We’re back in Taro, where we checked in half a year ago, not quite knowing what to expect and concerned about crocodiles, malaria, crime and anchorage fees. We needn’t have worried, all went well, even though we often found it difficult to find a safe anchorage between very deep bays and reef shelves that come up to the surface almost vertically. We love heat and humidity, but the Solomons were a bit too hot even for our taste 
6 months, 15 islands, countless islets and 50 anchorages later we’d like to share our experiences with you:
Crocodiles and snorkeling: We never saw a saltwater crocodile (and hope it stays that way), but locals assured us almost everywhere that there were PLENTY around and advised to stay out of the water near mangroves and especially between dusk and dawn. We stayed away from the big islands, only went snorkeling on reefs far away from mangroves and spent plenty of time in the water. We saw lots of sadly overfished and/or bleached reefs and a few real gems with pristine coral in protected areas (e.g. Simon’s Nature Reserve and Papatura Resort).
Malaria: We didn’t take prophylaxis, but tried to be careful. We sprayed ourselves when going ashore during dusk or later, tried to anchor far out and had mosquito nets on all hatches and the companionway. We bought rapid tests and stand-by medication, have used the tests several times, but so far they were always negative (touch wood).
Crime: We didn’t have any negative experiences with the friendly locals, on the contrary, we experienced nothing but hospitality and generosity. We were cautious anyway, didn’t leave snorkel gear and other temptations on deck and locked the boat whenever we went out snorkeling or ashore. Even Honiara felt very safe with friendly vibes and no incidents.
Fees: We had heard a lot about anchorage fees, but we were only approached with demands half a dozen times. Our reaction was always the same, polite but firm. We explained that we love to tell stories and trade for veg/fruit and that we are happy to pay for goods/services or help out with repairs. But we are not willing to pay simply for being in a place. If that didn’t help we added that cruisers are nowadays connected on social media and if one warns the others about an unfriendly reception, boats will stay away. That did the trick
