Nan Madol: The Venice of the Pacific

• HelloKaselel
  [kah-seh-lehl]
• GoodbyeKalahngan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• YesEhng
  [ehng]
• NoEnggaw
  [ehng-gow]
• Please/You're welcomePwehl
  [pwehl]
• Thank youKalangan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• Excuse me/SorryPwehl
  [pwehl]
• How are you?Kilisou met?
  [kee-lee-soh meht]
• Fine. And you?Kilisou. A anin?
  [kee-lee-soh. ah ah-neen]
• Do you speak English?Kaselel di naniti?
  [kah-seh-lehl dee nah-nee-tee]
• I don't understandKilisou me ak?
  [kee-lee-soh meh ahk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKilisou met sohng me menu, pwehl
  [kee-lee-soh meht sohng meh meh-noo, pwehl]
• I don't eat meatDiak kainim me kang
  [dee-ahk kah-ee-neem meh kahng]
• Cheers!Kalahngan!
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKilisou met sohng me isis, pwehl
  [kee-lee-soh meht sohng meh ee-sees, pwehl]

• Help!Sohng
  [sohng]
• Go away!Sohng
  [sohng]
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  [sohng kahn poh-lees]
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  [sohng kahn dohk-tah]
• I'm lostDiak sohng en sohng
  [dee-ahk sohng ehn sohng]
• I'm illDiak koapw me
  [dee-ahk koh-ah-poo meh]

• I'd like to buy...Kilisou met nuh...
  [kee-lee-soh meht noo-ah...]
• I'm just lookingDiak sohng nuh
  [dee-ahk sohng noo-ah]
• How much is it?Kilisou met sohng me solahng?
  [kee-lee-soh meht sohng meh soh-lahng]
• That's too expensiveDiak sohla solahng
  [dee-ahk soh-lah soh-lahng]
• Can you lower the price?Diak sohng solahng
  [dee-ahk sohng soh-lahng]

• What time is it?Kilisou met sohng me tohk?
  [kee-lee-soh meht sohng meh tohk]
• It's one o'clockKilisou me tohk ahluk
  [kee-lee-soh meh tohk ah-loo-k]
• Half past (10)Ahluk sohng (10)
  [ah-loo-k sohng (10)]
• MorningDehngal
  [dehng-ahl]
• AfternoonPwud
  [pwood]
• EveningPwehl
  [pwehl]
• YesterdayEkal
  [eh-kahl]
• TodayAnei
  [ah-nay]
• TomorrowKapw
  [kah-poo]
• 1Ahluh
  [ah-loo]
• 2Ruhda
  [roo-dah]
• 3Tuhlu
  [too-loo]
• 4Wahlu
  [wah-loo]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Onom
  [oh-nom]
• 7Fitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Waluu
  [wah-loo]
• 9Siwa
  [see-wah]
• 10Sapw
  [sah-poo]

• Where's a/the...?Kilisou met...
  [kee-lee-soh meht...]
• What's the address?Kilisou met sohng me adras?
  [kee-lee-soh meht sohng meh ah-drahs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Diak sohng ngei (pwehl en map)?
  [dee-ahk sohng ngeh-ee (pwehl ehn map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kilisou met sohng me nohng (bus)?
  [kee-lee-soh meht sohng meh nohng (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Sohng me tekid (to ....)
  [sohng meh teh-keed (to ....)]

Nan Madol, often referred to as the 'Venice of the Pacific,' is an ancient city built on a series of artificial islets in a lagoon off the eastern shore of Pohnpei, in the Federated States of Micronesia. The city dates back to the early part of the 12th century, constructed by the Saudeleur Dynasty. The origins of Nan Madol remain shrouded in mystery, and its builders are believed to have transported massive basalt stones from the opposite side of Pohnpei Island using an unknown method.

The Saudeleur Dynasty ruled Nan Madol and the surrounding islands for several centuries, from approximately 1100 to 1628 AD. The Saudeleur were known for their centralized and hierarchical government. They imposed strict social and religious order, which included the construction of Nan Madol as a ceremonial and political center. The dynasty's reign is characterized by its unique blend of autocratic rule and theocratic governance, which left a lasting impact on Pohnpeian culture and society.

Nan Madol is renowned for its distinctive and sophisticated architecture. The city is composed of nearly 100 artificial islets, interconnected by a network of canals. The islets are made from large basalt stones, some weighing up to 50 tons. The construction techniques used to build Nan Madol, particularly the transport and placement of the massive stones, continue to baffle historians and archaeologists. Key structures include the royal mortuary, Nandowas, and the administrative center, Pahn Kadira.

Nan Madol served as a major religious and ceremonial center for the Saudeleur Dynasty. The city housed numerous temples, burial places, and sites for ritual activities. The islet of Nandowas, in particular, is believed to have been a royal mortuary where the Saudeleur rulers were laid to rest. The city's layout and structures reflect the importance of spiritual and religious practices in the Saudeleur society, and Nan Madol's religious significance continues to be acknowledged by modern-day Pohnpeians.

The Saudeleur Dynasty came to an end in the early 17th century due to internal strife and external pressures. According to oral traditions, the dynasty was overthrown by Isokelekel, a semi-divine warrior from Kosrae. Isokelekel led a successful rebellion against the Saudeleur rulers, marking the end of their reign and the beginning of a new era for Pohnpei. The fall of the Saudeleur Dynasty led to significant changes in the political and social structure of the island, and Nan Madol was gradually abandoned.

Nan Madol remained largely abandoned and shrouded in legend until it was rediscovered by Western explorers in the 19th century. Since then, the site has attracted the interest of archaeologists, historians, and adventurers. Numerous studies have been conducted to uncover the mysteries of Nan Madol, including its construction methods, purpose, and the daily lives of its inhabitants. Despite extensive research, many aspects of Nan Madol's history and significance remain enigmatic, adding to its allure as an archaeological marvel.

Today, Nan Madol is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Pacific. Efforts are being made to preserve and protect the ruins from environmental threats and human impact. The site continues to hold cultural and historical importance for the people of Pohnpei, who regard it as a testament to their rich heritage. Nan Madol is a popular destination for travelers and researchers alike, offering a glimpse into the ancient and mysterious past of Micronesia.

Nan Madol is located on the eastern shore of Pohnpei Island in the Federated States of Micronesia. The nearest airport is Pohnpei International Airport (PNI), which has regular flights from major hubs such as Guam and Honolulu. Upon arrival at Pohnpei International Airport, travelers can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel shuttle to reach their accommodations. From there, local tours and transportation services can be arranged to visit Nan Madol.

Transportation around Pohnpei, including to Nan Madol, is primarily by taxi or rental car. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around the island. Rental cars can be arranged through local agencies, providing flexibility for exploring at your own pace. Some tour operators also offer guided tours to Nan Madol, including transportation.

The official currency in Micronesia is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting remote areas like Nan Madol. ATMs are available in Kolonia, the capital of Pohnpei, where you can withdraw cash.

Pohnpei is generally a safe destination for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Pohnpei has local police and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Kolonia where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting cultural or religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'kaoke.' A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Nan Madol like a local, consider hiring a local guide who can provide in-depth knowledge about the history and significance of the site. Visit during low tide for easier access to the ruins. Engage with the locals to learn about their culture and stories associated with Nan Madol. Don't miss the opportunity to explore other parts of Pohnpei, such as the stunning waterfalls and lush rainforests.