Info about Your Micronesia Trip

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.

A Trip Down Chuuk’s Memory Lane

Formerly known as Truk, the island of Chuuk is one of four island states of the Federated States of Micronesia. Even though Pohnpei is geographically the largest island, Chuuk is the most populated.

Like those of many Micronesians, the locals of Chuuk sustain their living through traditional means such as fishing, planting, weaving, boat-making and hunting in the mangrove forests.

For tourists, one of the island’s many noteworthy destinations is the giant Truk Lagoon which extends to nearly 40 miles in diameter. The lagoon is home to more or less 60 sunken vessels and planes, a final resting place for the casualties of World War II. This awesome wreck diving site is an invaluable underwater war museum, a dramatic memorial to those fallen in battle. Since it is a protected area, divers would have to secure a permit before diving in the lagoon. Divers are often thrilled to get underwater photos of the stunning marine life against the dark shadows of the sunken vessels.

For more casual adventures, swimming, surfing and snorkeling can also be enjoyed in Chuuk’s virgin waters. Like its neighboring islands, the island of Chuuk is perfect for outdoor activities. Other notable destinations on the island of Chuuk would be to experience the view from the top of the Sapuk Lighthouse, an old Japanese war post. Then there’s also the nearby Tonachau Mountain, a basalt mountain lined with waterfalls. Legend has it that the local god Souwniras lived in this mountain. Carved glyphs are inscribed onto the rock walls and the view from the mountain is certainly worth seeing.

As souvenirs for their island holiday, tourists can buy hand-carved lovesticks made by the locals. The wooden rods are called lovesticks because lovers who own such rods used to carve their personal inscriptions on both sides of the stick, which can then be identified just by touch by his or her respective lover.