Yap

Yap, the largest island within the state of the same name in Micronesia, is famous for its giant pieces of rock “money”, which date from hundreds of years ago. Some of the locals still own a few of these pieces, which give them prestige, and can be bought with the other currency of shell money. Carved from rock 400 kilometers away at the neighboring island of Palau, these relics are a strong part of local heritage and can be seen all over the island. Yap is also notably one of the only islands in the area to have escaped the scars of the second world war and maintains a wonderful authenticity. Gorgeous sandy beaches lapped by shallow, warm waters and backed by swaying palms make this a truly idyllic destination, while excellent scuba diving, snorkeling and swimming opportunities beckon too.