Off The Beaten Track Travel Archives | Page 9 Of 9

There are 195 official countries in the world and naturally, we relate the word country with a large area of land. However, some nations are so geographically (or sometimes even politically) remote that we often forget they exist. This article is all about them- the most isolated countries in the world. So keep reading, be honest and let us know how many of these did you know existed? Palau We're starting this list of the most isolated countries with Palau, a remote island nation that's home to 20,000 people living on 250 islands. This island nation is unique because of its geographical location. The country is isolated in the Western Pacific Ocean, hundreds of miles away from the closest large land mass. A lot of people rate Palau as the best diving destination in the world. So, this island nation is definitely a place to be for ocean lovers. Palau has arguably the richest underwater flora and fauna in the world but unfortunately, that might not be the case for much longer. Palau might be the first victim of the global warming. The sea level is rising dramatically and there are severe climate changes. Even though there were rarely any typhoons before in the last couple of years, Palau was struck twice by Super-typhoons. This completely destroyed what used to be some of the most pristine and spectacular reefs in the world. So, if you want to visit this gorgeous place (unfortunately) you might not have a lot of time left. Related: Which are the most isolated cities in the world?t. Marshall Islands This list of the most isolated countries in the world without the Marshall Islands, an island country located near the Equator in the Pacific Ocean. The islands were heavily bombarded with nuclear explosions that left a huge scar on the island. But these explosions actually made a positive impact on tourism. The main tourist attraction Bravo Crater was created by a huge hydrogen bomb blast. The Marshall Islands are a home to the world’s largest shark sanctuary, while the only indigenous land mammal is the Polynesian rat. What’s unique about the Marshallese society is that it’s a matrilineal society and land is passed down from generation to generation through the mother. Interest Tuvalu Tuvalu is another micronation in the Pacific Ocean, halfway between Hawai and Australia. The whole country is practically the size of Laguna Beach in California. The first inhabitants were Polynesian and came around 3,000 years ago. You might think that an island country will be making a lot of money out of tourism but that’s not the case with Tuvalu. On average, only 350 people visit the island nation annually, mostly because of its ridiculously small size. And the fact that it’s located in the middle of the ocean without any big land masses nearby. Additionally, the low elevation makes this country vulnerable to tropical cyclones. A fun fact about Tuvalu is that it receives $4 million USD every year for doing literally nothing. The money comes from receiving royalties from the country’s domain name, which is .tv. Related: Which are the least visited countries in the world? Nauru Formerly known as Pleasant Island, the Republic of Nauru is another island country in the Central Pacific. Nauru used to be part of the German Empire in the 19th century and was administered by Australia and New Zealand after that. The small island country gained its independence in 1968. And. But. Nauru had a lot of natural resources of phosphor rock. Its extraction and mining operation made Nauru one of the richest countries in the 1960s and 1970s. After fully extracting the resources it became a tax haven and was notorious for money laundering operations. Another fun fact is that Nauru has the highest number of obese people in the world with more than 90% of its residents being overweight. Kiribati Nestled in the central Pacific Ocean, Kiribati is a collection of 33 atolls and reef islands, strung out over 3.5 million square kilometers – that's a lot of elbow room! The first thing to know about Kiribati is that it's pronounced 'Kiribas'. The local language, Gilbertese, turns that 'ti' into an 's' sound, a charming quirk in a place where quirks are the norm. Now, let's talk about remoteness. Kiribati is the definition of secluded. It's like the world's own little hideaway, far from the madding crowd. The capital, Tarawa, might ring a bell for history buffs. It was the site of a significant World War II battle. Unfortunately, Kiribati is on the frontline of climate change, a David facing the Goliath of rising sea levels. With most of the land less than two meters above sea level, Kiribati's very existence is a race against time. The nation even purchased land in Fiji as a potential future refuge for its people – talk about forward-thinking Federated States Of Micronesia Speaking of the most isolated countries in the world, we can't forget about the Federated States of Micronesia. The Federated States of Micronesia, often simply called Micronesia, is an island nation that's like a collection of nature's secrets, tucked away in the Western Pacific Ocean. Picture this: more than 600 islands scattered over a vast expanse of blue, like a jigsaw puzzle designed by Poseidon himself. First off, Micronesia is not just one place but a symphony of four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae. Yap is famous for its giant stone money, while Chuuk lures wreck divers to its sunken World War II fleet. Pohnpei hosts the enigmatic ruins of Nan Madol, and Kosrae is a trekkers' paradise with its lush highlands. But let's be real – Micronesia's isolation is both a charm and a challenge. These islands are so remote that getting there can feel like a quest from an epic saga. This seclusion creates a sense of community that's as tight-knit as a finely woven grass skirt. However, it also means that resources and modern amenities can be limited. Internet? More like 'inter-not-so-often'. Tonga Tucked away in the South Pacific, this archipelago of over 170 islands is a masterclass in island chic with a dash of royal flair. Tonga is the only remaining Polynesian monarchy. That's right, while other countries were busy trading crowns for constitutions, Tonga kept its royal lineage going strong. Geographically, Tonga is a scattered necklace of islands, each bead with its own story. There's Tongatapu, the main island and home to the capital, Nuku'alofa, where traditional life meets the 21st century in a friendly handshake. Then there are the Ha'apai and Vava'u groups, idyllic and almost unfairly beautiful, making you wonder if Photoshop exists in real life. Sao Tome And Principe This list of most isolated countries in the world couldn't be complete without Sao Tome and Principe, the tiny specks on the world map where equatorial whimsy meets Portuguese legacy. Floating in the Gulf of Guinea, this two-island nation is like that quiet kid in class who, upon closer inspection, is a wizard with stories to tell. São Tomé and Príncipe are volcanic islands, not just in origin, but in spirit. They're bursting with life, from lush rainforests to cocoa plantations that can make a chocolate lover weep with joy. And the beaches? Let's just say if paradise had a postal code, it would be here. The islands were uninhabited until discovered by the Portuguese in the 15th century. Fast forward a few centuries, and you've got a blend of African and Portuguese cultures that's as rich and complex as a good stew. The official language is Portuguese, but when you hear the local Forro music, your feet tap to an African rhythm. Papua New Guinea Perched on the eastern half of New Guinea island and sprinkled with numerous smaller islands, PNG is like a chapter from an explorer's diary, daring and diverse. With over 800 languages, it's like Babel in reverse – a smorgasbord of dialects and tongues that could keep a linguist busy for lifetimes. PNG is a geographical rollercoaster, with lush rainforests, rugged highlands, and volcanoes that occasionally like to remind everyone who's boss. It's the kind of place where you can trek through the jungle in the morning and be sipping tea in the shadow of a volcano by afternoon. Culturally, PNG is a mosaic of tribal traditions. Each tribe is like a different color on an artist's palette, vibrant and distinct. The Huli wigmen with their ornate headgear, the Asaro Mudmen looking like they've stepped out of a mystical folklore, the list goes on; the island is a living museum. Timor- Leste Nestled at the eastern end of the Lesser Sunda Islands, Timor-Leste is one of the only two countries in Asia that are predominantly Christian. The landscape? It's a canvas of rugged mountains, tropical forests, and beaches that have somehow slipped through the cracks of mainstream tourism. After centuries of Portuguese colonization followed by a turbulent Indonesian occupation, it finally became a sovereign state in 2002. It's one of the world's youngest nations, but with a history that belies its age. Today, the country is a melting pot of Portuguese and tribal influences resulting in one of the most unique cultures in this part of the world. Bhutan Next on our list of most isolated countries in the world, we have Butan, the country where happiness is more than just a feeling, it's a government policy. Even though it's a landlocked country, tucked away in the Himalayas between India and China, this small kingdom is like a shy hermit with a treasure trove of wisdom. Because of the rugged mountain terrain, getting to Bhutan is physically difficult (limited flights and other means of transportation) but the country also decided that it wants to severely reduce the number of tourists it gets by introducing a ridiculous tourist tax of $200 per day a hefty price but still a worthy one for the natural beauties this Himalayan gem has to offer. North Korea North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), stands as an enigma wrapped in a mystery, draped in a conundrum. Located on the Korean Peninsula, it's like the reclusive neighbor who has high walls and doesn't come to the neighborhood barbecues. North Korea is bordered by China and Russia to the north, South Korea to the south, and the Yellow Sea and the Sea of Japan to its west and east, respectively. It's a land of mountains and plains, with a side of secrecy. It's one of the most isolated countries in the world, not so much geographically as it is politically. North Korea's political landscape is something right out of a Cold War spy novel. It's one of the few remaining bastions of hardline communism, ruled by the Kim dynasty since its establishment in 1948. British Overseas Teritorries Last but not least, we conclude this list of the most isolated countries in the world with a few British overseas territories. Let's start with Tristan da Cunha. This place is so remote, it makes other remote places look like bustling metropolises. Located in the South Atlantic Ocean, it's the most isolated inhabited archipelago in the world. Think of it as the introvert of islands – the nearest mainland, South Africa, is over 2,400 kilometers away. Next, South Georgia. It's not your typical tropical island getaway. Located in the southern Atlantic Ocean, it's closer to Antarctica than to any continent. Think of it as the wild, rugged cousin in the family of islands. South Georgia is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Penguins? Check. Seals? Loads of them. It's like the ultimate safari, but with icebergs and glaciers. Finally, Pitcairn Island, the tiny speck in the Pacific Ocean. It's most famous for being the refuge of the mutineers of the Bounty in 1789. Today, it's a community of around 50 people (yes, that's the whole population) living on a rock that's as close to a Robinson Crusoe fantasy as you can get. Helpful Tips For Discovering The World's Most Isolated Countries Embrace the Journey – It's Part of the Adventure: Expect multiple layovers and possibly small aircraft or boat rides. For instance, reaching Tristan da Cunha involves a week-long boat trip from South Africa! Research Thoroughly Before You Go: Some isolated places like North Korea have strict entry protocols. Health Precautions: Check vaccination requirements and pack a comprehensive medical kit. Internet Access: Places like Pitcairn Island have limited internet. Prepare to disconnect and embrace it. Cash is King: In many isolated countries, ATMs are scarce and credit card acceptance is limited. Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. Did you like this list of off the most isolated countries in the world? Did you ever visit any of them? Which one was your favorite and which one would you like to visit first? Let us know in the comments below. Like it? Pin it.

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