Saipan is the major island of the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands
(CNMI), and is part of the US political family. It is a land of natural
tropical beauty and is a major tourist destination for tourists from
Japan and other
parts of Asia. The temperatures year round are in the mid to upper 80s.
The island has a population of about 75,000 people with a huge amount
of ethnic
diversity. Approximately 20,000 people are Pacific Islanders; over 40,000
Asians (predominantly from the Philippines and China); and the rest Caucasians,
Japanese, Koreans, and of mixed ethnicity. A smattering of a wide variety
of other ethnic groups round out the numbers.
The island is fairly modern, with paved roads, modern homes, good healthcare, safe conditions, and daily international flights. There is a strong sense of community and the pace is relaxed and casual.
Micronesia
The CNMI is part of the region of the Pacific known as "Micronesia".
The islands of Micronesia, protected by sandy beaches and coral reefs, sit
in the Pacific Ocean - 2,300 miles north of Australia, 2,000 miles south
of Japan, 2,000 miles east of the Philippines, and 2,500 miles west of Hawaii.
The total area of Micronesia (water included) is equivalent to that of the
continental United States - but its land mass is only 1,000 square miles
or about one half the size of the state of Rhode Island.
CNMI's Location
The Northern Marianas, one part of Micronesia, stretches Northward from Guam
for about 400 miles and constitute the highest slopes of a massive mountain
range rising six miles high off the ocean floor. The largest islands in the
group are Saipan, Tinian and Rota, with Saipan being the largest. Saipan
has an area of 48 square miles (124 square kilometers).
Weather
With the exception of an occasional typhoon, the Mariana Islands enjoy some
of the most moderate weather in the world. Temperatures rarely rise above
the high 80s and even more rarely drop below the high 70s. High humidity
takes some of the moderation out of this picture, but most public buildings
and private homes and apartments are air conditioned.
Most people adjust to the humidity fairly quickly. A rainy season generally
lasts from June to September, though this is more likely to feature showers
on and off during the day rather than the soaking rains experienced in some
tropical areas. It is unusual to go more than two consecutive days without
some period of blue skies and sunshine, even during the rainy season. With
modern methods of tracking storms, typhoons have become very predictable natural
phenomena, normally tracked for days in advance of their arrival. Homes and
public buildings are designed with typhoons in mind and the government and
members of the community are well prepared to deal with them.
The islands of the Marianas were first populated some 3,500 years ago by
ocean going migrations thought to have originated from South East Asia.
The Marianas came under the rule of the Spanish after the landing of Magellan
in 1521. Spanish rule continued until the end of the Spanish-American war
in 1899, when Saipan and its neighbors were sold to Germany. During World
War I, the Japanese took over the islands from the Germans. The Japanese
period continued until 1944, when the United States occupied the islands
following battles which devastated Saipan and Tinian. After World War II,
the Northern Mariana Islands, along with vast portions of Micronesia, became
trust territories of the United Nations, administered by the United States.
Following the principle of self-determination, in 1978, the people of the
CNMI voted to remain associated with the United States rather than becoming
an independent nation. The Covenant between the United States and the CNMI
allows that individuals born here are US citizens. The CNMI controls its
own immigration and labor, which has allowed for relatively easy entry
into the CNMI by non-US nationals. However, there are no provisions that
allow for these non-US nationals to become permanent residents or US citizens
as a result of residing in the CNMI. The CNMI is represented by the United
States in international affairs. Although there is little military presence
in the CNMI, the US is responsible for defense of the Commonwealth.
The CNMI government is modeled after that of most US states. There is an elected governor, as well as elected House of Representatives and Senate. The judicial branch consists of a Supreme court, and a Superior court, and various lower courts. The people of the CNMI also elect a non-voting delegate to the US Congress.
The Federal government does have a small presence here, with a Federal Court, a small FBI office, a few DEA and IRS officers, and a small US Coast Guard attachment.
Cultures & Languages
History and geography have given Saipan a unique mix of populations. The
indigenous Chamorro and Carolinians share the island with American, Filipino,
Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Vietnamese, Bangladeshi and European communities,
creating an eclectic mix of east, west and Pacific traditions and cultures.
Since Saipan is a Commonwealth of the United States, it is probably unique
in having three official languages under its Constitution. In addition
to English, the local languages of Chamorro and Carolinian are also declared
official. In tourist areas, understandably, Japanese is widely spoken.
Fortunately, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) is
a land of bi- and multi-lingual persons. Most people here have at the very
minimum a working command of English and it is generally spoken in government
offices and other public places.
Religion
Religion plays a major role in the lives of most of the people of Saipan.
Because of the influence of the Spanish on the indigenous population, probably
90% of the island's population is Roman Catholic. There are active Baha'i,
Buddhist, Hindu, Jewish and Muslim communities. There are also a variety
of Christian churches present, including Baptists, Methodists, Mormons,
non-Denominational, Seventh Day Adventists, and some Evangelical groups.
Arrival
Continental and Northwest Airlines are the major US carriers serving Saipan.
The major decision to make, when considering which airline to choose, is
the route. Continental typically flies from many US cities to Honolulu,
then through Guam and on to Saipan. Northwest, on the other hand, flies
directly from major US cities to Tokyo or Nagoya, and then directly to
Saipan. Most people seem to prefer flying on Northwest. Either one gets
a connecting flight the same day, or the airline puts you up for the night
in a nice hotel, and you fly on to Saipan the following day on a short
3 ½ hour flight, fairly well rested.
Additionally, there are connecting flights to several major cities in Asia, either directly to Saipan, or through Guam to Saipan. Japan Airlines flies from several cities in Japan. Asiana Airlines fly through Seoul, and Continental connects through Guam to Hong Kong, Manila (also direct flights from Saipan), Bali and Cairns.
Shipping your Stuff
There are two basic routes to go in terms of shipping your personal belongings
to the CNMI. You can ship through the US Postal Service, or through a shipping
line or freight forwarder. It is probably most convenient to ship smaller
items, and items up to 70 pounds through the US Postal Service. It can
take up to six weeks for some items that are sent via "surface" mail
to arrive, as they come on a boat. So, it is a good idea to send things
early. Check with a mover in your area to get an idea about costs for shipping
larger items. Air freight is a possibility, but is very expensive. Items
shipped by surface freight, again take several weeks to arrive.
Your perspective as to whether or not the cost of living here is high or low, will depend on where you are moving from, and what you are used to. Because of the cost of shipping, many items are more expensive than you would find in the US, such as food, gasoline, clothing and electronic items. However, we have found that such items tend to be less expensive here than in Hawaii. Because of the lower minimum wage in the CNMI ($3.05/hour), many services are much less expensive here than in North America. Also, the tax structure here is significantly lower than in the US, with the highest effective tax bracket around 15%. There is no sales tax or other city, state, or county taxes. In general, because of the simpler lifestyle and lower taxes, people find that they save a significantly higher portion of their income than they would have saved in North America.
Housing
One of your first priorities will be to locate suitable housing. There is
a broad range of options available. One can find studio apartments, which
generally start around $400 per month, to one and two bedroom apartments
in the $600-$800 range, to luxury condominiums in the $1,000 and above
range. Additionally, there are single family homes available that typically
run about $700 per month and higher. Most of these apartments and homes
are usually furnished. Availability is highly variable. There are a few
apartments within walking distance of the CHC. Two of the commonly used
real-estate companies, who can help you get an idea of some of the housing,
even before your arrival, are Pacific Rim International, and Alexander
Realty. Most rental properties require one month rent and a security deposit.
Many of the long term expatriate families on the island eventually end up "buying" a house. The CNMI constitution limits ownership of land to people of CNMI descent, i.e. Chamorros and Carolinians. Other individuals can lease land for up to 55 years. So, buying a house is a bit different, in that you are actually leasing the house for a maximum of 55 years. It takes a while for most people to become comfortable with this type of "ownership". But most expatriates are very happy with their decision to lease land and build a house, or to lease a home for 55 years.
Utilities
To obtain water and electrical service you must apply to the Commonwealth
Utilities Corporation (CUC) and pay a refundable deposit of $150 for electricity
and $30 for water. Many apartment buildings will apply on your behalf.
Monthly bills will be sent to your mailing address.
Voltage is 110, the same as the US. However, the electricity is not as reliable as in the US. There can be voltage fluctuations, and frequent power outages. It is definitely advisable to have surge protectors and line conditioners for your major electronic items such as computers and television sets.
The tap water is also not up to US standards. Depending on the area of the island you live, the water can be quite salty. One cannot drink the water from the tap. Most island residents have drinking water delivered to our homes by one of several water companies on the island. The water is delivered in 5 gallon jugs. Some apartment complexes have their own wells and filtration systems and many private homes have rainwater catchment systems.
Telephone and Internet
Once you have found a place to live, you will want to make a visit to the
island's only telephone company, PTI. It usually takes a week or so
for the phone lines to get connected. This process can be sped up if you
know the previous phone number from that unit. The cost of activating a
phone line is typically around $120. Monthly charges for basic phone service
are around $25.
The CNMI became part of the North American Number Plan on July 1, 1997. This means that the islands no longer have a separate telephone country code and expensive international charges. Instead, the CNMI now has a regular area code, (670), just like every other part of the United States, Alaska, Canada, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Long distance rates through local carriers are around 14 cents per minute to the US, though cheaper rates are available through various calling cards. Toll free numbers can also be dialed from the CNMI, which makes mail order shopping and customer service convenient.
There are several Internet Service Providers on the island. DSL or cable modem connections are both available at a variety of rates and speeds. The typical rate starts at around $25 per month. The Joeten-Kiyu public library has a very nice technology center available, with 20 or so computers and free internet access.
Automobiles
Since there is no public transportation, you will need to purchase a car
or other vehicle fairly soon after your arrival. The roads are hazardous
for bicyclers. Most car dealers sell Japanese vehicles although American
and European makes are also available. The Japanese cars and trucks include
Mazda, Toyota, Nissan, Suzuki and Honda. The more adventurous may
prefer a 4-wheel drive for off-road exploring. These vehicles are readily
available and popular.
Reasonable used cars and jeeps are also available at prices ranging from $3500 (entry level) to $12,000. Late model automobiles are available at stateside prices. Shipping a vehicle from the west coast will likely cost between $1,500 and $2,000. Rust can be a severe problem here and all cars prior to 1988 must be inspected. Saipan has many auto repair and service shops and their prices are reasonable. As many of the back roads are in poor condition it pays to keep your car in good repair.
Automobile registration costs $25/year. Insurance is mandatory. Gasoline costs $4.00 a gallon for regular (at time of writing)!. It is the opinion of many who are already on island just to buy a car in the states and have it shipped over since the selection is greater and the prices are more competitive.
Drivers License
You will need a CNMI driver's license. It is imperative to get the license
as soon as you are on island, as you cannot open a bank account without
a local form of ID. It costs $17.00. You need a valid driver's license
from elsewhere and must pass a vision screening test. No written test or
road test are required if you have a valid driver's license from the U.S.
However, non-US citizens are required to take the written test and a road
test. The license is valid for 3 years and expires on your birthday. Take
your passport with you when applying for your driver's license. The license
is useful too as a local ID document – which often means reduced
prices!
Banking and Currency
Another of your first activities will be to open a bank account. The U.S.
dollar is the currency in the Commonwealth. Stateside-style banks include
the Bank of Guam, Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian Bank. On your arrival
in the CNMI, it is easier and more convenient to bring credit cards or
traveler's checks in US funds for immediate use. Cash is best. Some banks
will not cash cashier's checks or money orders; if they do, there is likely
to be at least a two week "hold" on the amount even if the draft
is of U.S. origin. A purchase receipt may be needed to cash traveler's
checks. To open a bank account you will need a U.S. Social Security number
and you will need a local form of identification, such as a driver's license.
It is advisable to obtain a major credit card that gives Northwest or Continental frequent flyer bonus miles before you arrive in the CNMI. Bank of Hawaii offers an American Express card that accumulates Continental miles.
Pets
It is possible to bring your pet to Saipan, but it is expensive and requires
a 4 - 8 week quarantine in a facility is not air-conditioned, and that
does not allow you to spend much time with your pet during the quarantine
period. It will cost several hundred dollars and require extensive paperwork.
The reason behind the expense and strict requirements is easily understood.
The CNMI is a rabies free area and the intent is to keep it that way. Details
can be obtained by writing to: Natural Resources Department, Animal and
Health Industry, Caller Box 10007, Saipan, MP96950, USA. (670) 234-6169;
Fax (670) 235-9001.
One option is adopting a "boonie" dog or cat. Many are wandering on the island. P.A.W.S. is a non-profit organization to turn to if you need information and assistance in adopting cats or dogs.
There is one veterinarian on the island with an office that is centrally located.
Incidentally, there are no highly poisonous land creatures of any kind in the CNMI, including snakes.
Education
There is a public school system with a number of elementary schools and two
junior high and three high schools.
However, many expatriate families choose to send their children to any of
a number of private schools – either religious or secular.
A brief listing:
Food and Shopping
Most food items you need are available locally. We have several mid-size
grocery stores. Some produce is grown locally and other produce is brought
in by air or sea from the U.S. or Japan, Korea or Australia, resulting in
higher-than-mainland prices. You will also find some different items.
Tiny local bananas are a treat and papayas and mangoes are among the locally grown fruit. One of the biggest differences between food shopping in Saipan, and in North America, is that although most everything is available here, the variety is much more limited. For example, instead of 2 aisles of different kinds of cereal, there might be five different brands of cereal. It often takes a visit to several different stores to find a particular item, and one tends to have to plan meals based on what is available on a particular day in the stores.
The Saturday morning produce market on Beach Road in Susupe is a treat – and a great place to learn about local fruit and vegetables.
There is a Price Costco on island and most household items can be found there. Prices are comparable to state-side prices (plus the cost of shipping), however, again, the selection is not as varied or predictable.
There is also an ACE Hardware with a broad selection of hardware items, appliances and furniture. The prices are probably comparable to what it would cost to purchase the items and ship them from the US.
Relatively inexpensive shipping via USPS makes online purchasing a viable option for many products.
Restaurants
There are many restaurants on Saipan. There is no shortage of choices for
dining out. Chinese, Korean, Chamorro, Indian, Indonesian, Japanese, Thai,
Filipino, Bangladeshi, Mexican and Continental cuisines are all available.
Many of
the first class hotels have upscale dining available. There is also a strong "fast
food" presence: two McDonald's, KFC. Taco Bell, three
Subways, and a Pizza Hut.
Healthcare
Healthcare in the CNMI is well developed. The main healthcare facility is
the Commonwealth Health Center. Individuals needing care that is not available
in the CNMI can travel to Guam, Hawaii, Japan or the Philippines or the
US mainland. The government, as well as various insurance companies, have
offices in some of these locations to facilitate care.
Clothing
Our tropical climate and island lifestyle encourage cool, loose-fitting cotton
shirts, slacks, blouses and dresses. Some cool, rainy evenings may call
for a lightweight jacket or sweater (very rarely). Except for the most
formal of occasions (such as the inauguration of the Governor, which occurs
every four years), you are unlikely to ever see a suit or a formal dress.
You will be doing more washing/laundry than in the states, so wash and
wear products are highly recommended. Dry cleaning facilities are available
on island. There is a good selection of clothing on Saipan, though it is
less expensive to bring clothes with you.
Tennis or jogging-type shoes will get a lot of use. Beach shoes are a necessity for wading along the beaches and reefs to protect your feet from sharp coral and the occasional sea urchin or stone fish.
Post Office
Saipan offers the same postal rates and services as any post office in the
United States. Most people here have private post office boxes, however,
home delivery can be arranged. Most mail from the states takes about a
week to arrive and boxes shipped via Priority Mail may take up to 3 weeks
to arrive, but usually get here within 5-7 days. Anything coming by surface
will
take
6-12 weeks
to arrive. Other carriers on island
include
DHL, Federal Express and UPS.
They are, of course, significantly more expensive than U.S. mail. The zip
code for the island of Saipan is 96950.
Radio, TV, and Newspaper
Considering its location and small population, the Commonwealth has an extensive
media service:
Barber and beauty shops
Many shops are located throughout Saipan. Most have complete beauty treatment
including shampoo and set, permanents, hair cuts, manicure, pedicure, hair-coloring
and facial treatments. Prices are lower than on the mainland. If you use
hair coloring, we would suggest you stock up on your brand and bring it
with you. Not all colors/brands are available here.
Hiking
AKA, "boonie stomping" is also a popular activity. Although
Saipan is not big enough for multi-day backpacking treks, there are a wide
variety of day trails around the island. Most lead to beaches, caves, war
relics, or just beautiful vistas. There are a few written guides, but usually,
it's easiest to go with someone who knows their way around. There is also
an active "eco-adventure" group that trains regularly for jungle
races. The "Hash House Harriers" are also active on the island.
Bicycling
With no sidewalks or bike lanes, and with "multicultural" driving,
the roads are generally not safe enough to consider bicycling as a mode of
transportation. However, there are several bicycling groups who get out early
on the weekends before many cars are on the road, or alternatively, use mountain
bikes for off-road cycling.
Triathlons
Saipan has a very active triathlon group. Individuals train
together and often travel to regional races. The CNMI hosts one or two international
races each year.
Golf
Saipan has five 18 hole world-class golf courses, which are all open
to the public. They all have spectacular views, with four of them hugging
the coastline and ocean cliffs. For local residents, a generous discount
is given, and one can play for $25-35 per round. Many people take up golf
here. If you are interested, pick up a set of inexpensive clubs before coming
out.
Tennis
Public courts are available, as well as tennis courts at several
of the hotels. There is an active group of regular players, as well as a
local league that organizes several tournaments each year. Racquet ball courts
are located at one hotel.
League Sports: The local community has adult basketball, softball, baseball,
bowling and darts leagues.
Health Clubs
The major hotels feature Health Clubs with complete facilities.
They offer memberships to local residents, and they are nice places to get
away to each day. Whether it is just to sit by the pool and read, or spend
some time in the Jacuzzi, or to participate in aerobics, and weightlifting,
the Hotel memberships are worth considering. Saipan also has one private
health club, Gold's Gym .
Diving and Snorkeling.
As you might expect, activities on, in and under
the water are a major attraction to visitors and residents alike. SCUBA
diving
and snorkeling are very popular and a variety of shops and tour services
give classes and certify students for SCUBA. Equipment may be rented. Buying
equipment off-island may be less expensive than an on-island purchase.
To fill scuba tanks you will need a valid diving certification card.
For those
who do not want to venture far beneath the water surface, snorkeling is
great in many easily accessible areas. Snorkeling and dive gear will
be less expensive
in the mainland, so you may want to bring these with you. The water is
warm, so a wetsuit may not needed. Some divers wear thin lycra suits
as protection
against coral cuts.
Sailing/Windsurfing.
The Over The Reef Yacht Club is
very active on the island with one major international event, the Laguna
Regatta,
held in February of every year. Club members will bring you out for
a day for no charge to introduce you to small
catamaran sailing on Saipan, one of the world's best locations for this
sport. Large monohulls, or cruisers occasionally seek crew to go to jaunts
to Tinian and the Northern Islands. The Saipan Lagoon is considered world
class for windsurfing and kite surfing, so bring
your
own gear or
rent
from local
hotels or beach concessions. The
trade
winds start in early to mid December and last through late March. An international
windsurfing tournament is held here in February of each year.
Swimming
Of course the ocean is always available for a swim. On the western
side of the island, the lagoon is a safe place for swimming, as it is generally
protected from the currents that are strong outside the reef. The hotels
have swimming pools available also, if you join their health clubs. There
is a public 50 meter pool is available for recreational and competitive swimming.
It is used most often by the local swim clubs and triathletes.
Submarine
Under-the-water sights are not just for divers. Saipan is home
to one of the few non-military tourist submarines in the world. Tours are
available daily.
Paddling
Outrigger canoeing is also becoming popular, with several active
clubs. Like the sailing club, the paddlers take part in regional competitions
on a regular basis. Kayaks are very popular as well, but there are no organized
clubs for kayaking at this time.
Library
Saipan is fortunate to have a beautiful public library, which is
well stocked with books, magazines, regional newspapers, and a computer
lab. The library is open until 6 PM on most weekdays, and has Saturday
hours as well. For a small fee, the Northern Marianas College Library can
be accessed.
Book Clubs
There are several informal book clubs, which meet regularly
to discuss books and to socialize. There is one bookstore on the island,
Bestseller. Amazon.com ships to Saipan, with a two week arrival time being
typical.
Movies
In 2001, the island's first multiplex movie theatre
opened with six screens. It is a nice facility, and since we are 14 hours
ahead of the West coast of the US, we get to see first-run movies before
those living in the mainland.
Video rentals
There are dozens of small video rental shops that carry a
wide range of popular release films. In 2001 a Blockbuster Video store opened
on the island. Most of the stores also have a wide range of DVD's available
to rent, at the same price as the videotapes (about $2.00). Although there
are some video stores specializing in Japanese or Korean or Filipino language
tapes, other foreign movies are hard to come by.
College Classes
The Northern Marianas College provides a wide range of
adult education classes. Many of us have at some point taken one of the language
classes (Japanese and Chamorro being the most popular ones), a class in the
Fine Arts department (pottery, photography, watercolors, voice) or one of
the computer courses.
Throughout the year, several festivals are held
on the island, often put on the different cultural groups or community
organizations.
Taste of the Marianas
During the month of May, the Marianas Visitor's Bureau,
in conjunction with restaurants and hotels, sponsors the "Taste of the
Marianas," a food festival held on each Saturday night. It is held at
American Memorial Park, under thatched roof huts built each year for the
event. Bands are invited to perform, and competitions are held among the
restaurants. The event attracts residents and tourists.
Flame Tree Arts Festival
This festival has most recently been held over
a weekend during the month of April, while the island's flame trees are in
full bloom. It attracts participants from throughout the Pacific. Artists
display and sell their work. Musicians and dancers perform on one of several
stages, and community groups have booths to promote various causes. It is
one of the most popular events of the year, and is usually held under the
shade of the trees at Micro Beach Park.
Liberation Day Festival
During World War II, local residents were interred
in camps after the capture of Saipan from the Japanese. They were freed on
July 4, 1946 so thus, what is commonly referred to as "Independence
Day" in the United States, is also regarded as "Liberation Day" here.
A parade is held and an evening carnival has a variety of rides and games.
Japanese Festival
During the month of October the Japanese community puts
on a one day festival showcasing Japanese food and arts.
Loi Kratong
The Thai community also celebrates Loi Kratong around
the first full moon in November, floating colorful small rafts of
banana stalks, candles, incense and flowers to give
thanks for the water given each year.
Red Cross Club 200 Dinner
Although not a festival per se, the CNMI Chapter
of the American Red Cross puts on one of the regions biggest parties each
year. The dinner-fundraiser-raffle draws hundreds of people from the CNMI
and Guam, and is the major fundraiser which helps the Red Cross provide support
to the island's residents during typhoons, and other disasters. Tickets are
$200 per couple ("Club 200"), and the top prizes include $25,000
in cash, $10,000 cash, several cars, trips to Honolulu, Hong Kong, Bali,
Manila, Tokyo and other prizes donated by local businesses. Each year the
dinner has a different theme, such as "Carnival", "Winter
Wonderland", "Pirates". The Club 200 Dinner draws a broad
representation of the community, and the dress ranges from formal evening
wear, to shorts and flip-flops. One of the island's great events!
Village Festivals
Each village holds an annual festival centered around
its patron Saint. The biggest of these is the weekend long festival each
October on the island of Rota. These "fiestas" are a wonderful
opportunity to experience the famed generosity and hospitality of the Marianas.
Street Market
Every Thursday night the Garapan area hosts a lively street
market. Food vendors
set up their stalls, local artists sell their art, some stores put up stalls,
and fresh fruits and vegetables are available. Local cultural groups perform
dances. It is a nice weekly event that attracts residents and tourists.
Friends of the Arts
This community group puts on several plays or musicals
each year. If you've ever had aspirations of acting or singing, directing
or producing, this is your opportunity!
Music and Dance
There are several dance and music schools on the island – with
performances at various events or their own special annual concerts. At times
visiting performers are brought in.
Community Groups
A wide variety of community organizations are present on Saipan. These include
local chapters of service organizations such as Rotary Club International,
Lions Club, the American Cancer Society, the Make a Wish Foundation, and
the American Red Cross. There is also an active Hospital Volunteers association,
as well as "Friends of the Library", who work to support the local
public library. They all welcome new participants and supporters. The Saipan
Chamber of Commerce is also active in the community, as is the Humanities
Council.
Travel
Saipan is ideally located for travel to international destinations and we
have lots of travel agents. Within the Mariana Islands, one can travel
for the weekend to Tinian, Rota or Guam (all within 40 minutes). We are
a 4 hour flight to the Philippines, which serves as the major gateway to
other Asian countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia,
and beyond to India. We are a 3 ½ hour flight to Japan, with daily
flights to several cities in Japan. Tokyo serves as a major gateway for
westward travel, connecting directly to many European and world capitals.
Saipan has direct flights (or easy connections through Guam) to Bali, Hong
Kong, Taiwan, Korea, China, and Australia, as well as the many island nations
of Micronesia. It is a wonderful place from which to explore the Pacific,
Asia and beyond.
Lonely Planet Guide Books on Micronesia or South Pacific have much useful information on Saipan and the Northern Mariana Islands.
Commonwealth Health Center
The CNMI Guide
CNMI.net
Marianas Visitors Authority
Beautify CNMI
Saipan Chamber of Commerce