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If you want to be ahead of the crowd - find out where Micronesia is. Between Hawaii and Guam, Micronesia is still one of the few remaining paradises in the world. Because there are few visitors, the island and lagoon are pristine. You won't believe the island or the healthy reef until you see for yourself. Jet strips are on each major island, English is spoken, American money is used, the electricity is 120 volts, and taxis cost $2. And all this is in the tropics! If going back in time appeals to you, the Village on Pohnpei is how island living used to be. Breezes blowing through the bungalows bring you the coolness of the lagoon - tropical living should always be this easy!

This is a place to really let go. The noisiest things you may hear are the pounding of the sakau stones, the occasional rains at night and the birds chirping at dawn. The world is at your feet - just waiting.

Pohnpei is almost in the center of the Continental Island Hopper route. The 737 jets land on Pohnpei every day of the week, and there's a turn-around flight from Guam early Monday morning.

Because most tourists stay in Hawaii or Guam, travelers to Pohnpei are few. You might call Pohnpei, and the rest of Micronesia, off the beaten path. It certainly is true of the Village.

No-where else can you find a resort so dedicated to eco-tourism. Although hot water exists in each wooden bathroom and shower, 120 volt electricity is in every bungalow, and the thatch roofs overhead keep the rain away. Each bungalow includes a white overhead fan, white wicker chairs and large spaces to move around in.
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You'll see pictures of the Village at <www.thevillagehotel.com>. There are more things to do on Pohnpei than there is time for. One of the most important things to do is a boat trip to Nan Madol. The boat trip, winding around the coral heads in the lagoon, is an adventure by itself. The mysterious city of Nan Madol, consisting of 129 islands, was started 700AD and finished in 1500AD. It's a mysterious  old fortress city of basaltic stone "logs" carried from the far side of the island. How they were transported, no-one knows for sure. On the boat trips, kayaks can be taken if the tide allows. After paddling through the canals of Nan Madol, a visit to Keperhoi waterfall is in order. A dip at the base of the waterfall is guaranteed to take all your cares away.

Lunch is served on a small sand islet. Snorkeling is available from there, and you can see the wonders of the coral gardens in front of you. At least half of the beauty of Pohnpei is underwater.

In addition to boat trip to Nan Madol and Keperhoi , trips and hikes to old Japanese fortifications and to other waterfalls are available.

Although souvenirs can be had at the Village gift store, a trip to the carvers and weavers in Porakiet village in Kolonia is strongly recommended.

You just have to see Micronesia to believe it. This is one of the world's last frontiers.
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