Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands, also known as Majol is an island nation in the Central Pacific Ocean. There are more than 1200 islands and islets in two parallel chains of coral atolls.
Marshall Islands were settled around the beginning of the Christian era, some 2000 years ago by Micronesians. The islands were later sighted by a Spanish navigator in 1529. British naval captains explored the Marshall Islands in 1788 and did some mapping. More mapping was done by Russians in the early 1800s.
U.S. and Hawaiian missionaries began efforts to convert the islanders in the mid-1800s, and even Germany had influence in the islands in the late 1880s.
In 1914, Japan occupied the Marshall Islands. From 1947 to 1986, the United States administered the islands. In 1986, the Marshall Islands became a sovereign nation known as the Republic of the Marshall Islands, which continues a close relationship with the United States through a Compact of Free Association.
To get to the Marshall Islands, there are two major airlines flying in daily, United Airlines and Nauru Airlines. Air Marshalls fly routes between the atolls in small commuter propeller planes.
The only two islands that have an international airport are Majuro and Kwajalein. Boats are also used to traverse between the atolls. Government owned ships make scheduled trips between the islands, and other commercial cargo lines service the islands. Majuro has a commercial dock complex, and many of the outer islands have lagoons that ships can anchor in.
Marshall Islands offers tremendous outdoor activities that are exciting, adventurous, historic, and culture-related. The beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world and are surrounded by crystal clear water for swimming, snorkelling, and wildlife viewing. The water remains warm all year long.
There are many historic sites from WWII scattered among the outer islands and day trips and longer excursions can be made to these sites from the capital city of Majuro. Other adventurous activities include joining in on year-round cultural events and engaging with friendly locals.
Visitors also enjoy shopping for local handicrafts with an array of beautiful baskets, jewellery and decorations. The islanders are known for their weaving using pandanus leaves, coconut fonds and shells.
Throughout the Marshall Islands there are many choices for hotel or bed and breakfast accommodation. On Majuro you will discover a range of hotels with a variety of services and rooms.
There are also many exciting opportunities to experience the outer islands and distant atolls and to meet the people of the Marshall Islands.
