Introduction to Micronesia and Palau

By Ben Cook, co-author of Micronesia and Palau

The archipelago of several hundred islands in the Western Pacific is literally not on maps. While the names of South Pacific islands like Samoa and Tahiti have become familiar, names such as Kosrae, Chuuk, and Babeldaob remain foreign to the ears of all but a handful of diving fanatics. Micronesia and Palau are hidden gems, well-kept secrets unknown to the vast majority in the developed world. This makes these countries ideal destinations for travelers interested in adventure, in the romance of isolated Pacific islands, in getting off the beaten track, or in escaping the fast-paced developed world.

The islands of the Federated States of Micronesia (sometimes shortened to Micronesia) and Palau have much to offer. From the moment one steps off the plane, one is transported, not only physically, but also emotionally and spiritually, to a place of wonder and imagination. One cannot help but be awed by the physical landscape, whether it is the soaring mountain peaks of Kosrae, the mysterious jungle of Pohnpei, the enchanting Rock Islands of Palau, or the untrammeled beach of an empty coral atoll. The underwater landscape is just as impressive; Micronesia and Palau feature some of the world’s most pristine coral reefs, varied and colorful marine life, and incredible wrecks.

Shortly after arriving in Micronesia and Palau, one begins to look beyond the physical landscape to the peoples and cultures of the islands. Micronesia and Palau have been touched very gently by globalizing trends, and thus the unique cultures of these islands are preserved to an unusual extent. While the capital towns of Micronesia and Palau offer visitors many conveniences of modern life, one can also find remote corners where people live much as they have for centuries. What is more, Micronesians are not merely willing but truly eager to share their traditional cultures and languages with anyone who shows an interest. In fact, it would be nearly impossible to visit these islands without having some authentic interaction with the indigenous cultures, something which cannot be said for other islands in the Pacific.

Upon returning from Micronesia or Palau, acquaintances may not understand the magic of these islands. If, however, you ever meet someone else who has visited these hidden gems of the Western Pacific, a smile and a nod will suffice to indicate that you, too, are in on the secret of Micronesia and Palau. If you are planning a trip to Micronesia or Palau, prepare yourself to step into a place like no other on Earth.

Island Cultures

One reason to visit Micronesia and Palau is to experience the diverse island cultures found across these two countries. Elsewhere in the Pacific, traditional ways have been brushed aside in favor of Westernization. In Micronesia and Palau, however, you cannot avoid coming in contact with local traditions, which islanders are constantly striving to preserve in a changing world.

Although Micronesians and Palauans can be shy, it takes only a little prodding to discover that they are eager to share the unique traditions and cultures of their home islands with foreigners. Start a conversation with a local, and soon you will find yourself learning age-old strategies for fishing in Palau, chewing betel nut with a group of Yapese men, helping a Kosraean woman make coconut cream, or drinking sakau with a Pohnpeian chief.

Diving

It is no exaggeration to say that some of the best dive sites in the world are found in the Federated States of Micronesia and Palau. These countries include every kind of island environment: continental islands, coral atolls, high volcanic islands. Their tropical waters are home to many pelagic species, and in the reefs surrounding the islands, one can find countless species of plants, coral, fish, sharks, rays, crustaceans, and other sea life. In addition, the legacy of World War II has left many wrecks for divers to explore.

Each area of these two countries has something unique to offer divers. In Kosrae, which sees few tourists, divers of all levels can explore the fringing reef in seclusion. Pohnpei’s pristine, undamaged reef is one of Micronesia’s best-kept secrets. Chuuk Lagoon is world-famous as home to the “ghost fleet” of Japanese World War II wrecks. In Yap, one can dive with manta rays 15 to 20 feet (5 to 6 meters) across, and Palau offers an unparalleled variety of sea life and topography along with a developed tourist industry. Divers really cannot go wrong anywhere in the Federated States of Micronesia or Palau.

Pace of Life

Though the culture of each island in Micronesia and Palau is distinct, one thing they share in common is that things operate on “island time.” These islands do not disappoint visitors who come looking for an escape from the hectic pace of life in developed countries. Whatever your purpose for visiting Micronesia, you can expect to have enough time at the end of the day to simply sit and enjoy your surroundings.