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 Tarawa : Tarawa is as densely populated as Hong Kong, the most densely populated area in Oceania, and has a unique terrain made of a triangular collection of islands with a coral reef surrounding a central lagoon and making the third side of the capital area. Some of the sights include the sail-like profile of the new Parliament House on Bairiki, the World War II relics on Betio in the southwest, and the unique sandy golfing on Ambo. |
 Gilbert Islands: Around Tarawa lie the Gilbert Islands giving a variety of experiences. Among the best is Butaritari, meaning “smell of the sea” and about 60 miles northwest of Tarawa, was made famous by its role in World War II and the subsequent movie Gung Ho starring Ronald Reagan and is home to canoe trips through the reefs, rusted war relics, and the largest town outside the capital with 2000 residents. Abemama, only 50 miles from Tarawa to the southwest, has a scattered collection of World War II relics and was visited by the Scottish literary icon Robert Louis Stevenson whose wife designed the flag. Tabiteuea, meaning “Chiefs are forbidden” and about 250 miles from Tarawa, is one of the most populated of the outer islands and has a strong traditional culture. |
 Christmas Island: Kirimati Island, more commonly known as Christmas Island, is around 2025 miles to the east of Tarawa and is the largest coral atoll in the world. Coconut plantations, fish farming and a solar water desalination plant, which also provides the area with salt, all help to sustain the island grouping and keep visiting tourists content at the hotel. On the eastern coast is the Bay of Wrecks pockmarked with partially grounded ships and worth a visit to scuba dive and explore. The rest of the Southern Line Islands are coral islands that in their past have either been mined for phosphates, stationed by British military forces or now house small coconut plantations. |
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Security: Kiribati is a safe place to visit, but like many places, it's best to keep your wits about you when travelling through the back roads.
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Local Customs: Locals politely refer to each other by their first name helping to keep the society both informal and friendly, and to fit in, wear your beachwear only at the beach.
Cash On Hand: While traveller's checks are usually accepted at banks in the capital Tarawa, credit cards are not usable, so carry some Australian dollars while you are here.
When To Visit: Watch the sky, as the rainy season is quite rainy and the typhoons make the beaches uncomfortable at best. September to October and April to May are the best times to visit and enjoy the best of the weather.
Food: Kiribati cuisine is cased on the local fruits and vegetables, like coconut, taro and sweet potato, alongside local poultry or seafood. Curries are common, and more international foods are becoming more common in the urban areas, while the sour toddy is popular with the locals.
Tipping: Tipping is not required as a 10% service charge is included in your bill appropriately.
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Kiribati
