Hi there! I'm curious, could you tell me how the Solomon Islands got its name? 
 Hi! In 1568, the Spanish navigator Alvaro de Mendana was the first European to visit the Solomon Islands archipelago, naming it Islas Salomon (Solomon Islands) after the wealthy biblical King Solomon. 
 Oh wow! I had no idea. Is there any more you can tell me about the naming? 
 Sure thing! During most of the period of British rule, the territory was officially named the British Solomon Islands Protectorate. 
 That's pretty interesting! So what can you tell me about the Solomon Islands geography? 
 Most of the islands are part of the Solomon Islands rain forests ecoregion which also includes the islands of Bougainville and Buka. These forests have come under pressure from forestry activities. 
 I see. Is there any more you can tell me about the Solomon Islands' geography? 
 According to a UNICEF report, even the capital's poorest communities do not have access to adequate places to relive their waste and an estimated 70% Solomon Islands schools have no access to safe and clean drinking water or for washing and relieving of waste. 
 That's just terrible! Are there any other interesting facts you can tell me about the Solomon Islands? 
 The Santa Cruz Islands are situated north of Vanuatu and are especially isolated at more than 200 kilometers (120 miles) from the other islands. 
 Wow, they really are isolated. Thank you so much for all of the helpful information! 
 You are most welcome!
Solomon Islands