Marau Sound Prepares for Royal Couple

Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge will be in Solomon Islands on Sunday. theweek.co.uk

Further off in East Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, where Tavanipupu private island resort is situated, the people are tidying up its palm-fringed pathways ahead of a visit by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

The couple is due in the capital of Honiara, on Sunday for two days of engagements. Upon arrival at the International Airport, the couple will be escorted by a Tomoko like truck through town into the Anglican Cathedral, from where they will begin their official tour.

But the highlight for the royal couple will no doubt come afterwards, where William and Kate are booked to spend a night at the five-star Tavanipupu private island resort.

The Provincial member for East Guadalcanal Ward, Ms. Eileen Sulukonina, said they are honored to host the Royal couple.

Upon arrival into Marau Sound, the couple will be greeted by traditional warriors, from which they will be transported to Marapa Island where there will be a showcase of traditional activities. The couple will then be transported by a traditional dugout canoe to the exotic Tavanipupu Island.

Ms. Sulukonina said they look forward to the visit and are well prepared for it. They will also ensure that the couple have their privacy respected.

"We would like to show them what is the beauty of the Solomon Islands," says Resort director, Yoshiyuki Sato

Sato said it is hoped the royal visit will help a tourism drive by the Solomon Islands government.