The hibiscus found widespread use not only as a decorative plant, but also as a drug. A lot of healing blends and concoctions are prepared from its petals, which, according to locals, are best medicine against various diseases. Going for a walk to local markets, you should pay attention to the variety of herbal preparations; Chinese rose or hibiscus would be one of the most important component of them. Go for a walk through the city streets and you’ll see a flower literally everywhere, but for medical purposes flowers grown on special plantations are used.
The name of the island is literally translated as ‘brown eagle,’ this rare bird with wings of brick color is one of the main representatives of the local fauna. Eagle is also an important national symbol; a monument to the eagle can be seen in the capital.
Shamanism remains a common, but unusual for foreign travelers phenomenon. Despite the fact that many cities of the archipelago are highly competitive with modern cities in other countries, shamans still remain the most revered and respected people. Not only locals, but also visitors address to shamans. Usually rituals performed by shamans are closed to outsiders, but sometimes curious tourists are allowed to watch those mysterious rites. Eyewitnesses claim that healing from a painful disease often occurs almost instantaneously, once the shaman ritual was completed. Local shamans help not only in getting rid of the disease, but also in looking into the future and getting a wise advice.
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