San Roque: A Tranquil Gem in the Northern Mariana Islands

• HelloHafa Adai
  [HAH-fah ah-DIE]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-DYOHSS]
• YesHao
  [HAH-oh]
• NoTi
  [TEE]
• Please/You're welcomeMungnga
  [MOONG-ngah]
• Thank youSi Yu'us Ma'ase
  [see YOO-oos mah-AH-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryKilisou
  [kee-LEE-soo]
• How are you?Kao si un na?
  [kow see oon nah]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Hao?
  [mah-OH-lek. HAH-oh?]
• Do you speak English?Kao siha un tinige' Ingles?
  [kow see-hah oon tee-NEE-gay eeng-GLES]
• I don't understandTi hu hao
  [TEE hoo HAH-oh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseU maolek hao un ha'åni i menyu, mungnga
  [oo mah-OH-lek hah-oh oon HAH-nee ee men-YOO, MOONG-ngah]
• I don't eat meatTi hu manngong nu guinaiya
  [TEE hoo mahn-NGONG noo gee-nyai-yah]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseU maolek hao un pat, mungnga
  [oo mah-OH-lek hah-oh oon paht, MOONG-ngah]

• Help!Ayuda!
  [ah-YOO-dah]
• Go away!Matakbo!
  [mah-tahk-BOH]
• Call the Police!Taitai i Pulis!
  [tye-tye ee POO-lees]
• Call a doctor!Taitai i manaina!
  [tye-tye ee mah-nyai-nyah]
• I'm lostHu guaha
  [hoo gwah-HAH]
• I'm illHu malatgu
  [hoo mah-LAHT-goo]

• I'd like to buy...U maolek hao un sumåhi...
  [oo mah-OH-lek hah-oh oon soo-MAH-hee...]
• I'm just lookingU maolek hao un guaha
  [oo mah-OH-lek hah-oh oon gwah-HAH]
• How much is it?Fino' ma na?
  [FEE-noh mah nah]
• That's too expensiveTinaitai na
  [tee-nye-tye nah]
• Can you lower the price?Måolek hao un despetsu i prisio?
  [mah-OH-lek hah-oh oon dehs-peht-soo ee prees-YOH]

• What time is it?Fino' na gi ora?
  [FEE-noh nah gee OH-rah]
• It's one o'clockMunga i manatres
  [MOONG-gah ee mah-NAH-trehs]
• Half past (10)Munga i sanse
  [MOONG-gah ee sahn-SEH]
• MorningMånnge'
  [MAH-nge]
• AfternoonApatnon
  [ah-paht-NOHN]
• EveningAtåno'
  [ah-TAH-noh]
• YesterdayKålan
  [KAH-lahn]
• TodayGinen
  [GEE-nen]
• TomorrowMåsångan
  [mah-SAHNG-ahn]
• 1Månta
  [MAHN-tah]
• 2Måttott
  [MAH-toht]
• 3Måtlågu
  [mah-TLAH-goo]
• 4Måfat
  [MAH-faht]
• 5Målima
  [MAH-lee-mah]
• 6Månom
  [MAH-nom]
• 7Måfiti
  [mah-FEE-tee]
• 8Måsiva
  [mah-SEE-vah]
• 9Måsigua
  [mah-SEE-gwah]
• 10Måpågue'
  [mah-pah-GWEH]

• Where's a/the...?Fino' na...
  [FEE-noh nah]
• What's the address?Fino' na i direksion?
  [FEE-noh nah ee dee-rehk-SYON]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Måolek hao un mohot (gi mapåtte)?
  [mah-OH-lek hah-oh oon moh-HOHT (gee mah-pah-TTEH)]
• When's the next (bus)?Fino' gi este (bus)?
  [FEE-noh gee EH-steh (boos)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tiket (gi ....)
  [oon tee-KEHT (gee)]

San Roque, like much of the Northern Mariana Islands, was originally inhabited by the Chamorro people. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Chamorros settled in the islands as early as 1500 BCE. They were known for their unique social structure, intricate weaving, and impressive latte stones, which served as foundations for their buildings.

In 1521, San Roque and the Northern Mariana Islands were first encountered by Europeans when Ferdinand Magellan arrived during his circumnavigation of the globe. The Spanish colonization began in earnest in the late 17th century, bringing Christianity and Spanish cultural influences to the region. The islands were named after Queen Mariana of Austria.

After Spain's defeat in the Spanish-American War in 1898, San Roque and the rest of the Northern Mariana Islands were sold to Germany in 1899. The German administration focused on economic development, particularly in copra production. This period saw the introduction of modern infrastructure and educational reforms in the region.

Following Germany's defeat in World War I, the League of Nations mandated the Northern Mariana Islands, including San Roque, to Japan in 1919. Under Japanese rule, the islands experienced significant economic and infrastructural development, with a focus on sugar cane production. The Japanese influence is still evident in some local customs and architectural styles.

San Roque played a crucial role during World War II, especially during the Battle of Saipan in 1944. The battle was a pivotal moment in the Pacific Theatre, leading to the islands' liberation from Japanese occupation by American forces. The aftermath of the battle brought significant changes to the region, including the establishment of military bases and the introduction of American governance.

After World War II, San Roque became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States. In 1975, the Northern Mariana Islands, including San Roque, entered into a political union with the U.S. as a Commonwealth. This status provided local self-governance and U.S. citizenship to its residents while preserving their cultural heritage.

Today, San Roque is a blend of its rich historical heritage and modern influences. Efforts have been made to revitalize Chamorro culture, including traditional festivals, dance, and language preservation programs. The area is also known for its scenic beauty, attracting tourists who are eager to explore its historical sites and natural landscapes.

San Roque is located on the northern end of Saipan island in the Northern Mariana Islands. The nearest airport is Saipan International Airport (SPN). From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach San Roque, which is approximately a 30-minute drive. There are no direct public transportation options from the airport to San Roque, so planning ahead for a taxi or car rental is advisable.

San Roque is a small area and many attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are readily available but can be expensive. Car rentals are a more flexible option for exploring the island. Public buses are limited, but some routes do connect San Roque with other parts of Saipan. Biking is also a popular way to get around, and bike rentals are available in several locations.

The official currency in the Northern Mariana Islands is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and in areas where card payment may not be available. ATMs are available in San Roque, but having some cash on hand is always a good idea.

San Roque is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or unfamiliar areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.

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

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your shoulders and knees when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful to your fellow passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight bow; shaking hands is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.

To experience San Roque like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh seafood and local produce. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the island's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the nearby Bird Island for a unique experience and breathtaking views. For a taste of local cuisine, try dining at small, family-run restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Chamorro dishes.