I was in Kosrae back in 2001 and watching this video I cannot believe how much it has changed. Especially the amount of cars. So many new buildings. Back then it was a struggle to find a place to eat, especially on a Sunday. There was a small video rental shop that sold simple dishes located at the municipal building corner. Looks like that shop is empty now, next to the computer shop.What surprised me back then was the amount of garbage strewn everywhere. It was explained to me that in the old days everything people ate was natural so you'd just toss it away. With the western culture came processed food and their packaging. From the video it looks like it's a lot cleaner now but difficult to tell.I was staying on Lelu and walked around quite a bit. I remember running into a guy called Dickson who took me out on his canoe. I was on the Island Hopper flights quite often and remember how everyone always wanted to get the tangerines from Kosrae. I've been around quite a bit but the friendliest people I ever met were on Kosrae. While walking people would stop in their cars to offer me a ride, drinks, food or just in general check if I was ok and query about my origin and where I was headed. Around the main church I remember a scene like from the movies. I had about 50 kids in my tow, most knowing no other English words except hello but enthusiastic and curious about this strange white creature walking around :)Fond memories
I met a Norwegian couple in Rarotonga just a few weeks ago, they have been to 50 plus islands in the Pacific. One of these day, I can claim that title too. For now: Oahu, Kauai, Maui, Lanai, Kwajalein, Roi-Namur, Rarotonga & Aitutaki ... and Catalina and several of the Channel Islands off California. I learned about Kosrae while in Kwajalein as my fellow workers traveled there.
In 197/8 I was stationed 0n the TPQ18 radar and wound up living on Kosrae in 2000 as a Dive instuctor. Loved it but moved on.My life has always been about Islands as well. Is Herb Harris still out there? last I heard he was on Roi -Namur.He was a Kwaj rat for life.I know the TPQ18 is long gone and there is a lot of females now.This was not true back then.Cheers.
So sorry for the late response. A little about Kosrae island. All Kosraeans are Christians. Everyday, it's like here except Sunday. On sunday, it is unlawful to drink alcohol, fishing, farming or do any laborious activities. It is strictly a day to rest and worship. Even starting a fire or creating smoke is frowned upon. Believe it or not, you can land in jail if you are found guilty of any of the said offenses. Kosraeans are some of the most kind wonderful people in the world. Typically, you get adopted by a family, and given a local name, usually a name of family member that that holds a VIP status, living or passed. Visitors are always safe. People there are very friendly and easy to get along with.
Hi, No problem for the late response. I like go in your channel for souvenir I know about Sunday and Monkey house in Tofol, so watch out when you get out of Manix bar. And cannot put a face on your name... Where you are in Kosrae? Maybe you meet me already. What is your car soundtracks? I m looking for this FSM songs! Kulo malalap, hope I don't make mistake in the last word ;) Regards from France
