As Christmas Island is a small territory with limited tourist attractions, there aren't any museums on the island. However, if you are interested in visiting museums, you may consider traveling to Perth, Western Australia, which is about a 3-hour flight from Christmas Island. In Perth, you can explore several museums such as the Western Australian Museum, the Art Gallery of Western Australia, and the Perth Mint. If you prefer to stay closer to Christmas Island, you can also explore the National Museum of Australia or the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, which are both located on the Australian mainland but require a longer flight or ferry ride.
As Christmas Island has a small population and limited tourist attractions, there isn't a well-defined local cuisine. However, some of the popular dishes to try on the island include fresh seafood such as crabs, prawns, and fish. The island is known for its red crabs, which are a local delicacy and can be found in many restaurants. Visitors can also enjoy Asian-inspired dishes like noodles and stir-fries, as there is a significant Chinese-Malay population on the island. Additionally, visitors can try coconut-based desserts like coconut puddings or cakes, made with fresh coconuts sourced from the island.
As Christmas Island is a small territory with limited tourist attractions, the locals tend to enjoy outdoor activities that take advantage of the island's stunning natural scenery and wildlife. Here are some fun activities that local people like in Christmas Island:
1. Snorkeling or diving: Christmas Island is surrounded by clear turquoise waters teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even whale sharks.
2. Hiking or birdwatching: The island has several nature trails that wind through lush rainforests and lead to stunning lookouts and waterfalls. The island is also a haven for birdwatchers, as it is home to over 80 species of birds, many of which are endemic.
3. Fishing or crabbing: The island is famous for its red crabs, which migrate en masse from the forest to the coast each year. Locals enjoy catching fresh seafood by fishing or crabbing in the island's waters.
4. Beachcombing or sunbathing: The island has several beautiful beaches, such as Flying Fish Cove and Lily Beach, where locals like to relax, swim, or comb the shore for shells and other treasures.
5. Cultural events or festivals: Christmas Island has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its Chinese, Malay, and European settlers. The island hosts several annual events and festivals, such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and Territory Day, which celebrate the island's multicultural identity.