August 24, 2014. Free day to explore Kolonia

Kolonia is the capital of Pohnpei. Had some free time to explore, as well as recover from the trip. Kolonia has a few interesting historic sites - an old Spanish wall and a German Bell Tower and some old homes of the colonial era. Had a couple of nice conversations with the locals who engaged in conversation and a lovely walk along what I call a causeway. Also did a bit of birding, but a local bird book would have been very useful. Looked in a couple of general stores to see what they have, and can find food and personal items with brand names, at a price, but still accessible. I am not certain where I will be living in Yap, so I am scouting out what household items might be available, even if on a different island.

Had eaten in the local restaurant for breakfast (tuna, sashimi, egg, rice, cabbage) and dinner (cheeseburgher, cabbage salad). Had to test out the burger and indeed it was very good, so was the tuna. My waiter wirks part time and goes to college (C of Micronesia) part time. Nice young man.

Also, a few New Zealand Air Force members on a weekend leave, were at the hotel. Apparently, they patrol the surrounding seas for misadventures.

Here are a few pictures from the day:

Monument to honor previous theose Japanese who died while working on Pohnpei.

City street scene.

Pandanus.

Old colonial style home.

Colonial style home, occupied or unoccupied?

Churches:

Local boat:

Old Spanish Wall.

Old German Bell Tower.

Scenes from the causeway.

An assortment of flowers.

 

 

Play ball!  Students playing in the ball field across the street from Our Lady of Mercy High School. Kids were playing in sneakers, flip flops, and bare foot.

No Betel nut allowed. It causes a bit of a high, stains gums, lips and mouth red. And it is a carcinogen.

 

 

And my first purchase in Micronesia, on layover in Kosrae, an angel - to keep an eye on me during my travels!