Island Fever

Being trapped on an island (when you think of it like that) can seem claustrophobic. When you are just itching to get off island, it’s called Island Fever. If it is an actual fever, you might need to see a doctor because it is probably something else. It seems more common with expatriates (people living ou

tside of their home country) who have not left the island in over a year and people who don’t have many hobbies. This is just a hypothesis, as I have not yet experienced Island Fever. Sure, it would be nice to visit the places our friends hop off to on holiday, but it is also interesting to be here. My life here feels a bit like a vacation at times. Maid service would be nice, but we are exploring and learning more about

the culture all the time. I have projects, crafts, exploring and a family to keep me busy, but it is the

friendships that make this island feel comfortable.

When far from family and one's own culture, people reach out to one another with social events and clubs. This is true to a varying degree in different countries, and it is certainly true here in Pohnpei, Micronesia. This community acts as a surrogate family and provides a sense of stability and support. We just need to remember to not overfill our calendar. I literally pencil in time to be creative and some time to sit alone with my thoughts.

Some of the things to do here include: international dinner nights, running races, soccer, cooking club, girl scouts, Tae Kwon Do, play group, ladies' night, volunteering, sunset cruises, Rotary club, badminton and lots of kayaking, snorkeling, scuba, hik

ing and surfing. Activities, invitations and notices are posted on the Pohnpei Google groups email list.

It is good to feel like we are a part of a welcoming and dynamic community. Island life is very laid back, but this hardly seems to slow down the local expatriates. There is much to love about Micronesia and Pohnpei in particular, but my favorite aspect is the people, both foreign and native. My life is richer because of them. We have all trav

eled a very long way for our paths to cross here.