Caroline Islands - Tourist Attractions , General Info

Caroline Islands is among the most remote islands on earth and is considered to be one of very few remaining 'near-pristine tropical islands' boasting unspoiled beauty, heavy vegetation, rich wildlife, numerous spectacular waterfalls, long mangroves, enchanting rainforests and historical ruins and most of all very clear water ideal for snorkeling, awesome fishing, surfing, diving and kite surfing.

Caroline Island or Caroline Atoll (also known as Millenium Island), lies near the southeastern end of the Line Islands covering a total land mass of 1,199 sq km. The archipelago comprises about half a thousand volcanic and coral islands in Micronesia in the western Pacific Ocean, north of New Guinea and east of the Philippines.

Major islands are Palau (Belau), Yap, Chuuk (Truk Lagoon), Pohnpei (Ponape) and Kosrae, fertile and rich in minerals. The inhabitants of the islands are mostly Micronesians and Polynesians. Other significant population includes Japanese and Filipinos. Geographically part of the Caroline Island chain in the Pacific Ocean, Palau became independent as the Republic of Palau in 1994. 

The archipelago of Palau is famous for the Rock Islands where you will find stunning marine environment that over the years has dazzled tourists from different corners of the world to experience some of the world's best scuba diving. Palau also boasts a wealth of endemic birds, plants, mammals and amphibians. In the upland forests of Palau the most diverse species in Micronesia are found including six native palm species.

Caroline Islands, Or New Philippines, an archipelago of Oceania, between the Philippines, the Ladrones, the Marshall islands, and Papua. They lie between lat. 3° and 12° N. and lon. 135° and 165° E.; area, 1,000 sq. m.; pop. about 28,000. They are divided into numerous groups. The westernmost of these, the Pelew, consists of seven large and a number of small islands, all of coralline formation. They are generally flat, and afford no secure anchorage. N. E. of these is the group of Yap, the principal island of which is mountainous and rich in precious metals. 

Caroline Islands map

 The islands of Egoi, resembling the Pelew in surface and formation, lie E. of Yap; they are fertile and partly inhabited. Other groups are the Swede islands, the Lutke, and the Seniavin islands. The easternmost island, called Ualan, is 24 m. in circumference, and has abundant supplies of water, fruit, and fish. The climate is mild and agreeable. The inhabitants, most of whom are of the Malay race, are generally fishermen, and make excellent sailors. - The Carolines were discovered in 1543 by Lopez de Villa-lobos, and were named in honor of Charles V. Nominally they belong to Spain and form part of the government of the Philippines, but they have no Spanish settlements.

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Things to do in Vanuatu

One of the most interesting things when you are in Vanuatu is the Scuba diving. There are many specialized shops in Port Villa where you can get all the equipment you will need for the biggest adventures in your life. What is also interesting is the game fishing. Lots of tourists that have been there describe that as an unforgettable and joyful experience. Some other active sports you may also like are horseback riding at some of the local ranches at Port Villa, also yachting is well developed there.

You can rent some yacht on a charter vessel at Port Villa. For those who love playing golf or windsurfing, there will be plenty of fun here. There are two major golf fields, and plenty of others in the hotels around. You can windsurf as much as you like at the Port Villa's Erakor Lagoon. 

All of the activities shown above are making a complete tourist resort. There is no reason to mention the accommodation offers you will get here at Vanuatu. Other thing that i forgot to mention is the great possibility for hikers here at Vanuatu. You will be surprised about the hiking places that the island of Tanna is offering. There are also Malekula and Erromango that must be visited by tourists that enjoy hiking. 

There are wonderful offers for everyone. People that love to relax on white sandy beaches, those who like windsurfing, yachting, hiking, even for those who find themselves attracted by climbing mountains. There are places that you have to visit such as tge active volcanoes at the island of Ambrym. If you are willing to hire a guide and pay the custom fee required from the local chiefs, than you should definitely go to Benbow and Marum in the south and Vetlam in the north. There is also a central peak worth a climb located in Ambae. There are many other possibilities worth to be visited.

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Kiribati - General Info & Tourist Attractions

Miles of golden and white-sand beaches, numerous wildlife sanctuaries, beautiful crystal-clear turquoise lagoons, amazing marine life, extensive coral reefs, as well as eternal sunshine are what make Kiribati a true tropical paradise. Kiribati is recognized by its rich flora and fauna, including coconut palms which are the most common form of vegetation, as well as pandanus, pawpaw and breadfruit.

Composed of 32 low-lying atolls and the chief raised coral Banaba Island scattered over 2 million square miles across the central Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Kiribati invites all travelers in search of an active holiday.  One of the most beautiful vacation destinations, Kiribati boasts a plethora of outdoor adventures, including both land and water experiences. The islands' breathtaking natural beauty and the alluring flora and fauna make the destination a wonderful choice for nature lovers. 

The International Surfing Association (ISA), the surfing world’s governing authority recognized by the International Olympic Committee, is proud to welcome Kiribati to its list of member nations. Located in the central tropical Pacific Ocean, the Republic of Kiribati is composed of 32 islands with perfect and abundant waves, and warm water.

With so many islands spread across the middle of the Pacific, Kiribati is open to surf from all directions that break on coral reefs. The most consistent and larger waves arrive at the Line Islands. The Kiribati Tourism Department describes the waves “…big and long breaks off Fanning and Kiritimati (Christmas) islands.” The Gilbert chain has some fickle waves that are not as easily accessible, but they can be great on the right day.

The Kiribati Constitution, promulgated 12 July 1979, provides for free and open elections. The executive branch consists of a president (te Beretitenti), a vice president and a cabinet (the president is also chief of the cabinet and has to be an MP). Under the constitution, the president, nominated from among the elected legislators, is limited to three 4-year terms. The cabinet is composed of the president, vice president and 10 ministers (appointed by the president) who are members of the House of Assembly.

Kiribati is one of the world's poorest countries. It has few natural resources. Commercially viable phosphate deposits on Banaba were exhausted at the time of independence. Copra and fish now represent the bulk of production and exports. Kiribati is considered one of the least developed countries in the world. In one form or another, Kiribati gets a large portion of its income from abroad. Examples include fishing licenses, development assistance, worker remittances, and tourism. Given Kiribati's limited domestic production ability, it must import nearly all of its essential foodstuffs and manufactured items; it depends on these external sources of income for financing.

The people of Kiribati speak an Oceanic language called "Gilbertese". Although English is the official language, it is not used very often outside the island capital of Tarawa. It is more likely that English is mixed in its use with Gilbertese. Older generations of I-Kiribati tend to use more complicated versions of the language.

The native people of Kiribati are called I-Kiribati. The word Kiribati is the local spelling of the word Gilbert and the original name of this British colony was the Gilbert Islands. The indigenous format of the name was adopted when independence was gained in 1979. Ethnically, the I-Kiribati are Micronesians. Recent archaeological evidence indicates that Austronesians originally settled the islands thousands of years ago. Around the 14th century, Fijians, Samoans, and Tongans invaded the islands, thus diversifying the ethnic range and introducing Polynesian linguistic traits. Intermarriage among all ancestral groups, however, has led to a population reasonably homogeneous in appearance and traditions.

Located off the beaten path, in an untouched corner of Micronesia, Kiribati (formerly known as the Gilbert Islands) is subdivided into three main groups known as the Gilbert Islands comprising 16 atolls, the Phoenix and the Line Islands each made up of 8 atolls. Kiribati is home to Kiritmati (Christmas Island) which is the largest coral atoll in the world, measuring 388 sq km, and Banaba, known as Ocean island-one of the three phosphate rock islands in the Pacific. The 22 of 33 islands are inhabited.

 Kiribati  Map

Tarawa is the capital of Kiribati housing nearly a third of the nation's population. Kiribati experiences hot and humid climate and equatorial maritime weather with varying temperatures. Generally the weather is consistently warm and pleasant, though the islands are subject of typhoons occurring November to March. 

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Cook Island - Tourist Attractions

Cook Islands holidays are an experience of a lifetime. The Cook Islands are a stunning necklace of islands in the sun and are the jewel in the crown of the South Pacific island groups. The culture, traditions, arts and crafts are distinct from all others in the Pacific. The Cook Islands are like nowhere else, you feel so naturally at one with the island way of life. And how cool is a government that legislates that no building can be higher than the tallest coconut palm? 

Another great bonus with Cook Islands tourism over neighbouring French Polynesia is the local currency, the New Zealand dollar, which has a most attractive exchange rate against the US dollar, UK pound or Australian Dollar. So, welcome to the Cook Islands, immerse yourself in another culture... another time. Kia manuia! - May good fortune shine on you!

The Cook Islands consists of 15 major islands. They are in the same time zone as Hawaii and are said to have a similar feel to Hawaii before it became more developed. Captain James Cook named the islands the Hervey Islands in 1773 however they came to be known as the Cook Islands in honour of him from about 1820. The Cook Islands are politically linked with New Zealand.

Cook Islands Tourist Attractions

Island Discovery Tour

The Island Discovery Tour is the perfect way to explore Rarotonga and get to know where everything is before heading out to explore Rarotonga on your own. Some of the activities on these half day Cook Islands tours includes visiting some of Rarotonga's sacred sites, Limestone Churches, Inland Villages and Plantations and the site of the 7 Canoes.

Captain Tama`s Lagoon Cruise

Captain Tama's Muri Lagoon Cruise is undoubtedly one of the best ways to enjoy the protected lagoon of Rarotonga. On this Cook Islands tour, you will board a glass bottom boat and cruise out over world renown Muri Lagoon to the inner reef area where the marine life is abundant. Enjoy snorkelling, hand fish feeding and a fresh fish BBQ lunch on Koromiri Island complete with a song and show.

Aitutaki Day Tour

The Aitutaki Day Tour is a full day excursion featuring one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world. Aitutaki is a simply stunning and beautiful destination and a visit to this island is a 'must do' for anyone visiting the Cook Islands. On these Cook Islands tours, enjoy a lagoon cruise and BBQ lunch, visit One Foot Island, snorkel and visit the main township of Arutanga, the market place and the inland villages.

Highland Paradise

Travel with Tipani Tours high into the rugged mountains of Rarotonga to view the spectacular 180 degree ocean views. This Cook Islands tour visits a historical lost village where you can learn the ancient survival techniques and relive the traditional way of life of the Polynesian people. Cultural activities will be on display from coconut husking to traditional cooking demonstrations.

Tangaroa 4 x 4 Tour

Tangaroa 4 x 4 Tour is an exciting half day adventure into the interior of the island of Rarotonga. This Cook Islands Tour takes you inland to discover the lush tropical interior of the island. Visit Avatiu Valley where you will see the volcanic pinnacle of the Needle, drive to the top of Hospital Hill, visit some of Rarotonga's sacred sites, see taro plantations and enjoy the fantastic views from Aroko Heights.

Cook Islands activities include swimming in the beautiful clear water, snorkelling and diving, surfing and exploring the nature trails and wildlife of this exquisite part of the planet. Sightseeing, day tours and cruises are available that take in the culture and natural wonders around the Cook Islands.

The Cook Islands are in the South Pacific Ocean and are self governed in a free association with New Zealand. Therefore the New Zealand Queen's Representitive is the Head of State and the Chief Minister is the Head of Government. While there are 15 islands that make up the Cook Islands, the actual land mass only covers 240 km². This is tiny compared to the water coverage which is over 1.8 million km². The Islands were formed by volcanic activity and helped develop 2 reefs and 6 atolls.

Cook Island map

There are several hotels, motels and resorts located on the largest of the Cook Islands - Rarotonga. The capital of the Cook Islands - Avarua - is located on the north side of Rarotonga. Rarotonga also has the majority of the population and is surrounded by a lagoon that meets the reef in some areas. After the reef, the ocean floor slopes away quickly and on the north side of the island the reef meets the beach and is unsuitable for swimming and snorkelling. On the south side of Rarotonga is Muri Beach where the lagoon is at its deepest and widest. The area is perfect for all kinds of water sports.

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Cocos Island - Australian Tourist Destination

Australia's last unspoilt paradise lies in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, kissed by the sun and caressed by fragrant trade winds. Offering spectacular snorkelling, world-class diving, excellent fishing and the adrenalin-rush ofkitesurfing, the Cocos Keeling Islands are also a deeply tranquil holiday location. Relax on empty beaches, visit uninhabited islands by canoe, watch spectacular birdlife or catch the ferry to Home Island and discover the culture and traditions of the Cocos Malay people.

Situated 2750 kms northwest of Perth, Western Australia, the Cocos Keeling Islands are a group of coral islands that form two atolls. Only two of the 27 islands are inhabited - the rest are waiting for you to explore them. Choose from a range of whisper-quiet accommodation, pack a swimsuit and some beach shoes, and take an unforgettable holiday on a faraway tropical island. You'll never want to leave.

Surrounded by the serene sapphire-blue of the Indian Ocean, Cocos is the perfect playground for water-based activities. Start with a day trip to the holiday paradise of Direction Island where you can relax on exquisite white sand beaches and swim in the cool, clear water of the lagoon. Direction Island is the place to snorkel the world famous 'Rip', renowned for its diverse marine life of colourful fish and corals, reef sharks, huge wrasse and moray eels. Exploring 'the Rip' is a spectacular experience - make sure you familiarise yourself with signage on the island before you plunge in. If more leisurely snorkelling suits you, wander off the beach and find one of the many coral 'bommies'. You can hover above and watch what goes on in Cocos' busy aquatic communities.

West Island

West Island is an ideal size to explore by pushbike or, for the less energetic, by hire vehicle. There's plenty to do: explore Bob's Folly with its majestic stand of Calophyllum trees and native hibiscus, or take a plunge into the turquoise Indian Ocean at Trannies Beach, one of the island's most popular swimming beaches. When the tide is low, treat yourself to a fascinating reef walk from Scout Park to Pulu Maraya, a tiny uninhabited island at the southern end of the atoll, where you'll find some excellent snorkelling.

Home Island

Located across the lagoon and just a short ferry ride away, this unique part of the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is a must-see for visitors. Home of the Cocos Malay people, the island offers a complete contrast to West Island. Wander the streets or hire a bicycle to see the kampong (town), take a guided cultural tour, sample the wonderful, spicy Malay cuisine at the local restaurant or take a picnic lunch and sit under the canopy of one of the huge Calophyllum trees gracing the foreshore.

Prison Island

Situated between Home and Direction Islands, Pulu Beras ('rice island') as it is known in Malay, used to be twice its present size and with a hill that was almost the highest point on the islands. The now tiny island housed a prison in the early days of settlement, though little remains of this today except the name. Prison Island is also a place of legend - the Cocos Malay people say that a mermaid lives there and that she calls back home any Cocos-born people who leave the islands' shores.

Direction Island

A day trip to Direction Island should definitely be on your holiday agenda and is just a brief trip away on the ferry. This picture-perfect tropical island offers exquisite white sandy beaches, shady shelters, wood-fired BBQs, eco toilets and walking trails. It's hard not to spend time in the water on Direction Island. Make sure you try out the world famous 'Rip', renowned for its diverse marine life of vivid fish, corals, reef sharks, huge wrasse and parrotfish, or just take a leisurely swim in the clear-as-crystal lagoon.

In 1993, the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council resolved in principle to lease North Keeling Island to the Commonwealth for the creation of a national park. The lease was finalised in 1995 and stipulated that the island must be developed as a national park of world standard. Proclamation of Pulu Keeling National Park in December 1995 ensures the long-term conservation of the island's unique biodiversity and safeguards its natural and historical attributes for the benefit of the local, national and international communities. As of July 2000, wildlife protection and management and national park management in the territory is carried out under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 and Regulations.

Cocos Island Map

Pulu Keeling National Park is also the final resting place of the remains of the infamous German Raider, the SMS Emden which was sent to destroy the Cable Station on Direction Island in November 1914. A battle raged between the HMAS Sydney I and the SMS Emden. Being totally outgunned by the Sydney, the captain of the Emden finally ran his vessel aground. Not much remains of this once mighty warship, however, it is now protected by the Historical Shipwrecks Act. Access to the Park can be hazardous and the island's habitats and animals are sensitive to disturbances by humans. Public access is only permitted in the company of Parks Australia staff or licensed tour operators. Please check with the staff at the Parks Australia office for current visitor access requirements.

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