• Solomon Islands!

    Solomon Islands: Looking up at palm trees. Go Now!

    Solomon Islands
    This Melanesian country is best known for its many islands and beaches... and this natural landscape (pictured) is why most people go. Don't miss out on the unique Melanesian culture and foods though! Begin Your Journey!

  • Tonga!

    Tonga: Coastline. Go Now!

    Tonga
    The heart of Polynesian culture is rooted in Tonga, but most visitors just come for the natural beauty. Explore Tonga!

  • Vanuatu!

    Vanuatu: Jetty into the ocean. Go Now!

    Vanuatu
    Picturesque serenity is a good way to describe Vanuatu, but the culture offers much more, including the inspiration for bungee jumping, which remains a rite of passage for young men. Explore Vanuatu!

  • Palau!

    Palau: "70 Islands!" Go Now!

    Palau
    Few people have even heard of this small Micronesian country, but those who have often return with stories of beauty unmatched elsewhere, such as view of the "70 Islands" (pictured). Go Now!

  • Explore the: Federated States of Micronesia!

    Federated States of Micronesia: Overlooking some islands. Go Now!

    Federated States of Micronesia
    This diverse country stretches for thousands of miles and has the diversity to prove it, including the people from Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Yap among others. Begin Your Journey!

  • Samoa!

    Samoa: A traditional home. Go Now!

    Samoa
    Among the most famous of the South Pacific's many countries, Samoa sits in the heart of Polynesia and has a culture to match. Begin Your Journey!

Architecture of the Marshall Islands

Most of the pre-colonial architecture in the Marshall Islands was limited to the construction of houses. These traditional homes were made of wood and were simple in design. They were often supported by large wooden beams and covered with a thatched roof. There was little other architecture built during this time.

When the Europeans arrived to the Marshall Islands they brought with them new building materials and techniques. This began a slow process of changing the traditional housing as today the variety of houses is vast. While traditional homes still exist, most commonly in rural areas, most houses in the cities are now constructed of concrete or plywood and the roofs are often made of sheet metal. However, there's a growing upper class in the Marshall Islands who are building homes in all styles as they include every detail and spare no expense.

The Europeans also introduced new types of buildings, such as schools, churches, and governmental buildings. Today these structures are the most noticeable and impressive in the country. A church towers above most towns and the capital of Majuro is home to the government, whose buildings are very impressive and modern.

This page was last updated: February, 2013