Tuvalu Travel Guide
The Polynesia island nation of Tuvalu (formerly Ellice Islands) is located in
the Pacific Ocean between
Australia and
Hawaii. Second to the Vatican is Tuvalu
as the least populated independent country in the world, which makes it a true
haven for the people who crave for privacy.
Tuvalu is made up of four small reef islands and five true atolls (a coral
island encircling a lagoon). Although these atolls are not made up of great soil
and are too small for restaurants and establishments to erect on, it is a
wonderful sight to behold. The largest atoll is called Funafuti. Although Tuvalu
has virtually no natural resources, the tourism for this small nation owns great
potential, more so because of the privacy it offers the tourists.
Culture in Tuvalu is still thriving because it is well preserved by the
native, who still live the small village life, such as passing traditional
mastery of jobs from father to son. Because the island is very small, people are
advised to have a good plan for their transportation, as the transport services
are very limited than normal. There is no existing railway and the road extends
only up to 5 kilometers. Motorbikes or pedal bikes are good ways of
transportation around the small but beautiful island of Tuvalu, plus it is also
cheaper than cars.
But a good thing about this attractive primitiveness of Tuvalu is its promise
of unspoiled beauty, as there is no room for large cars or buildings to congest
the country. Marine environment and creatures are unharmed and thus retain their
natural well being. In Tuvalu one experiences the real getaway, as there is less
noise and disturbance for a person who's trying to relax. Tuvalu uses Australian
currency, and there are no credit card services, therefore foreigners are
advised to carry cash or traveler's check with them.
The climate in Tuvalu does not normally exceed 30 degrees celsius, which is
why it's very pleasant for casual walks and hikes anywhere.
The handicrafts found in Tuvalu are also very popular throughout the pacific,
various products such as fans, necklaces, woodcarvings and mats are of great
exportation rate. Natives are generally friendly and warm to foreign visitors,
but a small sensibility is advised upon women who want to dress in revealing
bikinis. The ocean is very vast, but the atolls are near to the beaches,
therefore one can swim easily from one atoll to another. Spectacular lagoons are
also a famous attraction for visitors.
To keep the island safe and clean, not much of bars and liquor stores are
around, but there are a few whom are licensed to distribute. Tuvalu stamps are
also great souvenirs, as it is reflection to the small country's history. Hotels
however are not lacking in Tuvalu, as there is a respectable number of available
accommodations around the island of Tuvalu, but most are located in their
capital city. Vaiaku Lagi Hotel guests usually enjoy the various functions and
feasts arranged for them by the management.