Introduction
Vila is the capital and largest town of Vanuatu, a country made up of 13 major and many smaller islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Vila is located on Éfaté, an island near the middle of the chain. A port on Vila Bay, the town is also known as Port Vila.
Places of interest
Vila is a popular tourist destination that blends local Melanesian culture with French, British, and Chinese influences. The city's main attraction is its beachfront harbor, which is circled with coral reefs. Near the center of town is Independence Park, where the game of cricket is played. The Cultural Center displays items from Vanuatu's past, including pottery, spears, and masks. Just off the shore is Iririki Island, with a tropical garden and beautiful views of the city. Vila ia also the site of a branch campus of the University of the South Pacific.
Economy
Vanuatu is a largely agricultural country, and most of its population works in farming. Some industry takes place in Vila, however, including meat canning and other types of food processing. Many people in the city work in the hotels and restaurants that serve tourists. The nation's only international airport lies just outside of town.
History
Melanesians and other Pacific islanders lived in the area that would become Vila long before Europeans began to settle on Éfaté Island in the 19th century. In the 1880s the French and British established joint control over the town and the rest of the islands. Vila remained undeveloped until World War II (1939–45), when the United States decided to use the town as a base in its battle against the Japanese. The U.S. troops built up the city, constructing buildings, roads, and airstrips. The islands became independent under the name of Vanuatu in 1980, and Vila was made the capital. Population (1999 estimate), 30,140.
