Past Echoes of the Nan Madol Ruins
Ancient City of Nan Madol, Pohnpei, Micronesia
Whispering from the eastern shore of Pohnpei is the Ancient City of Nan Madol, said to have been built between the 12th and 13th centuries. The local term “Nan Madol,” can literally mean “spaces between,” an apt term to describe the many canals and passages that intersect each other among the ruins.
During the Saudeleur dynasty, the Nan Madol ruins were once a complex of megalithic stone structures that served as both the political and ceremonial seat of the Saudeleur ruler. Numerous entry gates, tunnels, vaults and chambers can be found throughout the ruins. Local legend says that this ancient city might have been built under the powers of a royal magician, making reference to the must-have-been laborious task of lifting the heavy basalt stone components of the megaliths.
The Ruins of Nan Madol, Pohnpei, Micronesia
In today’s time, a visit to the Nan Madol ruins will let you catch a glimpse of how the past must have been for the Pohnpeian people. The thrill of knowing more about lost civilzations and ancient cities have aroused our curiosities for years, and Nan Madol is no exception. Its mysterious and mythical background is brought to life again for modern audiences through contemporary literature. Since Pohnpei is also mentioned in the story, Nan Madol is believed to be the inspiration for the fictional sunken city of R’Lyeh, the backdrop of H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos, a favorite among sci-fi and horror fiction enthusiasts.
However, the real story behind the once royal pillars of this old city is still being studied. To preserve and promote the inherent beauty of this ancient wonder, the Nan Madol ruins was declared as one of Micronesia’s National Historical Landmarks. Although small in scale compared to similar stone complexes such as that of Angkor Wat and Borobudur, Nan Madol is still impressive and unique in its own right. A visit to Pohnpei would be incomplete without taking a stop to appreciate this true gem from the past.
Tips when Travelling to Yap
Aerial View of Yap, Micronesia
When you travel into the island of Yap, you must take note of the following yap travel tips. Travellers are banned from bringing in narcotics and weapons. Also banned are certain fruits, animals, and other plants. Those who love their drink need not worry as people are allowed to bring in two bottles of liquor each duty free.
Immunizations are not required unless you are flying in from an infected area.
The official currency in the island as well as all over the Federated States of Micronesia is the US dollar. For your banking needs, you can go to the Bank of the FSM or the Community Ayuw Credit Union. Hotels, restaurants, and shopping centres accept credit cards and travelers cheques as well. The stone money of ancient Yap is still in use but only among the locals.
Traditional Yap Dress
Yap travel tips for cases of emergency means checking in at the 48-bed hospital run by the Yap State Government. Treatment of more serious injuries is conducted off the island and transfers to Guam, Manila, Palau, or Hawaii are done through Med-I-Vac.
The weather in Yap is tropical and it does not get very cold. Thus, one of the practical yap travel tips is to travel with lightweight clothing. There is almost no occasion that will require formal wear since attire all throughout the island is very casual. Slacks and a Hawaiian print shirt can already pass as formal wear if wearing one is needed. Anywhere you go, flip flops are acceptable footwear.
The Mystery of Yap
Yap Stone Money Bank
The island of yap is said to be the most intriguing state in the Federated States of Micronesia. Called the “Land of the Stone Money”, the people of the island managed to hold on to their age-old traditions all throughout the years due to its location. They were relatively unaffected by the Spanish, German, and Japanese occupations from the 1500s to the 1940s which altered the lives of the other Micronesian islands. Even now, its location means that it is off the main tourist route and only a few visitors go here.
Traditional life and occupations dominate the lifestyle of the locals in the island of yap. Sailing, fishing, and weaving are just some of the traditions that still dominate their daily lives. The women still wear grass skirts, while the men still don the thu’us, a type of loincloth. The people are especially proud of their dance tradition. Raucous, well orchestrated, and colorful, it is through these dances that the men and women of Yap pass down their legends and express themselves.
Traditional Weaving in Yap, Micronesia
Even if these people are a bit shy, they don’t mind having visitors as long as they are respectful and courteous of their lifestyle. They welcome friendly visitors who wish to learn more about their life by letting them take part in tasks such as launching a canoe or weaving a basket.
There are a lot of things to do for those who take the chance and visit the island of yap. Diving, fishing, swimming and hiking are just some of the things travelers will enjoy here.
Info about Your Micronesia Trip
Map of Micronesia
The Federated States of Micronesia, a country located in the northwestern region of the Pacific Ocean is composed of 4 breathtaking major island groups namely the island of Kosrae (Kosiae), island of Chuuk (Truk), island of Pohnpei (Ponape) and island of Yap. All year round the climate in Micronesia is generally tropical except for the eastern islands where there is heavy rainfall throughout the year.
Because of Micronesia’s strategic location, there’s no wonder why the peninsula is endowed with magnificent beaches, coastline, and scenic views. This is also the reason why several tourists flock the place all year round. What makes the tourist destinations more popular and worth visiting is that aside from the picturesque views, each and every destination has a story to tell.
You can reach the Federated States of Micronesia by plane or by boat. The major international ports are located in Chuuk, Pohnpei or Ponape and Yap. If you prefer to travel by plane Honolulu offers direct access to Micronesia if you’re coming from North America. If you’re from Asia and Australia your entryway could be thru Guam.
FSM visa requirements are not as strict as it is when you enter the United States, despite the fact that it is a UN Territory run by US. However you should be able to furnish all necessary documents prior to your scheduled trip to allow enough time for your visa to be approved.
You can find the best Micronesia travel deals online. So before you pack your things, log on the net and check hotel availabilities as well as interesting places that you can visit in the Federated States of Micronesia. This way you are well prepared for your FSM travel and you can maximize your time for adventure and relaxation.
