the Travel Enthusiast
- 14 Apr
andra88 in Amazing Places | 1 COMMENTTop 5 Micronesian islands you should visit before you die
photo by tata_aka_T
The Federated Republic of Micronesia, or just Micronesia for short, is a country made up of over 600 islands just north of the Equator. The states in question are four: Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap, which have dozens of amazing travel destinations among them.
Micronesia is hot and stuffy, especially if you’re there during the rainy season (actually, the rain is more or less year-round), but if that doesn’t bother you too much, you’ll have heaps of fun exploring the corral atolls, volcanic outcrops, beaches and mountains of Micronesia. Here are the top 5 Micronesian islands you should visit before you die.
Pohnpei
Pohnpei
Predictably enough, Pohnpei is the name of the largest island in the state of Pohnpei, and it the island where the state’s capital is located. Pohnpei is worth visiting because it is the largest and most populous island in the Federated States, so if you want to take a good look at Micronesian culture, here’s where you should go.
On the downside, Pohnpei is the wettest place on earth – but since you’re in Micronesia already, you’re probably not worried about that. Daytime temperature is around 27 degrees Celsius which is perfect for the growth of the lush tropical vegetation visitors love so much. Do visit the ruined city of Nan Madol on the island – it’s a city made of interconnected artificial islets! You should also climb up to Sokehs Ridge to see the most beautiful panorama over the area. A beautiful trail leads up to the ridge that is relatively easy to walk.
Chuuk
Most people of Chuuk live in the Chuuk Lagoon, the main touristic area of the archipelago. It has breathtaking mountainous islands and transparent blue waters. Tourists should know that there is no public transportation here, rental cars, scooters and taxis are the way to get around here. Walking, exploring the natural wonder and the culture and water sports are the best things one can do on the islands. Still, one of the most interesting activities is wreck diving. Truk Lagoon is one of the best places in the world for wreck diving with some very beautiful – though a little sad – wrecked ships.
Tol is the largest island in Chuuk state, and while there are lots of other islands to see in its vicinity, Tul is the best base for explorations that you can wish for. It has several nice resorts, and you can find regular transport to the surrounding islands that have any interesting tourist attractions.
Kosrae Island
Kosrae, the largest and only island in Kosrae state, is pretty populated compared to other islands in Micronesia – after all, it has over 6000 inhabitants.
Despite being a very popular tourist destination, Kosrae’s natural attractions are unspoiled. Kosrae has quite a few attractions (not the least of which is the cuisine), but overall it is a destinations recommended for nature lovers. Still, there are some places you should see. The ruins of Lelu Village are a real wonder for archaeology buffs. The stone structures of the place were built for centuries and are an architectural wonder of the Neolithic world.
Kosrae Island ©Matt Kieffer/Flickr
The Menke Ruins are older than Lelu and used to give home to a religious site. The ancient basalt walls, living areas and places of worship take you back in the history of Kosrae. Nature lovers will enjoy the Finkol Hiking Trail, a 2,000 feet trail up to the mountain and among the tropical vegetation and mist. To discover the ecosystems of Micronesia and even have an tropical barbecue visit the James Palsis Marine Park.
Ifalik
Ifalik is an atoll consisting of 4 islands in the state of Yap, and it is quite remote compared to other Micronesian islands. Only a handful of cruise ships visit the islands every year, but you can get there more easily by way of Guam. Ifalik is an untouched island paradise, with no electricity or running water – a perfect place for those who want to get away from the stress of civilization and live in a close connection with nature.
Many of the islanders speak English, but practically they are all men, so do not ask a woman for help, you will probably not succeed. One of the most interesting thing about the island is the culture of their people. Every day life is based on deeply rooted principles of non-violence, helpfulness and caring. The western world could learn a lot from them!
Yap
Yap is a paradise for scuba divers who are eager to see some rare (and sometimes dangerous) marine life. The island is remarkable for the large number of manta rays in its water. kayaking and deep sea fishing are also popular activities and there are numerous places where you can buy souvenirs and art. The Yap Living History museum is one more place visitors should see. The museum does not only display objects from the past of the island but also has live reenactment and traditional dancing performances.
Yap dancers ©David Weekly/Flickr
Yap’s culture is also fascinating – one of its distinctive feature is the stone money (huge circular rocks weighting up to several tons). The stone money is not produced anymore, but people know which stone belongs to whom. Stone money or Rai was widely used in the area for centuries as a currency. They were not moved from their place, only the owner changed and oral history remembered the transaction.
Have you decided which is your favorite Micronesian island? Or do you want to see them all? It is good to know that not many airlines go to the federal states, but United Airlines has flights from Hawaii and Guam.
You can start searching for travel deals to these beautiful Micronesia island via the below box. Select some of the providers, enter your travel details and compare prices to find the best offers.
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Micronesia is a stunningly beautiful and unforgetable. I would definetely go there again if only I could.