Vibrant Tourism in Kosrae

Kosrae is one of the four island states that make up the Federated States of Micronesia. Located just a few hours southeast of Guam and southwest of Hawaii, this 42-square-mile island is home to one of the most peaceful people on the planet, making Kosrae tourism a must have experience.

Underwater, Kosrae is just as marvelous. One of the most important aspects of Kosrae tourism is diving on its virgin reef. The reef houses around 172 species of hard corals and 10 species of soft corals. Due to the thriving coral community, there are hundreds of species of fish and other marine life. Bottleneck dolphins and whales are sometimes spotted in Kosrae’s reef.

For divers who wish to do some wreck diving, they won’t be disappointed with the sunken whale ships Henrietta and Waverly. Reminders of World War II also abound in the seabed, with the wrecks Sansun Maru and Keikyu Maru as well as several fighter planes.

Travelers who prefer to seek their thrills on land, hiking Mt. Finkol, the tallest mountain in Kosrae is an option. At more than 2,064 feet, this mountain requires both the hiker and the guide to be in good physical condition. Hiking the mountain will take around seven to eight hours.

An easier walk can be had when exploring the Lelu ruins. This was once an ancient complex similar in design and purpose as the Nan Madol ruins in Pohnpei.

Other highlights of Kosrae tourism are the Kosrae State Museum, the Wiya Bird Cave, the Menke ruins and hiking trails, and the giant clam farm in Walung.

Ocean View Plaza Hotel

Experience Stunning Pohnpei from the Balconies of the Ocean View Plaza Hotel

Pohnpei, the capital and largest island state of the Federated States Micronesia, is home to world-class dive sites and verdant landscapes. The island’s unspoilt beauty attracts a variety of tourists around the world, allowing them to experience one of the last, true paradises on earth.

Unpack your bags and take a breath of genuine fresh air from the balconies of one of Pohnpei’s star accommodations, the Ocean View Plaza Hotel. Strategically situated on top of a summit, the hotel provides a sweeping view of Pohnpei’s seascape and mountains.

With the choice of getting either an ocean or mountain view, guests can opt for rooms at the East and West Wings of the hotel, or go for the more spacious apartment type rooms. Each apartment unit houses two bedrooms, includes a private balcony, bath and an equipped kitchenette for longer staying guests. The Ocean View Plaza Hotel offers reasonable rates considering its many services and amenities which include private tours of the island, car rentals, laundry services, boutiques, and a dedicated gas station.

Guests can take a breather from the exciting outdoor activities and relax in the hotel’s dining balcony and bar, sample both local and western cuisine from the buffet or simply enjoy the live entertainment. The hotel is also a short distance from downtown Kolonia so getting there is easy. Arrange for a guide service at the front desk and the hotel’s friendly staff would be more than willing to set up a guided tour of the island. From the hotel, guests can then make a trip to the many reef dive sites, trekking trails, sakau markets, and the famous Nan Madol ruins.
Whether you’re looking for relaxation, nightlife, or adventure, a stay at the Ocean View Plaza Hotel will certainly make your Pohnpei holiday a comfortable and stress-free affair.

Past Echoes of the Nan Madol Ruins

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.

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.