The world witnessed the recent civil unrest in Honiara on social media platforms and read the grim, but often inaccurate stories that became daily news items. One such inaccurate piece told of the burning down of the National Parliament, but the reality was that a leaf hut, made from palm thatch, was set alight and this was outside Parliament and often used for coffee breaks by MPs.
Bad news sells stories.
The rioting was confined to Honiara, albeit political differences linger across in Malaita and between the central government.
Foreign news reports avoid some of the good developments such as the growth and development of conservation and biodiversity achievements initiated by several tribes.
One seldom reads of the great efforts of Solomon Air in promoting domestic tourism while waiting for the eventual re-opening of SI’s international air borders and the return of foreign tourists.
There can be a few countries, including those in the Pacific, that can boast of idyllic holiday spots for short or long stays, and I will feature just a few illustrations being promoted by Solomon Air and Dive Munda.
I can’t accord credit to the photographers of the images and apologize, but all have been featured in the Island Sun newspaper most recently.
To all those who might regard Solomon Islands strife-torn after the most recent graphic images and stories of civil unrest, then think again and hope for a successful resolution to alleged political difference and, at the same time, don’t put aside returning when possible for a holiday second to now.
Yours sincerely
Frank Short
