The State of Kosrae is one of four states in the Federated States of Micronesia and, as well as the island of Kosrae, consists of several islands and islets, the most significant being Lelu Island.
Roughly triangular in shape, Kosrae covers an area of approximately 110 square kilometres.
The most eastern of the Caroline Islands, Kosrae has a population of less than 6000 people and is located north of the equator between Guam and the islands of Hawaii. The coral reefs that surround the island are kept in a pristine condition through an extensive mooring buoy system and the area is becoming a favourite destination for scuba divers from all around the world. The island’s interior is covered with deep vegetation and steep mountains that keep it largely undeveloped.
European contact with Kosrae in 1824 reported a highly stratified society that was typical of the surrounding islands at that time. Its cultural features included matrilineal lineage and clans with a feudal structure of nobles who controlled the land that was worked by commoners. The settlements consisted of small groups of relatives who shared a single cookhouse, usually with at least one earth oven.
The first missionary post was established in 1852 after American missionaries felt the need to protect the people of Kosrae from the large numbers of whalers and beachcombers who had made the island, which they considered a paradise, their home.
Even today religion plays an integral role in the culture of Kosrae. Sunday is considered a day of rest and most stores and shops are closed on that day.
In 1874, the slave trader William “Bully” Hayes was shipwrecked on Kosrae when his ship was stuck in Lelu harbour during a storm. During his stay of several months on the island, Bully terrorised the local people. He was finally arrested by Captain Dupuis aboard the HMS Rosario but managed to escape on a boat built of timber from the wrecked ship.
Traditional foods on the island include breadfruit, coconut, banana, taro, yam and sugarcane. Woodcarving, traditional canoe and cottage construction, fishing, farming and fine weaving using hibiscus, pandanus and coconut palms continue to be an integral way of life on the island.
The weather in Kosrae is warm and humid throughout the year with an average temperature of 25˚C and rarely exceeding 32˚C. It has two distinct seasons, dry and rainy and during the rainy season, November to April, be prepared for showers every day.
Casual and summer clothing is worn throughout the year although swimsuits and shorts are not acceptable in the villages. Be respectful — cover your shoulders and knees, and don’t forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
Kosrae is a wonderful gem, yet to be discovered by most modern travellers. A visit guarantees the experience of a lifetime — from the unhurried, friendly lifestyle and warm, island hospitality that are as unforgettable as the magical Micronesian sunsets.
