Majuro: The Heart of the Marshall Islands

• HelloYokwe
  [Yokwe]
• GoodbyeIo̧kwe
  [Ee-ok-way]
• YesEo
  [Eh-oh]
• NoEbwe
  [Eb-way]
• Please/You're welcomeJema
  [Jay-mah]
• Thank youKomol tata
  [Koh-mohl tah-tah]
• Excuse me/SorryJema
  [Jay-mah]
• How are you?Ko̧ṃṃool
  [Koh-mohl]
• Fine. And you?Jen eo. E ko̧ṃṃool in?
  [Jen eh-oh. Eh koh-mohl een?]
• Do you speak English?E ko̧ṃṃool in ingiis?
  [Eh koh-mohl een een-gees?]
• I don't understandŅaņinmej
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE ko̧ṃṃool in kijeekijeen menu, jema
  [Eh koh-mohl een kee-jee-kee-jeen menu, jay-mah]
• I don't eat meatŅaņinmej in jino
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj een jee-now]
• Cheers!Kommol
  [Koh-mohl]
• I would like to pay, pleaseE ko̧ṃṃool in jinoon, jema
  [Eh koh-mohl een jin-ohn, jay-mah]

• Help!Eo
  [Eh-oh]
• Go away!Ņaņinmej in jino
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj een jee-now]
• Call the Police!Ko̧ņaaņ
  [Kohn-nyan]
• Call a doctor!E ko̧ṃṃool in jinoon, jema
  [Eh koh-mohl een jin-ohn, jay-mah]
• I'm lostŅaņinmej in jino
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj een jee-now]
• I'm illŅaņinmej in jino
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj een jee-now]

• I'd like to buy...E ko̧ṃṃool in jino
  [Eh koh-mohl een jee-now]
• I'm just lookingŅaņinmej in jino
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj een jee-now]
• How much is it?Ko̧ņaaņ
  [Kohn-nyan]
• That's too expensiveŅaņinmej in jino
  [Nyan-yeen-mayj een jee-now]
• Can you lower the price?E ko̧ṃṃool in jinoon, jema
  [Eh koh-mohl een jin-ohn, jay-mah]

• What time is it?Ko̧ņaaņ
  [Kohn-nyan]
• It's one o'clockKabo
  [Kah-boh]
• Half past (10)Ko̧ket leen
  [Koh-ket leen]
• MorningJen in jikin
  [Jen een jee-keen]
• AfternoonJen in bar
  [Jen een bar]
• EveningJen in jeṃaaņ
  [Jen een jem-nyan]
• YesterdayJab in jerbal
  [Jab een jer-bal]
• TodayJab in jikin
  [Jab een jee-keen]
• TomorrowJab in jinoon
  [Jab een jin-ohn]
• 1Jikiroro
  [Jee-kee-roh-roh]
• 2Jikiru
  [Jee-kee-roo]
• 3Jikiņae
  [Jee-keen-nyan]
• 4Jikiea
  [Jee-kee-eh-ah]
• 5Jikiṃaaņ
  [Jee-keem-nyan]
• 6Jikiep
  [Jee-kee-ep]
• 7Jikijoul
  [Jee-kee-johl]
• 8Jikio̧
  [Jee-kee-oh]
• 9Jikio̧a
  [Jee-kee-oh-ah]
• 10Jikiņae
  [Jee-keen-nyan]

• Where's a/the...?Ko̧ņaaņ
  [Kohn-nyan]
• What's the address?Ko̧ņaaņ
  [Kohn-nyan]
• Can you show me (on the map)?E ko̧ṃṃool in jinoon, jema
  [Eh koh-mohl een jin-ohn, jay-mah]
• When's the next (bus)?Ko̧ņaaņ
  [Kohn-nyan]
• A ticket (to ....)E ko̧ṃṃool in jinoon, jema
  [Eh koh-mohl een jin-ohn, jay-mah]

Majuro, the capital of the Marshall Islands, boasts a rich history that dates back over two millennia. Its earliest inhabitants, the Micronesians, settled on the atoll around 2,000 years ago. These seafaring people developed a complex society based on navigation, fishing, and the cultivation of breadfruit, taro, and pandanus.

The first recorded European contact with Majuro occurred in 1529 when Spanish explorer Álvaro de Saavedra Cerón sighted the atoll. It wasn't until the 19th century, however, that European influence began to take root. In 1824, the British whaler Captain Charles Marshall visited the islands, giving the archipelago its name.

In 1885, the German Empire established a protectorate over the Marshall Islands, including Majuro. During this time, the Germans introduced new agricultural practices and infrastructure improvements. They also began the exploitation of phosphate resources, which significantly impacted the local economy and environment.

Following World War I, the League of Nations mandated the Marshall Islands to Japan. Japanese administration brought further development to Majuro, including the construction of schools, roads, and airstrips. However, the local population also faced harsh control and exploitation under Japanese rule.

During World War II, Majuro became a strategic target for Allied forces. In January 1944, American forces captured the atoll, establishing a naval base that played a crucial role in the Pacific campaign. After the war, Majuro became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States.

In 1979, the Marshall Islands gained self-government, and Majuro was designated as the capital. Full independence was achieved in 1986 under the Compact of Free Association with the United States. Today, Majuro is a bustling hub of cultural and economic activity, blending traditional Marshallese customs with modern influences.

Majuro's culture is deeply rooted in its history and the ocean that surrounds it. Traditional Marshallese navigation, using stick charts and star paths, remains a revered skill. Local crafts such as weaving and carving are still practiced, and the atoll hosts numerous festivals celebrating Marshallese heritage, including canoe races and dance performances.

Majuro is the capital city of the Marshall Islands and is located on the Majuro Atoll in the central Pacific Ocean. The main point of entry is Amata Kabua International Airport (MAJ), which receives flights from major hubs such as Honolulu (HNL) and Guam (GUM). United Airlines is the primary carrier serving Majuro. Travelers can also reach Majuro via sea, although this option is less common and mostly used by cargo ships and private yachts.

Transportation within Majuro is relatively straightforward. Taxis are the most common mode of transport and are readily available throughout the island. There are also shuttle buses that operate along the main road, connecting various parts of the atoll. Rental cars are available but limited, and given the compact nature of Majuro, they may not be necessary for most visitors. Bicycles can also be rented for a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore the island.

The official currency in Majuro is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and some shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available, but they can be limited, so it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival or before traveling to more remote areas of the atoll.

Majuro is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but petty theft can occur, so it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, you can dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Majuro. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. The Majuro Hospital is the main healthcare facility on the atoll.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in more traditional areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Yokwe,' which means hello. A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as fresh seafood and coconut-based dishes. Don't refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Majuro like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Marshallese crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Alele Museum and Public Library to learn more about the Marshall Islands' rich heritage. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to some of the nearby uninhabited islets for snorkeling and exploring pristine beaches.