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| Australia and Pacific Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i The Pacific. Doesn't it dream up images of blue water and wonderful islands? Because of their relative isolation from the super-powers that is more or less still true. Australia has a very diverse climate. Dry deserts, almost tropical rainforest and a temperate climate. This makes that when it comes to natural beauty, Australia is definitely worth seeing on the way to somewhere good. New Zealand is also a great place for travellers. A laid back atmosphere and more adventure tourism opportunities than there are dreamt of in your philosophy: hiking, biking, caving and raving. The Pacific has this paradise like atmosphere written all over it, and this is with good reason. A stay on the islands really relaxes you. There is a lot to see from a cultural point of view as well. Small island groups like Niue, French Polynesia or Tonga make for the perfect relaxing holiday. Samoa (known as Western Samoa until 1997) and American Samoa arguably represent the largest population of Polynesian people and they take pride in a strong culture that has survived outside incursions amazingly well. _______Beaches Edit This Papua New Guinea (especially West New Britain and East New Britain) has first rate scuba and snorkelling (and tons of malaria). [Add Beach] Bondi Beach Edit This Australia's favourite beach World66 rating: [rate it] :::::::American Samoa Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x American Samoa consists of seven islands in the Pacific. While Western Samoa is a independent country, American Samoa is part of the United States. The volcanic island of Tutuila is the largest of the seven islands that comprise American Samoa. Pago Pago Harbor, a collapsed volcanic caldera is one of the largest natural harbors in the South Pacific. It cuts deeply into the south-central coast almost dividing the island in two. From east to west, a steep mountainous spine runs the 20-mile length of the island, punctuated in places by notable summits including Matafao Peak, Tutuila's tallest mountain at 2,142 feet; North Pioa Mountain, popularly known as Rainmaker Mountain, 1,718; and Mount 'Alava, the steep ridgeline looming to the north of Pago Pago Harbor, marking the south boundary of the park area. About one mile southeast of Tutuila's eastern tip is the volcanic island of Aunuu the smallest of the inhabited islands; it can be reached by boat and explored by foot in a day. After you visit the National Park, visits to the east and west ends of the island will reveal more island and ocean scenery and insights into Samoan culture. The Manu'a Island group includes the volcanic islands of Ofu and Olosega (joined by a bridge), and Tau. These islands lie 60 miles east (a 30-minute flight on a small plane) from Tutuila; flights are available between Ofu and Ta'u. These islands are sparsely populated - each village has only a few hundred people. The National Park area on Ofu includes sand beach and coral reef with a mountain backdrop. There is also and excellent view of Lata Mountain (3,170 feet) on Ta'u, the tallest peak in American Samoa. ::::::::::::Ashmore and Cartier Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see What a great place to get lost! Halfway between Australia and Papua New Guinea, Ashmore & Cartier are the perfect place to spend a quiet holiday: no other people around - and then I don't mean no other tourists but no other people period. One problem though, you can't send any postcards home because there is no such thing as a postman on the island to pick up your card, nor can you buy cards or stamps on the islands. As to the facts, the Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands comprises West, Middle and East Islands of Ashmore Reef, Cartier Island and the 12 nautical mile territorial sea generated by those islands. The islands are uninhabited, small, low and composed of coral and sand, with some grass cover. The Territory is located on the outer edge of the continental shelf in the Indian Ocean approximately 320 km off Australia's north-west coast and 144 kilometres south of the Indonesian Island of Roti. The Jabiru and Challis oil fields are adjacent to the Territory. In early May 1996, Indonesian and Australian officials, at the request of the Indonesian’s, visited the Territory with the objective of satisfying Indonesian officials that the Territory does in fact include islands generating a 24 nautical mile boundary. This has important implications for negotiations between Australia and Indonesia on the maritime boundary. Basically, this all means that the chances of you spending some time on the islands is pretty small. Your best bet might be to try and hitch a ride with traditional fishers from Indonesia, who are allowed access to the lagoon and the fresh water supply of West Island. The only official way would be through the Australian Nature Conservation Agency (ANCA) which might issue permits to visit the Sahmore Reef and give advice on how to get there and back. In 1983 Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve (583 sq km) was established under National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975. Access to East and Middle Islands, the main sea bird breeding areas, is by permit only. Either way it will involve spending quite some time and money... :::::::::Australia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Showing how to tag a shark on the Undersea Explorer Showing how to tag a shark on the Undersea Explorer Eric Dransfeldt Australia is a land of contrasts - topographical, cultural, physical, meterological and visual. About 40,000 years ago, the Aborigines were the first to settle. They lived as hunters and gatherers for this entire time, living with a close link to nature, although backburning and other poor agricultural techniques have since been realised to have caused significant deforestation, salinification of the soil and elimination of much of the natural diversity of the landscape. Such a poor ability to interact with nature, despite it being so important, helps explain why much of Australia is now unsuitable for sustaining life. Interestingly, this provides one of the few examples of where the native population damaged the land more than later waves of settlers. Their way of living developed into a complex culture based on oral tradition and intricate social bounds, which was almost destroyed by the second wave of settlers, who were able to populate the land with much more success. In the 15th century, explorers from the Netherlands and possibly from parts of the Arabic world and other European countries are believed to have landed in the far North and West of the country. However, due to the severity of the climate, the poor soil and the complete absence of conditions required for living, gave up and went somewhere better. In 1770, Captain James Cook landed in Botany Bay, which today is part of Sydney. (in fact Sydney Airport juts out into Botany Bay) This commenced with the landing of the First Fleet in Sydney Cove (now Sydney Harbour, near Circular Quay railway station) on 26th January 1788. The British government decided to use convicts to tame the newly discovered continent and did not care a lot for the people that were already there (for example, the land where Melbourne now stands was sold by the aborigines for a handful of beads). Deportation to Australia lasted for about eighty years. After this all immigrants went more or less voluntarily. Australia became an independent nation on 1 January 1901. The British Parliament passed legislation allowing the six Australian colonies to govern in their own right as part of the Commonwealth of Australia. In 1986 history was made again when parliament passed legislation that ended the power for the Britsh Partliament to legislate for Australia. Today a growing proportion of Australians were born overseas. Their combined cultural heritage makes the Australian culture a real global one. However, most cultural groups tend to live in enclaves with little interaction and real multiculturalism such as in London, New York or other major cities does not exist. Australia has also discovered the value of the Aboriginal culture and uses it to sell trinkets to a strong tourist market. While Australia is a nation in its own right, it is also a technically a continent, with large differences between regions. It has a reputation as a land of leisure, with sun, sea and an enviable 'Crocodile Dundee' outdoor lifestyle, but this is just a very narrow conception of a continent. The reality however, is that most people work all day, and then spend the weekend running around trying to pack life into the 2 days on the weekend. Only the homeless and tourists have time to sit around on the beach, or laze away days watching sport on TV. One of the states is the island state Tasmania of which one fifth is World Heritage area. Each state has its own national parks with their specific character where you can indulge in bush-walking or maybe even rock-climbing. When you’re interested in the miracles of water-world, you can’t miss out on the Great Barrier Reef on the east coast, the main reason for many travellers to visit Cairns. The Wet Tropics of Queensland comprise dense rainforests and foaming waterfalls. Rare species of animals can be spotted in the famous Kakadu National Park as well as ancient aboriginal art. These old drawings can also be seen in the Namadgi National Park. Good places to set off for exploration of the great outdoors are big cities such as Canberra, Darwin, Adelaide and Perth, that all have interesting sights and a good cultural atmosphere as well. Of course, Australia is surrounded by sea, so good swimming and surfing beaches are more rule than exception, generally these beaches will be full of only tourists, especially during the week. So fun can be had watching people who haven't heard of sunscreen yet turning into lobsters, or getting trapped in the surf. North of Brisbane, is the Sunshine Coast one of the many stretches of coast where you can find excellent beaches, South of Brisbane is the better known Gold Coast, famous for being home to Australias equivalent of trailer park people and teenagers who can't afford a holiday somewhere better. Don’t forget the smaller historically interesting Alice Springs, or William Creek [the most isolated town in Australia] that will lead you right to the famous Ayers Rock. Deserts, rainforests, big cities….and just when you thought you’d caught a glimpse of the versatile character of this fascinating continent, you forgotten about Melbourne and the excellent skiing opportunities in the Alpine National Park. Another good option is the Snowy Mountains area in NSW. How many months could you stay? Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: first hand information :::::::::::Baker Island Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see western edge of baker island western edge of baker island Baker island is an uninhabited island, in the central Pacific, near the equator, some 2500 km south west of Hawai. The arid coral island was discovered in 1832 by Capt. Michael Baker, an American, and was claimed by the United States in 1856. Like Jarvis Island and Howland Island, Baker was worked for guano by both American and British companies during the 19th cent. In 1935 it was colonized by Americans from Hawaii in order to establish U.S. control against British claims. The colonists were removed during World War II. Baker Island is administered under the U.S. Dept. of the Interior. :::::Cook Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Bungalows Bungalows Mark Phoenixson Suprising fact: the Cook islands cover a surface bigger than India. Most of it is Pacific Ocean of course, but still, the 15 islands in the heart of the South Pacific known as the Cook islands spread over an area the size of India with a total population of just 14,000 souls. These unique and friendly Polynesians have their own language and government and enjoy a vigorous and diverse culture with significant differences between each island. Despite some 70,000 visitors a year to the capital island – Rarotonga – the Cooks are largely unspoiled by tourism. They offer a rare opportunity for people from the cities of the world to experience a different type of vacation. There are no high-rise hotels, only four beach buggies and very little hype. Ideal for travellers seeking more than the usual clichés associated with the South Seas, each island has its unique qualities and offers the visitor a special experience. ::::::Fiji Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Fijian wedding chorus Fijian wedding chorus Fiji is one of these paradise islands in the Pacific. But the island has more to offer than just beaches where you can bum, and water where you can snorkel. There are many scenic and historic attractions in Fiji. The capital, Suva, has many old shops and markets with various foods, artefacts, handicrafts and especially seafood. Places of historic interest include the National Museum, situated in the lush surrounds of Thurston Gardens next to Government House and the old Parliament Buildings. Other sites of interest on Fiji include the Cultural Centre at Orchid Island, just outside of Suva, the mysterious earthworks at Taveuni and the old colonial houses (situated around Fiji). Very typical for Fiji are three things : The first is the word “Bula”! This will probably be your first word when arriving in Fiji. Meaning “welcome” but also “be at ease”, it will most definitely make you feel both. Secondly it is common refrain repeated by all who travelled to Fiji, is that the islands of Fiji are not only among the most pristine in the world, but also inhabited by the friendliest people. And last but not least the world renowned Island Resorts, resorts on private islands, many of them within easy reach from the international airports of Nadi and Suva. The ethnic variety of Fiji society can be seen mainly in the towns. There are powerfully built Fijians dressed in wrap-around sulus, numerous Indians, men in Western clothes, women wearing colourful saris and a scattering of European, Chinese and other Pacific Islanders. One tradition of both the Indians and Fijians is the practice of fire-walking. Fijian fire-walking has its origin in legend, while Indian fire-walking is done for religious reasons; although tourists can pay to see these ceremonies, the ritual remains a religious penance and not merely a tourist attraction. Cruises on large schooners or yachts to the different islands can be arranged, and tours around the main islands in comfortable coaches are also available. For the hardier, hiking in the mountains with dramatic views of the islands is another option. If you are interested to view the Map of Fiji, please do not hesitate to check out the Fiji Mapserver Website on http://map.mrd.gov.fj. Fiji is a very nice place to go and visit although it has many island i suggest that you try a cruise to visit all the islands. :::::::Fiji Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Fijian wedding chorus Fijian wedding chorus Fiji is one of these paradise islands in the Pacific. But the island has more to offer than just beaches where you can bum, and water where you can snorkel. There are many scenic and historic attractions in Fiji. The capital, Suva, has many old shops and markets with various foods, artefacts, handicrafts and especially seafood. Places of historic interest include the National Museum, situated in the lush surrounds of Thurston Gardens next to Government House and the old Parliament Buildings. Other sites of interest on Fiji include the Cultural Centre at Orchid Island, just outside of Suva, the mysterious earthworks at Taveuni and the old colonial houses (situated around Fiji). Very typical for Fiji are three things : The first is the word “Bula”! This will probably be your first word when arriving in Fiji. Meaning “welcome” but also “be at ease”, it will most definitely make you feel both. Secondly it is common refrain repeated by all who travelled to Fiji, is that the islands of Fiji are not only among the most pristine in the world, but also inhabited by the friendliest people. And last but not least the world renowned Island Resorts, resorts on private islands, many of them within easy reach from the international airports of Nadi and Suva. The ethnic variety of Fiji society can be seen mainly in the towns. There are powerfully built Fijians dressed in wrap-around sulus, numerous Indians, men in Western clothes, women wearing colourful saris and a scattering of European, Chinese and other Pacific Islanders. One tradition of both the Indians and Fijians is the practice of fire-walking. Fijian fire-walking has its origin in legend, while Indian fire-walking is done for religious reasons; although tourists can pay to see these ceremonies, the ritual remains a religious penance and not merely a tourist attraction. Cruises on large schooners or yachts to the different islands can be arranged, and tours around the main islands in comfortable coaches are also available. For the hardier, hiking in the mountains with dramatic views of the islands is another option. If you are interested to view the Map of Fiji, please do not hesitate to check out the Fiji Mapserver Website on http://map.mrd.gov.fj. Fiji is a very nice place to go and visit although it has many island i suggest that you try a cruise to visit all the islands. :::::::::French Polynesia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Row of Overwater Bungalows Row of Overwater Bungalows Justin P. The term French Polynesia refers to five archipelagoes spread over an expanse of the South Pacific approximately the size of Western Europe (2,000,000 square miles or approximately 5,000,000 square kilometers). The region includes the Marquesas, the Tuamotus, the Society Islands, with Tahiti and Bora Bora as the best known islands, the Australs and the Gambiers. Each of these archipelagoes has its own culture, ethnicity and climate; all of them are unique travel destinations with beaches of unrivaled beauty, many activities and a very friendly population. French Polynesia was the natural backdrop for the legendary paintings of Paul Gauguin. Like the vast majority of visitors to the region, Gauguin has inspired by French Polynesia ’ s turquoise lagoons, multi-coloured reef fish, volcanic peaks, lush valleys and white-sand beaches. :::::::::Guam Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_2 A trip to Guam is like visiting the four exotic corners of the globe. Many people consider Guam one of the most interesting places in Micronesia. In addition to the indigenous Chamorros and 'stateside' Americans, Guam boasts large populations of Filipinos, Chinese, Japanese, Koreans, and Micronesian Islanders, as well as a few Vietnamese, Indians, and Europeans. Furthermore there are some interesting historical landmarks to explore. The graceful remains of Spanish buildings, the Plaza De Espana, and stone bridges may be seen in Agana, which is Guam's capital. (For more on Agana, see below). It is an important US Military Base. You must have a U.S. visa to go to Guam uless you are an American Citizen aswell as a passport. :::::::::Kiribati Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Red-footed Booby; adult on nest with large chick Red-footed Booby; adult on nest with large chick E. A. Schreiber Kiribati is one of those tropical islands paradises ion the Pacific. It consists of three island groups. They are, from west to east the Gilberts Group (including Banaba island and known prior to western contact as Tungaru), the Phoenix Group and the Line Islands Group. Kiribati has wild life sanctuaries on Kiritimati Island and on most of the southern Line Islands. Extensive populations of birdlife are found on Kiritimati. Recent history is very apparent on some islands of Kiribati. The islands’ role in World War 11 is evident in the battle of Tarawa, during which thousands of American & Japanese lives were lost.The islet of Betio, where the above battle took place, offers a wealth of war history and many rilics. For an active holiday there are plenty of opportunities. There is a diving club in Betio and there is a diving resort in North Dakota. Bottle and weight belts are supplied, but divers should bring their own regulators, masks and fins. Advance booking is essential because the amount of rental equipment is limited. To privent coral cuts sandshoes should be worn when walking on the reef. A favourite swimming area in Tarawa is on both sides of the Dai Nippon Causeway around the area closer to the channel or off the small islets of North Tarawa. Your hotel will advise you how to access local swimming spots. There is a 36 Norman Cross trimaran with sail and auxiliary power available for charter by the day or for longer periods. It is fully equipped with all safety equipment and has a professional skipper. Its day capacity is up to 17 persons and overnight is eight. Advance booking is essential at Fax: (686) 28539. Facilities for the following holiday sports in Kiribati are availble: soccer, squash, tennis, fishing and other water sports. :::::::::Marshall Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see concrete dome concrete dome u.s. navy The Marshall Islands are a group of islands in the west-central Pacific; located about halfway between Australia and Hawaii. The Republic of the Marshall Islands (the contry's formal name) offers natural beauty and a rich culture. Pristine coral reefs teeming with marine life make the 'Marshalls' a premiere dive destination. The Marshall Islands form two vast parallel chains of atolls scattered over 750,000 square miles of the tranquil Pacific Ocean. The chains are called the Ratak (sunrise chain) and Ralik (sunset chain). Together, they encompass 29 atolls and 5 individual islands totaling abut 1,225 islands and 870 reef systems. Among other attractions, the islands offer breathtaking marine environments, with over 800 species of fish and 160 species of coral, ample diving and snorkeling opportunities, serene outer islands, abundant big game, bottom, and fly fishing conditions, and a multitude of World War II wrecks and sites unparalleled anywhere in the Pacific. Most people live on the island of Majuro (the nation's capital) in the Ratak chain. Perhaps, the most important atoll of the Ralik chain is the Kwajalein atoll . But probably the most famous island of the whole group is the Bikini atoll - a major US nuclear testing site, now mostly inhabited. ::::::::::Micronesia, Federated States of Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Dolphins Dolphins Doug Beitz Spread across 2,500 kilometers of the Western Central Pacific Ocean, just north of the equator, the five states of Chuuk, Kosrae, Mostakia, Pohnpei and Yap and their 607 islands (only 65 are inhabited) form the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). The FSM combine a great climate, paradiselike islands and a laid back atmosphere. On the islands you have the chance to see a traditional village dance, take a hike to a secluded lake or waterfall, or make a dive beneath the sea to a coral laden shipwreck. :::::::::Midway Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Kristen Lange Kristen Lange Kristen Lange Midway is a small American atoll in the Pacific. For a long time it was not open to visitors, but it can now be reached by planbe from Honolulu. The island offers one of the world's most spectacular wildlife experiences. Nearly two million birds call it home for much of each year, including the world's largest population of Laysan Albatross, or "gooney birds". Endangered Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles and spinner dolphins inhabit Midway's crystal blue lagoon. Midway became an "overlay" refuge in 1988, while still under the primary jurisdiction of the Navy. With the closure of Naval Air Facility Midway Island in 1993, there began a transition from bullets to birds, a change in mission from national defense to wildlife conservation. Midway was the last link in a global telegraph system, inaugurated by a message from President Teddy Roosevelt on the Fourth of July, 1903, a prominent landing site for Pan Am Clippers enroute across the Pacific Ocean in the late 1930's and the focus of a 1942 land and sea battle that changed the tide of war in the Pacific; The naval air facility that played a pivotal role in support of the Korean War, the Cold War and the Vietnam War. Now, for the first time since the Clippers landed in Midway's lagoon, this special place is open to the public. Visitors now arrive on flights from Honolulu to enjoy the wildlife, dive and fish in the lagoon and explore the many sites that reflect Midway's rich heritage. To book a holiday, visit Midwayisland website ::::::::::::Nauru Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i_2 One of the smallest countries in the world, Nauru consists of one atoll with a surrounding reef which is exposed at low tide, just 12 miles in circumference and just over 8 square miles. Most of the 10,000 population live on the narrow coastal belt. A small isolated Central Pacific island, it lies some 26 miles south of the Equator and is only accessible by private boat or via Air Nauru. Air Nauru arrives from Brisbane/Honiara on Monday and Thursday and from Nadi/Tarawa on Tuesday and Friday. The mining of phosphate has been the mainstay of the island's economy since the 1900s, providing the locals with a steady source of income. However funds from phosphate mining are virtually depleted and the island's fiscal resources are in dire straits. :::::::::New Caledonia Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Chicken Rock Chicken Rock Jane Olliff New Caledonia is the fourth largest island in the beautiful Pacific. New Caledonia is made up of a series of islands. The beaches are to die for with pure, white sand to give your feet a holiday. New Caledonia’s best kept secret is the array of reefs, which lie just off the coast. New Caledonia was initially settled by the Melanesians 2000-3000 years ago. The first European to sight New Caledonia was Captain James Cook in the 1770’s on his way to New Zealand. The island wasn’t sighted again until 1853 when French Admiral Febvrier-Despointes claimed it as French territory. From then on French settlers and convicts flooded into the new island. The people of New Caledonia are multi-cultural with 42.5% Melanesian, 37.1% European, 20.4% other in population. The official language is French but at least 33 Melanesian dialects are used. The prominent religion is Roman Catholic with 60% practicing it. ::::::::::New Zealand Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Rotorua Sulfur Pool Rotorua Sulfur Pool Suzanne New Zealand is situated in the South Pacific ocean, between latitude 34'S and 47'S. The country runs roughly north-south with mountain ranges down much of its length. Its two main islands cover 266,200 sq km (103,735 sq miles), about the size of Japan or California and slightly larger than Great Britain. Comparable in size and/or shape to Great Britain, Colorado and Japan, New Zealand has a population of only 4 million - making it one of the world's least crowded countries. There is an uneven split between both islands with 3.2 million in the North but only 800,000 in the South. It is a haven for those seeking peace, rejuvenation and relaxation as well as a playground for thrillseekers and adventurers. A temperate climate with relatively small seasonal variation makes it a year-round holiday destination. New Zealand's spectacularly beautiful landscape includes vast mountain chains, steaming volcanoes, sweeping coastlines, deeply indented fiords, and lush rainforests. New Zealand's separation from other land masses for more than 100 million years has allowed many ancient plants and animals to survive and evolve in isolation. Complementing our unique flora and fauna is a landscape that contains an unrivalled variety of landforms. In a couple of days' drive it is possible to see everything from mountain ranges to sandy beaches, lush rainforests, glaciers and fiords and active volcanoes. Auckland, New Zealand's largest and most cosmopolitan city, is a great starting point for exploring the north of the country. Known as the "City of Sails" for its numerous yachts, and with its beautiful harbour and sandy beaches, Auckland is at its prime in the summer. Auckland's Sky Tower is the tallest building in the southern hemisphere. Wellington is the capital city, and is located at the southern tip of the North Island. Increasingly referred to by locals as "Wellywood" due to the huge success of film director Peter Jackson [Lord of the Rings Trilogy], Wellington regularly plays host to international films stars. The capital also boasts a symphony orchestra, opera house, several live theatres, the excellent Embassy Cinema and the national museum Te Papa. There are also regular daily ferry services to the South Island. Christchurch is the largest city in the South Island and is often called the "Garden City". It is most likely the most European of New Zealand's cities. Many activities can be organized from here. Trekking to Mount Cook is just one of the many things you can do. Districts in the North Island: - Auckland Region - Bay of Plenty - Central Plateau - Eastland - Greater Wellington - Hawkes Bay & Wairarapa - Manawatu-Whanganui Region - Taranaki - Waikato Districts in the South Island: - Canterbury - Marlborough - Southland & Otago - West Coast :::::::Niue Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see x The Country Niue is affectionately known as 'the rock' and is reputedly the largest upraised coral atoll in the world. A single land mass in the center of a triangle of Polynesian islands, made up of Tonga, Western Samoa and the Cook Islands, Niue is located 2400 km north-east of New Zealand, on the eastern side of the International dateline and is 11 hours behind Greenwich meantime. The island isolation and coral makeup create an exciting rugged coastline and reef which provides intimate swimming coves as opposed to the typical long stretches of sandy beaches so predominant elsewhere in Polynesia. The landmass of Niue is 259 sq. km, and 13 villages are found along Niue's 67-km circle island road. The whole island is two tiered but is dotted with a myriad of caves that have yet to be discovered. Shaped like a saucer and rising only 65 meters above sea level, Niue is without streams or rivers, and therefore after rain the water filters through the porous coral out into the ocean completely devoid of any silt run-off. This allows the surrounding sea to be crystal clear with dive visibility often up to 70 meters. The flora and fauna are spectacular with butterflies everywhere, and an abundance of bougainvillea, frangipani, hibiscus and orchids. A variety of ferns and profusion of "crows nest" grow amongst wild rhododendron and poinsettia. There is a rich bird life with weka, swamp kens, parakeets and white tailed terns. Start you visit in the capital of Alofi. From there you can start exploring the islands. :::::::::Norfolk Island Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Norfolk island was virtually uninhabited when, in 1774, Captain James Cook fell across it. If you see how small the island is and how big the Ocean around, you understand that a bit of luck was involved, even if you take into account that Cook was a great explorer. Lying 1500 kilometres due east of Australia's Byron Bay, Norfolk and its two satellite islands, are actually part of a gigantic undersea chain of mountains called The Norfolk Ridge, which stretches for 1770 kilo-metres from New Caledonia to New Zealand - but almost all of it is below the surface of the Ocean. Captain Cook described the island as 'a Paradise' - a word he did not use to describe any other of his many discoveries. We can agree with him. Norfolk started its career as an inhabited island as a settlement where convicts worked as slaves and living conditions on this paradise were actually close to those of Hell. Standing today on Queen Elizabeth's Lookout, gazing out over the peacock's-tail colours of Emily Bay and down at the superbly-preserved Georgian residences of Quality Row, one can scarcely comprehend that this was once a place in which were perpetrated some of the worst depravities in the history of British colonialism. From this vantage point you can gaze down on a pristine (and actually bloody tough) 9 hole golf course. (18 holes different tee's) The beaches need a mention as well, the cleanest salt water and softest sand imaginable, the surf here is pretty good too, as if the wind is blowing onshore on one side of the island, you just need to go to the othe for a clean offshore tubes. There's one reef break that is the main surf spot, but also beach breaks as well. Anson Bay is particulary awesome, although the rip can be fierce. Another fascinating aspect of Norfolk's heritage is that this is the home of the descendants of the mutineers of the Bounty. If you pick up Norfolk's slim telephone book, you will find something in the order of 36 families with the surname of Christian or Christian-Bailey, and 31 Buffets, 26 Quintals, 20 Nobbs, 18 Evans, 17 Adams and 8 McCoys. All go back, at least by matrilineal descent, to the mutineers. With so many shared surnames, identification is made easier by the use of nicknames and this is the world's only phone book to use them. Amongst the Christians we have Bodge, Loppy, Smudge, Toofie and Tatie, whilst the Evans boast a Bubby, Diddles, Hunky, Tardy and Pelly! The main attraction of the island consists of natural beauty: beautiful landscapes and wild seascapes. Almost a third of the island is devoted to reserves and national parks. If shopping is your thing the island is tax and duty free, so high end items like Italian leather shoes, French lingerie (think Simone Perele, YSL) and perfumes are super cheap. They also have the cheapest lego in the world. The Underworld lingerie store in the middle of Burnt Pine, which is the main road, is great for personal fittings and to find out what size you actually are! 'DD' not 'C' is always good to know. There's also deep sea kayaking which is new since my last trip there (can't seem to leave the place alone), as well as yoga on the beach before breakfast. ::::::Northern Mariana Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see The Northern Mariana islands are located in the Great Pacific. They consist of a chain of 14 islands nearly 80 km long. The islands are of volcanic origin. The islands are really pretty with many beautiful bays, spectacular cliffs, caves and mountains on all sides. There are numerous coral reefs and the clear water makes them particularly good for diving. Saipan is the largest island with good tourist infrastucture and shopping facilities. Its western shore is encircled by a barrier reef, creating a lagoon with white sand beaches. Attractions on Saipan include the last command post of the Japanese Imperial Army known as Banadero, with World War II cannons, tanks and artillery preserved in a limestone cave. The island of Tinian , 3 miles south of Saipan, has a rugged coastline with tiny coves. The main attraction is the House of Taga, a temple or meeting house associated with the legendary chief Taga. It consists of magnificent stone pillars, carved in the traditional way and transported from nearby coastal areas. Rota is a small and friendly island with a variety of natural attractions. In the main village of Songsong, life is conducted at a leisurely pace. Managha Island and Isleta Maigo Fahang (also known as Bird Island) are beautiful, unspoilt islands, set aside as nature reserves. ::::::::::Palau Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see photo_2 Palau is Micronesia's westernmost island chain and is located 400 miles east of the Philippines . The islands offer great natural beauty, untouched wilderness, intact culture and remoteness; the ideal ingredients for a relaxing holiday. Besides the beaches, the relaxing lifestyle and the diving, the main natural attraction are the Rock islands . This collection of mushroom-shaped islets are largely uninhabited and are located in a large lagoon that harbors one of the world's greatest concentrations of corals, fish and other marine life. Koror is one of the main resorts. It has white sand beaches, swimming pools and top-notch restaurants. On Palau's largest island of Babeldoab , remote waterfalls and hiking trails amid a lush jungle set the stage for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here, along the edges of this dense wildlife, Palauan villages still survive. Palau is a scuba diver's dream. Some of the best diving in the world can be found off Peleliu Island and near German Channel. Blue corner is a place of legend and actually lives up to the rumors. Sharks, and large pelagic fish are seen on most dives. Manta rays haunt the channels. There are many shore based dive guides and there are several live-aboard dive boats in the area. It will take a week to see and enjoy this paradise. :::::::::: Papua New Guinea Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Local Tribesmen Local Tribesmen John Carcano A country that was known to the Europeans from as early as 16th century, modern developments and relations with the outer world are rather recent phenomena in Papua New Guinea. Contacts with the outside world is still peripheral in many places. Most of the interior region of the country is inaccessible by roads and flying or trekking are the only way to reach these places. The phenomenon of great seclusion has in someway helped in preserving the variety, traditions, and lifestyles of its people. The people here speak more than 700 different languages, and you won’t fail to notice this once you arrive in Papua New Guinea. It has a terrain that makes remarkable impression with its diversity, which ranges from high-rise mountains to coral reefs to palm-fringed, white-sand beaches. An average Guinese consider himself more of the Pacific than of Asia. As the development is limited and options for getting high-quality services few, most of the day-to-day necessities come for a higher price than usual. Before venturing out, remember that the country is still facing many problems on the political front and crime rate is high, warranting adequate security precautions. The scuba diving in New Guinea is some of the best in the world. The confluence of 3 oceans brings a vast biodiversity to the reefs. The smallest invertebrates to the largest fish inhabit this underwater wonderland. There are many high quality dive operations and liveaboard dive boats serving the island. ::::::::::::Pitcairn Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Pitcairn Island was discovered in 1767 by the British and settled in 1790 by the Bounty mutineers and their Tahitian companions. Pitcairn was the first Pacific island to become a British colony (in 1838) and today remains the last vestige of that empire in the South Pacific. Outmigration, primarily to New Zealand, has thinned the population from a peak of 233 in 1937 to less than 50 today. Britain's most isolated dependency is composed of five islands: Pitcairn, Oeno, Sandy, Henderson and Ducie. Only the larger island of Pitcairn is inhabited but it has no port or natural harbor; supplies must be transported by rowed longboat from larger ships stationed offshore. ::::::Solomon Islands Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Solomon Islands Solomon Islands People First Net Site The Solomon islands are not that Pacific Paradise: since 2000 a sort of civil war broke out on Guadalcanal and Malaita, and although in october 2000 a peace agreement was reached, there are still a few hotspots on the islands where you might run into "armed groups". When things settle down a bit further visitors to the islands are in for a treat. The Solomons are extremely rich in cultural diversity. Melanesians, Polynesians, Asians, Micronesians and the odd Westerner all call the Solomons home. This exciting mix of cultures makes a visit very interesting. Getting to the Solomons is the hard part. The islands have a well-deserved reputation as possibly the world's best destination for scuba divers, snorkellers and fishing freaks. Despite its long, often bloody history, most historical interest in the Solomons surrounds its pivotal role as a strategic site in the Pacific in WWII. The waters of Iron Bottom Sound (so called because of all the sunken world War II vessels there). Harrington sound are testament to the ferocity and destructive power of battle. For more information see the People First Network www.peoplefirst.net.sb - the section on Provinces contains detailed background and 1000+ searchable photographs. In July 2003, 2500 Police and troops arrived from Australian, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Tonga and other Pacific Nations. Known as RAMSI (Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands) they quickly re-established law and order. Solomon islands is now as safe as any other Pacific country to visit. It is well worth a visit too. Although tourist "resorts" are none existent and accommodation is basic the whole experience of getting there and finding somewhere to stay is part and parcel of the uniqueness of Solomon Islands. ::::::::::Tonga Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Tongan graveyard Tongan graveyard Jenny Mansson The archipelago of "The Friendly Islands" was united into a Polynesian kingdom in 1845. 30 years later it became a constitutional monarchy and a British protectorate in 1900. Tonga acquired its independence in 1970 and became a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. It remains the only monarchy in the Pacific. Located in the South Pacific Ocean, you will find the islands of Tonga about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand. Tonga's climate is tropical, modified by trade winds. The summer season reaches out from december to may, the cool season from may to december. Most of the small islands have limestone base formed from uplifted coral formation; others have limestone overlying volcanic base. two thirds of the population of Tonga live on the island of Tongatapu . This is where the airport is, so you are sure to begin your trip here (unless you come by boat). :::::::: Tuvalu Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see te ramp at nukulaelae atoll te ramp at nukulaelae atoll Toff Tuvalu consists of nine remote atolls in the great Pacific. The islands are low-lying coral formations, covered by coconut palms. The nearest island nations are Fiji to the South, Kiribati to the North, Samoa to the East and the Solomon Islands to the West. In 1995 Tuvalu's population was estimated at 9,900, one third of these living on Funafuti Atoll. Tuvaluans are ethnic Polynesians. With a land area of 30 square kilometres (12 square miles) Tuvalu is reckoned the world's 4th smallest nation. It is a realm of Queen Elizabeth II represented by a Governor General. The Parliament has only 12 members and the Prime Minister leads the party with the most number of seats. Fongafale on Funafuti atoll is the capital of Tuvalu & the administration offices, a hotel, the jail and the hospital are all located there. The main languages are Tuvaluan (related to several languages in the region, especially Samoan) and English. Both languages are taught in schools. ::::::::Vanuatu Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Port Vila Port Vila Jennifer Farthing Vanuatu is a group of 83 islands in the South West Pacific, North East of New Caledonia and North West of Fiji. It is a sovereign republic. The Ni-Vanuatu, as they are known, are peaceful, gentle people, in a country of unique and diverse customs and culture. Tourism provides experiences not found elsewhere in the world - the Pentecost Land Dive and the Toka Ceremony on the island of Tanna are both highlights that draw people from all around the world, together with scuba diving. The most important islands are Santo Antao, Malekula, Pentecost, Ambrym, Efate where you find the capital Port Vila and Tanna. ::::::::Wake Island Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see i Wake Island, part of the United States is located in the Pacific Ocean and uninhabited. The fame of the small Atoll is mostly due to the role it played in WW II. Wake Island was discovered by the Spanish in 1568, visited by the British in 1796 and named after Capt. William Wake, and annexed by the United States in 1898. The island became (1935) a commercial air base on the route to Asia and later served as a U.S. military base. In Dec., 1941, Wake Island was seized by the Japanese. U.S. forces bombed the island from 1942 until Japan's surrender in 1945. Wake Island's flag is the flag of the United States. ________Economy Edit This Economy—overview: Economic activity is limited to providing services to contractors located on the island. All food and manufactured goods must be imported. Electricity—capacity: NA kW note: electricity supplied by the US military Electricity—production: NA kWh note: electricity supplied by the US military __________People Edit This Population: no indigenous inhabitants note: there are no permanent US military personnel on the island; some civilian contract personnel remain (1998 est.) ::::::::::Western Samoa Travel Guide Edit This The best resource for sights, hotels, restaurants, bars, what to do and see Lalomanu Beach Lalomanu Beach Crystal Ibarra The Samoan groups of islands comprise Western Samoa and American Samoa. Both groups of islands were discovered by the same explorer Jacon Roggeveen and share one culture. The islands are known for white sand beaches, rugged forested mountains, steep gorges, numerous waterfalls, lava fields, blowholes, dormant volcanoes and coconut plantations. Many many people think of Samoa thanks to the works of the Scottish author Robert L. Stevenson and his book on the "Treasure Island.". Actually Samoa consists of two major islands and seven smaller ones. Upolu is the most densely populated of the two main islands of Samoa. The Capital of Samoa is Apia , which is located in the north. Also the international airport is located here. The other island named Savaii is a fascinating island and the local people live life at an easy and gentle pace. Total land area is 2934 square km. There is an exclusive marine economic zone covering some 130,000 sq km. The islands are volcanic and dominated by rugged mountain ranges with a 4-5 km skirt of gently sloping fertile land to which is attached a fringe of coral reefs and lagoons that surround the islands. Part or or all of this text stems from the original article at: wikipidia.com |
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GNU Free Documentation License Esso utilizza materiale tratto da http://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oceania Cronologia/Autori: http://it.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Oceania&action=history OceaniaDa Wikipedia, l'enciclopedia libera.
Mappa dell'Oceania
Posizione dell'Oceania nel mondo
In senso stretto, Oceania è un termine utilizzato per indicare l'insieme della Polinesia, Melanesia e Micronesia, una suddivisione poco scientifica adottata da Jules Dumont d'Urville nel 1831. In senso più ampio, con Oceania si intende il continente che comprende anche l'Australia e la Nuova Zelanda. La ripartizione tradizionale dell'Oceania, utilizzata anche dalle Nazioni Unite per dividere il mondo in macroregioni, divide quindi il continente in:
Queste due zone sono:
La maggior parte delle terre emerse di questo continente appartiene all'Australia, ma viene usato il termine Oceania per parlare di questo continente perché sono le acque piuttosto che le terre emerse a collegare le sue varie parti. L'Oceania è il più piccolo dei continenti, e il penultimo per popolazione, dopo l'Antartide.
[modifica] Regioni, Stati e TerritoriPer la maggior parte l'Oceania consiste in piccole isole nazionali, l'Australia è l'unica isola di grandezza particolarmente significativa. Papua Nuova Guinea e Timor Est sono le uniche nazioni con dei confini su terra, con l'Indonesia. Le nazioni dell'Oceania hanno diversi gradi di indipendenza dalle potenze coloniali che le possiedono, e hanno negoziato diversi tipi di accordo. La seguente lista contiene i territori che sono stati classificati come parte dell'Oceania dall'UNESCO; altri sono a volte aggiunti, secondo diverse interpretazioni. Di seguito sono riportati gli Stati e i Territori dell'Oceania per ciascuna delle quattro regioni in cui tradizionalmente si usa dividere il continente.
[modifica] Australia e Nuova Zelanda
[modifica] Melanesia
[modifica] Micronesia
[modifica] Polinesia
(1) Niue ha forti legami con la Nuova Zelanda
[modifica] Densità di popolazioneLista di paesi/dipendenze ordinati a seconda della densità di popolazione in abitanti/km2. Queste cifre includono anche le acque interne (fiumi, laghi, ecc.) quindi possono essere inferiori a quelle presenti nelle schede dei vari paesi.
[modifica] Idrografia
L'Oceania è il secondo continente, dopo quello americano, per ricchezza di risorse idriche in rapporto alla popolazione.
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