Island Hopping in Tuvalu - Discover The Remoteness of Paradise
.
Travel Notes: Oceania - Tuvalu Travel Notes.
Short URL: https://tnot.es/TV
Tuvalu Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes
|
|
Embark on an island-hopping adventure in Tuvalu, a chain of nine idyllic atolls. Explore each unique island, from Funafuti to the remote outer islands. Share on Facebook
About Tuvalu
The cartographers put Tuvalu in Micronesia but sociologists would prefer to cart them off to Polynesia, as culturally that is where the majority of the inhabitants originated from.
Mapping Tuvalu
Map of Tuvalu
Tuvalu is situated midway between Hawaii and Australia.
The main island of Funafuti is the capital.
Ellice Islands
Formerly known as the Ellice Islands, Tuvalu is a group of atolls, south of the Equator and north of Fiji.
The total land area is only about 26 square kilometres, but the nine islands on the coral atolls extend to almost 600 kilometres.
In 1974, ethnic differences within the British colony of the Gilbert and Ellice Islands caused the Polynesians of the Ellice Islands to vote for separation from the Micronesians of the Gilbert Islands.
The following year, the Ellice Islands became the separate British colony of Tuvalu.
Tuvalu achieved independence in 1978, but still relies heavily on a trust fund set up by Great Britain, Australia, and New Zealand.
About Tuvalu
One of the smallest and most remote countries on Earth; six of the nine coral atolls - Nanumea, Nui, Vaitupu, Nukufetau, Funafuti, and Nukulaelae - have lagoons open to the ocean; Nanumaya and Niutao have landlocked lagoons; while Niulakita does not have a lagoon.
Being made up of low lying coral atolls and islands Tuvalu's very existence is threatened by rising sea levels.
Nanumea
Nanumea is the most northern island of Tuvalu.
It is a true atoll and consists of five islands.
Where to Stay in Tuvalu
Funafuti Lagoon Hotel
The Funafuti Lagoon Hotel is situated in the centre of Funafuti town, about 50 meters from the airport on the lagoon side of the island.
Visitors have incredible views of the lagoon and can enjoy some spectacular sunsets.
Map of Funafuti
Filamona Lodge
Established in 1998, Filamona Lodge started with one available room and now offers a total of 16 rooms to guests.
As the closest inn to the airport and its runway, guests join the excitement of the locals watching the plane.
Tuvalu Overview
Tuvalu faces significant challenges due to its small size, remoteness, and vulnerability to climate change, but its people have demonstrated resilience and a strong sense of identity in the face of these challenges.
Culture
The culture of Tuvalu is Polynesian, with influences from Micronesia and Melanesia.
Traditional practices such as dance, music, and storytelling are still important aspects of Tuvaluan culture.
The traditional way of life revolves around fishing and subsistence farming .
Economy
The economy of Tuvalu is heavily dependent on foreign aid, remittances from Tuvaluans living abroad, and the sale of stamps and coins to collectors.
Fishing and the limited cultivation of crops, such as coconut and breadfruit, also contribute to the economy.
Tourism is a potential but is still an underdeveloped industry, due to Tuvalu's remote location and lack of infrastructure.
Environmental challenges
Tuvalu has been vocal in international forums advocating for action on climate change, as the country is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including increased storm surges and coastal erosion.
The low-lying nature of the islands makes them particularly susceptible rising sea levels.
Geography
Tuvalu consists of three reef islands (Funafuti, Nanumea, and Nukufetau) and six atolls (Nanumanga, Niutao, Nui, Nukulaelae, Funafala, and Vaitupu).
The total land area is only about 26 square kilometres (10 square miles), making it the fourth smallest country in the world.
Government
Tuvalu, a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy; with the British monarch as the head of state, represented by a governor-general.
The Prime Minister is the head of government.
International Relations
Tuvalu has active diplomatic relations with several countries and international organisations.
It is a member of the United Nations and participates in various regional and international forums, particularly those related to climate change and sustainable development.
Language
The Tuvaluan language is closely related to other Polynesian languages like Samoan and Tongan.
English is also widely spoken and is used in government and education.
Population
Tuvalu has a small population, estimated to be around 11,000 people.
The majority of the population lives on the capital island of Funafuti.
Visiting Tuvalu
If you ever plan to visit Tuvalu, be sure to consider the environmental impact and respect the delicate ecosystem of the islands.
Additionally, it's a good idea to check travel advisories and make arrangements in advance; due to the limited infrastructure and services available in the country.
Island Hopping
Despite its small size, Tuvalu comprises several islands, each with its own charm.
Funafuti, the capital, offers historical sites and opportunities for water activities.
Other islands like Nanumea, Nukufetau, and Vaitupu also have their own attractions.
Tuvalu Tourism
While tourism is not a major industry in Tuvalu, due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure, the country does attract some visitors interested in its unique culture, beautiful beaches, and excellent opportunities for diving and snorkelling.
Getting to Tuvalu
Fiji Airways, formerly Air Pacific, connects Funafuti with Nadi, Suva, Hong Kong and Auckland.
Getting Around Tuvalu
The Nivaga II and Manu Folau sail between the outer islands every couple of weeks.
Timeless Tuvalu - Government of Tuvalu's official Tourism web site.
Pacific Islands Travel
Pacific Islands Travel Guides.
Weather in The Pacific:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around the Pacific region.
Add a Business -
Add a Location -
Add a Lodging - Add Travel Content
- Add URL
- Travel Services.
More From Travel Notes
Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel
Africa - Asia - Caribbean - Europe - Middle East - North America - Oceania - South America.
The Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel helps visitors plan their trip with country and city travel guides, local tourist information, reviewed web sites, and inspiring travel content.
Travel and Tourism Guides on Travel Notes
If you find Travel Notes useful, please take a moment to
like us on Facebook and share with your friends on social media.
Share on Facebook
Travel Resources
.
Travel & Tourism With Industry Professionals.