Travel Deals
Kids, Kirabati
© Creative Commons / luigig
Kiribati Travel Guide
Key Facts
Geography
Area:
810.5 sq km (312.9 sq miles).
Population:
85,000 (UN estimate 2005).
Population density:
104.9 per sq km.
Capital:
South Tarawa atoll (including Bairiki, the capital town). Population: 42,000 (UN estimate 2003).
Government:
Republic. Gained independence from the UK in 1979.
Head of state:
President Anote Tong since 2003.
Head of government:
Presidential elections were held in July 2003, in which Anote Tong defeated his older brother, Harry. The president has identified rising population levels, youth unemployment and the threat from climate change as the country's key issues. Tong was then returned to government in 2007 elections.
Electricity:
240 volts AC, 50Hz.
White sandy beaches and crystal-clear lagoon waters characterise the Republic of Kiribati: 33 coral islands scattered across the Pacific. Kiribati is remote, and the tourism industry remains very much in its infancy.
However, with the isles peppered with swaying coconut palms, swathed in balmy breezes, and waters glistening in every direction, it is hard to feel anything other than intense holiday escapism.
While lazing on desolate beaches is a huge draw, Kiribati does have an increasing population of both human and wild life.
Capital Tarawa is fast becoming one of the most densely populated areas in the Pacific, while Christmas Island, stretching for almost half the land mass of Kiribati, is carpeted with lakes and ponds great for game fishing, and boasts some of the largest colonies of birds.
Do you have any Feedback about this page?
© 2013 Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission, click here for information on Columbus Content Solutions.