Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands Mariana Islands), a state in Micronesia - the western part of the Pacific Ocean, occupies most of the islands of the Mariana archipelago (14 of the 15 islands. The 15th island of the chain is Guam, overseas territory USA).
The islands form two chains - northern and southern, stretching almost strictly from north to south for 736 km (460 miles). Most of the islands in the northern chain are volcanic cones rising above the water (up to 965 m high), some of which are still active. Southern chain - coral and volcanic islands. The largest islands are Saipan (120 sq. km), Tinian and Rota, the smallest is Farallon de Medinilla, with an area of ​​about 0.5 sq. km. km.
The northernmost (uninhabited) island of the archipelago, Mogue, was ranked first in the National Geographic magazine's "Best Wildlife Destination" ranking.
Mariana Islands mark the dividing line between the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea. To the east of the archipelago lies Mariana Trench, the depth of which reaches 11,775 m.
total area The Northern Mariana Islands is 480 sq. km.

Administrative center - Saipan island

Time: Time relative to Moscow: 6 hours ahead of Moscow summer time and at 7 o'clock - in winter.

Nature: Most of the islands in the northern chain are actually volcanic cones rising above the water (up to 965 m high), some of which are still active. Southern chain - coral and volcanic islands. The largest islands are Saipan (120 sq. km), Tinian and Rota, the smallest is Farallon de Medinilla, with an area of ​​less than half a square kilometer. The Mariana Islands mark the dividing line between the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea. To the east of the island chain lies the world's deepest Mariana Trench, up to 11,775 meters deep.

Climate: Tropical, trade wind. Typhoons are frequent and tend to pass over the islands between August and December. Precipitation is 1800-2000 mm. per year, rainy season - from July to October. Best time to visit the Northern Mariana Islands - during the dry months from December to March.

Political system: The head of state and executive power is the governor, elected by the population. The Legislative Assembly consists of two chambers: the Senate (9 members) and the House of Representatives (18 deputies), which are re-elected every two years.

Population: The population is about 45.4 thousand people (1993), mainly Micronesians-Chamorros, as well as people from the Caroline Islands and the Philippines.

Language: English (official), Chamorro and Caroline dialects are also widely spoken, Japanese and Korean are spoken in most hotels and some shops.

Religion: Roman Catholic Christianity, local religions and cults.

Economy: The basis of the economy of the Northern Mariana Islands is foreign tourism (233.3 thousand tourists in 1988, mainly from Japan) and agriculture. Heat-resistant cereals, coconut palms, sugar cane, breadfruit, coffee, bananas, tomatoes, cotton, and citrus fruits are grown on the islands; raise cattle, pigs, goats; They catch and process fish (mainly tuna). There are deposits of phosphorites, sulfur, iron and manganese ores. The islands' exports consist of agricultural products.
The main foreign trade partners are Japan and the USA.

Currency: U.S. dollar.

Main attractions: The Northern Mariana Islands are often called "America's Best Keeping Secret", implying that the nature, abundance and historical places(especially associated with the period of the "Battle of the Pacific" in World War II) and the ease of accessibility of the islands both from the territory South-East Asia, and from America. Coral reefs, sea fishing, surfing and excellent conditions for passive recreation attract people to these tiny islands more than 240 thousand tourists per year.

For some guests, the island of Saipan can turn into a nightmare when vacationing on a package deal, since it is literally overcrowded with tourists from Japan, moving in “organized columns” and constantly clicking the shutters of their cameras; the recreation infrastructure here is relatively poorly developed and is aimed more at lovers of an active lifestyle, than the pampered 'shop tourist', but the island still boasts plenty of charm - still boasting turquoise waters, white sands and excellent diving, swimming, snorkeling and hiking. Saipan is the most popular place"historical tourism" among citizens Japanese Islands. In the recent past, this has allowed the island to achieve the fastest rate of tourism and population growth in Micronesia, with the construction of new golf courses and numerous resorts springing up around the island. Tourists and foreign workers now outnumber the natives, and the island has lost much of its Micronesian character. However, Saipan still has everything that attracts tourists here - beautiful beaches on the western and southern coasts, a bunch of scenic spots on stormy and rocky east coast, rolling hinterland and majestic cliffs on the northern coast. The island itself has 23 km. in length and 8 km. in width.

Garapan, the most Big city in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, is the fastest growing city in the region. Almost destroyed during the fighting of World War II and resettled in the 1960s, Garapan has now been completely restored and is completely built up with sushi bars, karaoke clubs and other establishments that are clearly aimed at tourists from Japan. The white sands and turquoise waters of Micro city beach are considered the most beautiful on the islands. Just north of the beach, American Memorial Park stretches along the coast, which protects the habitat of forest and wading birds, and also serves as a favorite place for picnics and memorial events dedicated to the memory of American soldiers killed in the US invasion of Saipan and Tinian. Also located here is the Museum of the Second World War with an exhibition of weapons, uniforms, ammunition, photographs and other military attributes of that time. Tinian is a sleepy island with a single village just 2 km away. south of Saipan, it has "luckily" escaped the main influx of tourists and therefore serves as a good place for "escape from civilization" if the hustle and bustle of Saipan seems too intrusive. It is difficult to imagine that such a peaceful place could be involved in one of the most tragic events in history: Tinian became famous as runway for the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. San Jose, main locality islands, is the territory ancient village Chamorro. Those early settlers created the finest facilities that are largely what attract visitors to the area today. The main attraction of San Jose is the Taga House, which served as a place of large meetings and the residence of Taga the Great, the legendary king of the ancient Chamorro state.

There are several on Tinian good places for swimming, including Cummer Beach in San Jose and Taga Beach south of the village, which have turquoise waters and white sand. Chulu Beach on the northwest coast of Tinian is the site of fierce fighting during World War II, where American troops landed on the island, so massive archaeological excavations continue here. Rota Island lies halfway between Saipan and Guam, and is only now beginning to “come out of the shadows” big islands, it is still a slowly developing place with poor recreational infrastructure. The main village, Songsong, still has no traffic lights or shopping centers. Located on southwest coast Rota, Songsong stretches along a narrow peninsula, which only at the tip rises to the foot of Mount Taipingo (210 m.). The village is literally “saturated” with a variety of stones, which serve to strengthen the foundations of houses and to mark “streets” and as piers and fences. The local Franciscan Church of Borgia is proud of its hundred-year-old bell. You can travel from Songsong on foot or by jeep to the northeast, where the island's shores are particularly scenic, or visit the white coral sands of Twixberry Beach or climb to the top of Mount Taipingo for superb views of the village, harbor and Sasanaya Bay. The Northern Mariana Islands are an excellent place for active type recreation. Saipan has the most interesting place- Grotto (Grotto), a natural cave with underground lakes up to 15 meters deep and tunnels to open sea. You can dive to WWII crash sites in Tanapag Harbor, caves and conger eel breeding grounds at Obian Beach, and huge coral formations just offshore at the Saipan Grand Hotel. The best place for snorkeling on Saipan is Managaha Island, on Tinian - Tachona Beach, and on Rota - Corell Gardens in Sasanaya Bay. All three islands have good conditions for hiking. On Saipan, the main route is the Laderana Tangka Trail through the Marpi Commonwealth Forest. There is a wonderful route along the banks of the Cammer and Taga south of San Jose on Tinian. Other recreational options include windsurfing, which is extremely popular here, ( the best place- Micro Beach on Saipan), tennis, golf and short underwater excursions in the lagoon between Saipan and the Managaha Islands, where you can see on the bottom of the sea, in addition to its many inhabitants, traces of the wrecks of Japanese ships or American B-29 “Superfortresses”. Most villages hold annual celebrations in honor of their patron saint, which are the most big events per year. Rota and Tinian each hold one such "festival", while Saipan has six: in San Vicente in early April, in San Antonio in mid-June, in Mount Carmel Cathedral in Chalan Kanoa in mid-July, in San Rock in mid-August, Tanapag in early October and Koblerville in late October. The Tinian Festival takes place during the last weekend of April or the first weekend of May in honor of Saint José, the island's patron saint. The largest and most popular festival in the Northern Mariana Islands, however, is the Rota Festival on the first or second weekend of October. The celebration, held by the Franciscan Church of Borja, includes a luxurious banquet, which features only traditional dishes and drinks of the Chamorro people, religious processions, music and dance festivals.

Most events and festivals are still held in Saipan. Popular events include the half marathon and 10 km sea race, held at the end of January. The Kintetsu Buffaloes, a professional baseball team from Japan, hold training camps and competitions here in the spring, training and playing with local teams (and at a fairly serious level) during the first two weeks of February. The annual Micronesian Open and Saipan Lagoon Regatta are international windsurfing competitions, as well as the Hobie Cat competition, held in the Micro Beach area in mid-February. International athletes swim, bike and run nearly 80 kilometers during the Tagaman Triathlon, held in mid-May. The week-long Liberation Day Festival celebrates the liberation of the islands on July 4th, US Independence Day. The festivities include pageants, a beauty pageant, a night of varied entertainment, sports games and numerous banquets. The fishing tournament takes place in August during marlin season. Each island also hosts a different fishing competition, with Rota having Labor Day on a weekend in early September and Tinian having the Fishing Prize in early November.

Historical sketch: Since the 17th century, the Mariana Islands have been a colony of Spain. In 1898 Spain sold the islands to Germany. In 1914, Japan captured the Mariana Islands, and in 1945 the Americans came here. After World War II, the Mariana Islands were part of Micronesia, a territory under US administration. In the 1970s, Micronesia was divided into four political-administrative units. One of these units was the Mariana Islands without its southern part (the islands of Guam). In 1975, the islanders voted to become a "freely affiliated" territory of the United States. In 1976, an agreement on free association between the Northern Mariana Islands and the United States was signed. On November 3, 1986, this agreement came into force, which meant the emergence of a new state - the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

National domain:.MP

Entry rules: All visitors require visas valid for up to three months and proof of no immigration intent. To obtain a visa, you must provide two completed forms, two photographs, a passport valid for at least 6 months, as well as evidence of the absence of immigration intentions (certificate of salary, certificate of real estate, etc.). Formally, an invitation is not required to obtain a visa. The consular fee is $45, in addition you need to pay the cost of the visa ($20 - one-time). The processing time - from a couple of days ("express") to one and a half months - depends on the documents provided and the appointment of the interview. The visa you receive does not guarantee entry into the United States and the Mariana Islands. Russian citizens are registered during passport control. Immigration authorities at the first point of entry into the country will stamp the date of entry, permitted period of stay in the country, date of departure and visa category on the travel voucher insert.

Customs regulations: The import and export of national and foreign currency is not limited. You can import any amounts in cash, traveler's checks and payment cards. Only amounts over $10,000 are required to be declared. When importing gold, declaration is required. Personal items are not subject to duty; perishable foods, weapons, and drugs are prohibited for import into the country.

Perhaps one of the most mysterious places on a map of the Earth – Mariana Islands. This is a place that is sometimes considered one of the best remaining mystical corners of America and which attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists with its unique nature and many historical sites.

Mariana Islands on the world map

Distance of the Mariana Islands from " big land» makes them a unique place, where an atmosphere of peace and absolute carefree reigns. Real paradise for lovers of magnificent panoramas, unique sunsets and crystal clear air.

Where are they located?

The Mariana Islands are a small Island state, whose territory covers 15 islands of the archipelago of the same name. They are located at the western tip of the Pacific Ocean, in a region called Micronesia.

Most travelers come here in search of solitude from the noise of big cities and to see with their own eyes the monuments from the Battle of the Pacific during World War II.

The islands of the archipelago are located in such a way that they form two chains total length more than 700 kilometers.

Due to the characteristics of its geographical location The Mariana archipelago does not have clear boundaries with neighboring states. To the south of it are Caroline Islands (Federated States Micronesia). The conditional natural boundary separating the Philippine Sea from the Pacific Ocean passes at the location of the Mariana Islands.

Relief

Mariana Archipelago consists of two chains located from the north and south. In the northern chain, most of the islands are cones formed as a result of volcanic activity, over 900 meters high. It is noteworthy that some of them are small active volcanoes. The islands in the southern chain are partly volcanic in nature and partly formed by corals.

The nature of the Mariana Islands is typical for the tropical region; there are many places where no one has set foot. The coral reefs of the Mariana Islands amaze with their magnificence and fantastic forms, and the deepest place on the planet is 11 km Mariana Trench is located just a few tens of kilometers from the archipelago.

Coastal waters abound with fish, beaches stretch for thousands of meters, and the rich underwater world strives to show all its splendor to lovers of diving and snorkeling.

Climate

The climate of the Mariana Islands is characterized as humid, tropical ocean.

average temperature air during the day fluctuates at around +28/+33 degrees Celsius, and at night it drops only a few degrees to +23/+25 degrees.

Humidity quite high and reaches 75-85%. Two seasons are clearly distinguished: from to to the windy season begins in this area, and from to to the time of typhoons begins.

How to get there from Russia?

The easiest way to get here is from some countries in Asia (, Japan, South Korea) or from , therefore, among vacationers in the Mariana Islands, Japanese And Americans.

Due to the great remoteness of the Mariana Islands from no direct flights in this direction.

To the airport of the main island of the archipelago - Saipan– can be reached by plane of Asian airlines. Transfers for flights in this direction are made in Shanghai, Tokyo or. The duration of such a flight will be about 16 hours, and this does not take into account flight connections.

Select plane tickets using this search form. Enter cities of departure and arrival, date, number of passengers.

State structure

Picturesque coral reefs, offshore fishing opportunities, surfing and diving are all available in abundance today. But not all the time life seemed like a fairy tale to the residents of the Mariana Islands.

Story

The development of the Northern Mariana Islands occurred many centuries ago - around 500 AD the first settlers appeared here - Chamorro tribes, having some kinship with the modern peoples of Polynesia. They were experienced sailors, actively explored the Pacific islands and left behind memorable signs - the famous “latte” stones, the height of which could reach 6 meters.

It is curious that some historians see in the latte stones some analogy with mysterious statues Easter Islands.

European influence on the Mariana Islands began thanks to the legendary navigator Ferdinand Magellan, who was the first European to discover these lands during circumnavigation in 1521. On his ship he passed through the southern group of islands of the archipelago and named them "Isla de los Ladrones", which translated meant “Islands of Thieves.”

The name was changed to "Las Marianas" in the middle of the 17th century, when the Spanish priest Luis Diego Sanvitores, who found himself in these parts, named them in honor of Queen Anna Maria of Austria.

In 1668, missionaries of the Jesuit order, led by Sanvitores, organized the first mission on the islands, with the appearance of which conflicts began between the local population and European colonists. The war lasted two decades and resulted in the removal of most of the natives to the island of Guam.

In the 19th century resettlement has begun Spaniards and settlers from the Caroline Islands came to the Mariana Islands, and gradually began to show interest in the archipelago. In 1899, Spain sold the Northern Mariana Islands to the German government, which hoped to organize the industrial production of coconut pulp here. However, these plans were adjusted by the outbreak of the First World War, and Japan, which turned out to be stronger and more interested, captured the islands.

The Japanese began to grow sugar cane on the islands, cutting down tropical forests and thickets of coconut palms. In the 1930s, Mariana cane plantations guaranteed the lion's share of Japan's profits.

Dramatic events unfolded in the archipelago area during the years Second World War, when the archipelago became the site for one of the fiercest and bloodiest battles in the Pacific basin. In the summer of 1944, US armed forces landed on the coast of Saipan and simultaneously attacked the Japanese flotilla.

Thousands of soldiers from both armies became victims of the battle, but the civilian population of the islands suffered the maximum damage.

Subsequently, the United States set up a military airfield here, which was destined to go down in history. It was from this base that two heavy bombers took to the skies, dropping atomic charges on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. With the end of the war, peace came to the islands, they were subject to the United Nations, and since 1947 they have been under US influence.

Policy

The Mariana Islands are a self-governing community. Since 1986, the status of a state has been in force, "freely joined" to the United States, thanks to which the islands gained local self-government. United States trusteeship ended in 1993. The state and government are simultaneously headed by a governor elected by the population.

Valid on the islands representative presidential democratic system. The main person in the state is the governor. The Mariana Islands are in a political union with the United States, and general funds are administered by a special department within the US Department of the Interior.

Most likely, such an unpleasant illness as acclimatization will overtake you in the Mariana Islands. Be prepared for it with help.

Population

The population of the Mariana Islands archipelago is approximately 700 thousand people. Among them are representatives different nationalities:

1. The vast majority of residents are representatives Filipino — 34%;
2. Nationality takes second place Chamorro -30%;
3. On the third Chinese — 12%;
4. Bringing up the end of the list Micronesians — 8%;
5. And people from Caroline Islands — 5%.

In addition, on the islands of the archipelago live Americans, Japanese, Koreans, Australians.

Religion and language

The official language of the Commonwealth is English. In second place is language of the Chamorro people, and also an important role is assigned Caroline, Filipino, Japanese, Korean And Chinese languages.

On Mariana Archipelago representatives of each religious group have their own organization and premises for performing rituals.

Main religious movements:

• Catholicism;
• Protestantism;
• Islam;
• Local religions and cults.

There are numerous activities here sects, ranging from Mormons to Seventh-day Adventists.

Map of the Mariana Islands with cities

Of the 17 islands of the archipelago, only 4 are inhabited: Saipan, Tinian, Rota and Guam.

Capital

The capital of the Mariana Islands is city ​​of Susupe, which is located on the island of Saipan. It is very popular among tourists from Japan, who come here in large numbers.

Susupe attracts with its unhurried, measured rhythm, the absence of cataclysms and shocks, which is so important for modern people.

You can enjoy warm summers in Susupa all year round and completely forget about all your worries.

Big cities

• The largest city in the archipelago is Garapan, located in the western part of the island of Saipan. Most of the administrative buildings on the islands are concentrated here. The city is unique in that its borders are not clearly defined, and in almost everything west coast The island is lined with a chain of small villages and residential buildings surrounded by farms and lush gardens.
• Big village Songsong- the largest settlement on the island of Rota. It is located in the southwestern part of the island. The usual city rules do not apply here - residents cope just fine without traffic lights and shopping centers. At almost every step here you can see all kinds of stones, which are used not only for construction, but also serve as markings.
• City Hagatna is the administrative center of the island of Guam. It lies on a narrow isthmus separating the Philippine Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The city was founded in 1668 by the Spaniards, who created the first Jesuit mission on the island. Here you can admire beautiful landscapes and vibrant historical monuments.

Watch an educational video about the Mariana Islands:

The Mariana Islands are an archipelago of fifteen large and several small islands in the west-central Pacific Ocean. Islands form northern part Western Pacific subregion Micronesia and consist of two political and administrative entities: Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Both have the status of an unincorporated organized territory of the United States. This means that they are not part of the United States, but are their possession, and the US Constitution has limited application here. Moreover, the US Congress forms the local government.
The archipelago is divided into two chains - northern and southern, formed about 20 million years ago. The appearance of both chains above the water surface was the result of the displacement of the Pacific Plate under the Mariana Plate. Along the islands in the zone of convergence of two plates, the deepest section of the bottom of the World Ocean was formed. As of 2011, its depth is 10,994 ± 40 m below sea level.
The islands of the northern chain are represented by volcanic cones, some of which are active, up to 965 m high. In total, there are about 50 underwater volcanoes in the archipelago area; 11 stratovolcanoes form the islands. The southern chain is represented by coral and tectonic volcanoes.
The Mariana Islands are in an area of ​​tectonic activity, and earthquakes are not uncommon here. In addition, the archipelago is located in a tropical climate zone, so typhoons often pass here.
Unlike many Pacific Islands, The Mariana Islands are covered with dense tropical forests; There are also areas of savannas, the vegetation of which is represented by flowerless cryptogamous plants: ferns, horsetails.

History of discovery

The Mariana Islands, located on the edge of the Mariana Trench, were inhabited, presumably, no later than 1500-1400. BC e. The first inhabitants of the islands of the archipelago were immigrants who arrived from the Philippine Islands.
The islands were discovered by Europeans in the 16th century. The discoverer of the archipelago was Ferdinand Magellan himself (1480-1521), a Spanish-Portuguese navigator. During its famous - and the very first in history - trip around the world On March 6, 1521, Magellan saw a chain of islands in the ocean. It is believed that great traveler landed on the island of Guam, but it could have been a small island near Guam.
Magellan tried to start exchange and trade with the local inhabitants, who called themselves Tao-tao-tano, or “people of the earth,” and from the Europeans received the name Khachamori (Chamorro). They were typical Micronesians, and even managed to create a semblance of civilization. Its remains are preserved on the island of Tinian in the form of limestone latte columns dating back to the 9th century.
But Magellan failed to establish a dialogue with the natives: they stole a ship’s boat from the Europeans, thus provoking a serious conflict. As a result, the sailors killed seven Chamorros, returned the boat, replenished food supplies and left the island. Magellan, in memory of the tragic events, named the archipelago the Robber Islands (Islas de los Ladrones).
The Mariana Islands stretch from north to south. The island of Guam, which is a separate administrative unit, is the largest and most south island archipelago. Its area is 541.3 km 2 - 77.7 km 2 more than the total area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe remaining land areas called the Northern Mariana Islands.
The Mariana Islands served as a transit point for Spain's Manila galleons for many years, and in the 20th century. acquired military significance. It was from here that the bombers that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki took off.
The islands received their current name in 1667, when Spain officially claimed rights to them. In Spanish it sounded "Las Marianas", in honor of the Spanish Queen Marianna of Austria (1634-1696).
From the second half XVII V. The colonization of the islands began, missionaries were sent here. Local leaders prevented the spread of Catholicism, and attacks on mission members led to a war between the Spaniards and the natives, which broke out in 1672 and lasted 25 years.
In just one hundred years of colonization, most of the Chamorros died from diseases brought to the islands by the Spaniards. Those who managed to survive mixed with the Spaniards. Mestizos - descendants of mixed marriages - still live in the Mariana Islands.
For the Spaniards, the islands served as a stopover for the so-called Manila galleons, which sailed between the Mexican and Philippine islands. The islands remained a Spanish colony until the Spanish-American War (1898), following which the Spanish transferred Guam to the Americans. This year began the political separation of Guam from the other islands of the archipelago. Under the treaty of 1899, the Spaniards sold the remaining Mariana Islands to Germany, which annexed them to its protectorate of New Guinea.
In 1914, Japan occupied the Northern Mariana Islands, creating large sugar cane plantations there. Later, during the Second World War, the archipelago became the scene of fierce battles between the Japanese and Americans. 1944 was especially bloody for the islands, when the Americans lost more than 2 thousand people killed and wounded, and over 40 thousand Japanese were killed or committed hara-kiri. At first, the Japanese even managed to capture American Guam.
However, the Americans regained Guam and captured the Northern Mariana Islands, subsequently using them as an airfield for bombing Japan. Both aircraft carrying atomic bombs (Enola Gay and Boxcar), which dropped cargo on Hiroshima and Nagasaki on August 6 and 9, 1945, took off from the “Northern Airfield” of Tinian Island in the Mariana Islands.
After the end of the war, all of the Mariana Islands came under full US control. America did not merge them with Guam, but created a separate administrative territory, the Northern Mariana Islands, where the head of state is a US-appointed governor.
On the island of Guam, the largest of the Mariana Islands, the Americans established the largest Pacific naval and military bases. air force, including Andersen and Apra Harbor. They are served by the majority of the island's population. Here, on Guam, is the city of Hagatna, the main passenger and fishing port of the archipelago.
Currently, the Mariana Islands have become tourist center in the western Pacific Ocean. Actually, it was thanks to American military personnel that the Mariana Islands earned fame as one of the best resort areas in the Pacific Ocean.
The most ancient landmark of the archipelago is the preserved stone latte pillars. The origin and purpose of the pillars are unknown, there are only assumptions that they served for some mysterious religious purposes. There are about 500 of them in total, and they are often compared to the stone sculptures on Easter Island.

general information

Location: West Pacific.

Islands: 15 large islands(Agihan, Agrihan, Alamagan, Anatahan, Asuncion, Guam, Guguan, Maug, Pagan, Rota, Saipan, Sarigan, Tinian, Farallon de Medinilla, Farallon de Pajaros) and several small islands and reefs.
Origin of the islands: tectonic, volcanic, coral.

Administrative affiliation: unincorporated organized territories of the United States.

Administrative division: Guam island, Northern Mariana Islands.

Administrative center: Hagatna (Guam Island) - 1051 people, 2010; Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands) - 48,220 people, 2010

Languages: Guam island - English (official), Chamorro, Filipino languages; Northern Mariana Islands - Chamorro, English (official), Filipino languages, Chinese.

Ethnic composition: Guam Island: Chamorro - 37.1%, Filipinos - 26.3%, other Oceanians - 11.3%, whites - 6.9%, other Asians - 6.3%, other ethnic groups - 2.3%, mestizos - 9.8%, 2000; Northern Mariana Islands: Asians - 56.3%, Oceanians - 36.3%, mestizos - 4.8%, whites - 1.8%, others - 0.8%, 2000

Religions: Catholicism, local beliefs.

Currency unit: U.S. dollar.
The most important port: Hagatna (Guam island).

Major airports: international Airport them. Antonio B. Won Pata (Guam Island), Saipan International Airport. Francisco Sea Ada (Saipan Island, Northern Mariana Islands).

Numbers

Area: 1004.9 km2.

Length: 2519 km.

Distance: 2500 km from the Philippine Islands, 2500 km from the island of New Guinea.
Guam Island

Area: 541.3 km2.

Population: 160,378 people. (2013).

Population density: 296.3 people/km 2 .

Urban population: 93% (2010).

125.5 km.
The most high point: Lam Lam Peak (406 m).
Northern Mariana Islands

Area: 463.6 km2.

Population: 51,170 people. (2013).

Population density: 110.4 people/km 2 .

Urban population: 91% (2010).

Length coastline: 1482 km.
Highest point: Agrikhan volcano on the island of the same name (965 m).

Climate and weather

Tropical sea. The influence of trade winds.
Average annual temperature:+24 - +30°С.

Rainy season: July-October.

Average annual precipitation: 1800-2300 mm.
Relative humidity: 78-82%.

Frequent typhoons.

Economy

GDP: Guam ($4.6 billion, per capita - $28,700, 2010), Northern Mariana Islands ($733 million, per capita - $13,600, 2010).

Agriculture: crop farming (sugar cane, bananas, coffee, cotton, taro, citrus fruits, copra, vegetables, breadfruit), livestock farming (poultry farming, pig farming, dairy and meat farming).
Maintenance of US Air Force and Navy bases (Guam Island).
Industry: construction, food, textile.
Minerals: phosphorites, sulfur, iron and manganese ores.
Fishing (tuna).
Services: tourism, trade, financial.

Attractions

■ Guam Island: Pati Point Nature Reserve, ruins of Kaca-Gobierno (Hagatna, Governor's Palace, 1736), statue of Pope John Paul II (Hagatna), mini-Statue of Liberty in Paseo de Susanna (Hagatna), Dolce Nombre Cathedral de Maria Agana (Hagatna), Plaza de Espain (Hagatna), Latte Stone Park (Hagatna), Fort Santa Agueda (Hagatna), World War II Memorial Park (Fonte Plateau Unit), Tailfuck Bridge (1785), Guam Museum (Adelup Point Peninsula), WWII Japanese Coastal Gun Exhibit, University of Guam Naval Laboratory, Ty Lovers Point Limestone Cliffs, Cashing Zoo, China Park, Gef Pago Inalahan Village , Gadao Cave, Talofofo Falls, Guam Historical Museum, Yokoi Caves, Merizo Bell Chapel (1910), Spanish Fort Nuestra de La Soledad,
■ Northern Mariana Islands: latte columns, San Jose Catholic Church (Tinian, 1956), Sugar King Park (Saipan), American Memorial Park (Saipan), Banadero Limestone Cave (Saipan), Laderan Tangke Cliffs (Saipan) ), Korean Peace Park (in memory of the Korean women taken by the Japanese to work on Saipan, 1981), natural Grotto Cave, Taga House (residence of Taga the Great, king of the ancient Chamorro state, Tinian).

Curious facts

■ The area of ​​the island of Guam is only three times larger than the area of ​​the US capital, Washington.
■ In addition to Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico and the American Virgin Islands.

■ The limestone latte columns on Tinian Island are massive columns made of fossilized coral and limestone, up to 2 m wide and up to 4.5 m high, with a rounded top. Ancient Spanish sources report that funeral urns of the Chamorro people were embedded in the columns. Images of the latte column are present on the flag and coat of arms of the Northern Mariana Islands.
■ In 1899, the Spaniards sold the northern part of the Mariana Islands to Germany for 837,500 German gold marks, which is approximately $4.1 million at today's exchange rates.
■ During World War II, the island of Guam became the first American territory to be occupied by the Japanese. Japan captured the island by attacking it on December 8, 1941, the same day as the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Japanese actually attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7th, but the International Date Line must be taken into account. Pacific Ocean.
■ Residents of Guam are recognized as US citizens without the right to participate in national elections. Guam has one nonvoting, two-year delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives.

What is interesting to see in the Mariana Islands?

Saipan Island, 23 km. in length and 8 km. in width - the largest among the Mariana Islands and is administrative center Commonwealth. Saipan amazes with its beauty and attracts tourists all year round warm sea and bright sun. The center, Gararan, is the most…

Video from the Mariana Islands

How to get to the Mariana Islands?

From Russia to o. Saipan can be reached by flying through Seoul, South Korea, or Tokyo, Japan. There are daily flights from both countries to the Mariana Islands.

flight time: 3 hour flight from Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya),

4.5 hours flight from South Korea (Seoul, Busan),

5 hours flight from China - Shanghai (regular charters from Beijing and Guangzhou are also available)

vaccinations: No vaccinations are required to visit the Mariana Islands.

How to comfortably move around the Mariana Islands?

traffic: Traffic is on the right side, cars are left-hand drive. Rules traffic the same as in Russia with small exceptions, for example, at a red light you can turn right, allowing cars from the opposite lane turning left to pass.

Road traffic and rules are very simple. There are no huge traffic jams here like in big cities. Maximum speed 35 mph, some larger roads 40-45 mph. To rent a car, the age limit is 21 years or older.

Traffic Laws:

Wear a seat belt (fine starts at $50.00)

Children under 4 must be fastened in child seats, from 4 years and older - with a car seat belt

When there is a stop signal (STOP) on a school bus, you must stop

It is prohibited to drive into oncoming traffic

Parking on blue (with handicapped sign) is prohibited

The middle lane (yellow solid or dotted on both sides) is allowed to be used only during a left turn or a full U-turn, but only after a complete stop.

After sunset, low beams must be turned on (18:30)

When a police officer stops your car, do not get out of the car. You need to open the window.

Driving while intoxicated is strictly prohibited.

car rental: Car brands

Toyota, Ford, Nissan, KIA

Documentation

It is enough to have your Russian license with you. You can pay by card or cash.

The car is rented with a full tank and the car must be returned with a full tank. If the agreement is violated, the amount for gasoline will be charged in triple amount.

Some car rental offices ask you to pay for gas in advance.

Insurance

Each car rental office offers several types of insurance.

It is not necessary to insure the car. You can refuse insurance, but in this case you must leave your credit card information.

Taxi: Taxis in Saipan can only be caught in hotel parking lots. Taxi services, although metered, are expensive.

buses: Saipan, Tinian and Rota do not have a public transport system. Eat free bus Duty Free from the store to the hotels and back.

hitch-hiking: It is possible to hitchhike in the Mariana Islands, but it is not a common practice.

airports: There are international/local airports on each island: Saipan, Rota and Tinian. The main airport of the Mariana Islands is the international airport on the island. Saipan.

airlines: Asiana Airline (OZ)

Delta Airlines (DL)

Shanghai Airline (FM)

Continental Airline (CO)

Freedom Air (FRE)

railway: There are no railways in the Mariana Islands.

ports: The only international port is on Saipan, and three local ones are on the islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota.

Where is the best place to stay when traveling to the Mariana Islands?

Climate in the Mariana Islands

The climate is tropical. O. Saipan is included in the Guinness Book of Records as the owner of the most constant round-the-clock year-round temperature in the world of +27 degrees C. The season for tourists in the Mariana Islands is open all year round.

There are 2 seasons - dry and wet. The wet season occurs for 6 months from July to December. Special characteristic wet season- short rains during the day and heavy rains at night, which does not prevent tourists from enjoying the warm sea and bright sun. The average air temperature during the wet season is +33 - +35 degrees Celsius and the average precipitation is 1800-2000 mm.

The dry season occurs for 6 months from January to June. The weather this season is cool with a light breeze and the air temperature drops to +27 degrees Celsius. The average water temperature is +25 degrees Celsius, precipitation is reduced to a minimum, and droughts are possible.

Between July and November, tropical storms and typhoons are possible in the Pacific Ocean. They mainly originate in the Mariana Islands and move north, gaining strength off the coast of the Philippines, China, Taiwan, Korea or Japan.

National cuisine of the Mariana Islands

The cuisine in the Mariana Islands is international. Initially, with the development of the textile and tourism industries on the islands, a multinational population emerged. The Chinese, Filipinos, Thais, Japanese, Koreans, Americans, Australians and other nationalities have influenced the islands' diverse cuisine. Accordingly, the island has many restaurants and eateries to suit each of these nationalities.

The locals are very hospitable, and if you make friends in Saipan, you will definitely invite them to visit, where they will offer local dishes such as red rice, grilled meat or poultry or in coconut milk, corn tortillas, spicy chicken kalaguen, apigigi (young coconut with starch flour, wrapped in banana leaf), tropical fruits and many other dishes. You can sample local dishes in hotel restaurants or at the local fair in Garapan on Thursdays.

Most popular restaurants:

The restaurant “Tony Romas” is famous for ribs prepared according to traditional American recipes, and “Capriciosa” - Italian cuisine, is not far from shopping center Duty free. Delicious cuisine, fast service and convenient locations and opening hours have made these restaurants very popular among Russian tourists.

The big guitar of the Hard Rock Cafe restaurant attracts the attention of every tourist. The restaurant itself is located on the second floor of the Duty Free shopping center. Homemade nachos, combo burgers, steaks, fried chicken, soups, salads and delicious desserts can all be enjoyed in an atmosphere of rock and roll relics and the music you love.

The Thai restaurant “Thai House” is a favorite place for both residents of Saipan and tourists. Seafood delicacies, papaya salad, vegetable rolls and many other dishes will be served to your table with a smile and Thai friendliness.

In the only Indian restaurant on the islands, “Test of India”, you can try the famous Indian dish “Tandori Chicken”.

Many Korean, Chinese and Japanese restaurants are scattered throughout the island of Saipan. The Hankukwan restaurant specializes in traditional Korean cuisine, making nabe (soups). Your choice of seafood, meat, mushrooms, vegetables, or all at once can be added to the prepared spicy broth. The Tori Hide and American Sushi Bar restaurant offers a variety of Japanese dishes, sashimi and sushi, including California rolls.

Tourist safety in the Mariana Islands

History of the Mariana Islands

The first settlers migrated from Southeast Asia to the Marina Islands 1500 BC. Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese explorer and navigator, discovered and charted the Mariana Islands in 1521, and in 1565 Spain declared the islands its territory and...

Mariana Islands: souvenirs

Coconut products Bojobo talisman dolls Products made from Bojobo tree seeds Jewelry made from shells and corals Traditional wood products Traditional bone products Wicker products from coconut palm leaves Traditional bead products Paintings Medicinal products from Noni fruit Noni ...

Mariana Islands: fun facts

The world's deepest trench, the Mariana Trench, which is more than 11,000 meters deep, is located east of the island of Saipan.

Guinness Book Records:

Temperature: The Mariana Islands have the most stable temperature in the world at +27 C.

In 2007, Marine Dive magazine put 18 categories of dive-related places around the world up for reader voting. After voting, 5 prestigious awards were determined for the Mariana Islands.

Managaha Island Lagoon took first place as “Best place for snorkeling.”

Managaha shared fourth place for “ Best beach” and the islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota for “ Best Region for diving"

Fifth place was shared by Rota for “Teteto” beach as “Best Beach” and the islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota as “Best Resort Area”.

The underwater cave “Grotto” is considered the second most beautiful place in the world among diving specialists. Skin Diver magazine named this place one of the top ten places for scuba diving.

For four years in a row, Managaha Island has been awarded the title of “Best Snorkeling Destination” at the Tokyo International Fair.

Saipan - Treasure Island! The Saipan Museum of History and Culture has the world's largest collection of artifacts and treasures from Spanish galleons! In 1638, off Cape Agingan in the Saipan Strait, not far from the PIC Hotel, the galley “Nuestra Señora de la Conception” with a cargo of gold crashed. Only a small part of the cargo was found by an underwater expedition in the 80s of the last century. Most of the treasures still remain at the bottom of the strait. The most expensive part of the treasure is in the museum and their duplicates can be seen in one of the halls: gold jewelry inlaid with diamonds and other precious stones, necklaces, chains, fine porcelain, etc.

On the island of Saipan lived the artist Douglas Rankin, who created a unique painting technique - banana painting. Instead of a brush, he used banana tree trimmings. He cut and wrapped leaves, cut dies and rollers from trunks. Then he created unique paintings with his unusual instruments. Douglas Rankin died in 2007.