Category: Tuvalu

Tuvalu was called as Ellice Islands, Polynesian island country situated in Pacific Ocean. The nearest neighbors of Tuvalu are Nauru, Samoa, Fiji and Kiribati. The island country consists of 4 reef islands as well as 5 true atolls. The first settlers of Tuvalu were the Polynesians. In the year 1568, Spanish discovered the island and during the end of 19th century, British took the control of the island. Britain administered the islands as a protectorate from the year 1892- 1916. From 1916-1974 the island became the part of British colony Gilbert and Ellice Islands. Tuvalu got full independence in the year 1978 within Commonwealth.

The country is a Commonwealth realm and constitutional monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II is the head of the state. Queen is represented by the Governor General who is appointed by Queen. Governor General is appointed according to the advice of the Prime Minister of the country. The unicameral parliament is known as the Fono/Fale consists of fifteen elected members and the members will select the Prime Minister of the country. Prime Minister is the head of the government. Governor General appoints the cabinet on the advice of Prime Minister. Each island has a high-chief who is known as ulu-aliki with many sub-chiefs as well as elders. All the elders together form te sina o fenua. High court is the highest court of Tuvalu.

The economy of Tuvalu depends on fishing and subsistence farming. The revenues of the government is coming from the sales of stamps, coins, worker remittances and fishing licenses. The population of the country is more than 11,000 and the ethnicity of the people is mainly Polynesian and others are Micronesian. Around 97% of the people are following Christianity and other religions are Islam, Baha’i and Seventh-Day Adventists. The official language of the country is English, but not used daily. Majority of the Tuvaluans speak Tuvaluan language.

Untouched beauty of nature is the major attraction of Tuvalu. The country has coral reefs, beaches and beautiful lagoons. Tuvalu does not possess mountains and waterfalls. You can see remains of World War II such as the old runway of Nanumea, remains of planes and wreckage on a reef near Numea village. In Nukufetau, there are plane wrecks and second runway. The main base of the soldiers was Fongafale Island where you can find some war relics and an underground bunker. Tourists can enjoy the marine life that consists of colorful fish found in larger lagoons. Many of the islands are the nesting sites of turtles and other marine animals like dolphins, whales and large sharks can be seen.

Archaeological sites are found on Nukulaelae atoll where you can find a large altar made of stone which was supposed to be a site used for sacrifice. The big Gothic-style church situated at Nanumea with high steeple and windows made of stained glass is worth visiting. Nanumea has a lagoon which can be used for the safe anchorage of yachts. Nui is an island with a small lagoon having coral outcrops and many sandy beaches lined with palm trees.