In parts of this island, it seems that time has stood still for a thousand of years – many villagers still wear traditional costumes, follow the customs of their ancestors and shun all the trappings of modern life. Tanna is a small but interesting island in Vanuatu. Photo by: Tony_Rush

Captain Cook was the first European to arrive in 1774, attracted by a glowing volcano in the night. Cook was followed by traders and missionaries, but the latter had little success in weaning the islanders off their old beliefs. Even today outsiders are only welcome in rural villages if traveling with a local guide. Photo by: canvas of light

Tanna Island is trying to encourage tourism to supplement the traditional farming and fishing activities. There are a limited number of low-key resorts and bungalow accommodation on the west and east coasts, with wild trekking a majoractivity in the south around the island’s highest mountain. Tourists can approach the world’s most accessible active volcano. It is near Sulphur Bay and one-day volcano tours are the most common tourist activity. Photo by: volcanodiscovery

Tanna also has beautiful white beaches and tropical vegetation of many Pacific islands, but retains an atmosphere that will delight the traveler who dislikes wholesale modern development. There are still places in the world, that still allow adventurous travelers to feel that they’re discovered the idyllic back of beyond. Photo by: jo-jo-jo