Kiribati

Located in the central Pacific between Hawaii and Fiji, the Republic of Kiribati comprises 33 islands stretched across 3,500,000 sq. kilometres and straddling the equator.

This tiny republic has now created the world's third largest marine reserve, and the first marine park with deep-sea habitat, including underwater mountains. Commercial fishing is banned and a vast number of species, over 120 species of coral and 520 species of fish, are now protected. The atolls and barrier reefs form natural lagoons which are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and fishing. Christmas Island, the largest coral atoll in the world, has been called 'the last untouched reef in the world.' Diving takes place from shore dives or from traditional outrigger canoes. Visibility is between 30 and 45 metres and the size and number of pelagic life will amaze even the most seasoned diver. Expect to see diverse marine species including Dragon Moray, Flame Angelfish, Manta, and Eagle Rays, Spinner Dolphins, turtles and gorgeously coloured corals.

These unspoiled and remote coral atolls offer visitors a taste of true Pacific culture, blue lagoons and sparkling white sand along with beautiful flora and fauna in a peaceful and welcoming setting. Although, there remains fascinating evidence of the Islands - role in WWII; such as Tarawa Atoll, where villagers dive for clams and octopus, and Betio Islet, where one of WWII's bloodiest battles was fought. For less war-like memories, Abemama Island is the island on which Robert Lewis Stevenson resided in 1889 and Butaritari, the greenest island, was where the traditional 'binekua' (calling of the whales) was practised by Kuma Villagers.