Islands

The Whitsunday Islands comprise 74 islands, with some of the most notable being Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Daydream Island, Long Island, and Whitsunday Island, which is home to the famous Whitehaven Beach. Other significant islands include Hook Island, South Molle Island, and Pineapple Island. Each island offers unique attractions and experiences for visitors.

Travel time from Redmond to the San Juan Islands in Washington varies based on your mode of transportation. By car, it typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the ferry terminal in Anacortes, followed by a 1 to 2-hour ferry ride to the islands. Overall, expect the journey to take around 3 to 4 hours, depending on wait times and ferry schedules.

The 13 independent Caribbean islands are Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Cuba, Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago. Each of these nations has its own unique culture, history, and governance. They represent a diverse region known for its vibrant communities and natural beauty.

The islands off the coast of Ecuador that Charles Darwin made famous are called the Galápagos Islands. They are renowned for their unique biodiversity and played a crucial role in the development of Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection. The islands are home to various species that are found nowhere else on Earth.

Several Indonesian islands share the same name, with the most notable examples being Java and Sumatra. Both Java and Sumatra refer to the main islands in Indonesia, while smaller islands like Bali, Lombok, and Sumbawa also have names that might be found in various local contexts or regions. Additionally, some smaller islands may share names with larger ones, but the most recognized instances are Java and Sumatra.

Antipole Island is located in the South Atlantic Ocean, specifically within the Antarctic region. It is situated near the Antarctic Peninsula and is part of the South Shetland Islands archipelago. The island is relatively small and largely uninhabited, mainly visited by researchers and scientists. It is known for its rugged terrain and unique wildlife, typical of sub-Antarctic islands.

The island that lies northwest off the coast of Venezuela is Isla de Margarita. It is the largest island in the Nueva Esparta state and is known for its beautiful beaches and tourism. Isla de Margarita is located in the Caribbean Sea and is a popular destination for both local and international visitors.

Many island nations have historical names that reflect their indigenous cultures or colonial pasts. For example, the Solomon Islands were once referred to as the "Isles of the Solomon," while Vanuatu was known as the "New Hebrides" during French and British colonial rule. Similarly, the Philippines was called "Las Islas Filipinas" after King Philip II of Spain, and Japan was historically referred to as "Nihon" or "Yamato." These names often carry significant cultural and historical context for the nations involved.

The Spice Islands are also known as the Moluccas. This archipelago, located in Indonesia, was historically significant for its production of valuable spices such as nutmeg and cloves, which attracted European explorers and traders in the 15th and 16th centuries. The islands played a crucial role in the spice trade and were contested by various colonial powers.

The small city on Baffin Island is Iqaluit, which is the capital of Nunavut, Canada. It serves as the administrative and economic hub of the territory, with a population of around 7,000 residents. Iqaluit is known for its rich Inuit culture, stunning Arctic landscapes, and as a gateway for travelers exploring the northern regions. The city features a blend of modern amenities and traditional Inuit practices.

Rhode Island's three major bodies of water are Narragansett Bay, which is a significant estuary that provides a habitat for various marine life and recreational opportunities; the Atlantic Ocean, which borders the state to the south and offers beaches and maritime activities; and the Blackstone River, which flows through the state and is historically important for its role in early industrial development. These water bodies contribute to Rhode Island's economy, ecology, and recreational activities.

The metal found on Kawau Island, New Zealand, is known as copper. It was mined there during the 19th century, particularly from the 1840s to the 1860s, when copper was extracted to support various industries. The island's mining operations played a significant role in its history and development. Today, remnants of these mining activities can still be seen on the island.

The Windward Islands are a group of islands in the Caribbean, part of the Lesser Antilles. They include Dominica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Grenada, among others. These islands are characterized by their lush landscapes, volcanic origins, and vibrant cultures. They are situated southeast of the Leeward Islands and are known for their beautiful beaches and tropical climate.

Portugal had the most experience in ocean travel prior to the 1400s, having established bases on the Azores and Madeira islands. These islands served as important waypoints for navigation and resupply during their explorations along the African coast and into the Atlantic Ocean. This strategic positioning allowed Portugal to become a leading maritime power during the Age of Discovery.

Christopher Columbus achieved the discovery of the New World for Spain by landing in the Bahamas in 1492, marking the beginning of European exploration and colonization of the Americas. He claimed various territories, including parts of the Caribbean islands, for the Spanish Crown, leading to the eventual establishment of Spanish colonies. His voyages opened up new trade routes and initiated the exchange of goods, cultures, and ideas between the Old and New Worlds, known as the Columbian Exchange. However, his expeditions also led to significant consequences for Indigenous populations, including violence and disease.

Baffin Island, located in Canada’s Arctic region, receives relatively few visitors each year, typically ranging from 1,500 to 3,000 tourists. The island's remote location and challenging weather conditions contribute to its low visitor numbers. Most tourists are drawn to Baffin Island for its unique landscapes, indigenous culture, and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife viewing. However, precise annual visitor statistics can vary based on factors such as tourism promotions and accessibility.

Kerguelen Island, part of the Kerguelen Archipelago, is governed by France. It is located in the southern Indian Ocean and is administered as a part of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (Terres australes et antarctiques françaises, TAAF). The island is largely uninhabited and primarily serves as a scientific research station.

The Spratly Islands, located in the South China Sea, have been a point of contention among several nations due to their strategic location and potential oil and gas reserves. Historically, various countries, including China, Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Brunei, have laid claim to these islands, with their disputes intensifying in the late 20th century. The region gained significant attention in the 1970s when oil exploration began, leading to military presence and construction of facilities by claimant nations. Ongoing tensions and international diplomatic efforts continue to shape the situation in the Spratly Islands.

The islands of Delos are significant due to their historical and religious importance in ancient Greece, particularly as a major sanctuary and pilgrimage site dedicated to Apollo and Artemis. According to mythology, Delos is considered the birthplace of these deities, making it a central hub for worship and cultural gatherings. Additionally, the island was a thriving trade center in antiquity, contributing to its wealth and influence. Today, Delos is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its archaeological remains and ancient history.

Family life on Baffin Island is characterized by a close-knit community and strong cultural ties, often centered around traditional Inuit practices and values. Families engage in activities like hunting, fishing, and crafting, which not only provide sustenance but also strengthen bonds among members. The harsh Arctic environment influences their lifestyle, fostering resilience and cooperation within families as they adapt to seasonal changes. Additionally, modern influences blend with traditional ways, creating a unique cultural landscape for families on the island.

Tristan da Cunha is generally considered the most remote inhabited archipelago in the world, located about 2,400 kilometers (1,500 miles) from the nearest inhabited land, St. Helena. Pitcairn Island, while also remote, is located about 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) from Tahiti and has a smaller population. Therefore, Tristan da Cunha is more remote than Pitcairn in terms of distance from other inhabited land.

Ketchikan, located in southeastern Alaska, is surrounded by numerous islands, including Revillagigedo Island, where Ketchikan itself is situated. Other nearby islands include Gravina Island, which houses the Ketchikan International Airport, and Pennock Island, known for its residential areas and natural beauty. The region is rich in wildlife and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking, making it a popular destination for visitors. Additionally, the waters around these islands are often frequented by boats and ferries connecting the communities.

Elba is an island in Italy, part of the Tuscan Archipelago. It is owned by Italy and is part of the province of Livorno in the Tuscany region. The island is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and as the site of Napoleon Bonaparte's exile in 1814.

Palawan, a province in the Philippines, is composed of approximately 1,780 islands and islets. The largest and most well-known islands include the main island of Palawan itself, as well as Coron and El Nido. This diverse archipelago is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and vibrant marine life.

Kalayaan Island, part of the Spratly Islands, is located in the South China Sea. It is administered by the Philippines and is situated approximately 280 kilometers west of the main island of Palawan. The island is strategically important and is a focal point of territorial disputes in the region involving several countries.