Island destinations are perfect for a relaxed, yet unforgettable vacations, with beautiful landscapes and pristine beaches. However, there are certain island nations that are threatened by increasing sea levels and are at a risk due to Global Warming. Be sure you visit them soon, for they might disappear. Here are 8 Islands you can visit before they may vanish. Get some H-E-L-P to visit them!
Tuvalu
Tuvalu is composed of three reef islands and lies in the Pacific. The island is fringed with white sands on all sides and is home to some brilliantly coloured reef fish. One can enjoy the views from Nanumea, witness the sun set at Beau Vallon, watch some of the very rare birds in granitic islands of Praslin and La Digue. The highest point in this island is only about 5 m while most of it are at an elevation of 1 metre. Tuvalu could be one of the first nations to witness the effects of sea level rise.
Palau
Republic of Palau form a group of islands in the Pacific, with more than 500 small islands. It’s tropical waters comprise abundance of marine life. This is the perfect place for diving, with stunning seascape and diverse marine life and is thus paradise for divers. Ngardmau Waterfall is another attraction here, where the water flows from the tallest peak in Micronesia.
Marshall Islands
Marshall Islands lie between Hawaii and Australia. The islands are best spots for scuba diving and sports fishing. The main attractions include Laura Beach Park and Alele Museum. Laura is famed for its quiet beaches for a leisurely drive and the Alele Museum showcases the Marshallese Culture. However, this beautiful island has had frequent floods and the high tides pose a constant risk.
The Maldives
The Maldives, home to over 1100 islands, is the perfect destination for a peaceful vacation. A snorkelling trip in Fotteyo and Hammerhead Point, dolphin watching, sunrise boat cruise are some of the incredible experiences the islands promise. However, the islands are only 1.3 meters above sea level in most areas and rising sea level is a concern. Just another three feet rise in sea level will make it unfit for occupation by humans. Get there to view the bio-luminescent waves of Vaadhoo Island!
Seychelles
Seychelles consists of 115 granite and coral islands in the western Indian Ocean. Seychelles is a tropical paradise, with stunning landscapes and topaz waters. One can go on a trail along the coast or jungle, go on a boat excursion or try the water sports of diving and snorkelling. This place is also known for eco tourism options such as the marine parks and natural reserves. However, its the country that has experienced the worst coral die-off in the world, and worrying spans of drought. The islands are also affected by beach erosion, which threatens to submerge the islands within 100 years. So plan your next vacation here!
Torres Strait Islands
It is made up of 274 islands and lies between Australia and New Guinea. The island features calm and pristine beaches for a tranquil vacation. There has been frequent flooding of many of the islands in recent years, and six of the islands were at risk of being submerged.
Solomon Islands
The Solomon Islands lie to the east of Papua New Guinea. The islands offer exciting things to do like climbing an extinct volcano, go surfing, snorkelling pristine reefs, or go on a kayak across a lagoon. The Mataniko falls form the perfect backdrop for a stunning view. The islands also have things piled up on the adventure front, like the hiking trail in Kolombangara and Vonavona Lagoon.
Kiribati
Kiribati lies in the Central Pacific, with 33 coral atolls along the equator. It has some great beaches with opportunity for boating or yachting. The blue lagoons are stunningly beautiful and are perfect for bird watching.
Fascinated? Hurry up and get here before they are all gone!