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Micronesia
If travel is the elixir of life, then a visit to the Federated States of Micronesia is truly a feast of exotic experiences and underwater adventures. Spread across 2,500 kilometers of the Western Central Pacific Ocean, just north of the equator, the four states of Chuuk, Kosrae, Pohnpei and Yap and their 607 islands (only 65 are inhabited) invite fun, exploration, excitement and relaxation. On this site, we have highlighted some of the unique aspects of each of the FSM states. From seeing a traditional village dance, taking a hike to a secluded lake or waterfall, or making a dive beneath the sea to a coral laden shipwreck, there's something for every adventuresome taste. We hope the following may prove helpful in planning your visit to the FSM. Customs, Immigration and Health Requirements Each island airport has its own customs and immigration officers. If you plan on visiting several islands on one trip, you will be passing through customs and immigration lines at each stop and filling out the usual paperwork. U.S. citizens may enter any FSM state with a U.S. passport or proof of U.S. citizenship (birth certificate). Non U.S. citizens must have a valid passport from their country of origin. For more information please see the entry requirements page. Vaccination or certification is not required unless the traveler comes from an infected area. Plants and animals must be given prior approval before entry, and animals must be quarantined. Importation of controlled substances or weapons is strictly prohibited. Departure Tax US $5 for Pohnpei; $10 for Chuuk; $10 for Kosrae; no departure tax for Yap. Access to FSM Travel to the FSM is available via Hawaii or Guam through Continental Airlines, or Sydney, Australia through Air Nauru. Currency, Banking and Credit Cards Click Here For Currency Exchange The U.S. dollar is the official currency. There are several U.S. FDIC insured banks operating in the FSM. Most major credit cards are welcome at most visitor-oriented businesses. Time The FSM spans two time zones. Yap and Chuuk are 10 hours ahead of GMT; Pohnpei and Kosrae are GMT + 11 hours. Telecommunications The FSM enjoys modern, reliable telecommunication links worldwide. TV, FAX and Internet services are readily available throughout the FSM through the services of the FSM Telecommunications Corporation. Medical Facilities The FSM is a healthy place to visit. There are no tropical diseases and health care is readily available. Each of the FSM states has a modern major hospital. Postal Services U.S. Postal rates apply, and there are post offices on all the four states of the FSM. Post offices are open daily during regular business hours and are closed on week-ends. What to Wear Travel light. It never gets cold in FSM, so only lightweight clothing should be brought. Attire is very casual and formal wear is considered unnecessary and impractical. Hats, sunglasses and sun screen are recommended when enjoying the sun. Language English is the official language of the government and of commerce. English is commonly spoken and understood. Many elderly people are fluent in Japanese. Some common phrases for each of the main languages are available below:
Religion Churches of many denominations can be found throughout the islands. Media Several newspapers, government and private, are available. There are several AM and FM radio stations as well as cable stations on Pohnpei and Chuuk where one can watch live satellite broadcasts of CNN and ESPN. Tipping Visitors to the country are guests and hospitality is an honor in our culture. Tips are neither expected nor encouraged. Electricity Standard 110 volt and US type outlets are used. Transportation Taxis are plentiful in the state centers and can be called to most locations. Hire and rental cars, local boats and buses are also available. Shopping The stores in state centers offer a variety of goods including T-shirts with local expressions, handy crafts, items of local manufacture such as jewelry, carvings and other local products. All make perfect gifts to remember a visit to the FSM. Business Hours Business hours are normally from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. On weekends most retail outlets are open with some limiting hours from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Banks and Government Offices are closed. Restaurants and Bars are open until 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and on weekends. Local Foods The staple foods of the island are taro, yam, breadfruit, sweet potatoes and coconut. The main source of protein are fish, crabs, clams and pork. Restaurants offer local fare on their menus along with a wide selection of international dishes. Visiting Outer Islands Life on the outer islands of FSM remains much the same as it has for centuries. Sustained from the sea and the land the people exist on a diet of taro, banana, breadfruit, sweet potato and some intrusion of rice. A trip to the outer islands is sure to be a memorable experience but the logistics are complicated and arrangements should be made at least several months in advance. |
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