Garapan: The Heart of Saipan

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [HAH-fah AH-dye]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [AH-dyos]
• YesHåo
  [HOW]
• NoTi
  [TEE]
• Please/You're welcomeSi Yu'us Ma'åse
  [SEE YOO-oos MAH-ah-seh]
• Thank youSi Yu'us Ma'åse
  [SEE YOO-oos MAH-ah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [DEES-pehn-sah]
• How are you?Kao maolek?
  [KOW mah-oh-lek]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Yan iyo?
  [mah-oh-lek YAHN EE-yoh]
• Do you speak English?Kao kumuentos i inglés?
  [KOW koo-mwehn-tos ee een-GLEHS]
• I don't understandTi siña hu tåya
  [TEE see-nyah hoo TA-ya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHu na'ån-hu gui menu, un tungo'!
  [hoo nah-AHN-hoo gwee MEH-noo oon TOONG-goh]
• I don't eat meatTi hu gof magågai
  [TEE hoo gof mah-GAH-gye]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHu na'ån-hu gui finakpo'!
  [hoo nah-AHN-hoo gwee fee-NAHK-paw]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [AH-yoo-dah-meh]
• Go away!Makmaka'go!
  [mahk-mah-kah-GO]
• Call the Police!Kåo i polisia!
  [KOW ee po-LEE-syah]
• Call a doctor!Kåo i manmagof!
  [KOW ee mahn-MAH-gohf]
• I'm lostHu matatnga'gu
  [hoo mah-ta-TAHNG-goo]
• I'm illHu tingo' mafana
  [hoo TEENG-goh mah-FAH-nah]

• I'd like to buy...Hu na'ån-hu gui...
  [hoo nah-AHN-hoo gwee]
• I'm just lookingAyo lang hu tuge'
  [AH-yoh lahng hoo TOO-gey]
• How much is it?Kåo na ti yan?
  [KOW nah tee YAHN]
• That's too expensiveLao na'ya kumuentos
  [LAH-oh NAI-yah koo-mwehn-tos]
• Can you lower the price?Falåo i kumuentos?
  [fah-LAH-oh ee koo-mwehn-tos]

• What time is it?Kåo na ti ora?
  [KOW nah tee OH-rah]
• It's one o'clockMa'insadotsi
  [mah-een-sah-doht-see]
• Half past (10)Mampos
  [mahm-POHS]
• MorningManana
  [mah-NAH-nah]
• AfternoonMa'åtodi
  [mah-ah-doh-dee]
• EveningAtdao
  [aht-DAH-oh]
• YesterdayKåha'na
  [KOW-hah-nah]
• TodayEstague
  [eh-STAH-geh]
• TomorrowMañåna
  [mah-NYAH-nah]
• 1Mågas
  [MAH-gahs]
• 2Lågu
  [LAH-goo]
• 3Tulu
  [TOO-loo]
• 4Fatfat
  [FAHT-faht]
• 5Lima
  [LEE-mah]
• 6Gunum
  [GOO-noon]
• 7Pito
  [PEE-toh]
• 8Guålu
  [GWAH-loo]
• 9Sigua
  [SEE-gwah]
• 10Månot
  [MAH-nawt]

• Where's a/the...?Kao na i...
  [KOW nah ee]
• What's the address?Kåo na i direksion?
  [KOW nah ee dee-rehk-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Fanhåo i mapan?
  [fahn-HAH-oh ee mah-PAHN]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåo na i siguiente (bus)?
  [KOW nah ee see-gwee-YEN-teh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tike (para ....)
  [oon TEE-keh (PAH-rah)]

Long before European contact, the area now known as Garapan was inhabited by the Chamorro people. They established thriving communities, evidenced by ancient latte stone structures scattered across the region. These megalithic pillars served as foundations for their homes and community buildings, reflecting a sophisticated society with skilled artisans and a rich cultural heritage.

In the early 16th century, Spanish explorers arrived in the Northern Mariana Islands. Garapan, along with the rest of Saipan, came under Spanish control in 1565. The Spanish influence significantly impacted local culture, introducing Christianity and new agricultural practices. The construction of stone churches and other colonial structures marked this era, some remnants of which can still be seen today.

Following the Spanish-American War, Spain sold the Northern Mariana Islands to Germany in 1899. Under German administration, Garapan became a focal point for economic development. The Germans introduced new industries, including copra production and phosphate mining, which brought prosperity and modernization to the area. Infrastructure improvements, such as roads and public buildings, were also initiated during this period.

After World War I, the League of Nations mandated the Northern Mariana Islands to Japan. Garapan flourished as the administrative and commercial hub of Saipan during Japanese rule from 1914 to 1944. The Japanese era saw significant urban development, including schools, hospitals, and a busy port. The town's layout and some of its buildings still reflect Japanese architectural influence.

Garapan witnessed intense conflict during World War II. The Battle of Saipan in June 1944 was a pivotal event, as American forces launched a major amphibious assault to capture the island from Japanese control. The battle left Garapan in ruins, but it also marked the beginning of the end for Japanese expansion in the Pacific. Today, several war memorials and relics commemorate this significant chapter in Garapan's history.

After World War II, the Northern Mariana Islands, including Garapan, came under United States administration. The post-war period focused on rebuilding the town and infrastructure. Garapan emerged as a central hub for government and commerce in Saipan, with new schools, hospitals, and other public services established to serve the growing population.

Today, Garapan is a vibrant town that blends historical heritage with modern amenities. It is a popular destination for tourists, offering a mix of cultural attractions, shopping, and dining experiences. The American Memorial Park, which honors the sacrifices made during World War II, and the Garapan Street Market, showcasing local crafts and cuisine, are key highlights that reflect the town's rich history and dynamic present.

Garapan is located on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands. The primary gateway to Garapan is through the Saipan International Airport (SPN), which receives flights from major hubs such as Guam, Tokyo, and Seoul. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to reach Garapan, which is approximately a 15-20 minute drive.

Within Garapan, transportation options include taxis, rental cars, and public buses. Taxis are a convenient option but can be relatively expensive. Car rentals are available and are a good choice if you plan to explore the island extensively. Public buses operate on main routes and can be a cost-effective way to get around, though they may not be as frequent or reliable as other modes of transport.

The official currency in 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, local markets, and transportation. ATMs are available throughout Garapan, so withdrawing cash should not be an issue.

Garapan is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone late at night in secluded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but petty theft can occur, so always be cautious.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Garapan Police Station and medical facilities are well-equipped to handle emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Garapan where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, casual clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting cultural or religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hafa Adai,' which is a local greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Chamorro and Carolinian dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Garapan like a local, visit the Garapan Street Market held every Thursday evening, where you can enjoy local foods, crafts, and entertainment. Engage with locals who are often friendly and willing to share their culture and stories. Don't miss visiting historical sites such as American Memorial Park and the Last Command Post for a deeper understanding of the island's World War II history. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to nearby Managaha Island, a popular spot for snorkeling and relaxation.