Kiribati
Kiribati is a remote island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, made up of 33 atolls and reef islands scattered over a vast area. Known for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and rich marine biodiversity, Kiribati is also famous for its unique position straddling the equator and the International Date Line. The country gained independence from the UK in 1979 and faces significant challenges due to rising sea levels caused by climate change, which threaten its low-lying islands. Traditional culture, fishing, and the relaxed island lifestyle are central to Kiribati’s way of life, with key atolls like Tarawa, the capital, being sites of both historical significance (notably from WWII) and daily community life.
