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Hi I’m Amelia Armistead and you’re watching the lifestyle channel on Vanuatu TV. Here
in Vanuatu, the traditional cultures are so very important, and they’re still very much
alive among the Melanesian people. Custom and tradition have been thriving for centuries
and ensure respect within communities. One of these such customs is the drinking of Kava.
Kava isn’t a food, but plays a significant part in Vanuatu cultural society. Kava is
a derivative of the Pepper Tree family, and the drinking of Kava takes place in a Nakamal.
There are different types of Kava all throughout the South Pacific. But the Kava from Vanuatu
is prized above all others. Traditionally the Nakamal used to be strictly for the men
only. But now, on most of the islands, women can go along as well. This is all part of
the natural progression. So here at the local Nakamal, a large shell of Kava will set you
back 100 Bartok, and a small shell is only 50 Bartok, and that’s all I’ll need. They
tell me that the chief of the village will use Kava to relax and unwind before making
an important decision for his people. If only our leaders in the western world would do
the same. I’m Amelia Armistead, for Vanuatu TV.