The Mystery of Yap

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.

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.

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.

Some Travel Tips for Chuuk

To ensure a pleasant and enjoyable stay, here are some Chuuk travel tips.

The state is blessed with a tropical climate fanned by trade winds for most of the year. Temperatures during the daytime range from 24 to 30 degrees Celsius. Thus, you should bring and wear comfortable clothing suited to the weather.

The locals live a life close to nature and thus the pace of life is generally slow. Respect for elders is emphasized in their culture. Modern Western swimwear is considered immodest by local standards. Only wear those when in the vicinity of your resort or hotel. Wearing them elsewhere may call attention to yourself and you could be a subject of staring.

Favorite activities are windsurfing and sailing during the trade wind season of November to June. Anytime of the year, one can go kayaking or scuba diving to explore the islands that make up the state of Chuuk.

Chuuk travel tips for transportation within the state is that going around means riding taxis or bicycles. On bigger islands, tourists can rent a car. Most travelers enter Chuuk by flying in from Guam through Continental Airlines. There is a US$15 departure tax upon traveling out of Chuuk.

Telephone services are limited but infrastructure for cellular phone service is being worked on in order to reach the outer islands.

For Chuuk travel tips concering finances, the US dollar is the currency in Chuuk. There is only one bank in the state, which is the Bank of FSM. Tipping is neither necessary nor expected.

Being the most populous state in FSM, the crime rate is higher here than on the other states. Thus, visitors are advised to stay off the streets after dark especially in Weno, the capital.

Other locations in Micronesia, Pohnpei for example are reportedly much safer that Chuuk for visitors to explore at night.