Micronesia

Pacific

In the Western Pacific, just east of Philippines, lies one of the most exotic beautiful areas on earth - Micronesia. This oceanic region is made up some 2,100 islands scattered across broad expanse of cobalt blue Pacific Ocean. The most intriguing aspect of Micronesia is this area's diversity, both above and below the ocean's surface. Not only are the islands different, their people are as well. There are literally dozens of different cultures, each of which has its own language and distinct customs.

Blessed with rich volcanic soil, moderate temperatures , plenty of rain, and lots of equatorial sunshine, the islands of Micronesia are gardens of teeming life, flowers, unusual plants and stands of dense tropical forest cover the mountainous islands in a green cloak. Along brilliant white sand beaches, coconut palms sway gracefully in soft trade winds and rain fed streams trickle down from the mountainous heights, forming lovely waterfalls as they move inexorably toward the sea. Where they meet, quiet bays lined with mangroves form. These are the natural nurseries that support the region's incredible array of marine life.

Life abounds in the deep waters and complex reef systems surrounding these beautiful islands. The rich diversity of creatures that thrive in the Western Micronesian islands of Truk, Yap and Palau are unique and exciting. Indeed, few places on earth can offer such a vast collection of marine creatures, from the largest to the smallest, all found in clear, bathtub-warm (in the mid 80s *F) water.