Pohnpei: The Heart of Micronesia

• HelloKaselel
  [kah-seh-lehl]
• GoodbyeKalahngan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• YesEi
  [ay]
• NoEng
  [ehng]
• Please/You're welcomeKalahngan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• Thank youKalahngan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• Excuse me/SorryKalahngan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• How are you?Kaselel di kediad?
  [kah-seh-lehl dee kehd-yahd]
• Fine. And you?Mweodo. Ei kediad?
  [mweh-oh-doh. ay kehd-yahd]
• Do you speak English?Pweipwei English ak?
  [pweh-pweh ehn-gleesh ahk]
• I don't understandEhng kediad
  [ehng kehd-yahd]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEimwini menu, kalahngan
  [eh-mwee-nee meh-noo, kah-lahng-gahn]
• I don't eat meatEng pweipwei ni mihmi
  [ehng pweh-pweh nee meeh-mee]
• Cheers!Kalahngan
  [kah-lahng-gahn]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEimwini pweipwei, kalahngan
  [eh-mwee-nee pweh-pweh, kah-lahng-gahn]

• Help!Kohso!
  [koh-soh]
• Go away!Pwukei!
  [pwuh-keh-ee]
• Call the Police!Kohso polis!
  [koh-soh poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kohso doketa!
  [koh-soh doh-keh-tah]
• I'm lostEhng kohso mwahu
  [ehng koh-soh mwah-hoo]
• I'm illEng mwahu
  [ehng mwah-hoo]

• I'd like to buy...Eimwini kohso...
  [eh-mwee-nee koh-soh]
• I'm just lookingEng kohso mei
  [ehng koh-soh meh-ee]
• How much is it?Kihdo mwahnge?
  [keedoh mwahng-geh]
• That's too expensiveSoun pweipwei mwahnge
  [sown pweh-pweh mwahng-geh]
• Can you lower the price?Pweipwei kahso sohla mwahnge?
  [pweh-pweh kah-soh soh-lah mwahng-geh]

• What time is it?Kihdo di kohso?
  [keedoh dee koh-soh]
• It's one o'clockIngasou wain
  [een-gah-soh wah-een]
• Half past (10)Sihsih pweipwei (10)
  [see-see pweh-pweh (10)]
• MorningKohso
  [koh-soh]
• AfternoonIpil
  [ee-peel]
• EveningLemmeng
  [lehm-mehng]
• YesterdayKehleng
  [keh-leng]
• TodayKohso
  [koh-soh]
• TomorrowKilang
  [kee-lahng]
• 1Wain
  [wah-een]
• 2Sohk
  [sohk]
• 3Kihkih
  [keek-keek]
• 4Sihpei
  [see-pay]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Enem
  [eh-nehm]
• 7Fitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Walung
  [wah-loong]
• 9Siwah
  [see-wah]
• 10Sang
  [sahng]

• Where's a/the...?Kihdo di...
  [keedoh dee]
• What's the address?Kihdo di address?
  [keedoh dee address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pweipwei kahso sohla (di map)?
  [pweh-pweh kah-soh soh-lah (dee map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kihdo duhd di next (bus)?
  [keedoh doo-dee dee next (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Eimwini ticket (to ....)
  [eh-mwee-nee ticket (to)]

Nan Madol is often referred to as the 'Venice of the Pacific'. This archaeological site served as the ceremonial and political seat of the Saudeleur Dynasty, which ruled Pohnpei until around 1628. Built on a series of artificial islets, the remains of stone palaces, temples, and tombs are a testament to the island’s sophisticated ancient society. The construction of Nan Madol, involving massive basalt stones, remains a subject of fascination and mystery, as it is unclear how such heavy stones were transported and assembled.

The first known European contact with Pohnpei occurred in the early 16th century when Spanish explorers sighted the island. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that more sustained interaction began. The arrival of European explorers and traders introduced new goods, ideas, and diseases, which had significant impacts on the local population and culture.

In the mid-19th century, Christian missionaries arrived on Pohnpei, bringing with them new religious practices and Western education. The spread of Christianity led to significant changes in the social and cultural fabric of the island. Traditional practices and beliefs were often suppressed or modified to align with Christian teachings.

Pohnpei became a part of the German Empire in 1899 following the Spanish-American War. The Germans introduced various administrative and economic changes, including the development of copra production. After World War I, Japan took control of Pohnpei under a League of Nations mandate. The Japanese era saw the construction of infrastructure, such as roads and schools, as well as the introduction of new agricultural techniques.

During World War II, Pohnpei was occupied by Japanese forces and became a target for Allied bombings. The island witnessed significant military activity, and remnants of this period, such as bunkers and aircraft wrecks, can still be found today. After the war, Pohnpei came under U.S. administration as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.

Pohnpei, along with other islands in the Federated States of Micronesia, began its journey towards independence in the late 20th century. In 1979, the Federated States of Micronesia was established, and Pohnpei became one of its four states. The nation achieved full sovereignty in 1986, entering into a Compact of Free Association with the United States.

Despite the influences of colonization and modernization, Pohnpei has managed to preserve many of its traditional customs and practices. The island is known for its rich oral history, traditional navigation skills, and vibrant cultural festivals. Efforts are ongoing to document and revive traditional knowledge and practices, ensuring that the cultural heritage of Pohnpei remains alive for future generations.

Pohnpei is part of the Federated States of Micronesia and is primarily accessed by air. The main entry point is Pohnpei International Airport (PNI) located near the capital city of Kolonia. United Airlines operates regular flights from Guam and Honolulu, with connections from other international destinations. Some regional flights come from other islands within Micronesia. Ensure your travel documents are in order, including a valid passport and any necessary visas.

Getting around Pohnpei can be done via taxis, rental cars, or local buses. Taxis are abundant and relatively inexpensive, but it's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand. Car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Public buses are less frequent but can be a cost-effective way to travel between major points on the island. Walking is also a practical option in smaller towns and villages.

The official currency of Pohnpei is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, some restaurants, and larger stores, but cash is preferred for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available, mainly in Kolonia, but it's wise to carry sufficient cash, especially when traveling to more remote areas. Traveler's checks are generally not accepted.

Pohnpei is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and be aware of your surroundings. Petty theft can occur, so keep valuables secured. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant. The local police are approachable and can be contacted for assistance if needed.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Medical facilities are available in Kolonia, with the main hospital being the Pohnpei State Hospital. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies in Kolonia can provide over-the-counter medications. Familiarize yourself with local emergency procedures and contacts upon arrival.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and villages. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes when entering someone's home or a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to fellow passengers. Avoid loud conversations and disruptive behavior. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight bow is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Pohnpei like a local, visit the markets in Kolonia where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the island’s history and culture. Don’t miss the Nan Madol ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a unique experience, participate in a sakau (kava) ceremony, which is an important cultural tradition on the island. Respect the natural environment by not littering and adhering to local conservation efforts.