I am now in Majuro which is the main Atoll of the Marshall Islands. Republic of the Marshall Islands (RMI) is one of very few Atoll countries; and one of the world's youngest countries becoming Independant in 1986. Comprised of 29 Atolls (coral with a fresh water lens) and 4 islands.
What is astounding is to think that there are 1.6 million square kilometres of ocean - and only 170 square kilometres of land. And about 60,000 people. The Marshalls were known for the US nuclear tests (see pic of Bikini Atoll). To this day the US maintains a strong military presence. Of course the locals were never told about the nuclear testing and did not know what it was. There are terrifying pictures of blood red skies - with VIP's watching at a safe distance wearing safety goggles!
Unfortunately being so low lying (highest point is 2 metres) RMI is one of the countries strongly affected by rising tides and climate change. Quite what can be done is hard to say apart from moving people away. Tuvalu and Kiribati are similarly affected.
But the people are lovely - the lagoon and waters beautiful. Yesterday I went out on one of the Outrigger Canoes which the Marshallese are famous for. Unfortunately I move on tomorrow - next hop Guam.
