The tourism industry handled more than one billion people in 2016. While countries such as France, the United States and Spain receive over 70 million foreign tourists and lead the world share in that order, there are nations with such low rates that they become curious.

The small island of Tuvalu in Oceania is considered to be the least visited destination in the world. According to a report released by the World Tourism Organization (WTO), the country received about 2,000 international tourists last year. In relation to 2015, the increase was of 5.2%.

Among the destinations studied, there are only two that approach Tuvalu: the neighboring Kiribati, oceanic destination, which received just over five thousand visitors from other countries, and Niue, with eight thousand, the report said.

The country is made up of six atolls and three islands that together measure 25 square kilometers of area. Its location is not very privileged as it is just over a thousand miles away from Fiji.

The population is small, there are just over ten thousand residents, according to data pointed out by the local office. The capital Funafuti accounts for more than half of the inhabitants and stands out as the “best known” destination on the island.

The predominant climate is tropical, with sunshine and average temperatures of 30 degrees. The major problem is the scarcity of air mesh.

To get there, the only airline that offers scheduled flights is Fiji Airways, with flights from the capital Suva to Funafuti in a Convair. Visitors have few lodging options, such as in small independent hotels and villas.

Among the tourist activities are, of course, the marine and beach life of Tuvalu, water sports such as diving and snorkeling. Cultural activities such as dances and history, such as a tour dating back to World War II, when American troops set up bases in the country to attack the enemies in Kiribati.

Photo: Reproduction

Source: Panrotas