Kagman: A Hidden Gem in the Northern Mariana Islands

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [HA-fa a-DYE]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [a-DYOS]
• YesHågu
  [HA-goo]
• NoTi
  [TEE]
• Please/You're welcomePorfabor
  [por-FA-bor]
• Thank youSi Yu'us Ma'ase
  [see YOO-oos ma-AH-se]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dis-PEN-sa]
• How are you?Kao fa'nu
  [KOW fa-NOO]
• Fine. And you?Buenas. Yan yu?
  [BWE-nas. yan yoo]
• Do you speak English?Kao hu tautau Ingles?
  [KOW hoo tau-TAU ing-gles]
• I don't understandTi hu fa'nu
  [TEE hoo fa-NOO]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHa'u humanta i menyu, porfabor
  [HA-oo hoo-MAN-ta ee MEN-yoo, por-FA-bor]
• I don't eat meatTi ha'u kumuentos
  [TEE HA-oo koo-men-TOS]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-ba]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHa'u guma'si, porfabor
  [HA-oo goo-MA-see, por-FA-bor]

• Help!Ayuda!
  [ah-YOO-da]
• Go away!Fumatgue!
  [foo-ma-GWE]
• Call the Police!Llama i Polisia!
  [YAM-ma ee po-lee-SEE-ya]
• Call a doctor!Llama i manmaga'lahi!
  [YAM-ma ee man-ma-ga-la-HEE]
• I'm lostTi ha'u funda
  [TEE HA-oo FOON-da]
• I'm illTi ha'u maga'lahi
  [TEE HA-oo ma-ga-LA-hee]

• I'd like to buy...Ha'u humi...
  [HA-oo hoo-MEE]
• I'm just lookingHa'u dumide
  [HA-oo doo-MEE-de]
• How much is it?Kao gaige?
  [KOW GAI-ge]
• That's too expensiveMakalodo i presiu
  [ma-ka-LO-do ee pre-SEE-oo]
• Can you lower the price?Mumu'os i presiu?
  [moo-MOO-oos ee pre-SEE-oo]

• What time is it?Kao gi ora?
  [KOW gee O-ra]
• It's one o'clockI ora bente
  [ee O-ra BEN-te]
• Half past (10)Guma'ok i dies
  [goo-MA-ok ee dees]
• MorningMaga'na
  [ma-ga-NA]
• AfternoonTarde
  [TAR-de]
• EveningGuefi
  [GWE-fee]
• YesterdayKålan manana
  [KAH-lan ma-NA-na]
• TodayKålanjo
  [KAH-lan-jo]
• TomorrowKålan mafana
  [KAH-lan ma-FA-na]
• 1Uno
  [OO-no]
• 2Dos
  [DOS]
• 3Tres
  [TRES]
• 4Kuatro
  [KWA-tro]
• 5Singko
  [SING-ko]
• 6Sais
  [SICE]
• 7Siete
  [SYET-te]
• 8Ocho
  [OH-cho]
• 9Nwebe
  [NWE-be]
• 10Dies
  [DEES]

• Where's a/the...?Enao i...
  [en-NOW ee]
• What's the address?Kao gi direksion?
  [KOW gee dee-rek-see-YON]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mumu'os i mapanu?
  [moo-MOO-oos ee ma-PA-noo]
• When's the next (bus)?Kao gi ora i siguiente (bus)?
  [KOW gee O-ra ee see-GWEN-teh (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biaje (para ....)
  [oon bee-A-heh (PA-ra)]

Kagman, like the rest of the Northern Mariana Islands, was originally inhabited by the Chamorro people. This Austronesian-speaking group settled the islands over 3,500 years ago, bringing with them a rich culture of navigation, fishing, and agriculture. The Chamorros built latte stones, which served as foundations for their homes and are still visible in some areas of Kagman today.

In the late 17th century, the Northern Mariana Islands, including Kagman, came under Spanish control. The Spanish influence is still evident in the local culture, especially in the form of Catholicism, which remains a significant aspect of life in Kagman. The Spanish also introduced new crops and livestock to the area.

After the Spanish-American War, the Northern Mariana Islands were sold to Germany in 1899. Kagman saw a period of German administration until World War I, when Japan took over the islands. Japanese rule brought significant changes to Kagman, including the introduction of sugar cane plantations and an influx of Japanese settlers. Remnants of Japanese bunkers and other wartime structures can still be found in the area.

During World War II, Kagman and the rest of Saipan were critical battlegrounds in the Pacific Theater. The Battle of Saipan in 1944 saw intense fighting between Japanese and American forces, leading to significant destruction and loss of life. Following the war, the Northern Mariana Islands became a United Nations Trust Territory under U.S. administration. Kagman was used as a military base during this period, and remnants of wartime artifacts can still be found.

After World War II, Kagman transitioned from a military base to a civilian community. The area saw significant development in infrastructure, including schools, roads, and housing. Today, Kagman is a thriving community known for its blend of cultural influences, from Chamorro traditions to Spanish, German, Japanese, and American legacies. The Kagman Community Center serves as a hub for cultural and social activities, celebrating the diverse history of the area.

Kagman is located on the island of Saipan, part of the Northern Mariana Islands. The primary gateway to Saipan is the Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport (SPN). There are direct flights to Saipan from various Asian hubs such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Hong Kong. From the airport, Kagman is about a 20-minute drive. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport for convenient transportation to Kagman.

While Kagman is best explored by car, taxis are also available for hire. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is advisable for greater flexibility. The roads are generally in good condition, making driving a pleasant experience. Biking is another option for those looking to explore the area at a slower pace.

The official currency in Kagman, as in the rest of the Northern Mariana Islands, is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Saipan, so withdrawing cash is convenient.

Kagman is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Petty theft can occur, so be vigilant, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are accessible in Saipan. It's highly 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 casually but respectfully. Beachwear is acceptable at the beach but not in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Avoid wearing revealing clothes when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Public transport is limited, so using taxis or rental cars is advisable. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly hello. Locals appreciate respectful and polite behavior. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Kagman like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Chamorro goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to explore the beautiful beaches and hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island. For a unique experience, participate in local festivals and events to immerse yourself in the vibrant community spirit.