Federated States of Micronesia

The Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) is an independent sovereign island nation and a compact state in free association with the United States. Located in the western Pacific Ocean, it comprises four main island states – Chuuk (formerly Truk), Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap – each with distinct cultures and geographies, ranging from high volcanic islands to low-lying coral atolls. FSM is renowned for its rich history (especially WWII), exceptional diving on pristine reefs and wrecks, and diverse indigenous cultures.

Here’s a comprehensive overview:

Area: Approximately 702 km² (271 sq mi) of land area spread across a vast oceanic area.
Population: Estimated at around 116,929 people as of July 2025. The population consists primarily of various Micronesian ethnic groups.
Language: The official language is English, but each of the four states has its own indigenous language (e.g., Chuukese, Kosraean, Pohnpeian, Yapese).
Currency: United States Dollar (USD).
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with a roughly even split between Roman Catholicism and various Protestant denominations. Traditional beliefs often coexist.
Capital: Palikir (located on Pohnpei).
Major Cities/Towns: Palikir, Weno (Chuuk), Kolonia (Pohnpei), Tofol (Kosrae), Colonia (Yap).

Attractions & Wonders:

FSM’s attractions are largely focused on its historical significance, particularly World War II, and its pristine natural environment.

Chuuk Lagoon (Truk Lagoon) (Chuuk State): World-famous as the largest underwater graveyard of ships and planes from World War II. During Operation Hailstone in 1944, the US sank a large portion of the Japanese Imperial Fleet. It’s now an incredible and somber diving destination with dozens of intact wrecks, rich with marine life. A must-visit for serious wreck divers.
Nan Madol (Pohnpei State): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient ruined city consists of nearly 100 artificial islets built on a coral reef in a lagoon, made from massive basalt columns. It served as the ceremonial and political seat of the Saudeleur Dynasty. A truly mysterious and impressive archaeological site, often called the “Venice of the Pacific.”
Lelu Ruins (Kosrae State): The ruins of a vast ancient city, constructed from huge basalt stones, similar in style but distinct from Nan Madol. It was the capital of the Kosraean Kingdom.
Yap State: Known for its remarkably preserved traditional culture and unique attractions:
- Stone Money (Rai Stones): Giant donut-shaped limestone disks, some up to 4 meters (13 feet) in diameter, used as traditional currency. Found throughout the island, particularly in village “banks.”
- Traditional Dances: Yapese dances are elaborate and culturally significant, often performed by men and women in traditional attire.
- Manta Rays: Yap is one of the best places in the world to reliably see and dive/snorkel with large manta rays.
Pristine Diving & Snorkeling: Beyond Chuuk’s wrecks, FSM offers vibrant, untouched coral reefs, abundant marine life, and excellent visibility across all states, making it a fantastic destination for divers and snorkelers seeking healthy ecosystems.
Pohnpei’s Waterfalls: The island of Pohnpei boasts several beautiful waterfalls, including Kepirohi Falls, which are easily accessible.
Traditional Wayfinding and Navigation: In some outer islands, traditional navigation techniques using stars, waves, and currents are still practiced.

Architecture:

FSM’s architecture predominantly reflects traditional island building techniques, adapted to the local environment and available materials, alongside some modern and colonial influences in administrative centers.

Traditional Structures:
- Thatched Houses: Village homes are typically constructed from local timber, bamboo, and woven palm fronds for walls and roofs, designed for airflow and to withstand tropical weather.
- Community Houses (Fale, Nakamal, or equivalent): Each island state has its own variations of communal or meeting houses, often more substantial and sometimes decorated.
- Yapese Traditional Structures: Unique to Yap are the impressive traditional men’s houses (Faluw), community houses (Rau), and the “stone money banks,” built with local timber and thatch, showcasing intricate craftsmanship.
Ancient Ruins (Nan Madol, Lelu): These are monumental examples of prehistoric Micronesian engineering, utilizing massive basalt columns to construct artificial islands and ceremonial centers.
Colonial Influences: In some administrative centers like Kolonia (Pohnpei), remnants of Spanish, German, and Japanese colonial architecture can be found, though many structures were damaged during WWII.
Modern Buildings: Limited modern infrastructure exists in the main towns, primarily functional government buildings, small hotels, and shops.

Roads:

Road infrastructure in FSM varies greatly between and within the islands.

Pohnpei & Chuuk: Have the most developed road networks, with paved roads circling parts of the main islands. However, these can still be in varying states of repair, with potholes common.
Kosrae & Yap: Roads are generally less developed, with more unpaved and gravel sections, especially outside the main towns.
Outer Islands: Many smaller and outer islands have very limited or no roads, with travel being primarily by foot or small boats.
Driving Conditions: Driving is on the right-hand side. Speed limits are low, and drivers are generally relaxed. Be aware of pedestrians, local traffic, and varying road quality. Rental cars are available on the main islands.

Hotels:

Accommodation in FSM is primarily aimed at divers and eco-tourists, consisting of small hotels, dive resorts, and guesthouses. There are no large international chain resorts.

Pohnpei:
- Mangrove Bay Hotel (Kolonia): Popular with divers and eco-tourists.
- The Village Hotel (Pohnpei): Known for its unique, traditional-style cottages and views.
- Joy Hotel (Kolonia): Offers basic but comfortable rooms.
Chuuk:
- Truk Stop Hotel: A well-known dive-oriented hotel.
- Blue Lagoon Resort: Another popular dive resort.
Yap:
- Manta Ray Bay Resort (Colonia): A famous dive resort specifically catering to manta ray encounters.
Kosrae:
- Kosrae Nautilus Resort: A popular dive resort.
- Pacific Treelodge Resort: Offers eco-friendly accommodations.

Restaurants:

FSM’s culinary scene is generally simple, focusing on fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood and staple root crops. International cuisine is mainly found in hotel restaurants.

Hotel Restaurants: Most hotels offer dining options with a mix of local and international dishes (often American, Chinese, or Filipino influenced).
Local Eateries: In towns, you’ll find small, local “kai” (food) shops or roadside stalls serving simple, traditional meals.
Fresh Seafood: Abundant and fresh, including various types of fish (tuna, snapper), crab, and lobster.
Markets: Local markets are great places to find fresh fruits, vegetables, and sometimes prepared local dishes.

Cuisine:

FSM’s cuisine is based on traditional Micronesian staples, often cooked simply and with abundant use of coconut.

Staple Foods: Root crops like taro, breadfruit, yam, and cassava are fundamental. Bananas (cooking and eating varieties) are also very important.
Fresh Seafood: A cornerstone of the diet, including various types of fish (often grilled, baked, or made into soups), shellfish, and crustaceans.
Coconut: Used extensively in cooking, for coconut cream, and for drinking fresh coconut water.
Pork & Chicken: Common meats, often served grilled or in stews.
Sashimi: Fresh tuna sashimi is widely available and very popular.
Taro/Breadfruit Chips: Often made and sold locally.
Various Local Soups: Hearty soups incorporating local vegetables and meats.
Tropical Fruits: Wide variety of fresh fruits like mangoes, papayas, citrus, and various local fruits.
Betel Nut: While not food, chewing betel nut (with lime powder and mustard stick) is a widespread cultural practice in some states, particularly Yap.
Fermented Breadfruit: In some areas, breadfruit is fermented for preservation, providing a unique flavor and texture.