Weno: The Heartbeat of Chuuk Lagoon

• HelloKaselehlia
  [ka-se-leh-lee-ah]
• GoodbyeKalahngan
  [ka-lang-gan]
• YesOuw
  [ow]
• NoWahng
  [wahng]
• Please/You're welcomeKommol tata
  [kom-mol ta-ta]
• Thank youKinisou
  [ki-nee-sow]
• Excuse me/SorryKoselesele
  [ko-se-le-se-le]
• How are you?Kaselehlia?
  [ka-se-leh-lee-ah]
• Fine. And you?Urih. Iei soh?
  [oo-reeh. ee-eh soh]
• Do you speak English?Kumwaila ak kapasawehdi English?
  [kum-wai-la ak ka-pa-sa-weh-dee English]
• I don't understandOuhadapw diew
  [ow-ha-dap diew]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKollek menu anit, kommol tata
  [kol-lek me-noo ah-neet, kom-mol ta-ta]
• I don't eat meatOuwada aramas
  [ow-wa-da a-ra-mas]
• Cheers!Kalahngan!
  [ka-lang-gan]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKollek kada, kommol tata
  [kol-lek ka-da, kom-mol ta-ta]

• Help!Kapwurehn mepwurehn
  [kap-wu-ren me-pwu-ren]
• Go away!Katumwahla
  [ka-tum-wah-la]
• Call the Police!Kumwaila ak kanepw
  [kum-wai-la ak ka-nepw]
• Call a doctor!Kumwaila ak kamei
  [kum-wai-la ak ka-may]
• I'm lostOuhadapw mwohn
  [ow-ha-dap mo-won]
• I'm illOuhadapw kalahngan
  [ow-ha-dap ka-lang-gan]

• I'd like to buy...Kollek kada...
  [kol-lek ka-da]
• I'm just lookingKollek sohki
  [kol-lek soh-kee]
• How much is it?Kumwaila na?
  [kum-wai-la na]
• That's too expensiveOhlapalap soang
  [oh-la-pa-la-p soh-ang]
• Can you lower the price?Kumwaila ak esap imi soang?
  [kum-wai-la ak e-sap ee-mee soh-ang]

• What time is it?Kumwaila saalahng?
  [kum-wai-la sah-lang]
• It's one o'clockSaalahng sohped
  [sah-lang soh-ped]
• Half past (10)Saalahng sifeni (10)
  [sah-lang si-fe-nee (10)]
• MorningRora
  [roh-rah]
• AfternoonRehrehng
  [reh-reh-ng]
• EveningRahmwahr
  [rahm-wahr]
• YesterdayAhmwahr
  [ahm-wahr]
• TodayEri
  [eh-ree]
• TomorrowSoun
  [sown]
• 1Sohped
  [soh-ped]
• 2Sohng
  [soh-ng]
• 3Sohki
  [soh-kee]
• 4Sohpahr
  [soh-pahr]
• 5Sohraw
  [soh-rahw]
• 6Sohnimw
  [soh-nim-w]
• 7Sohlou
  [soh-low]
• 8Sohwewehn
  [soh-we-wehn]
• 9Sohsou
  [soh-sow]
• 10Sifen
  [si-fen]

• Where's a/the...?Kumwaila dih...?
  [kum-wai-la dee]
• What's the address?Kumwaila diraang?
  [kum-wai-la dee-raang]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kumwaila ak silohng (ei map)?
  [kum-wai-la ak si-lohng (ay map)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kumwaila iei sohng (bus)?
  [kum-wai-la ee-eh soh-ng]
• A ticket (to ....)Kollek mahsoun (ei ....)
  [kol-lek mah-sown (ay)]

The island of Weno, part of the Chuuk State in the Federated States of Micronesia, has been inhabited for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the first settlers arrived around 2,000 years ago. These early inhabitants were part of the broader Austronesian migration, which spread across the Pacific. They developed a complex society with advanced navigation skills, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Weno.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in Micronesia, claiming the islands for the Spanish Crown. The influence of Spanish colonization brought changes to the traditional way of life on Weno. The introduction of Christianity, new agricultural practices, and trade with the outside world began to reshape the cultural landscape of the island.

Following the Spanish-American War, Spain sold Micronesia to Germany in 1899. The German administration implemented new economic policies, focusing on copra (dried coconut) production and trade. The German period also saw the establishment of infrastructure, including schools and clinics, which laid the groundwork for future development on Weno.

After World War I, Japan took control of Micronesia under a League of Nations mandate. The Japanese occupation from 1914 to 1945 brought significant changes to Weno, including the introduction of Japanese language and culture. During World War II, Weno and the surrounding Chuuk Lagoon served as a major Japanese naval base. The island still bears the remnants of this period, with sunken ships and military artifacts scattered across the lagoon.

In February 1944, Operation Hailstone, a major World War II battle, took place in the Chuuk Lagoon. Allied forces launched a massive air and naval attack on the Japanese fleet anchored in the lagoon. The operation resulted in the sinking of numerous ships and aircraft, turning the lagoon into one of the largest ship graveyards in the world. This event significantly impacted Weno, leading to the end of Japanese control and the eventual transition to American administration.

After World War II, Weno became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States under a United Nations mandate. This period saw further development in infrastructure, education, and healthcare. American influence brought modernization and economic aid, which played a crucial role in shaping the island's contemporary society.

In 1979, Weno became part of the newly formed Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) as Chuuk State. The FSM gained independence in 1986 through a Compact of Free Association with the United States. This compact provided financial aid and defense support, enabling Weno to develop its local government and economy. Today, Weno serves as the administrative and economic hub of Chuuk State, reflecting its rich history and cultural diversity.

Weno, located in the Chuuk State of Micronesia, is accessible primarily by air. The main entry point is Chuuk International Airport (TKK), which has regular flights from Guam, Pohnpei, and other islands in Micronesia via United Airlines. From the airport, taxis and pre-arranged hotel transfers are available to reach your accommodation in Weno.

Weno is a small island, and many of its attractions are within a short distance. Taxis are the most common form of transportation and can be hired for short trips or for the entire day. Some hotels offer shuttle services, and car rentals are available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. Public buses are limited, so planning ahead is recommended.

The official currency in Weno is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger establishments, but cash is preferred, especially in smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in Weno, but it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for your needs, as card acceptance can be inconsistent.

Weno is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is important 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 it is always best to stay vigilant.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There is a local police station and medical facilities available in Weno. 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 modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or places. Public Transport: Do be respectful to drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly wave. Handshakes are also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Weno like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Micronesian 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 Chuuk Lagoon, known for its exceptional WWII shipwreck diving sites. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to explore the surrounding islands and their pristine beaches.