Internet Boat Sales Slickcraft

Internet Boat Sales Slickcraft

Internet Boat Sales Slickcraft

Tuvalu is a group of nine tiny islands in the South Pacific with five of the islands being coral atolls, the other four consisting of land rising from the sea bed. Tuvalu is one of the world's smallest nations spread over 800 km of ocean and located about 1000km north of Fiji. The islands have a delicate ecosystem that is unable to effectively support a growing population. The total land mass of Tuvalu is only 26sq km (10sq miles).

Tuvalu won independence from the United Kingdom in 1978.

Tuvalu and Global Warming

All the islands are low-lying, with no point on Tuvalu higher than 4.5 metres above sea level. Global warming is a huge concern for the islands. Even a small rise in sea level could see the islands swamped by rising sea levels. The government is so concerned about the survival of the islands and their population that it has already purchased land in Fiji (the island of Kioa) and re-settled some of its population and is looking for more land.

Visiting The Islands

The main island is Tuvalu with the capital Funafuti. This town has the nations only airport which is serviced from Fiji. Visas are granted on arrival and last for one month. Funafuti is not a particularly pleasant tourist destination, but it is fascinating in its own way. The island is mostly westernised with a few hotels and guesthouses to accommodate tourists. Only about 1000 tourists visit Tuvalu in any one year. The town has an undeniable litter problem that is hard to ignore, but the government is attempting to clean up to encourage tourists to come to these unique islands.

Traditional Atolls

The other atolls all retain traditional houses and the people maintain their traditional customs and lifestyle. Boat services to the other islands are unreliable and need to be arranged carefully. Visitors should make sure that they have return boat rides well organised before heading to the other islands.

Planning Your Trip

To ensure a pleasant visit tourists must contact the village spokesman on the islands before you arrive to seek his permission and revealing your travel intentions. This will make your visit smoother and more hospitable.