Kiribati is a small country made up of several islands in the Pacific Ocean. The country is known for its beaches, its nature only unaltered by man and by its traditional culture.
The Republic of Kiribati consists of a coral island and 32 atolls. The country lies on both sides of Ecuador and bordering the International Date Line Change Date. The country became independent in 1979 and 21 of the 33 islands are inhabited.
The country used to be on both sides of the International Date Line Change Date, until the government took the decision to change the line to the east. This step enabled the nation to be the first country to enter the third millennium, an event which attracted many tourists.
Caroline Island was the first to enter the new millennium, and it is now known as Millennium Island. Interestingly, Kiribati is the only country in the world is found in both hemispheres and both sides of 180th meridian.
The Gilbert Islands are the most populous areas of the country. However, many other islands are uninhabited islands, as most of the Phoenix Islands and some of the Line Islands.
One of the most famous islands is Kirimati Island or Christmas Island, known for its wide range of water sports offered. On Christmas Island also offers several cultural activities. The most common activities are fishing and bird watching, because the island still retains its nature. Other joint activities are diving and snorkeling.
Banaba Island belongs to the Gilbert Islands. This island is the country’s highest point, a hill just 81 meters in height.
The Phoenix Islands belong to this group of atolls. These beautiful islands are now known as the largest marine nature reserve in the world.
The capital is Tarawa. The natives, known as the I Kiribati, make up the bulk of the population. They even have their own language, Gilbertese, although English is the official language. Tarawa is famous for being the place where they held the Battle of Tarawa during World War II. There are several museums dedicated to the theme of the battle on the island. However, what stand out are its beautiful beaches.
Abaiang atoll is north of the main islands. The coral atoll is famous for its stunning lake that invites visitors to relax. A few meters from this atoll are the Bingham Canal, which connects the lagoon to the majestic Pacific Ocean.
In general, Kiribati culture is based around family values, the church and the sea. The music and dance form an important part of the country’s culture. There are several types of dance from the dance standing Kaimatoa you, to the dance of the hips, Te Buki. The country also has its own martial art power, which includes the disciplines of Nabakai, Nakara and many others.
Tourism forms an important part of life in Kiribati. Among the most popular activities include tours of the many gaps. The islands are also home to several museums, and excursions through the points that were made during the Second World War. For the more adventurous, tours are organized by plane, from where tourists can admire the beauty of the coral islands.