christmas island australia
Paradise in the Indian Ocean, Christmas Island is a kaleidoscope of culture and natural beauty.
Every day is a holiday on Christmas Island, a tiny speck of land that’s no less exciting for its small size, located 2,600 kilometres (1,600 miles) northwest of Perth, Western Australia, and 500 kilometres (300 miles) south of Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia. A territory of Australia, Christmas Island encompasses 135 square kilometres (52 square miles), and every nook is packed with another secret to be revealed, another adventure to be explored.
During the discovery of rich phosphate deposits found there in the 1880s, settlers from the West and from other areas of Asia came to Christmas Island, planting the seeds of a diverse cultural atmosphere that today gives the locale a flavour like no other place on Earth. While most of the inhabitants are of Chinese ancestry, there are Europeans and native islanders as well. With such diversity comes an appreciation for varied perspectives. Religious affiliations coexist tranquilly, while colourful traditions and a heritage of cooperation keep visitors enthralled during the many celebrations and festivals that occur annually. Christmas Island cuisine is a fusion of Western and Asian tastes to tantalise the palate with spice and verve, while the local architecture pays homage to wondrous variety.
While leaving Christmas Island is difficult to do once under its enchanting spell, getting there is relatively easy with regular airline services from Perth, Jakarta and the Malaysian capital city of Kuala Lumpur. A visa is required, but is usually easy to obtain with the assistance of a travel professional. From time to time, cruise ships sailing from Southeast Asia pay a call to the island as well. Residents live primarily in the ‘settlement areas’ at the northern end of Christmas Island, mostly at Flying Fish Cove (also called Kampong locally), Drumsite, Silver City and Poon Saan. The Christmas Island Tourism Association operates a visitor centre in the settlement area, a good place to plan excursions and develop an itinerary.
Popular pastimes on Christmas Island, in addition to taking in the sights and sounds of the local people, include guided photography safaris. Visitors aim to capture images of exotic birds, beautiful jungle and beach scenery, and stunning wildlife. The Christmas Island red crab is the best known of the indigenous species, and millions are active across the island, particularly during the autumn months as they prepare to spawn. The carpet of crimson at that time is an unforgettable sight.
Day tours of Christmas Island are a popular option, and snorkelling and diving are common for observing the abundant marine life, particularly at Flying Fish Cove. A visit to The Blowholes or The Grotto a short distance away is not to be missed. Some beaches require a four-wheel drive vehicle for access. Outdoor sports enthusiasts can find some of the world’s best fishing, angling for sailfish, wahoo and tuna surprisingly close to the shoreline. Exploring on foot, mountain bike or car, visitors may experience the entire island, with the understanding that 63 per cent of the land is preserved as a stunning National Park.
Hotels are plentiful and range from economical lodges or rental rooms to luxury resorts with astounding views of the island. Prices for any commodity on Christmas Island may be higher due to transportation costs, however, restaurants serve local produce when available.