Flying Fish Cove: A Tropical Haven on Christmas Island

• HelloHeita
  [hey-ta]
• GoodbyeBaila
  [bye-la]
• YesOuwe
  [ow-we]
• NoNakon
  [na-kon]
• Please/You're welcomeBelele
  [be-le-le]
• Thank youMolokai
  [mo-lo-kai]
• Excuse me/SorryKanali
  [ka-na-li]
• How are you?Matala ku?
  [ma-ta-la ku]
• Fine. And you?Matala. Luwa ku?
  [ma-ta-la. lu-wa ku]
• Do you speak English?Luwa na goa Ingilish?
  [lu-wa na go-a in-gi-lish]
• I don't understandNgamata luwa
  [nga-ma-ta lu-wa]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNgalonja ku tala menu, belele
  [nga-lon-ja ku ta-la me-nu, be-le-le]
• I don't eat meatNganandla ku nyama
  [nga-nan-dla ku nya-ma]
• Cheers!Sala!
  [sa-la]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNgalonja ku tala loto, belele
  [nga-lon-ja ku ta-la lo-to, be-le-le]

• Help!Sikola!
  [si-ko-la]
• Go away!Kwenda!
  [kwen-da]
• Call the Police!Kuvula Polisi!
  [ku-vu-la po-li-si]
• Call a doctor!Kuvula daktari!
  [ku-vu-la dak-ta-ri]
• I'm lostNgalola
  [nga-lo-la]
• I'm illNgaswala
  [nga-swa-la]

• I'd like to buy...Ngalonja ku kopa...
  [nga-lon-ja ku ko-pa]
• I'm just lookingNganwala ku tala
  [nga-nwa-la ku ta-la]
• How much is it?Kukolwa ngata?
  [ku-kol-wa nga-ta]
• That's too expensiveLokota kwa ngafu
  [lo-ko-ta kwa nga-fu]
• Can you lower the price?Unawisa ku londela ngata?
  [u-na-wi-sa ku lon-de-la nga-ta]

• What time is it?Ngata saaku?
  [nga-ta saa-ku]
• It's one o'clockNi saa ya ng'ombe
  [ni saa ya ngom-be]
• Half past (10)Nusu saa (kumi)
  [nu-su saa ku-mi]
• MorningKulala
  [ku-la-la]
• AfternoonMakasana
  [ma-ka-sa-na]
• EveningMakondo
  [ma-kon-do]
• YesterdaySiku lilo
  [si-ku li-lo]
• TodaySiku ya leo
  [si-ku ya le-o]
• TomorrowSiku ya kesho
  [si-ku ya ke-sho]
• 1Moja
  [mo-ja]
• 2Mbili
  [m-bi-li]
• 3Tatu
  [ta-tu]
• 4Nne
  [n-ne]
• 5Tano
  [ta-no]
• 6Sita
  [si-ta]
• 7Saba
  [sa-ba]
• 8Nane
  [na-ne]
• 9Kenda
  [ken-da]
• 10Ithano
  [i-tha-no]

• Where's a/the...?Iko...?
  [i-ko]
• What's the address?Anu anu?
  [a-nu a-nu]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Unaweza kunionyesha (kwenye ramani)?
  [u-na-we-za ku-nio-nye-sha kwe-nye ra-ma-ni]
• When's the next (bus)?Ni lini ijayo (basi)?
  [ni li-ni i-ja-yo ba-si]
• A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (kwenda ....)
  [ti-ki-ti kwen-da]

Flying Fish Cove, also known as The Settlement, is the main settlement of Christmas Island. It was first discovered by Captain William Mynors in 1643 on Christmas Day, hence the island's name. However, it wasn't until the late 19th century that permanent settlement began. In 1888, the British annexed Christmas Island and soon after, a small community was established at Flying Fish Cove.

In the early 20th century, deposits of high-quality phosphate rock were discovered, transforming Flying Fish Cove into a bustling hub of activity. The Christmas Island Phosphate Company was established in 1899, attracting workers and their families from across Asia, particularly from China and Malaysia. Phosphate mining became the island's lifeline and shaped its social and economic landscape.

During World War II, Flying Fish Cove experienced significant turmoil. In March 1942, Japanese forces invaded and occupied Christmas Island, including Flying Fish Cove. The island's infrastructure and phosphate mining operations were disrupted, and many residents were interned or fled. The occupation lasted until 1945, leaving a lasting impact on the local community.

After World War II, Flying Fish Cove witnessed a period of reconstruction and development. The phosphate industry resumed, and new facilities and infrastructure were built to support the growing community. The Australian government took over administration of the island in 1958, leading to further modernization and improvements in living standards.

Flying Fish Cove is a melting pot of cultures, shaped by its diverse population over the years. The influx of workers from different parts of Asia has left a rich cultural legacy, evident in the town's architecture, cuisine, and festivals. The Chinese, Malay, and European influences have blended to create a unique and vibrant community, with traditions and customs that continue to be celebrated today.

In recent years, Flying Fish Cove has become a focal point for tourism on Christmas Island. The town offers visitors a glimpse into the island's history and culture, with attractions such as the Christmas Island Museum and the historic buildings along Gaze Road. Additionally, conservation efforts have been implemented to protect the island's unique biodiversity, including its famous red crab migration, which attracts nature enthusiasts from around the world.

Flying Fish Cove, the main settlement of Christmas Island, can be accessed via air travel. The nearest airport is Christmas Island Airport (XCH), which receives flights from Perth and Jakarta. From the airport, taxis and shuttle services are available to take you to Flying Fish Cove, which is about 15 minutes away by car.

Transportation around Flying Fish Cove can be managed through taxis, car rentals, and bicycles. There is no public transportation system, so renting a car or bicycle is recommended for exploring the island at your own pace. Taxis are available and can be booked via phone or found at designated taxi stands.

The official currency on Christmas Island is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments. ATMs are available in Flying Fish Cove, but it is a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash before arriving on the island.

Flying Fish Cove is generally a safe destination for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as not leaving belongings unattended and avoiding isolated areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.

In case of an emergency, dial 000 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Christmas Island Hospital is located in Flying Fish Cove and offers medical services. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress casually and comfortably, but modestly, especially in places of worship. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering religious sites. Public Transport: There is no public transport system, but if using taxis, do be courteous and tip the driver. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t litter; keep the island clean.

To experience Flying Fish Cove like a local, visit the local markets and try freshly caught seafood. Engage with locals, who are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss out on the annual red crab migration, a spectacular natural event. Explore the island's natural beauty by hiking and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.