Kolonia

Introduction

Kolonia is the biggest town on Pohnpei and although not the capital of Micronesia it is by far the biggest and most important settlement.

Sights and Activities

• Sokeh's Rock, the prominent rock feature visible from Kolonia can be climbed if you feel energetic. It offers some nice views of Kolonia and the island.

Events and Festivals

• Pohnpei Cultural Day - March 31
• FSM Constitution Day - Each of the Federated States of Micronesia have their own constitution day holidays, but the entire island nations celebrates the date, May 10, on which the country’s national constitution was founded in 1979. This is not really a lively festival, but rather a day of rest and relaxation which Micronesians spend at shopping centers and parks on this day off from school and work.
• FSM Independence Day - This November 3 holiday celebrates the nation’s sovereignty and accomplishments since its liberation from its colonizers. Independence Day is marked by all kinds of festive events with music, overflowing feasts and cultural presentations.
• FSM Veterans of Foreign War - Observed November 11, this highly patriotic day in Micronesia commemorates the contributions of veterans who served in the US Armed Forces during the Foreign Wars.
• United Nations Day - Few places celebrate United Nations Day with more fervor than the Pacific Islands of Micronesia. Fairs serving foods around the world and international cultural performances also fill this day celebrating the anniversary of the United Nations charter.
• Liberation Day - September 11 remains a day of celebration on the Pacific Islands of Micronesia, whose citizens still associate this date as the anniversary of the United States WWII victory over Japan. Pohnpei’s main Liberation Day events are sporting competitions among the island’s communities.
• Tree Planting Day - As part of the forestry program in the Federated States of Micronesia, a tree-planting day is observed on June 1 each year in accordance with environmental week and Earth Day.
• Micronesian Culture and Traditions Day - Established to celebrate Micronesia’s cultural and traditional heritage, this day is honored on March 31 every year.

Weather

The climate in Kolonia and the nearby officiall capital Palikir is tropical, with temperatures relatively even at about 80 °F throughout the year during the day and rarely below 70 at night.

The island of Pohnpei where Kolonia and Palikir are located is considered one of the wettest places on Earth, with an average rainfall in excess of 400 inches a year. It is in fact unusual to have a dry day on Pohnpei.

In general, the wet season lasts from July to November, when typhoons can striks the islands as well. The better season for a visit probably is the dry season from December to April.

Getting There

Continental Micronesia provides flights from Guam and Honolulu, touching down in Kosrae, Pohnpei, Yap and Chuuk several times a week. Departure taxes are US$10.

Getting Around

Cars drive on the right in Micronesia. Interestingly though, many of the cars on the road also have the driver's seat on the right. Roads are generally in a poor condition and driver education leaves a lot to be desired. It is not uncommon for cars to stop suddenly in front of you to take on passengers or for pedestrians to practically leap in front of the car. Fortunately, speed limits are very low (40km/h, about 25 miles an hour), ensuring a reasonable level of safety. Nonetheless, drivers are well advised to be alert at all times.

Taxis are abundant, particularly around Kolonia and are a convenient way to get around town.

Bicycles can be a very convenient way to get around due to the relatively slow traffic and small distances. Some hotels may be able to provide a bicycle for your use. Alternatively, buying a cheap one for use while there may be an option.

Eat

• Misko's Restaurant for some excellent seafood
• Coco Marina - Owned by the Neime Company, is a restaurant with an extensive menu of both local and American standards, and the only place on the island to get a proper Caesar Salad. The Hawaiian Style Poke is definitely something to try and the chef, formerly from San Diego, knows how to do a burrito the right way. The menu also features steaks and produce, fresh from Hawaii, and the fish is always fresh. The bar is well-stocked and drinks are potent and inexpensive. It's located across the street from the Australian Embassy and Sea Breeze Hotel. +691 320-5631.

Drink

• Tattooed Irishman - at the Village Hotel. Probably the best view and fanciest bar on the island. A great place to see a sunset. Beer is between $2.50 and $4.

Sleep

Mid-Range

• Seven Stars Inn - One of the popular hotels in Kolonia. Rooms are comfortable and internet usable. Food in the restaurant is very good. It is a short walk into the centre of town. Credit cards accepted.

Upscale

• The Village Hotel is a high end eco-tourism hotel that can arrange tours around the island and diving. They can also offer good tours to Nan Madol. The starting rates for a room or cabin is US$113 a night.

Keep Connected

Internet

There are various internet cafés in the state capitals, providing decent connections at reasonable prices.

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

To call out of Micronesia, use exit code 011, followed by the calling code of the country you are trying to connect to, then the area area (leaving out any 0s) and finally the phone number.

Post

There are post offices on all four states and are open during business hours Monday - Friday. U.S. postal rates apply, so check the United States section for that.

External Links