Tuvalu, the world's second smallest country and, according to the United Nations, one of the least developed, fulfils the classic image of a South Sea paradise.
Visitors come to the islands to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and palm-fringed beaches.
Pandanus, papaya, banana, breadfruit and coconut palms are typical. Most activity is centred in the capital, Funafuti, where the greatest attraction is the enormous Funafuti Lagoon. The second most populated island in the atoll is Funafala, which can be visited by hopping aboard the Funafuti Island Council's catamaran. There are no shops whatsoever in Funafala, so visitors should take their own provisions. Traditional buildings with thatched roofs can be seen virtually everywhere on the islands.