Funafuti is the capital of Tuvalu. It is a true atoll that consists of 30 islands, or motu, as called by the Tuvaluans, surrounding a lagoon 20 kilometres north to south by 11 kilometres east to west.
Officially name: Tuvalu
Capital: Funafuti
Official language: Tuvaluan, English
Government: Parliamentary Democracy & Constitutional monarchy
Tuvalu, the world's second-smallest country and, according to the United Nations, one of the least developed, fulfils the classic image of a South Sea paradise. Visitors come to the islands to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and palm-fringed beaches. Pandanus, papaya, banana, breadfruit and coconut palms are typical. Traditional buildings with thatched roofs can be seen virtually everywhere on the islands.