Wow, looking back at when I wrote my last blog, it has been quite some time since I have kept up with my travels. Shame on me for not finishing writing about my adventures in Kauai. Maybe someday I will find the time to get back to that.
Anyway, here we are at the start of a new year. It's 2013, and my husband Rod and I are gearing up to lead a group of scuba divers to the wonderfully warm waters just above the Equator in the Pacific. Specifically the countries of Chuuk (Truk) and Palau, in the region known as Micronesia. With only 15 days left in the countdown to departure, I'd best get my act together and write a little about the history, culture, flora/fauna and diving of these beautiful islands and what to expect during our short visit there. So let's get started with a brief overview of the island of Chuuk.
Where in the world is Chuuk you ask? Well, let's find out.
Oceania is a region on our globe which encompasses the tropical coral atolls and volcanic islands of the South Pacific. Oceania is comprised of the ethnic subregions of Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. Micronesia is further broken down into the Caroline, Gilbert, Mariana, Marshall, Nauru, and Wake Islands. Furthermore, the Caroline Islands are politically divided into the Republic of Palau and the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM). And finally, FSM is divided into the states of Chuuk, Kosrae, Phonpei, and Yap. Wow, didn't know the answer would be so complicated, did you? For those interested, the word Micronesia is derived from the Greek words mikros meaning small and nesos meaning island. You have probably derived by now this region is indeed comprised of many small islands.
Physically located at 7°25'N 151°47'E, Chuuk is just north of the Equator, approximately halfway between Hawaii and the Philippines, and just over 600 miles southeast of Guam. The state of Chuuk is comprised of 40 municipalities; 16 fall within Chuuk Lagoon and the remaining 24 are among the outer islands. The main population of Chuuk resides within the lagoon. Chuuk Lagoon is created from the large archipelago of mountainous islands surrounded by a string of islets on a barrier reef. Weno, the island on which we will be residing during our short stay, is the main center of commerce, as well as the state capital.
Being so close to the Equator, Chuuk is blessed with a wonderful tropical climate and gentle trade winds. Temperatures average from a low of 75°F to a high of 85°F pretty much year-round. Water temperatures generally remain in the low 80°'sF. Rainfall is heaviest during the rainy season of May through November. With such a moderate climate, life follows a slower and more relaxed pace. Pack comfortable clothing, but leave the short shorts behind. If wearing your swimsuit anywhere other than at your resort, make sure to cover up with a t-shirt. Respect for elders and modesty are highly emphasized in Chuukese culture. Observe cultural norms, dress conservatively and use your manners, and you should enjoy a pleasant visit.
Chuuk's natural beauty is amazing, but please keep in mind this is a poor country and as a visitor you should adjust your expectations accordingly. Roads are not in the best of conditions and trash along the roadside is not unusual. On the larger islands, such as Weno, it is suggested you avoid going out alone after dark, especially the ladies, because the men may behave more aggressive in seeking attention. They may over-react by our standards if they feel their ego is offended or the reputation is being questioned. Chuuk is renowned for its wreck diving, but beyond that, there is not a lot of other things to do. Staying close to your resort is standard fare for most visitors.
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