Western Pacific Ocean.

Owing to the vast area covered by the islands, Micronesia spans two time zones:
Chuuk and Yap: GMT + 10.
Kosrae and Pohnpei: GMT + 11.

Kosrae (five islands) – 110 sq km (42 sq miles); Pohnpei (163 islands) – 344 sq km (133 sq miles); Chuuk (formerly Truk) (294 islands) – 127 sq km (49 sq miles); Yap (145 islands) – 119 sq km (46 sq miles). Total: 702 sq km (270.8 sq miles).

107,862 (2007).

156 per sq km.

Palikir (Pohnpei). Population: 35,000 (2005).

The Federated States of Micronesia lie 3,680km (2,300 miles) north of Australia and 4,000km (2,500 miles) west of Hawaii. They comprise 607 islands scattered over 1.6 million sq km (617,761 sq miles), the most widely spread Pacific Islands group. Yap’s uplands are covered by dry meadows and scrub growth. Chuuk lagoon is circled by one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, while Pohnpei has mountains rising to over 600m (2,000ft).

Federal Republic since 1980. Gained self-governing status (in free association with the USA) in 1986.

President Immanuel Mori since 2007.

Immanuel Mori was elected as the country's seventh president in May 2007, replacing Joseph Urusemal.

English; Micronesian languages, including Chuukese, Kosrean, Pohnpian and Yapese, are widely spoken.

Mostly Roman Catholic (50%), Protestant (47%) and other Christian denominations (3%).

120 volts AC, 60Hz. Plugs are of the round two-pin type.

There are considerable variations of custom and belief. Approximately 95% of Kosreans are Congregationalists with a deeply held respect for Sunday as a day of rest. Pre-European influences are stronger elsewhere and nowhere more so than in Yap where visitors are only allowed with prior permission. Use of islands, paths, beaches etc may also require permission in many areas; it is best to check beforehand.

Photography: Permission should always be sought. Though people are friendly, and usually accommodating, not to seek prior permission before taking pictures is considered an insult, especially on some of the more remote islands.