I have no pre-knowledge of Micronesia. I only started researching about it when I got a consultancy contract which require me to relocate my physical self to the island-country from August 2024 to July 2025 (1 full year).
Micronesia
I came here for work and my official location is Pohnpei Island. I found an apartment by the Sunset View in Nanpohnmal area and stayed there until my contract of work finished. Living in this island is like time travel to me when I lived and worked in my home province in the Philippines until I turned 25yo.
I went in as a tourist and because my 90-day limit was over, I have to go home. But I came back with my work permit.
Pohnpei
The island of Pohnpei in the Federated States of Micronesia is blessed with ample rain almost everyday. Within 24 hours, I experienced rain and shine. But there is no storm here. Any time of year, all low pressure areas moving towards the East and Southeast Asia which normally become typhoons are forming from this side of the Pacific Ocean.
I rented apartment from among Peter Lohn's apartments. I also acquired a small car, Mazda Demio, in a rental mode which means I have to return the asset whenever I leave the island. I got it from a friend, Arrio Abello, who worked for the same project; but he's among the government counterparts.
Most of my junket trips were to coffeeshops, to restaurants, to some local attractions especially the historic Nan Madol Ruins and the Kepirohi Falls.
I learned to drive here because the taxi services are not reliable or not available all the time. So I fixed myself a driver's license in the Philippines, registered an International Driver's License, and obtained a Pohnpei Driver's License.
Kosrae
I worked for the country's project to implement a new Information System for financials, assets, and human resources. Part of my project tasks was to conduct system testing in the islands. Kosrae was my first destination.
Just the same, I did not research much about the island state. My hotel was prebooked by the local project counterpart. The car rental was pre-arranged by the state government.
I came to realize that the island has plenty in store for me. I met Filipinos, through a new friend Jana (the Filipino beautician). And I ended up enjoying my 2-weeklong stay.
Yap
The second and farthest destination was Yap State. I traveled there with connection at Guam Airport. I stayed in an apartment; not fancy but had a priceless daily view because it was has a porch by the Chamoro bayside. I just walked daily my way to the activity venue for 3 weeks.
The local team had arranged a tour for us and all that I saw blew me away: the collection of Stone Money and the banks, the traditional housing, and the MNUW Restaurant with a wooden boat theme.
Chuuk
The Chuuk Island was not part of my destinations. I passed here every time I traveled to and from Pohnpei. I wish I can come back to personally visit and enjoy the island's own flavor and attractions.
