The smallest country in the world is Vatican City. Other than the Vatican (a very specific country), one of the tiniest countries in the world is the South Pacific Island nation of Niue, with less than 2,000 residents. Niue is a forgotten Pacific Island paradise like no other and a place where things are "the way they used to be." Imagine visiting a nation with the population of a small village. Niue offers a stark contrast to the over-commercialized Pacific Islands like Tahiti.

Niue is self-governing and in free association with New Zealand (so New Zealand does some things on its behalf, like diplomatic relations). Cook Island is also a country in free association with New Zealand and another great authentic Pacific experience.

Being around 1,500 miles northeast of New Zealand, Niue is very isolated. It is located in a triangle between Tonga, Samoa, and the Cook Islands.

Niue is one of the world's largest coral islands and is often called "The Rock." The island has a plateau in the center and a limestone cliff running along the coast. A coral reef surrounds the island.

The country only has around 1,500 residents who are spread across 14 colorful villages. The people are known for their warmth, respect, and welcoming nature. Most people there grow their own crops and fish to support their families, and going to church is an important part of the community.

It is believed that Polynesians first settled on the island over 1,000 years ago. It may have been settled with two major migrations (one from Samoa and another from Tonga). The famous explorer Captain James Cook sighted Niue in 1774. He tried to land three times on the island but was unable to as the local people prevented him - he called the island "Savage Island."

It wasn't until 1830 that the first European landed on the island. It became a British Protectorate in 1900, was annexed to New Zealand in 1901, gained self-government in 1974, and today the people have dual citizenship and are free to move to New Zealand if they wish. Niueans are New Zealand citizens, and an eye-popping 90-95% of the Niuean people live in New Zealand.

Related: Samoa Vs American Samoa: Why Are They Worth It, And Which You Should Visit?

The only flight to Niue is from Auckland to New Zealand. Air New Zealand runs services to Niue weekly, with the flights taking just over 3 hours. Remember, the country is little more than a sleepy village, and there is no public transport on arrival. This is a place without crowds, queues, traffic lights, or any of the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Visitors need to arrange transfers with their accommodation prior to arrival. It is strongly advised that visitors hire a car or bicycle while on the island so that they can get around and explore the island and villages.

Visitors need to pre-book their accommodation for the duration of their stay prior to leaving (a mandatory requirement for entry). Things like camping and couchsurfing are not available or permitted in Niue.

The island is ringed with a 64-kilometer (40 miles) long road with them bush tracks leading off it. The main ring road is mostly sealed. The dedicated website for planning a visit to Niue is Niue Island.

Related: This UNESCO Island In Tahiti Is At The End Of The World

The accommodations in Niue are predictably limited. Visitors can book a self-contained apartment or a villa or motel on the island. They also have 'private fales' that are equipped with multiple bedrooms and air conditioning.

There is one resort in the country - the Scenic Matavai Resort Niue. It is a stunning resort located on a clifftop affording picturesque 180-degree views of the Pacific. It is located only 10 minutes from all the major facilities and services on Niue.

The resort has swimming pools, a restaurant, in-room Wifi, air conditioning, Cable TV, and more basic facilities. It has 32 renovated rooms with balconies - all have a rain-head show, and most face the ocean. From one's balcony, it is possible to gaze out and see humpback whales, spinner dolphins, and more.

See the original post:

Niue: Visit The Smallest Pacific Island Country With Less Than 2,000 Residents - TheTravel