Yap: The Jewel of Micronesia

• HelloMogethin
  [moh-geth-een]
• GoodbyeRuwu
  [roo-woo]
• YesOor
  [ohr]
• NoMing
  [meeng]
• Please/You're welcomeSaar
  [sahr]
• Thank youRaakel
  [rah-kel]
• Excuse me/SorryDihng
  [deeng]
• How are you?Me lala
  [meh lah-lah]
• Fine. And you?Me lala. Re lala?
  [meh lah-lah. reh lah-lah?]
• Do you speak English?Me renged English?
  [meh rehng-ed English?]
• I don't understandMe mwaq lala
  [meh mwahng lah-lah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe lala eru menu, sohsoh
  [meh lah-lah eh-roo menu, sohs-ohs]
• I don't eat meatMe mwaq iis
  [meh mwahng ees]
• Cheers!Kamam
  [kah-mahm]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe lala eru kori, sohsoh
  [meh lah-lah eh-roo koh-ree, sohs-ohs]

• Help!Mwenge
  [mwehng-eh]
• Go away!Su rei
  [soo reh-ee]
• Call the Police!Me ree Police!
  [meh reh poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Me ree doctor!
  [meh reh dohk-tohr]
• I'm lostMe mwaq ngarang
  [meh mwahng ngah-rahngh]
• I'm illMe sar
  [meh sahr]

• I'd like to buy...Me lala eru...
  [meh lah-lah eh-roo...]
• I'm just lookingMe dengir
  [meh dehng-eer]
• How much is it?Ko me sohng?
  [koh meh sohng?]
• That's too expensiveMe re sohng pang
  [meh reh sohng pahng]
• Can you lower the price?Me re sohng kohng
  [meh reh sohng kohng]

• What time is it?Mwenge sohng?
  [mwehng-eh sohng?]
• It's one o'clockOor me sohng
  [ohr meh sohng]
• Half past (10)Mwahng sohng (10)
  [mwahng sohng (10)]
• MorningSaar
  [sahr]
• AfternoonPahng
  [pahng]
• EveningParso
  [pahr-soh]
• YesterdaySuun
  [soo-oon]
• TodaySo
  [soh]
• TomorrowRe
  [reh]
• 1Oor
  [ohr]
• 2Re
  [reh]
• 3Tihl
  [teel]
• 4Faar
  [fahr]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Onom
  [oh-nom]
• 7Fitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Waru
  [wah-roo]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Sapu
  [sah-poo]

• Where's a/the...?So re...
  [soh reh...]
• What's the address?So re address?
  [soh reh address?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Me re sohng sohng (soh map)?
  [meh reh sohng sohng (soh map)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Mwenge re sohng (bus)?
  [mwehng-eh reh sohng (bus)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Re ree tiket (to ....)
  [reh reh tee-keht (to ....)]

Yap is renowned for its traditional navigation techniques. The Yapese people were skilled seafarers, using stars, wave patterns, and other natural indicators to navigate vast distances across the Pacific Ocean. This expertise in oceanic travel played a crucial role in their trade and cultural exchanges with neighboring islands.

Yap is famous for its unique stone money, known as Rai stones. These large, circular limestone discs were used in various transactions, from dowries to political agreements. The value of a Rai stone was determined by its size, craftsmanship, and the effort involved in transporting it from its quarry, often located on the island of Palau.

Yap's strategic location in the Pacific made it a target for colonial powers. In the late 19th century, Spain claimed the island, only to sell it to Germany in 1899. During World War I, Japan took control of Yap, incorporating it into its South Seas Mandate under the League of Nations. Each colonial power left its mark on Yap's infrastructure and cultural landscape.

Yap played a significant role during World War II, primarily as a Japanese military base. The island was heavily bombarded by Allied forces, leaving behind numerous wartime relics, including aircraft wrecks, bunkers, and tunnels. These remnants serve as a somber reminder of the island's strategic importance and the impact of the war on its inhabitants.

After World War II, Yap became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. This period saw significant changes in Yap's political and social structures, as well as the introduction of modern amenities and infrastructure. The influence of American culture and policies can still be seen in Yap today.

In 1986, Yap, along with the other states of the Federated States of Micronesia, gained independence from the United States through the Compact of Free Association. This agreement established Yap's sovereignty while maintaining close ties to the United States for defense and economic assistance. Yap continues to celebrate its unique cultural heritage while navigating the challenges of modernity.

Yap is committed to preserving its rich cultural heritage, including traditional dances, crafts, and navigation skills. The Yap Living History Museum and other cultural initiatives aim to educate both locals and visitors about the island's history and traditions. However, Yap faces modern challenges such as climate change, economic development, and maintaining its cultural identity in a rapidly changing world.

Yap is accessible via Yap International Airport (YAP), located in Colonia, Yap's capital. United Airlines offers regular flights from Guam and Palau, which are the primary connections to Yap. Flights from these locations typically operate multiple times a week. Be sure to check the flight schedules in advance, as they can change seasonally. Another option is to arrive by sea; various cruise ships include Yap in their itineraries, but this is less frequent.

Yap is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance in Colonia. For longer distances, taxis are available, though they are not metered, so it's advisable to agree on the fare beforehand. Renting a car or scooter is another convenient option for exploring the island at your own pace. Additionally, some hotels offer shuttle services to popular tourist sites. Bicycles can also be rented and are a popular way to get around.

The official currency in Yap is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but many smaller establishments and local markets operate on a cash-only basis. ATMs are available in Colonia, but it is a good idea to carry sufficient cash, especially if you plan to visit more remote parts of the island.

Yap is considered very safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any travel destination, it's 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 areas with high crime rates targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Colonia has a hospital that can handle most medical emergencies, and there are smaller clinics around the island. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in Colonia for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering a village or taking photographs. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don't rely on public transport schedules, as they can be irregular. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a nod; a handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as taro, fish, and coconut-based dishes. Don't refuse food or drink when offered, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Yap like a local, visit the traditional stone money banks and learn about their unique cultural significance. Engage with locals, who are often eager to share stories about their history and traditions. Participate in local festivals and dances if you have the opportunity. Don't miss the chance to go snorkeling or diving in Yap's pristine waters, famous for their rich marine life, including manta rays. For a unique experience, try a traditional canoe ride.