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Transversing Micronesia: History, Scuba Diving, and Secrets Abound

Accordion Content

Overview

Introduction

Though the secret and unspoiled beauty of Micronesia continues to grow in popularity, attracting more tourists every year, its more than 600 islands are likely to offer any number of visitors a taste of desert island bliss.  From amazing underwater history lessons as divers study shipwrecks to cultural dancing and a land and sea teeming with wildlife, Micronesia is truly the escape-style vacation that will take visitors worlds away from the everyday hectic life of the developed mainland cities. 

Geography

The Federated States of Micronesia (commonly referred to as Micronesia), consist of four major island groups–Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae–totaling 607 islands in all.  The islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, coral atolls, with volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Chuuk.  Informally, many tourists and visitors view Palau, Guam, The Marshall Islands, and other nearby islands as part of Micronesia as well, although they are officially incorportated elsewhere or independent.

History

In 1947, the region became the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States.  Afterward, the islands were colonized by the Portuguese, Spanish, Germans and the Japanese. In 1986, the Federated States signed a Compact of Free Association with the U.S., rendering it nearly independent, but with defensive support from America.  The Micronesian peoples encompass a profusion of languages, customs and folklore. On the island of Yap, for example, islanders continue trading through exchanging an ancient stone currency. On some islands, Micronesians still wear their traditional garments and dress. Throughout many of the federated states, you are likely to hear unique island music and have the opportunity to witness a traditional dance or two.

Economy

Tourism is listed as Micronesia’s number one industry, and the tourism industry also fuels the shell, wood, and pearl craft making industries that are vital to the economic stability of the local people.

Location:
  • Australia and Oceania
  • Micronesia
Keywords: diving guides, australia and oceania dive travel, micronesia dive travel, micronesia diving Author:
Melissa Gwaldis
Related Tags: Diving Guides