Puluwat

Micronesia / Chuuk / Polowat /
 Upload a photo
The atoll and the island are named the same; Puluwat. The men here are the most aggressive and toughest amongst the Micronesians. The contest of manhood here is to grasp hands and then to cut your own forearm with your machete. Your opponent then makes a larger or deeper cut in his own arm. Alternating turns back and forth until the lesser man lets go of his opponent. Some of these guys carry horrible self inflicted scars on their arms.

A gift of a few packs or a carton of cigarettes as a token of respect and friendship will put you in good standing. Be courteous and firm but don't try to tell these guys what to do.
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   7°21'24"N   149°11'52"E
This article was last modified 18 years ago