Best Tourist spots to explore in Kiribati
The Republic of Kiribati is a beautiful independent Island-state that lies in the Central Pacific Ocean with approximately one hundred nineteen thousand of the population.
Kiribati is comprised of 32 atolls (chain of islands formed of coral) and one solitary island namely Banaba. The total land area of Kiribati is 811 square kilometers only.
Abuttal of Kiribati in the Four Hemispheres
It is the only country in the world that is situated in the four hemispheres of the world with its exclusive economic zone. Kiribati straddles three traditional geographic sub-regions; Banaba (Melanesian-Micronesian area), the Gilbert Islands (Micronesia), and the Line and Phoenix Islands (Polynesia).
Kiribati: An Undiscovered Beauty
White sandy beaches and crystal–clear lagoon waters characterize the Republic of Kiribati. It is a remote area of the world, and the tourism industry is very much in its infancy. That in itself is all the more incentive to visit the island sooner rather than later.
Although the isles are relatively unknown, they are dotted with swaying coconut trees, swathed in mild breezes, and seas gleaming in every direction. As a result, it’s difficult to feel anything other than extreme vacation escapism. While lying on deserted beaches is a big lure, Kiribati has an intriguing human and wildlife population.
Capital of Kiribati: Tarawa
Tarawa, the capital, is rapidly becoming one of the most populous areas in the Pacific, while Christmas Island, which covers over half of Kiribati’s landmass, is carpeted with lakes and ponds ideal for game fishing and home to some of the largest bird populations.
Other Islands
Other islands include Phoenix, Line, and Gilbert; Kiribati was known as the Gilbert Islands under British occupation in the 19th and 20th centuries. The islands were held by Japan during World War II, and the US and UK utilized Christmas Island for nuclear weapon testing after the war.
In 1979, the islands gained their independence. Despite Kiribati’s colonial past, several of its islands have stayed mostly unchanged. To this day, the locals subsist on breadfruit, fish, and coconuts. Tarawa’s residents continue to live in elevated thatched huts, as did their ancestors.
However, it doesn’t need to worry about being cut off from civilization entirely, since pubs, theaters, vehicles, and the internet are becoming more common in Kiribati.
The Kiribatian people aren’t much unwelcoming, but the tourists are more likely to be greeted by children than adults, who tend to be wary of visitors. Once you’ve broken the ice, you’ll discover a fascinating culture and plenty of beautiful scenery to explore.
Said tiny nation of 811 Sq Km with many atolls, ranges up to a 3.5 million km square swathe of the Pacific, so swimming costumes are a must.
Attractions in Kiribati: Embrace the Bustle of South Tarawa
Most tourists to Kiribati avoid the city in preference of the archipelago’s pristine beaches. It’s simple to understand why: busy South Tarawa isn’t the most beautiful town, and its tourism infrastructure is limited.
However, if a real taste of local life is to be experienced, visit of local markets and interaction with the locals, advocates this place to visit.
Explore Kiribati’s Underwater Treasures
Kiribati has the distinction of having the world’s biggest coral atoll, and it is a diver’s paradise. The magnificent white sandy beaches and crystal-clear lagoons of the archipelago give way to spectacular coral gardens, most of which come within the Phoenix Island Protected Area, one of the world’s largest marine reserves.
Get a Bird’s-eye view of Kiribati
A “flight-seeing” trip by using already available light aircraft / small planes in the region is an apropos way to get the whole picture of Kiribati. Tours have been taken to the islands of Abaiang, Abemama, Maiana, Marakei and North Tarawa. While the other Islands may also be visited on request.
Go Birdwatching
Birdwatching is popular, especially on Christmas Island, where millions of birds congregate. The archipelago is an important breeding site and refuge for Pacific birds.
It even has its own indigenous species. The Christmas Island Warbler is surmised a Paradise of Birds. The months of June through December are ideal for birding.
Maneaba
Kiribati has a maneaba, or community center, in every village. Maneabas, which are made of coconut wood and pandanus leaves, serves as the administrative offices for the islands’ settlements as well as a venue for traditional dance, singing, and storytelling.
Seasonal Trip to Christmas Island
Actually, one should not have to wait till the festive season to visit this beautiful atoll. Christmas Island covers over half of Kiribati’s land. It is covered in lakes and ponds and it is the home to some of the archipelago’s largest bird populations. The atoll also serves as a gateway to Kiribati’s world-famous coral reefs.
Game Fishing
Game fishing is quite popular on the island, especially on Christmas Island. It’s of world-class standard and has hosted several international game fishing world records. Another big attraction to Kiribati is the abundance of bonefish.
Tourist Application Requirements for a Kiribati VISA
No visa is required for this destination for a stay of up to 30 days. However, keep in mind that while a visa is not required, one must:
- Hold a passport valid at least six months on entry with one blank visa page
- Hold proof of onward/return flights
- Hold all documents required for the next destination
- Hold documents showing proof of travel purpose (e.g., business cover or support letter, conference registrations, tour itinerary, etc.)
- Hold proof of sufficient funds relative to your intended length of stay
- Confirm with your airline that boarding will be permitted without a visa as these conditions are subject to change
The consulate requires direct submission; for this reason, VisaCentral is unable to assist in the applicant’s visa application. One must apply directly to the consulate to obtain the visa.
Further, it has been recommended that one should contact the consulate directly to obtain the most current forms and requirements before making a personal appearance at the consulate.
By keeping COVID–19 preventive measures in view, anyone that is permitted to enter Kiribati will be required to undergo 14 days quarantine. Anyone arriving in Kiribati will be required to present a health declaration. Wearing face masks is not required in Kiribati.
REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The above blog was compiled by Atta-ur-Rehman
M.Phil International Relations
Researcher/scholar
This travel blog post was first shared on www.thediplomaticinsight.com