The Federated States of Micronesia – Colonia Yap

This is the first Micronesian country we have visited on this cruise.  We have worked in Micronesia before, twice for BYUH.  When compared to Polynesians and Melanesians, Micronesian people are culturally the most reserved.  We were warned before landing on Yap that the women passengers should be covered down to their knees because a female showing their thighs is considered vulgar.  However, it is not unusual to see island women topless.  That’s cultural differences for you! 

Our ship is the largest ship to ever dock at Yap.  The captain indicated that the passage through the reef is more difficult than he thought and he hopes not to have to do it again.  Chances were the first Holland America Ship to dock there and more than likely the last.

 

Yap is famous for stone money.  The stones come from Palau and are still used as currency although paper money is also used. The top picture shows how the money was transported.
 

Mangrove trees are abundant and important for the ecosystem.

 

 

Ann with her Yapanese nunuw.   The last three ports have been very small cities.  Now we head for Manila, Hong Kong, and Singapore, some of the largest cities in the world.