MICRONESIA

– 115 – www.paradises.com biodiverse underwater environments, which make scuba diving here excellent. Birds and plants abound on all of Micronesia's islands. The sights Geologically, culturally and naturally diverse, the islands of Micronesia offer a wide range of natural and man-made attractions to suit every taste. These differ from pristine underwater environments and lush island landscapes to sprawling resort areas with shopping and nightlife. Where to stay Each island differs in accommodation. The more developed islands such as Guam, Saipan and Palau have international hotels. Rota also has several new hotels and a resort with an 18–hole golf course. In the Marshall Islands guest accommodation on some of the outer islands is in traditional thatched huts with few amenities. Food and entertainment The islands that are best equipped for tourism offer world-class seafood restaurants. In Guam, Palau and Saipan enjoy a variety of cuisine including American, Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Filipino, Mexican and Chamorro. In Pohnpei try the local drink, sakau. In Chuuk sample Japanese and local cooking while in Rota indulge in the best of the traditional Chamorro cooking. In the Marshall Islands, American, Western-style cooking and Chinese cuisine go hand in hand with Marshallese specialties. Activities Comprising approximately 2000 islands and atolls, Micronesia caters for all levels of diving. Here's a taste of what you can expect to find at the various destinations. Guam has an exceptional underwater world. The water is crystal clear, with 60 metres visibility commonplace, and you can expect to see coral gardens teeming with fish life, a unique blue hole and caverns. There are several wrecks of historical importance here including a Japanese Zero. Also, the remains of a Spanish galleon, the world's largest side paddle-wheeler, and a 230–metre passenger liner can be found layered on top of each other. You can also trace the remains of both world wars at the double wreck of the Cormoran, a WWI German Gunboat, and the Toka's Maru, a Japanese freighter from WWII. Saipan is famed for its beaches and

• Cover