Tuvalu Islands

The mysterious and wonderful island of Tuvalu means gorgeous landscapes, warm sea and clean beaches, all in one word - a true earthly paradise. Tuvalu is a real happy island, which is vivid by the smiles on every single inhabitant on this island. Tuvalu is a group of five small atolls (Funafuti, Nukufetau, Nukulaelae, Nui and Nanumea) and four islands (Niutao, Nanumanga or Nanumaga, Vaitupu and Niulakita) located in the western Pacific Ocean. Though Tuvalu consists of nine islands, it didn't hinder the locals to name it Tuvalu, which means "a series of eight". Tuvalu is a gorgeous travel destination with snow white sandy beaches, fine tropical weather and enhancing waters.

The main attraction of Funafuti is the huge lagoon, where the island is situated. It is very catching to charter a small boat and go to the island Funafala or any other uninhabited island in the southern end of the lagoon, where the nature is virtually untouched. The Marine Park of Funafuti Marina, which was recently announced as a national park by the South Pacific Regional Environment Program, is one of the most unusual reservations of the earth. Composed of six islets, the park is abounded by many species of tropical fish, sea birds and turtles.

Nanumanga is a real "Mecca" for scientists and one of the best places in the region for underwater archeology. Special attention should be paid to the fact that among the islanders of Tuvalu there are many people, who still believe in the legend of "the big house under the sea", supposedly, the former abode of the demigods.

Nukulaelae Island or "the land of sand", as it is known, lies 120 km south-east from Funafuti. This atoll is widely known as the location of a single pre-Christian religious site in the islands. However, until today, only a large stone altar has remained from it, standing in the bush. As for the question who built this "altar", the researchers still argue. One thing is certain - they were the famous "Sea Peoples", the ancestors of many modern tribes of Oceania.

The atoll of Nui is considered to be one of the most quiet and tranquil islands of Tuvalu. The coconut palms, the astounding lagoon, coral reefs and the fresh fish delivered on the dining table are really great temptations and many tourists chose this atoll when coming to Tuvalu. This is where tourists should try the traditional local cuisine. And the waters in this coast are rich in marine life, perfectly suiting for diving.

Niulakita is considered to be the best place in Tuvalu to discover the traditional game of the islanders - "kilikiti" or "Te-ano" ("ball"), reminiscent of a mixture of baseball and volleyball. The surrounding waters, though poorer in coral reefs than the northern islands, are rich in migratory oceanic species, like whales and manta rays, and albatrosses and other birds. Holidays in Tuvalu Islands are going to be extraordinary for sure. Active rest lovers will like the idea that the islanders are fond of dancing, music and organize lots of festivals like the colorful festival of Easter and Christmas, Tuvalu Day or the day of independence, National Children's Day (August 3). On the children's day, the children of the village organize some kind of gala concerts for the locals. Tuvalu people celebrate also the birth of the Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Commonwealth Day, as a member of the British Commonwealth. Making Tuvalu Islands their travel destination tourists will be satisfied as the gorgeous rest here is guaranteed for sure.