Map of Tuvalu | Tuvalu Flag Facts | What to do in Tuvalu?
Known as the Sinking Islands, savor the time that Tuvalu has left on this earth. A beautiful country in Oceania with a picture-perfect landscape that you experience once in a lifetime. Unwind all your worries and stress like never before in Tuvalu. A happy, peaceful and pollution-free country with great hospitality and rich colorful culture is waiting for you!
Map of Tuvalu
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Is Tuvalu part of Fiji?
Tuvalu is often confused for being a part of Fiji but in reality, it is 1155kms away. Tuvalu and Fiji maintain close diplomatic relations and the neighboring countries overall work towards matters of mutual interest. Tuvalu lies towards the north of Fiji while sharing a maritime border with each other. In comparison with Fiji, Tuvalu is significantly smaller which often leads to the misconception of it being another city or island of Fiji.
Tuvalu US relations
Tuvalu maintains good relations with the US. Tuvalu, previously known as Ellice Islands, allowed the stationing of several thousand U.S. troops during the Second World War. Tuvalu is not considered a US territory. Tuvalu signed a treaty of friendship in 1979. The two countries collaborate and work together on global and regional issues that spread peace and prosperity among the two nations.
History of Tuvalu
Tuvalu has had several names in the past including Ellice Islands. Ellice Islands came under the rule of Great Britain through the treaty between Germany and Britain regarding the demarcation of the spheres of influence in Oceania. Ellice Islands were all considered a British Protectorate. In 1974 the people of Ellice Islands voted against British dependency which led to the separation of Ellice Islands from Gilbert Islands. Ellice Islands became Tuvalu whereas Gilbert Islanders called their land Kiribati after independence. Tuvalu identifies 1st October as its Independence Day. It became fully independent in 1978 within the Commonwealth.
How many islands are in Tuvalu?
Tuvalu has a little bit of everything within its nine islands. Get to witness beautiful atolls with six out of the nine being them and three of them are reef islands. Other than the bigger islands, there are more than 124 smaller islands and islets around the atolls. Tuvalu is the fourth-smallest country in the world.
Tuvalu Flag Facts
Tuvalu means eight together which refers to the eight inhabited islands. The stars represent the nine islands which comprise Tuvalu. The flag was adopted right after the independence of the country in 1978 after its separation from the Gilbert Islands in 1976. Tuvalu’s current flag was designed by Vione Natano and the flag holds great resemblance to that of Fiji.
Meaning and Colors of Tuvalu Flag
Tuvalu’s flag uses a total of 5 colors: red, navy blue, white, light blue and yellow. On the top left corner is a flag of the UK like several other British dependent countries. The rest of the space of the flag is sky blue with nine yellow-gold stars scattered in a geographically accurate way to represent the nine islands that Tuvalu is composed of.
Population of Tuvalu
Being one of the smallest countries in the world, the population of Tuvalu is not a lot. With around 11,508 people on the islands, you would think that they will all be scattered around with a lot of space but contrary to popular belief, they all stick together. Despite the global warming threat of the country potentially drowning someday, Tuvaluans value their freedom and culture so much that the migration rate of Tuvalu is very low.
Languages of Tuvalu
Tuvalu has two official languages English and Tuvaluan. Tuvaluan language belongs to the Ellicean group of Polynesian language which is related to Hawaiian, Tahitian, Rapa Nui, Samoan etc. Tuvaluan language is greatly influenced by the Samoan language with several words being common in both the languages. English is not spoken normally, only when needed whereas Tuvaluan is used for basic everyday communication.
Interesting Facts about Tuvalu
Tuvalu is a unique place especially with its title as the sinking islands. The place is not too above sea level and now there is merely a difference of 3 meters. Other than that, Tuvalu can be your break from the outside world with the kind of peace that you have never experienced before. Here are some of the interesting facts about Tuvalu
- There are no natural rivers or streams in Tuvalu so people collect rainwater for drinking purposes. During a dry spell, it was declared a state emergency and New Zealand aided Tuvalu with supplies and desalination units.
- There are no ATMs, yes. People of Tuvalu mainly prefer cash as their mode of payment so when you are in Tuvalu, you will have to carry Australian dollars with you.
- Tuvalu does not have an army. There are only 22 countries in a similar position . Due to the small size of the country, there was never a need for one.
- You don’t have to apply for their Visa. Anyone from any country can visit Tuvalu.
What to do in Tuvalu?
Savor what you can of the sinking islands. Tuvalu is nothing like the usual countries that you are used to. With a population so low, you will feel like it is a small country. The place, however, has a lot more to offer despite its small size
- Funafuti – The narrowest part of this island is only 20m! It is the largest island of the country with hotels and resorts for visitors to stay. Funafuti also has several islets with breathtaking views.
- Marine Conservation Park – The conservation park is formed by joining six smaller islets and it is one of the famous attractions of Tuvalu. You can snorkel and see the marine life in all its glory.
- WWII Wreckage Site – Are you a fan of history? If yes, then you will love this place with fascinating equipment and pieces of war vehicles left behind.
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