The cruise excursion Melanesian Encounter is on the idyllic island of Lifou, nestled within the South Pacific, and offers a captivating glimpse into the unique culture and lifestyle of this remote destination. This excursion, undertaken during a 10-night Carnival Luminosa cruise, is a journey of discovery, rich in tradition and scenic beauty. Before embarking on the adventure, I make sure I have the essentials, stressing the importance of carrying money, a government-issued ID, a power pack, a power cord, and a poncho. Such practical advice reflects the meticulous preparation required for an authentic exploration of Lifou's treasures. The excursion itself encompassed several intriguing stops, each contributing to a multifaceted understanding of the island's culture. You will first visit a swimming hole adorned with totems, providing a spiritual connection to the natural beauty of the island. This was followed by a visit to the chief's hut, where the intricate tribal hierarchy of Lifou became apparent. The island, home to 36 tribes, boasts three prominent chiefs, each responsible for different regions. One notable aspect of Lifou's culture is its harmonious blend of Christianity with traditional beliefs. The tribes are either Catholic or Protestant but incorporate animistic concepts into their spiritual practices. For instance, the choice of an animal, like a fish or a turtle, may symbolize a tribe's connection to the ocean. Remarkably, Lifou's communal culture extends to law enforcement, as there are no police on the island. Instead, the tribal chiefs maintain security, and any wrongdoing is addressed through traditional means, including corporal punishment as a deterrent. The uniqueness of land ownership on Lifou adds another layer of fascination. Males inherit land upon birth, while women, upon marriage, join their husband's land. There is no land sale; instead, businesses lease land from tribal owners, fostering a strong sense of community and shared responsibility. Education, a critical component of Lifou's society, is provided free of charge, from kindergarten to college. Those seeking higher education opportunities can use their EU passport to study in France. The island's economy thrives on tourism, as well as the production of vanilla, honey, and Sandalwood. The final stop of the excursion revealed the culinary traditions of Lifou, where the art of making "Buna" was showcased. This dish, akin to New Zealand's "hangi" or Bedouin "zarb," involves cooking yam, potato, and meat in banana leaves atop heated rocks. The food's moisture is derived from coconut milk and natural juices, creating a communal experience as Bunas are shared during Sunday lunches. In conclusion, the Melanesian Encounter on Lifou is a voyage of cultural immersion and scenic splendour. This excursion unveils a world where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. It presents a unique perspective on governance, land ownership, education, and culinary heritage, all against the backdrop of Lifou's breathtaking natural beauty. The island's commitment to preserving its customs while embracing the benefits of tourism ensures that this enchanting corner of the South Pacific remains an unforgettable destination for travellers seeking a truly immersive experience. My book HANDY CRUISE COMPANION, Cruise with Confidence is available on Amazon http://bit.ly/HandyCruiseCompanioneBook Check out my website http://www.julescruisecompanion.com.au/ Follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/julie.burgess.5011/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/julescruisecompanion/?hl=en Edited by VideoGuru:https://videoguru.page.link/Best Copyright JCC