Boe: Nauru's Coastal Gem

• HelloKam na bwa
  [kam nah bua]
• GoodbyeI sere
  [ee se-reh]
• YesIo
  [ee-oh]
• NoAe
  [eye]
• Please/You're welcomeKoar
  [ko-ahr]
• Thank youKamawar
  [kah-mah-war]
• Excuse me/SorryKareke
  [kah-reh-keh]
• How are you?Kam aom?
  [kam owm]
• Fine. And you?Aer. I aom?
  [eye-ehr. ee owm]
• Do you speak English?Aom a moainglish?
  [owm ah mow-eng-lish]
• I don't understandAe a kaureke
  [eye ah kow-reh-keh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAe kabon a kaboni, koar
  [eye kah-bohn ah kah-boh-nee, ko-ahr]
• I don't eat meatAe a kai ai noi
  [eye ah kai eye noy]
• Cheers!Koar
  [ko-ahr]
• I would like to pay, pleaseAe kabon a kareke, koar
  [eye kah-bohn ah kah-reh-keh, ko-ahr]

• Help!Kam aro!
  [kam ah-roh]
• Go away!I kai aro!
  [ee kai ah-roh]
• Call the Police!Aom a tibon a polis!
  [owm ah tee-bohn ah poh-lees]
• Call a doctor!Aom a tibon a dokita!
  [owm ah tee-bohn ah doh-kee-tah]
• I'm lostAe ai ake
  [eye eye ah-keh]
• I'm illAe ai a kauro
  [eye eye ah kow-roh]

• I'd like to buy...Ae kabon a ka...
  [eye kah-bohn ah kah]
• I'm just lookingAe ai aobo
  [eye eye ah-oh-boh]
• How much is it?En na ko?
  [en nah koh]
• That's too expensiveEn a kaureke
  [en ah kow-reh-keh]
• Can you lower the price?Aom a tibon a ko?
  [owm ah tee-bohn ah koh]

• What time is it?En na kai?
  [en nah kai]
• It's one o'clockEn a kai aro
  [en ah kai ah-roh]
• Half past (10)I ai aro
  [ee eye ah-roh]
• MorningMaing
  [mah-eeng]
• AfternoonIro
  [ee-roh]
• EveningAkiro
  [ah-kee-roh]
• YesterdayA maong
  [ah mow-ng]
• TodayI ake
  [ee ah-keh]
• TomorrowA ake
  [ah ah-keh]
• 1Ake
  [ah-keh]
• 2Aro
  [ah-roh]
• 3Ai
  [eye]
• 4Ae
  [eye]
• 5Eara
  [eh-ah-rah]
• 6Eare
  [eh-ah-reh]
• 7Eare ake
  [eh-ah-reh ah-keh]
• 8Eare aro
  [eh-ah-reh ah-roh]
• 9Eare ai
  [eh-ah-reh eye]
• 10Ain
  [ah-een]

• Where's a/the...?En ai a/the...?
  [en eye ah/the]
• What's the address?En a ai?
  [en ah eye]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Aom a teken a kaoni (en a map)?
  [owm ah teh-kehn ah kah-oh-nee (en ah map)]
• When's the next (bus)?En a aro a ekai (bus)?
  [en ah ah-roh ah eh-kai (buhs)]
• A ticket (to ....)A tibon (ki ....)
  [ah tee-bohn (kee)]

The history of Boe, like the rest of Nauru, begins with its early settlement by Micronesian and Polynesian people over 3,000 years ago. The indigenous culture was rich with traditions, customs, and a deep connection to the land and sea. The ancient Nauruans developed a complex society with unique social structures and practices, including traditional fishing techniques and navigation skills.

In the late 19th century, Nauru, including Boe, came under European influence. In 1888, Germany annexed Nauru as part of its colonial empire. The German period brought significant changes, including the introduction of Christianity and new economic activities. The German administration left a lasting impact on the island's social and cultural fabric.

The discovery of phosphate on Nauru in 1900 marked a turning point in the island's history. Boe, like other districts, saw rapid development as the phosphate industry boomed. The British Phosphate Commission began mining operations, leading to an influx of workers and economic prosperity. This period of wealth significantly shaped the infrastructure and lifestyle of Boe's residents.

During World War II, Nauru, including Boe, was occupied by Japanese forces from 1942 to 1945. The occupation was a harsh period for the island's inhabitants, with many being forced into labor and others evacuated to Truk (Chuuk) in the Federated States of Micronesia. The war left a lasting impact on the community, both physically and psychologically.

Nauru gained independence from Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom on January 31, 1968. Boe, as part of the newly independent nation, experienced a sense of national pride and identity. The transition to self-governance brought about significant political and social changes, and Boe played its role in the formation of the young republic.

The extensive phosphate mining on Nauru, including Boe, led to severe environmental degradation. In recent years, efforts have been made to rehabilitate the mined-out lands and restore ecological balance. These initiatives are crucial for the sustainable future of Boe and the entire island, as the community works towards overcoming the challenges posed by decades of exploitation.

Today, Boe is a vibrant district that reflects the resilience and adaptability of its people. Despite the challenges faced throughout its history, the community maintains a strong cultural identity and sense of heritage. Traditional practices, local festivals, and communal activities continue to play an essential role in the social fabric of Boe, ensuring that its rich history is preserved for future generations.

Boe is located on the island nation of Nauru in the Pacific Ocean. The main point of entry to Nauru is via Nauru International Airport (INU), situated in Yaren District, just a short drive from Boe. Nauru Airlines operates flights to and from Nauru, connecting it to destinations such as Brisbane, Australia; Nadi, Fiji; and Tarawa, Kiribati. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a hotel transfer to reach Boe.

Transportation within Boe and the rest of Nauru is relatively straightforward given the island's small size. Taxis are available and can be booked through your accommodation. There is no public bus system, but renting a car or a bicycle is a popular and convenient way to explore the island at your own pace. Walking is also a practical option for short distances.

The official currency of Nauru is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially for smaller establishments. ATMs are limited, so it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival or before departure from your home country.

Boe and Nauru in general are considered safe for tourists. However, standard travel precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas and always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always wise.

In case of emergency, dial 110 for police assistance or 111 for medical emergencies. Nauru has a hospital in Yaren District, which is equipped to handle most medical situations. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear light, casual clothing suited to a tropical climate. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothes, especially in more conservative areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Although Nauru is not highly religious, showing respect is always appreciated. Public Transport: Since there is no public bus system, using taxis or renting vehicles is common. Treat drivers with respect and agree on fares beforehand. Greetings: Do greet locals with a warm smile and a handshake. Nauruans are generally friendly and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and be open to accepting food offerings. Refusing hospitality can be considered impolite.

To experience Boe like a local, visit the local markets and interact with the residents. Enjoy traditional Nauruan dishes such as coconut fish and pandanus fruit. Engage in conversations with locals to learn about their way of life and the history of the island. For a unique experience, take a walk along the coastline during sunset for breathtaking views.