The Enigmatic Allure of Forbidden Island

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [HA-fa AH-dye]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-dyohs]
• YesÅmen
  [AH-men]
• NoTi
  [tee]
• Please/You're welcomeUn dankulu
  [oon DAHN-koo-loo]
• Thank youSi Yu'us Ma'åse
  [see YOO-oos mah-AH-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dees-PEHN-sah]
• How are you?Kei na'ån-hu?
  [kay NAH-ahn-hoo]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Hao si Yu'us?
  [mah-OH-lek. hao see YOO-oos]
• Do you speak English?Kao maolek na'ån-hu?
  [kow mah-OH-lek NAH-ahn-hoo]
• I don't understandTi hu fanå'åsi
  [tee hoo fah-nah-AH-see]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKao un hanao i menu, un dankulu
  [kow oon hah-NOW ee MEH-noo, oon DAHN-koo-loo]
• I don't eat meatTi ha na'åmon karne
  [tee hah nah-AH-mon KAR-neh]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKao un hanao i che'lu, un dankulu
  [kow oon hah-NOW ee CHE-loo, oon DAHN-koo-loo]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [ah-yoo-DAH-meh]
• Go away!Lågu!
  [LAH-goo]
• Call the Police!Tåkkure polisia!
  [TAH-koo-reh poh-lee-SEE-ah]
• Call a doctor!Tåkkure na doktå!
  [TAH-koo-reh nah dohk-TAH]
• I'm lostHu fanå'åsi
  [hoo fah-nah-AH-see]
• I'm illHu infekkåo
  [hoo een-fehk-KAH-oh]

• I'd like to buy...Kao un hanao i...
  [kow oon hah-NOW ee...]
• I'm just lookingHu un tumåhalo
  [hoo oon too-mah-HAH-loh]
• How much is it?Fino' para?
  [FEE-noh PAH-rah]
• That's too expensiveMå'pos na taotao
  [mah-OH-pose nah TAH-oh-tao]
• Can you lower the price?Må'pos na kuentusi?
  [mah-OH-pose nah kwehn-TOO-see]

• What time is it?Kåo na tiempo?
  [KOW oh-nah tee-EHM-poh]
• It's one o'clockEstague i unu
  [eh-stah-GWEH ee OO-noo]
• Half past (10)Månona (10)
  [mah-NOH-nah (tee)]
• MorningManana
  [mah-NAH-nah]
• AfternoonAgupa'
  [ah-GOO-pah]
• EveningAga'
  [ah-GAH]
• YesterdayKåo na adalå?
  [KOW oh-nah ah-dah-LAH]
• TodayKåo na u fa'na'gua'
  [KOW oh-nah oo fah-nah-GWAH]
• TomorrowKåo na u manana
  [KOW oh-nah oo mah-NAH-nah]
• 1Mås Uno
  [mahs OO-noh]
• 2Mås Dos
  [mahs Dohs]
• 3Mås Tres
  [mahs Tres]
• 4Mås Kuåtro
  [mahs KWAH-tro]
• 5Mås Singko
  [mahs SEENG-koh]
• 6Mås Sais
  [mahs Sah-eess]
• 7Mås Siete
  [mahs SYEH-teh]
• 8Mås Ocho
  [mahs OH-choh]
• 9Mås Nueve
  [mahs NWEH-veh]
• 10Mås Dje
  [mahs DJEH]

• Where's a/the...?Siha...
  [SEE-hah...]
• What's the address?Kåo na direksion?
  [KOW oh-nah dee-rehk-SYON]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mamesa hao (sångan litratu)?
  [mah-MEH-sah how (sahng-AHN lee-trah-TOO)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåo na siguiente (bus)?
  [KOW oh-nah see-GWEN-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilette (para ...)
  [oon bee-LEH-teh (PAH-rah ...)]

Forbidden Island, known locally as 'Isla Prohibida,' has a rich history that dates back to the ancient Chamorro people, who are believed to have settled in the Northern Mariana Islands over 3,500 years ago. Archaeological findings, including latte stones and pottery shards, suggest that the island was once a thriving community. The Chamorros were skilled navigators and fishermen, and their cultural practices and societal structures have left a lasting impact on the region.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the Northern Mariana Islands, marking the beginning of a new era. Forbidden Island was named 'Isla Prohibida' due to its treacherous cliffs and rough seas, which made it difficult to access. The Spanish colonization period saw the introduction of Christianity, new agricultural practices, and a shift in the local economy. The island’s strategic location also made it an important point of interest for the Spanish empire.

During World War II, the Northern Mariana Islands, including Forbidden Island, were occupied by Japanese forces. The island's rugged terrain and remote location made it an ideal site for military installations and fortifications. Remnants of bunkers, tunnels, and other wartime structures can still be found on the island, serving as a poignant reminder of this tumultuous period. The Battle of Saipan in 1944 was a significant event that led to the liberation of the islands by Allied forces.

After World War II, the Northern Mariana Islands became a United Nations Trust Territory under U.S. administration. Forbidden Island remained largely uninhabited, but it became a popular destination for adventurers and historians intrigued by its wartime relics and natural beauty. The island's status as a protected area has helped preserve its unique ecosystem and historical sites, making it a valuable cultural and environmental heritage site.

Today, Forbidden Island is a designated conservation area, known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and historical significance. It attracts researchers, conservationists, and tourists who are eager to explore its pristine environment and learn about its storied past. The island's rugged cliffs, hidden caves, and vibrant marine life make it a must-visit location for those seeking an immersive historical and cultural experience.

Forbidden Island is located in the Northern Mariana Islands, accessible from the island of Saipan. The nearest airport is Saipan International Airport (SPN). From Saipan, you can reach Forbidden Island by boat or helicopter. Several tour operators offer day trips to the island, which can be booked in advance.

Once on Forbidden Island, transportation options are limited due to its small size and protected status. Visitors typically explore the island on foot. Guided tours often include transportation as part of the package, ensuring you can reach the island's key attractions without difficulty.

The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted on Saipan but may not be usable on Forbidden Island due to its remote nature. It is advisable to carry sufficient cash for your visit. ATMs are available on Saipan, so ensure to withdraw cash before departing for Forbidden Island.

Forbidden Island is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to follow local guidelines and respect the natural environment. Avoid venturing into restricted areas, and always be cautious near cliffs and rugged terrains. There are no specific high-crime areas, but standard safety precautions should always be observed.

In case of an emergency, contact your tour guide or the local authorities immediately. It is recommended to have travel insurance that includes emergency evacuation, as medical facilities on Forbidden Island are limited. The nearest hospital is on Saipan, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 911.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking. Avoid wearing flashy or overly casual clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and any sacred sites you may visit. Public Transport: Do follow instructions from tour operators and guides. Don't attempt to use unauthorized transportation services. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or a nod. Eating & Drinking: Do bring your own food and water, as there are no dining facilities on the island. Don't leave any trash behind; always carry out what you brought in.

To experience Forbidden Island like a local, consider booking a tour with a local guide who can share insights about the island's history and ecology. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and the chance to see native wildlife. Always respect the natural environment and adhere to the 'leave no trace' principles to preserve the island's beauty for future visitors.