Tuvalu

Tuvalu is a scattered group of nine small atolls in the western Pacific Ocean extending about 560km (350 miles) from north to south. The main island, Funafuti, is also the capital and lies 1920km (1200 miles) north of Suva, Fiji. Tuvalu, the world’s second-smallest country and, according to the United Nations, one of the least developed, fulfils the classic image of a South Sea paradise. Visitors come to the islands to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and palm-fringed beaches. Pandanus, papaya, banana, breadfruit and coconut palms are typical. Most activity is centred in the capital, Funafuti, where the greatest attraction is the enormous Funafuti Lagoon. The lagoon is 14km (9 miles) wide and about 18km (11 miles) long and is excellent for swimming and snorkelling. The second most populated island in the atoll is Funafala, which can be visited by hopping aboard the Funafuti Island Council’s catamaran. There are no shops whatsoever in Funafala, so visitors should take their own provisions. Traditional buildings with thatched roofs can be seen virtually everywhere on the islands. There are fortnightly discos (‘twists’) at the Vaiaku Lagi Hotel.