Chuuk
is an island group in the south western part of the Pacific
Ocean. It comprises one of the four states of the Federated
States of Micronesia (FSM), along with Kosrae, Pohnpei, and
Yap.
Chuuk is the most populous of the FSM's states. Geographically,
Chuuk is also part of the larger Caroline Islands group.
Chuuk
includes fifteen large islands, 192 outer islands and 80 islets
and has one of the largest lagoons in the world. Once a major
Japanese center and military base, it was devastated during
World War II. It's natural beauty and ecology has been quick
to return but today the people of Chuuk lead a simpler life
and have much in common with the way their ancestors lived
before the arrival of the Europeans and Japanese. Fishing
and subsistence agriculture sustain the majority of Chuukese
who live on the outlying islands.
On
the capital of Weno and main islands of Tonoas, Uman, Fefan
and Tol, life marches to a slightly more modern beat with
many families earning a living from tourism, commercial fishing
and government work. All of the major tourism and government
facilities are located on Weno, including the airport, hotels
and dive operators.
Spectacular
remains of nearly 70 coral draped Japanese ships and countless
aircraft were condemned to watery graves by U.S. Naval air
attacks during "Operation Hailstone" late in World
War II. Now lying scattered upon the floor of Truk's huge
40 mile diameter tropic lagoon, they are easily accessible
to all sport divers seeking maximum attractions.
While
Chuuk is best known for its wreck diving, a visit to Chuuk
does not have to be all about diving or diving wrecks. Divers
and non-diving companions alike will enjoy a day or overnight
trip to the many tiny islands located in and around the lagoon.
Hidden in the jungle of the major islands are many Japanese
fortifications and artifacts. There are many rare species
of flora and fauna, scenic sites, cultural artifacts and Japanese
WWII fortifications hidden in the jungle to be explored by
those with the energy to hike the interior trails. You will
also find beautiful long stretches of white sand beaches.
Yap.
Chuuk is the most populous of the FSM's states. Geographically,
Chuuk is also part of the larger Caroline Islands group.
fishing
and government work. All of the major tourism and government
facilities are located on Weno, including the airport, hotels
and dive operators.
lagoon.
Hidden in the jungle of the major islands are many Japanese
fortifications and artifacts. There are many rare species
of flora and fauna, scenic sites, cultural artifacts and Japanese
WWII fortifications hidden in the jungle to be explored by
those with the energy to hike the interior trails. You will
also find beautiful long stretches of white sand beaches.