Arriving Tuvalu
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
About 2 hours and a half hours after leaving Suva, Fiji, the islands of Tuvalu come into sight..
Touching Down At Funafuti
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
An approach where you can see both sides of the island, which at its widest point is probably less than half a mile.
Funafuti International Airport
13 April 2023, Tuvalu
It's one of the coolest and simplest international airports with the most genuinely friendly Immigration and Customs officials. Plus, Visa Free for most countries.
A Balcony View...
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
Of the airport from my hotel which is less than a stones throw away.
Back To Suva
13 April 2023, Tuvalu
Currently, the only flights to Tuvalu are Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from Fiji. However, I'm told there are negotiations to have service from New Zealand starting in the summer of 2023.
The Only Bank
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
With no ATM and it's a "Cash Only" country. The only Tuvalu currency is coins, which are collector items. However, the main currency used here is Australian.
The Octopus
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
Tuvalu 50 cent coin..almost 40 years old that's probably soon to no longer be in circulation.
Flying Fish Net
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
Being locally custom built. Used to skillfully catch flying fish at night to often have for breakfast the next morning.
A Florida Beach Towel
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
In Tuvalu...😏
Possible WW II
13 April 2023, Tuvalu
Artifacts rusting away along the ocean front.
Cemetery and Burial Site
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
Here are many homes that have family members buried right in front of the yard.
Hiking The Highway
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ☀️ 84 °F
It's not really a highway, but it is the main road to the north end of the island.
The Best Dump...
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F
I have ever seen. Actually, on the list of things to see here...
End Of The Island
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F
After about a 3 hour walk, we reach the end of the island after seeing some interesting sights like a lady shaving her legs with a machete.
Dump Sunset..
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F
Not a bad view
The Walk Back..
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F
Fortunately, we only had to hike about a mile back before we were able to hitch a ride from the head of the post office.
Filamona Dinner
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F
First dinner.. Curry Fish with tasty white rice.
For Adventure
13 April 2023, Tuvalu
On certain days, you can take the Inter-Island Ferry that runs north or south and takes about 3-5 days. Depending on the accommodations needed, it will cost you from $60 to $300.
16% Beer...
13 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 84 °F
And the Thursday Nightlife. Empty spot with good music but 16% beer.. Ouch, it is definitely an acquired taste.
Get Connected
14 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F
For about $10 AUD, you can purchase a sim card and get connected. It's not the fastest speed but a great way to stay in touch from a pretty isolated spot on the planet.
A Local Winner...
14 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F
From a popular fishing tournament.
Boating Day Trip
14 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F
Off the island is a Marine Sanctuary that requires a guide from the Town Council. Unfortunately, we're to arrange one so we do the next best thing for an unforgettable experience.
Almost Unreal..
14 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F
So stunningly beautiful..
Island Foliage
14 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F
Unique tree with "Alien Markings"...
Fresh Catch...
14 April 2023, Tuvalu ⋅ ⛅ 82 °F
From some of the most beautiful water I have ever seen.