Saipan: A Jewel in the Pacific

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [hah-fah ah-die]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-dyose]
• YesÅe
  [ah-eh]
• NoTi
  [tee]
• Please/You're welcomeUn tungo' yan si Yu'us Ma'åse
  [oon toong-goh yan see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]
• Thank youSi Yu'us Ma'åse
  [see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dee-spen-sah]
• How are you?Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Biba. Yan ikao?
  [bee-bah yan ee-kah-oh]
• Do you speak English?U hungok inglis?
  [oo hoon-gohk een-glees]
• I don't understandTi huungok
  [tee hoon-gohk]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHa'ånen hao para i menyu, si yu'us ma'åse
  [hah-ah-nen how pah-rah ee mehn-yoo see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]
• I don't eat meatTi mannginge gollai
  [tee mah-ngeeng-eh gohl-lie]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [bee-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHa'ånen hao para i pago, si yu'us ma'åse
  [hah-ah-nen how pah-rah ee pah-goh see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [ah-yoo-dah-meh]
• Go away!Låo'!
  [lah-oh]
• Call the Police!Tångnga i polisia!
  [tahng-ngah ee poh-lee-syah]
• Call a doctor!Tångnga i manmagahet!
  [tahng-ngah ee mahn-mah-gah-heht]
• I'm lostKåt malaeku
  [kaht mah-lah-eh-koo]
• I'm illKåt maolek
  [kaht mah-oh-lek]

• I'd like to buy...Ha'ånen hao para bumira...
  [hah-ah-nen how pah-rah boo-mee-rah]
• I'm just lookingLamang hao ti huungok
  [lah-mahng how tee hoon-gohk]
• How much is it?Kåtbiha?
  [kaht-bee-hah]
• That's too expensiveMalingu hao
  [mah-leen-goo how]
• Can you lower the price?Måpos hao i prisu?
  [mah-pohs how ee pree-soo]

• What time is it?Kåt biha i ora?
  [kaht bee-hah ee oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockMunga i chelu
  [moong-gah ee cheh-loo]
• Half past (10)Kåtbiha i dies
  [kaht-bee-hah ee dees]
• MorningKålok
  [kaht-lohk]
• AfternoonKåloklok
  [kaht-lohk-lohk]
• EveningKåtano
  [kaht-ah-noh]
• YesterdayNalå'an
  [nah-lah-ahn]
• TodayÑålang
  [nyah-lahng]
• TomorrowMångnga
  [mah-ng-ngah]
• 1Chelu
  [cheh-loo]
• 2Dos
  [dohs]
• 3Tris
  [treess]
• 4Kwåtro
  [kwaht-roh]
• 5Singko
  [seeng-koh]
• 6Sais
  [sah-ees]
• 7Siette
  [see-eh-teh]
• 8Otsu
  [oh-tsoo]
• 9Nwebe
  [nweh-beh]
• 10Dies
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Kåtbiha i...
  [kaht-bee-hah ee]
• What's the address?Kåtbiha i direksion?
  [kaht-bee-hah ee dee-rek-see-ohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Måpos hao påtguåm i...
  [mah-pohs how paht-gwahm ee]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåtbiha i siguiente...
  [kaht-bee-hah ee see-gwee-ehn-teh]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tiket (para i...)
  [oon tee-keht pah-rah ee]

The indigenous Chamorro people were the first known inhabitants of Saipan, settling the island over 3,500 years ago. They developed a rich culture known for its unique latte stone structures, used as foundations for their homes. The Chamorros engaged in fishing, farming, and trade with nearby islands.

In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan's expedition made contact with the Chamorros, marking the beginning of European influence. By 1668, Spain formally claimed the Northern Mariana Islands, including Saipan, and established missions to convert the Chamorros to Christianity. This period saw significant cultural and demographic changes due to Spanish policies and diseases.

Following the Spanish-American War in 1898, Spain sold the Northern Mariana Islands to Germany in 1899. Germany's brief rule ended in 1914, when Japan seized the islands during World War I. Under Japanese administration, Saipan became a significant sugarcane production center, leading to an influx of Japanese, Korean, and Okinawan laborers.

One of the most pivotal events in Saipan's history was the Battle of Saipan during World War II. From June 15 to July 9, 1944, U.S. forces engaged in fierce combat with Japanese troops, leading to a decisive American victory. The battle resulted in significant casualties and left a lasting impact on the island's landscape and population.

After World War II, Saipan came under U.S. administration as part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands. The island's economy and infrastructure were rebuilt with American assistance. In 1978, the Northern Mariana Islands became a U.S. Commonwealth, granting its residents U.S. citizenship and greater self-governance.

In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in Chamorro culture and heritage. Efforts to preserve traditional practices, language, and arts have gained momentum. Today, Saipan is a vibrant mix of indigenous Chamorro, Carolinian, and immigrant cultures, making it a unique destination for travelers seeking both historical and contemporary experiences.

Saipan is accessible primarily by air. The island is served by Saipan International Airport (SPN), which receives flights from major hubs such as Guam, Tokyo, and Seoul. From the U.S. mainland, you can connect through Guam or other Asian cities. Regular flights are operated by airlines like United Airlines and Asiana Airlines. Ferry services are not a common mode of transport to Saipan.

Once on the island, transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and public buses. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility and convenience, especially if you plan to explore multiple locations. Taxis are available but can be costly for long distances. The public bus system is limited but serves popular tourist areas and major hotels. Some hotels also offer shuttle services to key attractions.

The official currency of Saipan is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, particularly when visiting smaller shops or local markets. ATMs are readily available in major areas, but it's always wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote locations.

Saipan is generally a safe destination for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in secluded areas. The village of Garapan, a popular tourist spot, has occasional reports of petty theft targeting tourists, so remain vigilant. Keep personal belongings secure and be cautious of your surroundings in crowded places.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Saipan has medical facilities including the Commonwealth Health Center in Garapan. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the island. Always carry a copy of your identification and emergency contact information.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, considering the tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing clothing when visiting cultural sites. Religion: Do show respect at religious and cultural sites. Removing shoes before entering certain areas might be required. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transport. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Hafa Adai,' which means hello in Chamorro. A handshake is also appropriate. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept hospitality graciously. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Saipan like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with residents, who are generally welcoming and happy to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don’t miss exploring hidden beaches and lesser-known hiking trails for a unique and tranquil experience. Additionally, attending local festivals can provide deep insights into the island's cultural heritage.