Solomon Islands Tourist Visa - Definitive Guide

Quick Answer: 

Yes, Indian passport holders must obtain a visa before traveling to the Solomon Islands. Unlike some Pacific nations, the Solomon Islands does not offer visa-on-arrival facilities for Indian citizens. You must secure your visa approval through the official e-Visa portal or via the Solomon Islands Honorary Consulate in New Delhi before your departure.

Understanding Solomon Islands Visa Policy for Indian The Solomon Islands Immigration Division, under the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, manages all visa applications for foreign nationals. For Indian tourists, the visa policy is straightforward but requires advance planning and proper documentation.

Why Indians Need a Pre-Approved Visa

The Solomon Islands maintains a selective visa policy to manage tourism sustainably while protecting its pristine environment and local communities. Indian nationals fall under the category of countries requiring pre-arranged visa approval from the Director of Immigration before travel. This policy ensures that all visitors meet entry requirements and have confirmed travel arrangements.

Types of Visas Available for Indians

1. Tourist Visa (Most Common) The standard tourist visa is designed for leisure travelers, holidaymakers, and those visiting friends or family. This visa explicitly prohibits any form of employment, business activities, or study while in the Solomon Islands.
2. Business Visa For Indian business professionals attending conferences, meetings, or exploring trade opportunities. Requires additional documentation including invitation letters from Solomon Islands-based companies.
3. Transit Visa Available for travelers passing through Solomon Islands en route to another destination. Valid for 7 days with a fee of USD $50.
4. Mutual Visa (Diplomatic/Official Passports) Indian diplomatic and official passport holders can obtain a special 90-day visa that is fee-exempt under the bilateral agreement between India and Solomon Islands. However, this visa also prohibits work rights and requires ministerial approval.

Meeting all documentation requirements is crucial for visa approval. The Solomon Islands Immigration Division has specific standards that must be met for successful processing.

Mandatory Documents Checklist

1. Valid Indian Passport

• Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date from Solomon Islands
• Should have at least one blank page for visa stamping
• All old passports (if any) should be available for verification
• Passport bio-data page must be clearly scanned in color

2. Recent Passport-Sized Photographs

• Two recent color photographs (taken within last 6 months)
• Size: 35mm x 45mm (standard passport photo size)
• White or light-colored background
• 80% face coverage with clear facial features
• No glasses, headwear (except religious purposes), or heavy makeup
• Professional quality with good lighting

3. Completed Visa Application Form

• Fill the tourist visa application form in the e-Visa portal
• All information must match your passport exactly
• Use capital letters where specified
• Ensure no spelling errors in names or dates
• Sign the form digitally or physically as required

4. Confirmed Flight Tickets

• Round-trip flight tickets showing entry and exit dates
• Must show confirmed bookings (not just itinerary)
• Outward ticket proving you will leave Solomon Islands
• Airlines operating from India: Air India, Cathay Pacific (via Hong Kong)
• Destination: Honiara International Airport (HIR)

5. Proof of Accommodation

• Hotel booking confirmation with full address and contact details
• OR invitation letter from host in Solomon Islands (if staying with friends/family)
• Must cover entire duration of stay
• Should include hotel name, address, phone number, and booking reference

6. Financial Proof (Sufficient Funds)

• Bank statements for last 3 months (stamped and signed by bank)
• Minimum balance: ₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000 recommended
• Passbook copy showing regular transactions
• Credit card statements (if applicable)
• Proof of employment and salary slips
• Income Tax Returns (ITR) for last 2 years

7. Personal Covering Letter

• Typed letter explaining purpose of visit
• Detailed travel itinerary with dates and places
• Reason for choosing Solomon Islands
• Confirmation of return to India
• Contact details in India and Solomon Islands
• Should be addressed to: The Director of Immigration, Solomon Islands

8. Travel Insurance (Highly Recommended)

• Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies
• Minimum coverage: USD $50,000
• Should cover entire duration of stay
• Include evacuation coverage (important for remote islands)

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

• For Employed Individuals: Employment letter, leave approval, salary slips
• For Self-Employed: Business registration, ITR, GST certificate
• For Students: School/college ID, leave letter, parent's financial documents
• For Retirees: Pension statements, retirement proof
• For Minors: Birth certificate, parental consent, parents' passport copies

The Solomon Islands offers two primary methods for visa application: online e-Visa portal (recommended) and through the Honorary Consulate in New Delhi.

Method 1: Online e-Visa Application (Recommended)

Step 1: Access the Official e-Visa Portal Visit the official Solomon Islands Immigration Division website at: immigration.gov.sb

• Click on "Apply for a Visa" or "eVisa Login"
• Create a new account with valid email address
• Verify your email through confirmation link

Step 2: Fill the Tourist Visa Application Form

• Select "Tourist Visa" from visa type options
• Enter personal details exactly as per passport
• Provide contact information (Indian and Solomon Islands)
• Enter passport details (number, issue date, expiry date)
• Specify travel dates (arrival and departure)
• Upload all required documents in specified formats

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

• Passport bio-page: PDF or JPEG, max 2MB, clear and colored
• Photographs: JPEG format, meeting size specifications
• Flight tickets: PDF format showing confirmed bookings
• Accommodation proof: PDF or JPEG
• Bank statements: PDF format, stamped by bank
• Covering letter: PDF format, properly formatted

Step 4: Pay Visa Fees

• Administration Fee (e-Visa Fee): USD $50
• Application Fee: USD $100
• Total: USD $150 (approximately ₹12,500)
• Payment methods: International credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Secure payment gateway with SSL encryption
• Save payment receipt for records

Step 5: Submit Application

• Review all information carefully before submission
• Check for any errors or missing documents
• Submit the application electronically
• Note down application reference number
• You will receive email confirmation of submission

Step 6: Track Application Status

• Log in to e-Visa portal with your credentials
• Check application status regularly
• Processing time: 3-5 business days (standard)
• You may be contacted for additional documents if needed

Step 7: Receive e-Visa Approval

• Approved visa will be sent via email
• Download and print the e-Visa approval letter
• Carry printed copy during travel (mandatory)
• Also keep digital copy on phone/tablet
• Present at immigration upon arrival in Solomon Islands

Method 2: Application Through Honorary Consulate in New Delhi

Solomon Islands Honorary Consulate Contact Details:

• Address: E-9, Connaught House, Connaught Place, New Delhi - 110001
• Phone: +91-11-2341-8199, +91-11-4151-7278
• Mobile: +91-98-7132-2812
• Fax: +91-11-2341-2313
• Email: rb@bird.in
• Honorary Consul: Mrs. Radhia Bhatia
• Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:30 PM - 4:30 PM
• Closed: Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays

Application Process at Consulate:

1. Contact the Honorary Consulate via phone or email
2. Schedule an appointment for visa submission
3. Prepare all documents as per checklist
4. Visit the consulate with original documents
5. Submit application form and supporting documents
6. Pay visa fees (cash or demand draft)
7. Collect receipt and tracking number
8. Wait for processing (5-7 business days typically)
9. Collect approved visa or receive via courier

Important Note: The Honorary Consulate may have limited processing capacity. It's advisable to apply well in advance of your travel dates.

Understanding the complete cost structure helps you budget effectively for your Solomon Islands trip.

Official Visa Fees Breakdown

Tourist e-Visa Fees:

• Administration Fee (e-Visa Processing): USD $50 (₹4,150 approx.)
• Application Fee: USD $100 (₹8,300 approx.)
• Total Official Fee: USD $150 (₹12,450 approx.)

Visa Extension Fees (After Initial 30 Days):

• Extension Fee: USD $100 per extension (₹8,300 approx.)
• Maximum Stay: Up to 180 days with extensions
• Extension Application: Must be filed before current visa expires
• Processing: Apply at Immigration Division office in Honiara

Other Visa Categories (For Reference):

• Transit Visa (7 days): USD $50
• Short-Term Employment Visa (30 days): USD $300
• Business Visa (1 year, multiple entry): USD $450
• Film-maker Visa (Non-Commercial, 2 years): USD $150

Additional Costs to Consider

Visa Service Providers (Optional): If you choose to use visa facilitation services like Akbar Travels, ESPI Travels, or Atlys:

• Service charges: ₹3,000 - ₹5,000
• Total cost with service: ₹15,000 - ₹18,000
• Benefits: Document verification, application assistance, faster processing

Travel-Related Costs:

• Flight tickets (India to Solomon Islands): ₹80,000 - ₹1,50,000 (round trip)
• Travel insurance: ₹1,500 - ₹3,000 for 30 days
• Accommodation: ₹3,000 - ₹15,000 per night (budget to luxury)
• Daily expenses: ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 per day

Currency Exchange:

• Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD) is the local currency
• 1 USD = approximately 8.3 SBD (as of December 2025)
• 1 INR = approximately 0.10 SBD
• Cash is king in Solomon Islands - only major hotels accept credit cards
• ATMs available in Honiara but limited in remote areas

Standard Processing Time: 3-5 business days from submission

Factors Affecting Processing Time:

• Completeness of application and documents
• Accuracy of information provided
• Current application volume at Immigration Division
• Public holidays in Solomon Islands
• Additional verification requirements

Timeline Breakdown:

• Day 0: Application submitted online or at consulate
• Day 1-2: Initial document verification
• Day 3-4: Background checks and approval process
• Day 5: Visa approval notification via email

Recommended Application Timeline:

• Apply at least 2-3 weeks before travel date
• For peak season (June-September): Apply 4 weeks in advance
• For urgent travel: Contact Honorary Consulate for expedited processing options

What If Your Visa Is Delayed?

• Check application status on e-Visa portal
• Contact Immigration Division: immigration.visas@commerce.gov.sb
• Phone: +677 22856 (Solomon Islands Immigration)
• Provide application reference number
• Be prepared to submit additional documents if requested

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 30 days, you can apply for a visa extension while in the Solomon Islands.

Extension Eligibility & Requirements

Who Can Apply:

• Tourists with valid tourist visa
• Those not engaging in employment or business
• Visitors with legitimate reasons for extension

Extension Details:

• Fee: USD $100 per extension
• Maximum Total Stay: Up to 180 days
• Application Location: Immigration Division Office, Honiara
• Processing Time: 3-5 business days

Required Documents for Extension:

• Current passport with valid visa
• Extension application form (available at Immigration office)
• Proof of sufficient funds for extended stay
• Updated accommodation booking
• Return flight ticket (can be flexible date)
• Extension fee payment receipt

Important Extension Rules:

• Must apply before current visa expires
• Overstaying results in penalties and fines
• Future entry restrictions may apply for overstayers
• Extension is not guaranteed - granted at discretion of Immigration Director

At Indian Airport (Departure)

Before Check-In:

• Arrive 3-4 hours before international flight
• Carry printed e-Visa approval letter
• Have all original documents ready
• Ensure passport validity (6+ months)

At Check-In Counter:

• Present passport and e-Visa approval
• Confirm onward/return tickets
• Declare any restricted items
• Collect boarding pass and baggage tags

Immigration Clearance:

• Present passport at immigration counter
• Answer questions about travel purpose
• Get departure stamp
• Proceed to security check

At Honiara International Airport (Arrival)

Upon Landing:

• Fill arrival card on flight (if provided)
• Proceed to immigration counters
• Join queue for foreign nationals

At Immigration Counter:

• Present passport with e-Visa approval (printed)
• Provide arrival card (if applicable)
• Answer immigration officer's questions:
• Purpose of visit
• Duration of stay
• Accommodation details
• Return flight information
• Provide proof of accommodation if asked
• Show return tickets if requested

Immigration Officer May Ask:

• "What is the purpose of your visit?"
• "Where will you be staying?"
• "How long do you plan to stay?"
• "Do you have sufficient funds for your stay?"
• "What is your occupation in India?"

After Immigration Clearance:

• Collect baggage from carousel
• Proceed to customs declaration
• Declare any items exceeding duty-free limits
• Exit to arrivals hall

Customs Regulations:

• Duty-free allowance: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars, 2 liters alcohol
• Prohibited items: Illegal drugs, weapons, pornographic material
• Restricted items: Fresh food, plants, animal products
• Currency declaration: Amounts over USD $10,000 must be declared

Health & Safety Precautions

Vaccinations & Health:

• No mandatory vaccinations for travelers from India
• Recommended vaccines: Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Tetanus
• Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from infected area
• Malaria is present - take prophylaxis medication
• Use insect repellent, bed nets, and protective clothing
• Drink only bottled or boiled water
• Avoid raw or undercooked food

Travel Insurance:

• Comprehensive coverage highly recommended
• Minimum coverage: USD $50,000
• Include medical evacuation (crucial for remote islands)
• Cover adventure activities if planning diving, trekking
• Keep insurance documents accessible

Safety Tips:

• Solomon Islands is generally safe for tourists
• Petty theft can occur in Honiara - keep valuables secure
• Avoid displaying expensive jewelry or electronics
• Don't walk alone at night in urban areas
• Use reputable transport providers
• Be cautious of strong ocean currents when swimming
• Respect local customs and traditions

Cultural Etiquette & Customs

Dress Code:

• Lightweight, informal clothing appropriate
• Cover thighs to knees when in towns or villages
• Beachwear acceptable only at hotels and resorts
• Modest dress shows respect for local culture
• Comfortable footwear for walking and trekking

Photography:

• Always ask permission before photographing people
• Respect "no photography" signs at sacred sites
• Some villages may charge small fees for photos
• Be sensitive to local customs and traditions

Local Customs ("Kastoms"):

• Solomon Islanders have rich traditional customs
• Customs vary between provinces and islands
• Show respect for traditional practices
• Remove shoes when entering homes
• Accept hospitality graciously
• Learn basic greetings in Pijin (local language)

Basic Pijin Phrases:

• Hello: "Halo"
• Thank you: "Tanggio tumas"
• Goodbye: "Lukim yu"
• Yes: "Ia"
• No: "Nomoa"

Money & Banking

Currency:

• Solomon Islands Dollar (SBD)
• Cash is primary payment method
• Credit cards accepted only at major hotels
• Carry multiple payment options

ATMs & Banking:

• ATMs available in Honiara (limited elsewhere)
• Withdrawal fees may apply
• Daily withdrawal limits exist
• Notify your bank before travel
• Carry sufficient cash for remote areas

Budgeting Tips:

• Budget accommodation: ₹2,000 - ₹5,000 per night
• Mid-range hotels: ₹5,000 - ₹10,000 per night
• Luxury resorts: ₹15,000+ per night
• Meals: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per meal
• Local transport: ₹500 - ₹2,000 per trip
• Activities: ₹2,000 - ₹10,000 per activity

Transportation in Solomon Islands

Getting Around:

• Honiara: Buses, taxis, rental cars available
• Between Islands: Domestic flights, boats, ferries
• Remote Areas: Outboard-powered dinghies, boats
• Limited Options: Open-backed trucks, tractor-drawn trailers

Domestic Flights:

• Solomon Airlines operates inter-island flights
• Book in advance (flights can be overbooked)
• Confirm tickets before travel
• Arrive early at airport

Ferry Services:

• Weekly ferry from Honiara to Gizo (via Munda)
• 2-day crossing (can be rough)
• Budget-friendly option
• Book at Honiara port

Important Transport Tips:

• Confirm bookings multiple times
• Be flexible with schedules (delays common)
• Carry snacks and water for long journeys
• Motion sickness medication for boat trips

Communication & Connectivity

Mobile Networks:

• Limited coverage outside Honiara
• Purchase local SIM card at airport
• Main providers: Our Telekom, bmobile
• Data packages available

Internet Access:

• Available at major hotels
• Limited in remote areas
• Slow speeds common
• Expensive data charges

Emergency Contacts:

• Police: 999
• Fire: 988
• Ambulance: 911
• Immigration Division: +677 22856
• Indian Embassy (Papua New Guinea, covers Solomon Islands): +675 75464036

Must-Visit Destinations

1. Honiara (Capital City)

• National Museum and Cultural Centre

• Central Market (vibrant local experience)

• Vilu War Museum (WWII history)

• Botanical Gardens

• Guadalcanal American Memorial

2. Waterfalls & Natural Wonders

• Tenaru Falls (day hike, natural pools)

• Mataniko Falls (tropical wonderland)

• Bat caves and birdwatching spots

3. World War II Heritage Sites

• Bonegi I and II wrecks (diving sites)

• Guadalcanal battlefields

• War memorials and museums

• Underwater wrecks exploration

4. Diving & Snorkeling

• Pristine coral reefs

• World's only underwater volcano

• WWII shipwrecks

• Abundant marine life

• Popular sites: Bonegi Beach, Munda-Gizo, Uepi

5. Island Hopping

• Gizo (Western Province)

• Munda (Kennedy Island nearby)

• Skull Island (traditional shrines)

• Tetepare Island (conservation area)

6. Eco-Tourism

• Titiru Eco-Lodge

• Fatboys Resort (overwater restaurant)

• Cocoa farm tours (Amazing Grace Cocoa Farm)

• Village visits and cultural experiences

Adventure Activities

• Scuba diving (most popular activity)

• Snorkeling in pristine reefs

• Kayaking in lagoons

• Surfing uncrowded waves

• Volcano climbing

• Trekking and hiking

• Sport fishing

• Birdwatching

Top Reasons for Visa Rejection

1. Incomplete Documentation

• Missing required documents

• Unclear or poor-quality scans

• Expired documents

• Solution: Double-check checklist, ensure all documents are current and clear

2. Insufficient Financial Proof

• Low bank balance

• Irregular transactions

• No proof of income

• Solution: Maintain healthy bank balance (₹1.5-2 lakhs), show regular income

3. Invalid Passport

• Less than 6 months validity

• Damaged passport

• No blank pages

• Solution: Renew passport well in advance if needed

4. Incorrect Information

• Spelling errors in name

• Wrong dates

• Mismatched information

• Solution: Verify all details match passport exactly

5. Unclear Travel Purpose

• Vague covering letter

• No proper itinerary

• Suspicious travel plans

• Solution: Provide detailed, genuine travel plans

6. Previous Immigration Violations

• Overstay in any country

• Visa violations

• Deportation history

• Solution: Declare any past issues honestly, provide explanations

7. Lack of Strong Ties to India

• No proof of employment

• No family ties

• No property ownership

• Solution: Show employment, family, property documents proving return intent

Tips to Increase Approval Chances

✅ Apply well in advance (3-4 weeks before travel) 

✅ Ensure all documents are genuine and verifiable 

✅ Provide clear, high-quality scans 

✅ Write detailed covering letter explaining purpose 

✅ Show strong financial stability 

✅ Demonstrate ties to India (job, family, property) 

✅ Book refundable tickets initially 

✅ Get comprehensive travel insurance 

✅ Be honest in all declarations 

✅ Follow up if processing takes longer than expected

Before Applying

1. Check Passport Validity: Ensure 6+ months validity from travel date

2. Gather Documents Early: Start collecting documents 2-3 weeks before application

3. Verify Information: Double-check all details match passport exactly

4. Take Quality Photos: Get professional passport photos meeting specifications

5. Book Refundable Tickets: Initially book refundable flights until visa is approved

During Application

1. Use Official Portal: Apply through official immigration.gov.sb website

2. Fill Carefully: Take time to fill form accurately without errors

3. Upload Clear Scans: Ensure all documents are clear, colored, and properly sized

4. Save Receipts: Keep payment receipts and application reference number

5. Track Status: Regularly check application status on portal

After Submission

1. Monitor Email: Check email regularly for updates or document requests

2. Respond Quickly: If additional documents requested, submit within 24-48 hours

3. Print e-Visa: Once approved, print multiple copies of e-Visa approval

4. Carry Documents: Keep all original documents for immigration at airport

5. Inform Bank: Notify your bank about international travel to avoid card blocks

Obtaining a Solomon Islands tourist visa as an Indian citizen is a straightforward process when you have the right information and prepare thoroughly. With pristine beaches, world-class diving sites, rich WWII history, and warm local hospitality, the Solomon Islands offers an unforgettable tropical experience away from crowded tourist destinations.

Key Takeaways:

• Apply for visa 2-3 weeks before travel through official e-Visa portal

• Total visa cost is USD $150 with 3-5 days processing time

• Ensure passport has 6+ months validity and all documents are complete

• No visa on arrival - pre-approval is mandatory

• Visa valid for 30 days initially, extendable up to 180 days

• Carry printed e-Visa approval and all original documents during travel

Ready to Apply? Visit the official Solomon Islands Immigration Division website at immigration.gov.sb to start your visa application today. For assistance, contact the Honorary Consulate in New Delhi at +91-11-2341-8199 or email rb@bird.in.

Need Help?

• Solomon Islands Immigration Division: immigration.visas@commerce.gov.sb | +677 22856

• Honorary Consulate, New Delhi: rb@bird.in | +91-11-2341-8199

• Emergency (in Solomon Islands): Police 999, Ambulance 911

Start planning your Solomon Islands adventure today and experience one of the Pacific's best-kept secrets!

Disclaimer: Visa policies and requirements may change without notice. Always verify current requirements with official sources before applying. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Official Sources:

• Solomon Islands Immigration Division (immigration.gov.sb)

• Honorary Consulate of Solomon Islands, New Delhi

• Ministry of Commerce, Industry, Labour and Immigration, Solomon Islands

• Tourism Solomons (visitsolomons.com.sb)

Last Updated: December 2025

Content Accuracy:  This comprehensive guide is compiled from official sources including the Solomon Islands Immigration Division, Honorary Consulate of Solomon Islands in India, and verified travel resources. Information is current as of December 2025.

Expert Contributors: BTW Visas experts team with 15+ years of industry experience, with a 99% visa success rate, and have processed more than 4 lakh+ Visas.

Q1: Can I get visa on arrival in Solomon Islands as an Indian citizen? A: No, Indian passport holders cannot obtain visa on arrival. You must secure pre-approved visa through e-Visa portal or Honorary Consulate before travel.

Q2: How long does Solomon Islands visa processing take? A: Standard processing time is 3-5 business days. However, apply 2-3 weeks in advance to account for any delays or additional document requests.

Q3: What is the cost of Solomon Islands tourist visa for Indians? A: The official visa fee is USD $150 (₹12,500 approx.), which includes USD $50 administration fee and USD $100 application fee.

Q4: Can I extend my Solomon Islands tourist visa? A: Yes, you can extend your visa after the initial 30 days by applying at the Immigration Division office in Honiara. Extension fee is USD $100, and maximum stay is up to 180 days.

Q5: Is travel insurance mandatory for Solomon Islands visa? A: While not officially mandatory, comprehensive travel insurance with minimum USD $50,000 coverage is highly recommended and may be requested during application.

Q6: Which airlines fly from India to Solomon Islands? A: Air India and Cathay Pacific operate flights from India to Honiara International Airport, typically with connections via Hong Kong or other hubs.

Q7: Do I need to show hotel booking for visa application? A: Yes, confirmed hotel booking or invitation letter from host in Solomon Islands is mandatory for visa application.

Q8: What is the minimum bank balance required for Solomon Islands visa? A: While no official minimum is specified, maintaining ₹1,50,000 - ₹2,00,000 in your bank account is recommended to demonstrate sufficient funds.

Q9: Can I work in Solomon Islands on a tourist visa? A: No, tourist visa explicitly prohibits any form of employment, business activities, or study. Separate work visa is required for employment.

Q10: What happens if I overstay my visa in Solomon Islands? A: Overstaying results in penalties, fines, and potential future entry restrictions. Always apply for extension before your visa expires.

Q11: Is yellow fever vaccination required for Indians traveling to Solomon Islands? A: Yellow fever vaccination is required only if you're arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Direct travelers from India don't need it.

Q12: Can I enter Solomon Islands on a different date than specified in my visa application? A: Yes, you can enter on any date between the arrival and exit dates stated on your e-Visa. However, early entry before the specified arrival date is not allowed.

Q13: How safe is Solomon Islands for Indian tourists? A: Solomon Islands is generally safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions, avoid walking alone at night in urban areas, and keep valuables secure.

Q14: What is the best time to visit Solomon Islands? A: The dry season (April to October) is ideal for visiting. Peak tourist season is June to September with pleasant weather and calm seas.

Q15: Do I need to carry cash or are credit cards widely accepted? A: Solomon Islands is primarily a cash economy. Only major hotels accept credit cards. Carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting remote areas.