Kiribati, officially the Republic of Kiribati is an island nation located in the central tropical Pacific Ocean. It is composed and raised of coral islands, spread out over 1,351,000 square miles. The island name of Kiribati is locally pronounced as “Gilberts” which is derived from the Gilberts Islands chain.
Kiribati is an island nation composed of 32 atolls and one raised coral island with at least three in every hemisphere. The groups of these islands are Banaba, Gilbert, Phoenix and Line. Kiribati is particularly known for its unique and local culture such as its folk-music and dance. The folk music is based around chanting and other forms of vocalization, each one performed with the accompaniment of body percussion. The dance is another interesting cultural aspect of the island because it places emphasis on the outstretched arms of the dancer, along with the sudden, jagged and birdlike movements of the dancer’s head.
Getting to and around the island is easy enough, with two airplanes flying out the Gilbert Islands, except for Banaba Island. There is one merchant ship that makes stops en route at Phoenix Island. The two main airports are known as the Bonriki International Airport, and the Cassidy International Airport.
Perhaps the best part for any visitor of Kiribati is that you do not need a visa to enter. This is because you can get a tourist visa, which is good for thirty whole days, upon arrival. All you will need, therefore, is an onward ticket, sufficient funds, and a valid passport. In terms of customs, each visitor is allowed free import of 1,200 cigarettes, 1 bottle of spirits, and 1 bottle of wine.