Aviation & Connectivity: Santo’s tourism body ESTA says the domestic aviation crisis may look “over” from Port Vila, but travellers still face cancellations, postponements and schedule changes more than two years after Air Vanuatu’s liquidation, with cargo uplift also constrained by ongoing airport X-ray issues. Tourism Policy & Labour Mobility: Australia’s PALM workers are in the spotlight after a new poll found strong public support for letting underpaid workers leave employers, plus calls for better housing and access to Medicare—issues that directly affect how Pacific tourism labour is experienced on the ground. Pacific Travel Health: Australians are being urged to protect against mosquito bites in Samoa amid a dengue outbreak across parts of the Pacific, including Vanuatu, with advice focused on repellents and protective clothing. Deals for Vanuatu-bound travellers: Virgin Australia’s one-week sale includes discounted fares to Vanuatu from Brisbane (from $459) and holiday packages via Hopper from $649 per person, with travel dates running from 13 Oct 2026 to 22 Jun 2027. Regional Cooperation: PNG Prime Minister James Marape reaffirmed support for Vanuatu’s stability and growth at the groundbreaking of PNG’s new chancery in Port Vila, highlighting cooperation in fisheries, agriculture and tourism. Marine Conservation: The Melanesian Ocean Reserve is set to operate across Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, PNG and New Caledonia, creating a major Indigenous-led multinational marine protection framework. US Visa Bond Rule (watch-outs for visitors): The US has made its refundable visa bond programme permanent for certain B1/B2 applicants from 50 countries, including Vanuatu, with consular officers able to require up to $20,000 before visa issuance.