Tuvalu

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Tepuka Islet, Tuvalu

Introducing Tuvalu

In a stunning approach from the air, the islets of tiny Tuvalu appear like a mirage in the vastness of the Pacific. Barely higher than the surrounding ocean, and capped with a fringe of coconut palms, it's easy to understand why rising sea level due to global warming is a major concern here.

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Time moves at its own pace on the five atolls and four islands of this sun-stunned nation. The weight of heat requires immediate retreat to the shade; it's impossible to move or even to think fast. Change down a gear, and enjoy the lack of hustle and bustle.

Formerly known as the Ellice Islands, the huge changes in Tuvalu over recent years are nowhere more evident than on Fongafale, the capital of Funafuti Atoll. Cars are overtaking bicycles and feet as the preferred form of transport, and an increasing population density and move away from subsistence traditions are bringing other challenges. Meanwhile, you can join the locals by taking a nap in the afternoon before a sunset float in the lagoon. If time is really no object, venture to the outer islands, where life is even more laid-back.

Last updated: Mar 2, 2009

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Thorn Tree forum discussion

Recent posts

  1. TheDevil avatar
    The Queen

    by TheDevil 18 May 2012

    As she is head of state of the UK and Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, Belize, Papua New Guinea, St Christopher…
  2. tools4fools avatar
    RE: Top Ten Least Visited Countries

    by tools4fools 05 May 2012

    Kiribati and Tuvalu. On my friends sailing cat. Fantastic.
  3. PerthDiver avatar
    RE: Top Ten Least Visited Countries

    by PerthDiver 04 May 2012

    That's why Tuvalu sold the rights to their internet domain extension .tv They made heaps out of it!

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