Pitcairn Islands – Holidaying with the Volcanoes!
A group of four volcanic islands in the southern Pacific Ocean, Pitcairn islands are amongst the most remote in the world, lying approximately halfway between New Zealand and the Americas and to the north of Antarctica. It's definitely not the one for the delicate travelers, as it takes a lot to get there. The volcanoes, cliffs and rugged coastline are what make Pitcairn a stunning island!
The economy of the island matches its size, tiny in one word. You'll be surprised to learn that the major source of revenue is postage stamps!
You'll find the locals speak Pitcairnese, a mixture of an 18th century English dialect and a Tahitian dialect. However, English is the official language.
As for the region's cuisine, food cooked in underground ovens wrapped in plantain leaves is the specialty and well worth a try.
The New Zealand dollar (NZ$) is the currency of Pitcairn Islands. The Pitcairn Islands are completely devoid of any money changing facilities, so plan on carrying all the cash you will need.
There are no great hotels or guest houses as such, but the best thing is to make B&B arrangements with the local families!
You can even prefer to stay on a yatch, as there are lots to see. Adamstown is the biggest and the most important place on the island - the capital city of Pitcairn Islands. Must-sees while on the island include the cannon and anchor from HMS Bounty and the Bible that belonged to Christian Fletcher - and was solely responsible for introducing the islanders to Christianity. From ornithologists to amateur bird lovers, Henderson Island is the place to be!
Here's what you can do when you're there: Swimming is quite dangerous, especially in the tidal pools along the bays, but you can be assured of that adrenalin rush! Deep-sea fishing is unbelievably superb, thanks to a ban on commercial fishing. Sunbathing, snorkeling, scuba diving and walking along the heavily indented coastline are activities popular with visitors.
Getting there
There are practically no international airlines headed there so the more innovative your travel techniques, the more likely you are able to get there! So the only way to actually get there is by sea - by merchant ship, passenger liner or private yacht. The islanders use two or three longboats to travel around to Henderson and Oeno islands. However, you'll be better off on foot!
The climate in Pitcairn is sub-tropical, hot and humid. July and August are probably the driest months of the year are certainly ideal time for travel.