 |
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Info
Regions
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Country Guide > Australia and South Pacific > Federated States Of Micronesia | |
|
Social Profile Food & Drink Local specialities include breadfruit (Chuuk) and thin slices of raw fish dipped in a peppery sauce. Pohnpeians have over 100 words for yams and grow them to massive proportions (it may take several men to carry one); yams occupy a central position in local culture. Although some dining rooms serve buffet-style fare, table service is usual and operates at a leisurely pace. Sakau, as it is known on Pohnpei, or kava, as it is known throughout the rest of Polynesia, is made from the root of a shrub which yields a mildly narcotic substance when squeezed through hibiscus bark. There are several sakau bars where visitors can sample it and watch it being made. Alcohol is prohibited on Chuuk (with the consequence that nearby islands are often used as picnic resorts). Nightlife There are good restaurants and a few cinemas in major island centres. Locals and visitors alike enjoy making their own entertainment. Sakau drinking is the most frequent evening activity on Pohnpei. Cultural dances can be arranged through tourist offices or hotels. Most hotels have music, dancing and discos. Shopping Favourite purchases on Chuuk include love sticks and war clubs. Yap people produce colourful grass skirts, lava-lavas woven from hibiscus bark, woven baby cradles, betel-nut pouches and stone money. On Pohnpei, there are elaborate, carefully scaled model canoes and woven items. Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1700. Some stores open Sun 1200-1700. Special Events In Yap, mitmits are feasts accompanied by dancing and exchanges of gifts which are given by villages reciprocally, often after a period of years has elapsed. Liberation Day (Sep 11) in Pohnpei is preceded by a week of sports and traditional events, including canoe racing. Also in Pohnpei, funeral feasts are important events lasting several days. In Kosrae, visitors are invited to participate in Sunday church services. Social Conventions There are considerable variations of custom and belief. Approximately 95 per cent 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. Tipping: Tips are neither encouraged nor expected. |