Pohnpei (sometimes called Ponape) is located about halfway between Guam and Nauru. It is now the capital of the Federated States of Micronesia. Pohnpei is the island paradise that everyone dreams of visiting, except for the lack of beaches. There are coconut palms everywhere, jungle waterfalls, swimming holes, a lagoon, rugged mountains, and ancient Micronesian ruins. There are no beaches on the main island - just mangroves down to the water. But the outer islands have excellent beaches, and must find the time to visit them. Pohnpei doesn't really have much of a developed tourist industry. The only real souvenirs are local coconut products: coconut soap, coconut shampoo, etc. Pohnpeian pepper is said to be the world's best. Restaurants serve great food: superb Japanese food, including a mangrove crab (hence the theme for these web pages). Sashimi is great - Pohnpei is in a major tuna fishing area. Pohnpei is remote, not commercialized, friendly and very beautiful.