Christmas Island Tourist Destination For Fabulous Holiday Trip

Located in the Indian Ocean, Christmas Island is the territory of Australia. It is in fact an extinct volcano. It has a population of 1403 residents only, who live in settlement areas. It is an island of natural wonders unique in its wildlife and beaches. Because of many endemic species it is also called the Galapagos of the Indian Ocean. It is also a World Heritage because of the Fresh Water Mangrove Swamp and 35 endemic species. Many tourists who want to relax and have a nice time have made Christmas Island tourist destination.

Those interested in scuba diving can take a scuba diving trip, if you are lucky, you can encounter the majestic whale shark (seen between November and April). The dense rainforest of this island has 25 tree species and 135 plant species. Ferns, Orchids and Vines grow on the branches in humid atmosphere beneath canopy. Some of the important endemic trees include Arenga Listeri, Pandanus Elatus and Dendrocnide Pelata. People interested in studying the diversity of species and nature have made Christmas Island tourist destination.

There is this annual red crab migration (around 100 million animals) to the sea to spawn and is known as the wonders of the natural world. Most common animals of the island are the land crabs and sea birds. Robber crabs also known as Coconut crabs exist in large numbers on island. Here you will find eight species or subspecies of sea birds nest on the island. Red-footed Booby is a common sight in this island. It nests in colonies, in trees and in shore terrace. Other species of birds that you will find here are the Abbott's Booby, Christmas Island Frigatebird, Great Frigatebird, Common Noddy, Christmas Island Thrush and Imperial-pigeon. Such exotic species have been a significant reason for travelers to make Christmas Island tourist destination.

60% of Island is a National park. Tourists can take a walk through the rainforest which is real fun and enjoyable. Visitors can visit the Pink House which is an Education and Research Station located in middle of the plateau rainforest. They can use its grounds for picnics. The Grotto is a mini cave with mix of sea and fresh water pool, the wave motion through the narrow openings provides interesting sound effects. The Flying Fish Cove is suitable for swimming and snorkeling. It has many great shore dives and has diversity and abundance of tropical fish. It is advisable that if you love nature and want to spend quality time exploring the island then Christmas Island tourist destination is the destination you want to explore.

Great Frigatebird

the plateau rainforest

The Grotto Christmas Island

The Flying Fish Cove

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Travel Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands, officially known as the ‘Republic of the Marshall Islands', is a Micronesian nation that is made up of atolls and islands that lie in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. These scenic islands are precisely located to the north of the Equator and just west of the 'International Date Line'. The nation of the Marshall Islands gained its independence from the United States of America on October 21, 1986 under the ‘Compact of Free Association' . The country's economy, however, still depends on the aid it receives from the United States of America. The history of the Islands can be traced back to the 2nd millennium BC. The Marshall Islands were then occupied by Micronesians who were noted for travelling from one island to another on canoes using traditional stick charts. Go right on ahead and read on to know more about these wonderful group of islands that the world knows and loves as the ‘Marshall Islands'.

Interesting And Fun Facts About Marshall Islands

The Marshall Islands comprise of two archipelagic island chains of 29 atolls in Oceania. Each atoll is further made up of many small islets.

The nation of the Marshall Islands also comprises five singled islands that lie to the north of the Pacific Ocean, just about half way between the continent of Australia and the islands of Hawaii.

The islands experience a tropical climate characterized with its heat and humidity. The wet season, however, begins in the month of May and extends to the month of November.

Sand islands and low coral limestone make for most of the terrain in the Marshall Islands.

"Jepilpilin ke ejukaan" is the motto of the Marshall Islands. The motto literally translates to "Accomplishment through Joint Effort". "Forever Marshall Islands" is the name of the national anthem of the Marshall Islands.

Majuro is the capital of the Marshall Islands. Majuro also happens to be the largest city in the Marshall Islands.

Although the Marshall Islands is officially known as the Republic of the Marshall Islands, the nation is locally and more popularly known world over as the Marshall Islands.

The Marshall Islands now function as a democratic presidential republic and its government is currently headed by President Jurelang Zedkaia.

Marshallese and English make for the official languages of the Marshall Islands. The people or the natives of the country are also called Marshallese.

The atolls that go in the making of the Marshall Islands the nation that it is, are blessed with the Flame of the Forest, different colored plumier flowers and hibiscus varieties.

The atolls of the Marshall Islands are most famous for their papaya and coconut plantations, pandanus and breadfruit trees.

Most tourists who visit the Marshall Islands stop first at either the capital city of Majuro or Ebeye. From here, the tourists head out to the picturesque outer islands of the Marshall Islands.

The U.S. Dollar makes for the official currency of the Marshall Islands whose population mostly comprises of only Christians.

It is a known fact that the Marshall Islands comprise two parallel island groups. However, only a few people are aware of the fact that the island groups are called the Ratak Chain and the Ralik Chain. The name Ratak translates to sunrise and the name Ralik translates to sunset.

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Some Helpful Papua New Guinea Travel Advice

The tropical islands are home to a unique variety of wildlife, active volcanoes, massive mountains, deep rainforests and pristine coral reefs. Complementing the amazing natural beauty area plethora of colorful cultural festivals.

Located just north of Australia in the southwest Pacific Ocean, this small nation has a long and rich history. Archaeologists have discovered human remains dating to fifty-thousand years ago. It's believed to be one of the first landmasses inhabited by ancient people.

With more than eight-hundred and fifty traditional clans, this small country is one of the most culturally diverse on the planet. The Papuans are descended from the original inhabitants who arrived tens of thousands of years ago. Many reside in remote, closed communities and only rarely have interactions with others. Less than four-thousand years ago, the ancestors of the Austronesians began arriving and settling in the islands. Since then, many Chinese, European, Polynesians, Filipinos and others have also migrated to the fertile lands.

There are more than eight-hundred native dialects among a population of nearly seven million. However, the government has designated three as official. English is the primary language of education and politics, but it is not widely spoken. Tok Pisin, also known as Melanasian pidgin, is more commonly used by natives. In southern regions, Hiri Motu is frequently used.

One of the most interesting annual events is the crocodile festival. Hosted in the Sepik region, it honors the reptile's revered status in folklore. Sharing a special bond with man, the powerful creature is admired and celebrated during the two-day affair of traditional song and dance. Tourists are welcome to attend. However advance planning is necessary due to limited accommodations and transportation.

Since 1964, the Mount Hagen festival has honored the cultural history of more than fifty local tribes. Held in mid-August, the two-day event features traditional song and dance, and an agricultural fair. Tourists are welcome to join the celebration and experience the area's rich heritage.

Beginning in the 1950s, the Goroka Show has featured more than 100 highland tribal groups. Held in mid-September, it's one of the country's most well-known events. During the weekend celebration, the natives display a variety of elaborate tribal rituals. Visitors are welcome to attend the event.

Each October in Lae, officials host the Morobe exhibition. It honors the cultural, industrial, agricultural and commercial heritage of the province. Captivating traditional displays are performed. Also, local experts disseminate literature relating to crop cultivation, breeding techniques and disease prevention. This interesting cultural event is also open to visitors from around the world.

At Port Moresby, the Hiri Moale festival is hosted. Literally meaning, happy return of voyage, the event recognizes, celebrates and perpetuates the region's fascinating coastal heritage. Events take place amid huge trading canoes and stilt houses. It's held in September, and centers on the renewal of ancient ocean voyages. Tourists are welcome.

the crocodile festival

the Mount Hagen festival

the Goroka Show

the Hiri Moale festival

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Island Holiday Attractions and Activities in Vanuatu

There's a reason that island holidays are the most popular in the world. Relaxing on golden beaches, enjoying the warm sun and forgetting all about the stresses back home for a week away in a tropical paradise. For some, relaxing on the beach sounds like the perfect vacation, but others want something different from their time away. This is why Santo Vanuatu offers the perfect island vacation; beautiful beaches to enjoy and plenty of attractions and activities to give variety to the days and nights spent on the islands.

Like most island holidays, Vanuatu offers diving experiences for those looking to explore the depths of the surrounding oceans. With 83 different islands making up the archipelago, there are plenty of different diving experiences to be a part of. In Port Vila, Vanuatu's largest city, Nautilus is the best-known dive operator. They have facilities to cater for everybody of all different skill levels, from new divers to the most experienced, with indoor training pools, equipment hire and diving instructors who can teach you to dive from the very beginning.

Diving isn't all that Nautilus offers; many of the marine operators run chartered fishing trips and tours around the islands. Vanuatu has an impressive reputation for big game and sport fishing. Operators can usually take out up to five guests for a half or full day fishing. Armed with local knowledge of the tides and fishing spots, you have a great chance of landing that big catch including Magrove Jack, Coral Trout or Green Jobfish and for the game fisher Mahimahi, Marlin and Wahoo. They even do night fishing for Broadbill and Dogtooth.

It isn't all about the water; visitors to Vanuatu can take part in a different kind of scenic experience on an off-roading 4WD tour of the islands. Prepare to get a little bit muddy, and prepare to get a little bit wet. Traversing the beaches and forest of Port Vila on a 4WD tour is an exciting and unique way to see Vanuatu. Another exciting attraction is Yasur, an active volcano on Tanna Island, Vanuatu's most visited volcano. It is reported that the glow from this volcano caught the attention of Captain James Cook and lead him to the first European journey to the island. Consider doing a day tour to discover this volcano up close and personal!

Perhaps the best way to enjoy the islands is by finding short-term accommodation through Vanuatu real estate agents. Renting your own property for a vacation will give you far more independence during your stay. Short-term renting works well for groups of friends looking to travel to the islands for a few weeks away, letting you share a house, cook meals and enjoy Vanuatu together. Who knows, you might enjoy the islands so much that you invest in your very own island holiday home!

Vanuatu

Tanna Island

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Ten Essential Things To Do When You Visit Tonga

You may not have heard of Tonga, but if you are an adventure buff, then you are definitely in for a treat. Tonga comprises of 150 islands, 36 of which are inhabited and lived by people. These islands are very small but offer very big in terms of tourism and enjoyment. Also, you will surely love to try the customs of Tonga.

Marriage Ceremonies

To maximize the thrill of the experience, make sure that you attend at least one marriage ceremony in Tonga. This should not be very hard as Tongans are very accommodating and will be more than willing to invite you in their ceremonies and festivities. Marriage ceremonies in Tonga are very much sensationalized, and you will love to attend one.

Tongan Food

The way Tongans eat their food is surely very different from the way you eat yours. Given that, you must not forget to try the local foods found in Tonga. One is the Lu Pulu - corned beef with a kick of coconut cream and cooked with taro leaves. There are also local beverages in Tonga, like the kava, made out of pepper plant.

Tongan Customs

The customs in Tonga are very native and unique. In here, you will find the people to be very congenial and convivial. Make sure that you try to assimilate their cultures because customs are highly regarded in Tonga, and you surely don't want to forget this, lest you offend a Tongan native.

Sports

In Tonga, the most popular sport is rugby. Whether or not you are a rugby player, make sure that you play this sport in Tonga. The experience will be very different from your native country, given the Tongan environment in which rugby is played.

Tongan Beaches

Logically, Tonga is home to a lot of beaches. By a lot, that means that of the 150 Tongan islands, at least half of those have accessible beaches. Here, you can have activities such as sun bathing, playing or even having a picnic with your family.

Animal Life

Though animals are not aplenty in Tonga, they are nevertheless given prime importance. Flying foxes and iguanas are found everywhere. You may even try them as exotic foods; however, this practice is well discouraged.

Island Hopping

If you are an adventurous person and you love the thought of going from one island to the other, then Tonga is definitely the best place for you. The islands in Tonga are quite near each other. The best thing to do is that you can take a boat from one island to the other, allowing the thrill and fun of island hopping.

Fun Water Activities

In Tonga, it's all about having fun. And what's more fun than surfing in the Pacific? The tides in Tonga are perfect for such fun water activities which you should try out, and also, you can try water skiing or riding water canoes in these place as these will be fun for you and your family.

Scuba Diving in Tonga

Another fun water activity you can try in Tonga is scuba diving. Now, why is scuba diving in Tonga very different than in other places? Simply because Tonga is situated in the far bottom side of the Pacific Ocean, sea wildlife is very much abundant where you can get to see very rare water species as well as amazing coral formations through your own eyes.

Mountain Activities

Volcanoes and mountains are aplenty in Tonga. This allows you to have an ultimate mountain trekking experience. In Tonga, such activities are managed at a very safe basis, and you can also get to see volcanoes at a very near vantage point.

Hopping Island

Tongan Food

Tongan Beaches

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