Kosrae: The Jewel of Micronesia

• HelloKaselehlia
  [KA-se-LEH-lee-ah]
• GoodbyeKalahngan
  [KAH-lahng-gahn]
• YesEwe
  [EH-weh]
• NoKowehn
  [KOH-wehn]
• Please/You're welcomeKulo
  [KOO-loh]
• Thank youKilisou
  [kee-LEE-sow]
• Excuse me/SorryPwipwi nuwa
  [pwee-PWEE NOO-wah]
• How are you?Selehdi mwahng?
  [seh-LEH-dee mwahng]
• Fine. And you?Kaselehlie, silehdi mwahng?
  [KA-se-LEH-lee-eh, see-LEH-dee mwahng]
• Do you speak English?Kosrae ahpw kaselehlie kih English?
  [KOSS-rye ahpw ka-SEH-lee-eh kee English]
• I don't understandKosrae ahpw mahk
  [KOSS-rye ahpw mahk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKosrae ahpw eh mehng menu, kulo
  [KOSS-rye ahpw eh mehng MEH-noo, KOO-loh]
• I don't eat meatKosrae ahpw kahpwehki mwehng
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kah-pweh-kee mweng]
• Cheers!Kalahngan
  [KAH-lahng-gahn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKosrae ahpw eh pei, kulo
  [KOSS-rye ahpw eh pay, KOO-loh]

• Help!Kosrae ahpw kowehn
  [KOSS-rye ahpw KOW-wehn]
• Go away!Kosrae ahpw kahngwan
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kahng-wahn]
• Call the Police!Kosrae ahpw kohla Pelees
  [KOSS-rye ahpw KOH-lah PEH-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kosrae ahpw kohla doketa
  [KOSS-rye ahpw KOH-lah DOH-keh-tah]
• I'm lostKosrae ohpw kahpwehki mwadou
  [KOSS-rye oh-pw kah-pweh-kee mwah-DOH-oo]
• I'm illKosrae ohpw kahpwehki mwahng
  [KOSS-rye oh-pw kah-pweh-kee mwahng]

• I'd like to buy...Kosrae ahpw eh kohla...
  [KOSS-rye ahpw eh KOH-lah...]
• I'm just lookingKosrae ohpw kahpwehki nekeng
  [KOSS-rye oh-pw kah-pweh-kee neh-KEHNG]
• How much is it?Kosrae ahpw kuhng mwehng?
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kuhng mweng]
• That's too expensiveEhng koaloahng
  [ehng koh-ah-lohng]
• Can you lower the price?Kosrae ahpw kuhng kahpwehki leleng
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kuhng kah-pweh-kee LEH-lehng]

• What time is it?Kosrae ahpw kuhng mwahng?
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kuhng mwahng]
• It's one o'clockKosrae mwahng soaloag
  [KOSS-rye mwahng soh-ah-loh-ahg]
• Half past (10)Kosrae mwahng leleeng
  [KOSS-rye mwahng LEH-lehng]
• MorningKosrae kalang
  [KOSS-rye KAH-lahng]
• AfternoonKosrae kalang mwadou
  [KOSS-rye KAH-lahng mwah-DOH-oo]
• EveningKosrae kalang koukou
  [KOSS-rye KAH-lahng KOH-koh]
• YesterdayKosrae mwahng kehl kahkita
  [KOSS-rye mwahng kehl kah-KEE-tah]
• TodayKosrae mwahng kahkita
  [KOSS-rye mwahng kah-KEE-tah]
• TomorrowKosrae mwahng kehl sohng
  [KOSS-rye mwahng kehl sohng]
• 1soaloag
  [soh-ah-loh-ahg]
• 2leduwe
  [LEH-doo-weh]
• 3nelu
  [NEH-loo]
• 4niw
  [nee-oo]
• 5liew
  [LEE-eh-oo]
• 6onow
  [OH-noh-oo]
• 7kohse
  [KOH-seh]
• 8sewe
  [SEH-weh]
• 9siwo
  [SEE-woh]
• 10sou
  [soh-oo]

• Where's a/the...?Kosrae ahpw kuhng...
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kuhng...]
• What's the address?Kosrae ahpw kuhng pwung
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kuhng PWUNG]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kosrae ahpw kahpwehki mwahng pwung (eh map)?
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kah-pweh-kee mwahng PWUNG (eh map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kosrae ahpw kuhng suhng (bus)?
  [KOSS-rye ahpw kuhng sohng (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Kosrae mwahng kuhng (to ....)
  [KOSS-rye mwahng kuhng (to)]

Kosrae, often referred to as 'The Island of the Sleeping Lady,' has a rich history that dates back over 2,000 years. Archaeological evidence indicates that the island was first settled by Austronesian-speaking people, who navigated the vast Pacific Ocean using traditional navigation techniques.

During the 14th and 15th centuries, Kosrae became known for its highly organized and complex society. The island was divided into four main districts: Lelu, Tafunsak, Malem, and Utwe. Each district was governed by a chief, with the paramount chief residing in Lelu. The remains of ancient stone structures and royal tombs in Lelu serve as a testament to this period of Kosraean history.

The first recorded European contact with Kosrae occurred in the early 19th century when Spanish explorers arrived on the island. However, it was the arrival of British and American whaling ships that had a more significant impact. Reports from these explorers and traders introduced Kosrae to the rest of the world, bringing new goods and diseases that affected the local population.

In the mid-19th century, Protestant missionaries from the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions arrived on Kosrae. They played a crucial role in shaping the island’s culture and society. The missionaries introduced Christianity, which quickly spread and became deeply ingrained in the local culture. Traditional beliefs and practices were often suppressed as a result.

In 1899, following the Spanish-American War, Spain sold the Caroline Islands, including Kosrae, to Germany. The German administration focused on copra production and infrastructure development. During World War I, Japan seized control of the island and later, under the League of Nations mandate, administered it until the end of World War II. The Japanese period saw further infrastructure development, but also hardship for the local population due to the war.

Following World War II, Kosrae came under the administration of the United States as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. The American period brought significant changes, including improved healthcare, education, and infrastructure. The island's economy began to diversify, though traditional ways of life were increasingly influenced by Western culture.

Kosrae, along with other islands in the Federated States of Micronesia, began to move towards self-governance in the late 20th century. On November 3, 1986, the Compact of Free Association between the Federated States of Micronesia and the United States came into effect, granting Kosrae significant autonomy while still maintaining close ties with the U.S.

Today, Kosrae is known for its lush rainforests, pristine coral reefs, and vibrant culture. The island maintains a delicate balance between preserving its rich heritage and embracing modernity. Visitors to Kosrae can explore ancient ruins, partake in traditional ceremonies, and enjoy the natural beauty that has been cherished by generations of Kosraeans.

Kosrae is one of the four states of the Federated States of Micronesia. The most common way to reach Kosrae is by air. The main airport is Kosrae International Airport (KSA). United Airlines operates regular flights to Kosrae from Guam and Pohnpei, which connect to other international destinations. Another option is to travel by sea, although this is less common and primarily used for cargo.

Kosrae is a small island, so transportation options are relatively limited. Taxis are available and are a convenient way to get around the island. Renting a car is also an option and can be arranged through local rental agencies. Bicycles and scooters can be rented as well, offering a more adventurous way to explore the island. There is no public transportation system on Kosrae.

The official currency in Kosrae is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments. ATMs are available, but their number is limited, so it is a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival or before leaving a major city.

Kosrae is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving belongings unattended and avoiding isolated areas at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on the island.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Kosrae has a hospital located in the capital, Tofol, which can handle most medical needs. 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.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering churches or religious sites. Public Transport: As there is no public transport, rely on taxis or rentals. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly wave or handshake. A smile goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kosrae like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Kosraean goods. 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 ancient ruins of Lelu and Menka, which offer a glimpse into the island’s past. For a unique experience, try snorkeling or diving in the pristine waters surrounding Kosrae, which are home to vibrant coral reefs and marine life.