerous animals (for example, forest ants and leeches). The same rule is recommended for organizing dives in local waters.

Attractions

The main attraction of the Solomon Islands is nature.

Like neighboring Vanuatu, this land, still almost isolated from the outside world, is an example of amazing natural contrasts and endless opportunities for various adventures, where almost impenetrable jungles, high mountain peaks, mighty volcanoes, countless atolls, pure mountain rivers with waterfalls coexist and blue lagoons.

It is believed that no other Pacific archipelago has a more diverse nature with such a complex combination of geology and climatic conditions.

The archipelago is practically untouched by tourism, since there are few people on Earth who want to visit this poor and isolated country. But many are drawn here by the genuine naturalness of everything they see or visit.

There is practically nothing artificial or created specifically to please tourists, and the nature of the islands, called extraordinary without unnecessary exaggeration, gives them a reputation as perhaps one of the last places on the planet, as if specially designed for extreme types of recreation.

There are truly unique conditions for diving, snorkeling, studying the history of the Second World War, ethnography, sailing and sport fishing.

Banks and currency

Solomon Islands dollar (S$, SI$ or SBD), equal to 100 cents. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5 and 2 dollars, coins of 1 dollar, as well as 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cent.

Money can be exchanged in banks, specialized exchange offices (bureaux de change), some hotels, as well as in large shops and restaurants.

Exchange machines operating in major world currencies can be found near bank offices and major shops in Honiara. National Bank of the Solomon Islands (NBSI) offers a full range of services for currency exchange and other currency transactions throughout almost the entire country.

In rural areas, the easiest way to change money is at NBSI branches, which have a network of about 50 local agencies, usually located in shops or post offices.

It is possible to use credit cards from the world's major payment systems (as a rule, they are serviced by three large banks in the capital - ANZ, Westpac and NBSI). In the provinces, using credit cards is difficult; it is preferable to pay in cash. There are three automated teller machine (ATM) machines in Honiara.

Traveler's checks can be cashed at the offices of major banks (the same ANZ, Westpac and NBSI) in the main cities of the country. To avoid additional costs associated with exchange rate fluctuations, it is recommended that you bring checks in Australian dollars or pounds sterling.

Banks are usually open from Monday to Friday, from 08.30-9.00 to 15.00.

US and Australian dollars are often accepted for payment, especially in the southern regions of the country.

Useful information for tourists

The archipelago is almost untouched by tourism, few people visit this poor country, but they are drawn to the Solomon Islands by the genuine naturalness of everything that they can see or visit.

There is practically nothing artificial or created specifically to please tourists. Travelers looking for extraordinary natural settings will not be disappointed by any part of this small country - the islands have a well-deserved reputation as perhaps the best natural destination in the world for scuba diving, snorkeling and fishing.

Tips are not accepted, but if the service is good, you can leave the staff 5% of the bill or an additional 1-2 dollars.

Black and red (the color of blood) colors are taboo on Laulasi and Bu-su, and visitors should take this into account when choosing clothing and jewelry for the trip.

Village life in the Solomon Islands is still surrounded by many taboos. It is impossible to explain the meaning of all of them, but when visiting populated areas you should be careful and limit your curiosity as much as possible.

The term "taboo" means "sacred" ("holy") as well as "forbidden", so it's worth keeping that in mind. Property rights are very important here - the tree, fruit or flower by the side of the road most likely belongs to someone. For many islanders, their income depends on what they grow, so locals can expect hefty compensation if you pick fruit that was intended for sale.

The clothing (or lack thereof) of islanders varies, but travelers must be fully clothed. In many areas it is considered “taboo” for a woman to stand above a man, and even more so a man, even a foreigner, should not deliberately occupy a place below a woman.

It is also forbidden to swim under a canoe in which there are women - it will probably have to be destroyed later, and for many islanders the canoe is the only means of obtaining food.

As in all cultures of the world, taboos play the role of moral precepts or codes and are designed to protect the community, so it is not customary to punish the uninitiated, which includes foreigners. But nevertheless, compliance with local customs is desirable.

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