Tuvalu is a scattered group of nine small atolls in the western Pacific Ocean extending about 560km (350 miles) from north to south. The main island, Funafuti, is also the capital and lies 1920km (1200 miles) north of Suva, Fiji. Tuvalu, the world’s second-smallest country and, according to the United Nations, one of the least developed, fulfils the classic image of a South Sea paradise. Visitors come to the islands to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and palm-fringed beaches. Pandanus, papaya, banana, breadfruit and coconut palms are typical. Most activity is centred in the capital, Funafuti, where the greatest attraction is the enormous Funafuti Lagoon. The lagoon is 14km (9 miles) wide and about 18km (11 miles) long and is excellent for swimming and snorkelling. The second most populated island in the atoll is Funafala, which can be visited by hopping aboard the Funafuti Island Council’s catamaran. There are no shops whatsoever in Funafala, so visitors should take their own provisions. Traditional buildings with thatched roofs can be seen virtually everywhere on the islands. There are fortnightly discos (‘twists’) at the Vaiaku Lagi Hotel.

West Pacific.

GMT + 12.

26 sq km (10 sq miles).

10,880 (2002).

418.5 per sq km.

Funafuti. Population: 4,590 (2000).

Tuvalu (formerly the Ellice Islands) is a scattered group of nine small atolls in the western Pacific Ocean extending about 560km (350 miles) from north to south. Nearest neighbours are Fiji (to the south), Kiribati (north) and the Solomon Islands (west). The main island, Funafuti, is also the capital and lies 1920km (1200 miles) north of Suva, Fiji.

Constitutional monarchy. Gained independence from the UK in 1978. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor-General Filoimea Telito. Head of Government: Prime Minister Maatia Toafa since 2004. Recent history: Following the resignation of Saufatu Sopoanga, Maatia Toafa won a parliamentary vote in October 2004 by eight votes to seven. He was then elected to a four-year term in elections in August 2006. There are no political parties in Tuvalu.

Tuvaluan and English are the main languages.

Approximately 98 per cent Protestant.

220/240 volts AC, 60Hz (Funafuti only).

Traditional values continue to dominate Tuvaluan culture. Footwear should be removed when entering a church, a village meeting house (manepa) or private house. Religion plays an important part in daily life. Sunday is a day of rest and church-going for the locals, when visitors are advised to choose activities which do not cause too much disruption. There are limits imposed on the consumption of alcohol outside licensed premises. Whilst dress is usually casual, it is customary for women to keep their thighs covered and beachwear should be confined to the beach or poolside. There are procedures which should be followed by those invited to a feast and visitors should take local advice about this and other matters. It is customary not to speak a foreign language in the presence of a person who does not know it, so apparent indications of a desire to hold a private or confidential conversation should be interpreted as simple courtesy to fellow islanders. Visitors are welcome to join in the numerous local festivals and celebrations with feasting and traditional entertainment.