Capital Hill: The Hidden Gem of the Northern Mariana Islands

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [hah-fah ah-die]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-dee-ohs]
• YesHåo
  [hah-oh]
• NoTi
  [tee]
• Please/You're welcomeUn tungo' / Kinu
  [oon toong-go / kee-noo]
• Thank youSi Yu'os Ma'åse
  [see yoo-oss mah-ah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryKulu' / Dispensa
  [koo-loo / dees-pehn-sah]
• How are you?Kao un binendisiyu?
  [kah-oh oon bee-nen-dee-see-yoo]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Hu guiya hao?
  [mah-oh-lek. hoo gee-jah how]
• Do you speak English?Un bai hu prublema i masinahåla'?
  [oon bai hoo proo-bleh-mah ee mah-see-nah-hah-lah]
• I don't understandTi kuentendu
  [tee kwehn-ten-doo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHåfa na'manu menu, på'go'?
  [hah-fah nah-mah-noo meh-noo, pah-go]
• I don't eat meatTi manngenge karni
  [tee mahn-gehn-geh kahr-nee]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [bee-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHåfa na'fånnågu, på'go'?
  [hah-fah nah-fahn-nah-goo, pah-go]

• Help!Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
• Go away!Håyi!
  [hah-yee]
• Call the Police!Kåntak i Pulis!
  [kahn-tahk ee poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Kåntak un doktå!
  [kahn-tahk oon dohk-tah]
• I'm lostTi manhuyong
  [tee mahn-hoo-yohng]
• I'm illTi manmåta
  [tee mahn-mah-tah]

• I'd like to buy...Håfa na'gåi...
  [hah-fah nah-gah-ee]
• I'm just lookingPut fabotåtå' gui'
  [poot fah-bo-tah-tah-ee gee]
• How much is it?Kåntådu i prisu?
  [kahn-tah-doo ee prees-oo]
• That's too expensiveMunga' kareta
  [moon-gah kah-reh-tah]
• Can you lower the price?Fåkåkå' i prisu?
  [fah-kah-kah ee prees-oo]

• What time is it?Kåntådu na ora?
  [kahn-tah-doo nah oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockUno na ora
  [oo-no nah oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Machanao
  [mah-chah-now]
• MorningManana
  [mah-nah-nah]
• AfternoonKåntan tåno'
  [kahn-tahn tahn-oh]
• EveningKåntan chalan
  [kahn-tahn chah-lahn]
• YesterdayKåntan adlao
  [kahn-tahn ahd-lah-oh]
• TodayKåntan pås
  [kahn-tahn pahs]
• TomorrowKåntan mafånao
  [kahn-tahn mah-fah-now]
• 1Uno
  [oo-no]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Kwåtro
  [kwah-troh]
• 5Singko
  [seeng-koh]
• 6Sais
  [sah-ees]
• 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nuebi
  [nweh-bee]
• 10Djes
  [dehss]

• Where's a/the...?Åfamagu...
  [ah-fah-mah-goo]
• What's the address?Kåntådu i direksion?
  [kahn-tah-doo ee dee-rehk-syohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Fåkåkå' hu na'såti (såtba)?
  [fah-kah-kah hoo nah-sah-tee saht-bah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåntådu na proximo (bis)?
  [kahn-tah-doo nah prohk-see-moh beess]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bisete (para ....)
  [oon bee-seh-teh pah-rah]

Capital Hill, located on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, was established as the seat of government for the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). In the late 20th century, the site was chosen for its strategic location and accessibility, becoming the political and administrative heart of the CNMI.

During World War II, Saipan, including the area now known as Capital Hill, played a significant role in the Pacific Theater. The Battle of Saipan, which took place in June and July 1944, led to the island being captured by Allied forces. The historical remnants of this period, such as bunkers and military installations, are still present in various parts of Saipan.

Following World War II, the Northern Mariana Islands became part of the United Nations Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. Capital Hill later became the administrative center as the islands transitioned from Trust Territory status to a Commonwealth in Political Union with the United States, officially established in 1978.

Capital Hill is not only the administrative center but also a repository of the rich cultural heritage of the Northern Mariana Islands. The area is home to various cultural institutions that preserve and promote Chamorro and Carolinian traditions. Festivals, traditional dances, and cultural events are regularly held to celebrate and keep alive the indigenous culture.

The architecture in Capital Hill reflects a blend of indigenous, colonial, and modern influences. Key landmarks include the CNMI Governor's Office and the Northern Marianas College, which showcase distinct architectural styles and serve as symbols of the area's historical evolution and its future aspirations.

As the political heart of the Northern Mariana Islands, Capital Hill has seen significant economic development over the years. The establishment of government offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities has spurred economic activity in the region, contributing to the overall growth and modernization of Saipan.

Capital Hill is located on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands. The primary gateway is Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport (SPN), which receives flights from major hubs like Guam, Tokyo, and Seoul. From the airport, Capital Hill is approximately a 20-minute drive. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport for transportation to your destination.

Capital Hill is small and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, taxis are readily available and relatively affordable. Car rentals are also a popular option for greater flexibility. Public buses operate on Saipan, but their schedules can be irregular. Biking is another option, and several rental shops offer bicycles for daily or weekly use.

The official currency of the Northern Mariana Islands is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout Saipan, including in Capital Hill, but fees may apply depending on your bank.

Capital Hill is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

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

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting government buildings or local events. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and keep noise levels down. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Shaking hands is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Chamorro and Carolinian dishes. Don’t refuse food or drink offerings as it may be considered impolite.

To experience Capital Hill like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting historical sites like the American Memorial Park and the Last Command Post. For a unique experience, participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the local culture.