(Republic of Kiribati, Ribaberiki Kiribati)

General Information:

Location: Central Pacific
Capital: Tarawa
Language(s): English, Gilbertese
Population: 120,100
Total Area: 811 sq km
Currencies: Australian Dollar, Kiribati Dollar
Curious Alcohol Fact: There is a toddy made from juice extracted from flowers.
Annual Average Liquor Consumption Per Capita: 3.71 liters
Most Popular Drink(s): Coconut milk- best enjoyed with our Kiribati shot glass souvenirs

Kiribati Travel Video

Video Courtesy: LenCordiner

The Country

The Republic of Kiribati is an island nation located in the Central Pacific Ocean. The capital city is Tarawa and is located in the northern Gilberts. In the past, Kiribati and Tuvalu formed a federation called the Gilbert and Ellice Islands colony. Kiribati is one of the largest atolls in the world.

The People

The indigenous people of Kiribati are called the I-Kiribati and I find that very interesting since the name Kiribati itself originated from the initial name of the islands (Gilbert Islands). In addition to the ethnic people, there are Tongans, Samoans and Fijians although it can be somehow difficult to differentiate one from the other.  Most of the I-Kiribati are Christians and there is a considerable minority of Baha’is. Like other Pacific Islanders, the I-Kiribati are very nice and warm people, always eager to receive visitors.

Eating

After consuming the foods of the I-Kiribati, I had to give a new name to the country –the Paradise of Delicacies! And sincerely speaking, the spectacular islands of Kiribati are places of culinary delights. Food is a very important part of I-Kiribati culture and the people take time to prepare them.

Without any iota of surprise, I also saw that the islanders were fond of seafood –fish, crabs, prawns, lobsters, shrimps and many more. After all, what do you expect from an island nation lying right in the middle of the Pacific Ocean? I am yet to eat something more delicious. Many dishes on the island are based on rice and coconuts.

Drinking

When it comes to having something to drink in Kiribati, one thing that you must sample is coconut milk. You can even climb a tree to get a coconut full of the fresh and sweet juice for your parched throats. Creamy and tasty, coconut milk is the real deal in Kiribati. For someone interested in something stronger, a special alcohol made from flower sap is always available.

Interesting Facts

The islands were named after a British naval officer called Thomas Gilbert.
The Japanese once ruled the islands.
The natives are called I-Kiribati and I find that very nice sounding!

Kiribati souvenirs

Moreover, Kiribati, with its several iconic symbols and landmarks, has always been and remains one of the most popular places to purchase souvenirs. However, among the many options of Kiribati-themed souvenirs, shot glasses are considered particularly and intriguing items for collecting or gifting.

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Special thanks to our contributors:
Adebayo Ahmed Adebola (Ilorin, Nigeria).