A Journey Across Tuvalu: A Remarkable Stroll in Under a Minute
Walking across an entire country sounds like a big feat.
But for one of the smallest nations in the world, it barely takes a minute.
Tuvalu, a Pacific island paradise situated north of Fiji, stands out as one of the globe’s tiniest countries and is often regarded as the “least visited.” Its charm is as elusive as it is enchanting; according to multiple travel sources, exploring this nation is akin to uncovering a well-kept secret.
The island spans a mere 10 square miles and is almost surreal, with an elevation that seldom exceeds 10 feet above sea level, as noted by National Geographic.
Surrounded by sparkling azure waters, Tuvalu formed around the Te Namo Lagoon, leaving a slender ring of land for its less than 12,000 inhabitants. Each evening, residents gather on the airport runway, transforming the space into a vibrant community hub where lively sports abound, showcasing the spirit of camaraderie.
Hudson and Emily Crider, a passionate couple from Pennsylvania, set out on an ambitious quest to visit every country in the world. Their journey’s 183rd stop was this untouched gem, Tuvalu.
On September 24, the couple playfully announced their intention to traverse the “entire country” via a social media video, humorously cautioning viewers that their complete traversal should really only be attempted by “professionals.”
“Because it requires intense preparation, serious hydration, and the finest snacks,” Emily Crider remarked in light-hearted jest throughout the video.
She continued with a stark contrast: “Sure, you can walk across an entire country, like America, or opt to fly to the least visited one, Tuvalu, which also happens to be among the tiniest.”
In a moment of whimsy, Emily noted, “In about 30 seconds, you can walk across the entire country.”
“We made it!” she exclaimed at the culmination of their brief yet iconic adventure, encapsulated within a 33-second video.
They affectionately described Tuvalu as “beautiful,” and what truly makes it remarkable is the warm, welcoming nature of its locals. “It feels like a world apart, yet so deeply connected,” they shared from their hearts on Instagram.
For anyone contemplating a visit, they highlighted the delightful experience of joining hundreds of locals in post-sunset activities on the airport runway—a joyful gathering representing the essence of community.
Renting a moped is an exhilarating way to explore the island’s breadth, as suggested by the wandering couple. “We are so happy we could finally visit this extraordinary place,” they affirmed, reflecting on their journey with gratitude.
