The FSM features some of the world's most spectacular diving, including a large field of World War II wrecks near Chuuk. Ancient stone ruins can be found at Lelu on Kosrae and Nan Madol on Pohnpei. For a dose of island culture, check out the carved wooden homes, bright hibiscus skirts and large stone currency of highly traditional Yap.
Continental Airlines is the only international carrier connecting the FSM, with flights to all four states from regional hubs like Guam or Honolulu. Yachts must obtain separate clearance from the official entry ports of each state--Weno in Chuuk, Lela and Okat Harbors in Kasrae, Kolonia in Pohnpei and Ulithi and Tomil in Yap. Hiring a car is possible in all states, while infrequent local boats link most islands and local airlines service Pohnpei and Yap.
Each island in the FSM averages about 80 degrees F year-round, although July to November sees more rain than other months. Micronesia is off the typical typhoon tracks of the Pacific, but it is at higher risk during the wet period, making December through April the most popular window for travel.
Most accommodation options are on Pohnpei, ranging from budget to top-end hotels. There also are several mid-range resorts on Kosrae, Chuuk and Yap.
Each island uses U.S. dollars as the standard currency. While only Chuuk and Pohnpei have ATMs, credit cards can be used in most hotels within each of the four states. Although indigenous languages vary widely from island to island--such as Trukese, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Ulithian, Kosrean and Kapingan--English is spoken by most residents of Micronesia's cities.
