Micronesia / Federated States of Micronesia – Let’s explore here

What’s it like in Micronesia?

Micronesia is a stunningly beautiful island country in the Pacific composed of 607 islands. Each of its four states; Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae; is centred on one or more main volcanic islands, and all but one state include numerous outlying atolls. The Federated States of Micronesia is spread across part of the Caroline Islands in the wider region of Micronesia, which consists of thousands of small islands divided among several countries.

The land area of the Micronesia is about 1½ the size of the Isle of Man, England, UK, and the population is only about 105,000. The highest point in Micronesia is Mount Nanlaud at 2,566 ft (782 m).

A bit about the history of Micronesia

Early History and Settlement

The Federated States of Micronesia is located in the western Pacific Ocean. The islands were first settled by Austronesian-speaking peoples, likely from south east Asia, over 3,500 years ago. These early inhabitants developed distinct cultures and navigational skills, using canoes to travel between islands. The social structure was organised into systems with strong clan and community ties.

European Contact and Colonisation

The first European to encounter the islands was the Spanish explorer Álvaro de Saavedra in 1528. Over the next centuries, European powers, particularly the Spanish, German, and later the Japanese, established control over the region. Spain claimed the Caroline Islands, of which Micronesia is a part, in the late 19th century. However, after the Spanish–American War in 1898, Spain ceded control of the islands to Germany under the Treaty of Paris.

German and Japanese Rule

Germany governed the islands from the late 19th century until World War I, during which time the region was relatively stable under German rule. After World War I, the League of Nations gave Japan a mandate to control the Caroline Islands, including Micronesia, until the end of World War II. Under Japanese rule, the islands were militarised, and infrastructure was developed, but the local population faced restrictions on their traditional way of life.

World War II and US Administration

During World War II, Micronesia became a major battleground in the Pacific theatre, with heavy fighting between Japanese and American forces. After the war, the United States took control of the islands as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, a US mandate administered by the United Nations. The US established military bases on several of the islands, and the region experienced significant American influence, particularly in terms of defence and administration.

Path to Independence

Throughout the mid 20th century, the people of Micronesia began to push for greater self determination. In the 1970s and 1980s, Micronesia began moving toward independence, culminating in the signing of the Compact of Free Association with the United States in 1986. Under this agreement, Micronesia became a sovereign state, with the US continuing to provide economic assistance and defence protection, while Micronesia gained full self governance.

Modern Day

Today, Micronesia is a self governing country, though it maintains close ties with the United States through the Compact of Free Association. It faces challenges such as limited natural resources, economic dependence on US aid, and the effects of climate change. Its economy is based on subsistence farming, fishing and tourism, but it also relies heavily on remittances and foreign assistance.

Micronesia road trip

We haven’t finished our planning for our road trip through Micronesia yet. When we do though, we’ll post it here, and in the blog. 

Hopefully our journey will improve our knowledge of this intriguing and beautiful country, and enable us to meet some interesting people. We’ll be updating this page at that time – don’t forget to check back 🙂

What’s it like to drive in Micronesia?

They drive on the right hand side of the road in Micronesia. 

We’ve also created a dedicated page to driving abroad, which you might find helpful 🙂

What currency do they use in Micronesia?

In Micronesia they use the US dollar. The use of credit / debit cards is now widespread, although you should take cash in more remote areas. Travellers cheques are accepted in tourist areas. There are ATMs in major tourist areas. 

You should make yourself aware of the amount that your bank charges you for using credit and debit cards abroad. Often credit cards are cheaper for purchasing items directly, and for withdrawing cash from ATMs.

What language do they speak in Micronesia?

They speak English in Micronesia, although there are many other recognised languages. Some of the older generations also speak Japanese.

What time zone is Micronesia in?

Remember, when you’re planning your next trip to take a look at what time zone it’s in.

Do I need a visa to visit Micronesia?

We’ve created a dedicated, more comprehensive page on visas, which you should find helpful. Check it out!

Is wild camping legal in Micronesia?

No, wild camping is illegal in Micronesia.

What plug / socket type do they use in Micronesia?

In Micronesia they use plug / socket types A and B.

Health issues in Micronesia

Is it safe to drink water in Micronesia?

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Micronesia. Bottled water is readily available throughout the country.

What vaccinations are required for Micronesia?

This NHS website is kept up to date with all relevant information on vaccinations in Micronesia.

Phones in Micronesia

What is the country calling code for Micronesia?

The country calling code for Micronesia is +691

What are the emergency phone numbers in Micronesia?

• The emergency number for police in Micronesia is: 911
• In Micronesia, the emergency number for ambulance is: 911
• The emergency number for fire in Micronesia is: 911

If you’ve got some useful info that you’d like to share, let us know! 

And don’t forget to check out all the other pictures!