Palikir

Introduction

Palikir is a rural district several kilometres west of Kolonia, which is a much more significant town. Palikir is the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia and consists primarily of FSM government offices. There is no significant population in Palikir.

Sights and Activities

• F.S.M National Capital Complex - The capital buildings of the Federated States of Micronesia sit on a 135 acre complex a few hundred yards down a side road off the main road. A large sign sits at the intersection of the two roads, making it very clear where to turn. The complex is composed of nine buildings in two clusters. The northern cluster (4 buildings) is home to the FSM National Congress, located in the only square building in the complex.
• Embassy of the People's Republic of China - The Chinese Embassy in the FSM is located along the main road 650 metres past the turnoff for the capital complex. The embassy compound features Chinese architecture.
• The College of Micronesia (C.O.M.) - The college's main campus (satellite campuses are located throughout the FSM) sits along the main road. Composed of 13 buildings, including classroom buildings, a library, and the FSM-China Friendship Sports Center (a large gymnasium).

Events and Festivals

• Pohnpei Cultural Day - March 31
• FSM Constitution Day - Each of the Federated States of Micronesia have their own constitution day holidays, but the entire island nations celebrates the date, May 10, on which the country’s national constitution was founded in 1979. This is not really a lively festival, but rather a day of rest and relaxation which Micronesians spend at shopping centers and parks on this day off from school and work.
• FSM Independence Day - This November 3 holiday celebrates the nation’s sovereignty and accomplishments since its liberation from its colonizers. Independence Day is marked by all kinds of festive events with music, overflowing feasts and cultural presentations.
• FSM Veterans of Foreign War - Observed November 11, this highly patriotic day in Micronesia commemorates the contributions of veterans who served in the US Armed Forces during the Foreign Wars.
• United Nations Day - Few places celebrate United Nations Day with more fervor than the Pacific Islands of Micronesia. Fairs serving foods around the world and international cultural performances also fill this day celebrating the anniversary of the United Nations charter.
• Liberation Day - September 11 remains a day of celebration on the Pacific Islands of Micronesia, whose citizens still associate this date as the anniversary of the United States WWII victory over Japan. Pohnpei’s main Liberation Day events are sporting competitions among the island’s communities.
• Tree Planting Day - As part of the forestry program in the Federated States of Micronesia, a tree-planting day is observed on June 1 each year in accordance with environmental week and Earth Day.
• Micronesian Culture and Traditions Day - Established to celebrate Micronesia’s cultural and traditional heritage, this day is honored on March 31 every year.

Weather

The climate in Kolonia and the nearby officiall capital Palikir is tropical, with temperatures relatively even at about 80 °F throughout the year during the day and rarely below 70 at night.

The island of Pohnpei where Kolonia and Palikir are located is considered one of the wettest places on Earth, with an average rainfall in excess of 400 inches a year. It is in fact unusual to have a dry day on Pohnpei.

In general, the wet season lasts from July to November, when typhoons can striks the islands as well. The better season for a visit probably is the dry season from December to April.

Getting There

Continental Micronesia provides flights from Guam and Honolulu, touching down in Kosrae, Pohnpei, Yap and Chuuk several times a week. Departure taxes are US$10.

Getting Around

Cars drive on the right in Micronesia. Interestingly though, many of the cars on the road also have the driver's seat on the right. Roads are generally in a poor condition and driver education leaves a lot to be desired. It is not uncommon for cars to stop suddenly in front of you to take on passengers or for pedestrians to practically leap in front of the car. Fortunately, speed limits are very low (40km/h, about 25 miles an hour), ensuring a reasonable level of safety. Nonetheless, drivers are well advised to be alert at all times.

Bicycles can be a very convenient way to get around due to the relatively slow traffic and small distances. Some hotels may be able to provide a bicycle for your use. Alternatively, buying a cheap one for use while there may be an option.

Eat/Drink

Keep Connected

Internet

There are various internet cafés in the state capitals, providing decent connections at reasonable prices.

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

To call out of Micronesia, use exit code 011, followed by the calling code of the country you are trying to connect to, then the area area (leaving out any 0s) and finally the phone number.

Post

There are post offices on all four states and are open during business hours Monday - Friday. U.S. postal rates apply, so check the United States section for that.

External Links