Tarawa is where most of the Kiribatians live. Their seat of govt is here. It is a coral island thus they do not have soil, only sand and coral. It looks like a very large beach resort. Internet access was still a problem when I was here but they do have internet cafes with very slow dial-up speed. I stayed in the best government-run hotel and the largest in the island, the Otintaai Hotel. It was expensive for me but I think it is the best you can do with the money you pay. They use Australian Dollars. You can change money through the sole bank in the island. If you do not want to do so, you better change your money while in an Australian airport on the way. The people are very friendly and helpful. They serve very large servings of meat and rice. The people dance after eating to help in the digestion of food. Whenever there is a party or meeting, the agenda always has a portion where everybody dances and everybody are given the chance to talk their mind in front of everybody.