In fact, few people know about the island of Guam in the distant sea-ocean ... Guam is the largest and southernmost island in the Marine Islands! We don’t know much about the Mariana Islands either ... My story is about the myths and reality of this corner of the Earth!

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Myth I . Mariana Islands - a white spot on the world map

"White Spot" is a 3-hour flight from Tokyo or Manila, a 4-hour flight from Seoul. The Mariana Islands are located in Micronesia and conditionally separate the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea. That is, the seventeen islands of the Mariana Archipelago are washed by the waters of the ocean on one side, and the sea on the other.

Myth II. The Mariana Islands are named after Mariana Trench

Exactly the opposite. The depression is called Mariana, because it is located relatively close to the Mariana Islands. From Guam - the largest and southernmost island of the Mariana Ridge - to the depression is only 300 km.

The islands were discovered during his round-the-world trip by Magellan. This happened in 1521. Fernand called the islands of Thieves, because the locals liked the things on the ship so much that they were not too lazy to steal them.

But already in 1568 the islands were renamed in honor of the Spanish Queen Maria Anna of Austria (wife of King Philip IV).

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Myth III. Primitive tribes live on the Mariana Islands

Marian tribes with a matriarchal way of life were described in their chronicles by Jesuit missionaries, who formed their first settlement in 1568. In 1565 Guam became a Spanish colony. In the course of numerous wars and upheavals, Japanese, Spanish and American threads were woven into the history of Guam.

Today Guam is the most important air hub in Micronesia, an island of two US military bases and extremely popular resort, which is visited annually by more than 1 million tourists. The aforementioned institutions are serviced by the indigenous population, including lawyers, hotel managers, and doctors. By the way, the Department of Marine Biology at the University of Guam trains some of the best specialists in this field of knowledge.

Myth IV. There are many dangerous animals in the Marianas

A tree snake can be attributed to the dangerous creatures of God. It is dangerous for birds - because it feeds on eggs that it finds in nests. Snakes live in the jungle, are afraid of all kinds of noise and are never the first to attack. In tourist places, where there is a hubbub and enthusiastic exclamations, snakes are not found.

Myth V. Marianas prone to frequent typhoons

There are two seasons in the tropics, the rainy season and the windy season. The first lasts 4 months - from June to September. Typhoons are possible during this time. But the last strong typhoon passed over Guam in 2000. By the way, in the entire history of meteorological observations on Guam, not a single person died during a typhoon.

In recent years, due to global warming, air masses have been gathering into a tropical storm not only at the equator, but also in the tropics themselves.

For example, in September 2009, several tropical storms formed near the Mariana Islands, “twisted” into typhoons: one went to Samoa, the second to Japan. A tropical storm, by the way, is a downpour with gusts of wind. It does an excellent job of washing cars and glass, it should be noted.

The remaining 8 months of the year in Guam are the windy season. A beautiful sea breeze, a wind that drives white clouds across the sky. Of course, it rains from time to time and during the windy season, but they are short-lived. And most often it rains from just one cloud: there are clouds all around, a blue sky, the sun - and a rainbow under one small cloud!

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The Northern Mariana Islands is a state in the Pacific Ocean, from several volcanic islands rising from the depths of the Pacific Ocean. Nearby is the world's deepest oceanic trench, the Mariana Trench, diving into the depths of eleven kilometers. In this trench, one lithospheric plate dives under another, being processed into magma, which will then pour out through volcanoes.

(Use + and - to zoom in and out of the map)

The Mariana Islands were discovered by Magellan in 1521, however, despite the fact that he was greeted there very friendly, he sailed away from there very unhappy. The natives did not understand that it was impossible to take someone else's property, and they took full hands of everything they could reach when they climbed onto the ship. Yes, then they dragged the boat away, for which Magellan called these islands "the islands of thieves", and marked it on the map. The islands were not very interested in the Spanish crown, which was the ruler of this territory, in fact, only nominally. Nevertheless, missionaries periodically came here, whom the local population did not like and merchants, whom they loved, even adored. And he strove to put a prettier girl, because the merchants always presented with various useful things and children.

And everything would be fine, but they sold the islands to Germany. The Germans started, it was there to create a German order, but they quickly got bogged down in wars on the continent and no attention was left to the islands. During the Second World War, the islands were captured by the Japanese and immediately began to actively plant on them. And even more actively, to participate in the breeding program, forcibly marrying their colonists to the natives. However, this violence was forced - almost all the natives died out from simple European diseases, so a lot of mestizos were required, resistant to diseases.

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Mariana Islands, a traditional center of tourism. Here they willingly spend honeymoon travel. It is easy to order a banquet on the honey mountain, which hints at Honeymoon. Of course, river cruises are not available here, due to the lack of more or less significant rivers, but you can easily arrange a boat rental, just pay for relaxation and increased exoticism.

The Commonwealth of Northern 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 of the northern chain - rising above the water - volcanic cones (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 National Geographic magazine's "Best Wildlife Destination" ranking.
The Mariana Islands mark the dividing line between the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea. To the east of the archipelago lies the Mariana Trench, which reaches a depth of 11,775 m.
The total area of ​​the Northern Mariana Islands is 480 sq. km.

The administrative center is the island of Saipan

Time: Time, relative to Moscow: ahead of Moscow by 6 hours in summer and by 7 hours - in winter.

Nature: Most of the islands of 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 chain of islands 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 falls 1800-2000 mm. per year, the rainy season is from July to October. The 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 people. 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 Chamorro Micronesians, as well as immigrants from the Caroline Islands and the Philippines.

Language: English (official), Chamorro and Caroline are also widely used, 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 (233,300 tourists in 1988, mainly from Japan) and agriculture. The islands grow heat-resistant cereals, coconut palms, sugarcane, breadfruit, coffee, bananas, tomatoes, cotton, citrus fruits; breed cattle, pigs, goats; catch and process fish (mainly tuna). There are deposits of phosphorites, sulfur, iron and manganese ores. The export of the islands is agricultural products.
The main foreign trade partners are Japan and the USA.

Currency: U.S. dollar.

Main attractions: The Northern Mariana Islands is often referred to as "America's Best Surviving Mystery", referring to its relatively untouched nature, abundance of historical sites (especially those associated with the "Battle of the Pacific" period in World War II), and the islands' easy access both from the territory South-East Asia and from America. Coral reefs, sea fishing, surfing and excellent conditions for passive recreation attract more than 240 thousand tourists a year to these tiny islands.

The island of Saipan for some guests can turn into a nightmare for a package holiday, as it is literally crowded with tourists from Japan, moving in "organized columns" and constantly clicking the shutters of their cameras, the recreation infrastructure is relatively poorly developed here and is more focused on lovers of an active lifestyle, than a spoiled "shop tourist", but this island is still famous for its charm - turquoise waters, white sands and excellent conditions for diving, swimming, snorkeling and hiking are still abundant here. Saipan - the most popular place"historical tourism" among citizens Japanese islands. In the recent past, this has enabled the island to achieve the fastest growth rate in Micronesia in terms of tourism and population growth, with new golf courses being built and numerous resorts sprouting up around the island. Tourists and foreign workers now outnumber the natives, and the island has lost many of its Micronesian character. However, Saipan still has everything that attracts tourists here - beautiful beaches on the western and south coasts, a bunch of scenic spots on stormy and rocky east coast, hilly hinterland and majestic cliffs on the north coast. The island itself has 23 km. long 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. Virtually destroyed during the fighting of the Second World War and relocated 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 the city beach Micro are considered the most beautiful on the islands. North of the beach, the 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 commemorative events dedicated to the memory of American soldiers who died during the US invasion of Saipan and Tinian. Also here is the Museum of the Second World War with an exposition of weapons, uniforms, ammunition, photographs and other military attributes of that time. Tinian is this sleepy island with a single village, just 2 km away. south of Saipan, has "happily" escaped the main influx of tourists and therefore serves as a good place to "escape from the blessings of civilization" if the hustle and bustle of Saipan seems too intrusive. It is hard 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 the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. San Jose, the main population center of the island, is the site of an ancient Chamorro village. Those early settlers created the finest facilities that today are the main attraction for visitors. The main attraction of San Jose is the House of Tag, which served as a place of large meetings and the residence of Tag the Great, the legendary king of the ancient Chamorro state.

There are several good swimming spots on Tinian, including Cummer Beach in San José 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 just 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 does without traffic lights or shopping centers. Located on the southwest coast of Roth, Songsong extends over a narrow peninsula that rises only at its tip to the foot of Mount Taipingo (210 m). The village is literally "saturated" with various stones, which serve both to strengthen the foundations of houses and to mark "streets" and as moorings and fences. The local Franciscan Church of Borgia boasts a centennial bell. You can travel from Songsong on foot or by jeep to the northeast, where the coast of the island has a special scenic view, 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 is an excellent place for an active holiday. 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 plane crash sites at Tanapag Harbor, caves and conger eel breeding sites at Obyan Beach, and huge coral masses just offshore at the Saipan Grand Hotel. The best place for snorkeling in Saipan is Managaha Island, on Tinian - Tachona Beach, and on Rota - Corell Gardens in Sasanaya Bay. All three islands have good conditions for hiking. In Saipan, the main route is the Laderan Tangka trail through the Marpi Commonwealth Forest. There is an excellent route along the banks of Cummer and Taga south of San José on Tinian. Other ways to relax 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 at the bottom of the sea, in addition to its numerous inhabitants, traces of the wrecks of Japanese ships or American "Superfortresses" B-29. Most villages hold annual celebrations in honor of their patron saint, which are the biggest events of the 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, at 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 in April or the first weekend in May in honor of Saint José, the island's patron saint. The biggest and most popular celebration in the Northern Mariana Islands, however, is the Rota festival on the first or second weekend in October. The celebration hosted by the Franciscan Church of Borgia includes a lavish banquet featuring only traditional food and drink from the Chamorro people, religious processions, music and dance festivals.

Most events and festivals are still held in Saipan. Popular events are the half marathon and the 10 km offshore race at the end of January. The Kintetsu Buffaloes, a professional baseball team from Japan, trains and competes here in the spring, training and playing with local teams (at a fairly serious level) during the first two weeks of February. The annual Micronesian Open and Saipan Lagoon Regattas are international windsurfing competitions, as well as Hobie Cat competitions, held in the Micro Beach area in mid-February. World-class athletes swim, cycle 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, the Independence Day of the United States. The festivities include theatrical performances, a beauty pageant, a full night of varied entertainment, sports games and numerous banquets. The fishing tournament takes place in August, during the marlin season. Each island also hosts various fishing competitions, on Rota it's Labor Day for the weekend in early September, and on Tinian the Fishing Prize in early November.

Historical outline: 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 administered by the United States. In the 1970s, Micronesia was divided into four political-administrative units. One of these units was the Mariana Islands without its southern part (Guam Islands). In 1975, the inhabitants of the islands voted for the status of "freely attached" territory to the United States. In 1976, a free association agreement was signed between the Northern Mariana Islands and the United States. On November 3, 1986, this agreement entered 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 questionnaires, two photographs, a passport valid for at least 6 months, as well as evidence of the absence of immigration intentions (certificate from work about 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 a visa ($20 - one-time). The term of registration - from a couple of days ("express") to one and a half months - depends on the documents provided and the appointment of an interview. The received visa is not a guarantee of entry into the territory of the United States and the Mariana Islands. Russian citizens are registered upon passing passport control. The immigration authorities at the first point of entry into the country put down on the insert the appropriate notes on the date of entry, the permitted period of stay in the country, the date of departure and the category of visa.

Customs regulations: Import and export of national and foreign currency is not limited. Any amount can be imported in cash, traveler's checks and payment cards. Only amounts over $10,000 are required to be declared. When importing gold, a declaration is required. Items for personal use are not subject to duty; perishable food, weapons, and drugs are prohibited for import into the country.

Mariana Islands, or to be more precise - the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI - Commonwealth of Northern Mariana islands)- small Island state in micronesia, in the western part Pacific ocean. The ridge consists of 15 islands of volcanic origin, the largest of which Saipan, Tinyan and Company. However, only 14 islands belong to the Commonwealth, and the fifteenth is an island Guam, the largest and southernmost of Marianas islands, is considered a separate territory belonging to USA, which they received as a war trophy back in 1898. The islands form two chains - northern and South, stretching in the ocean for almost 650 km.

South Commonwealth Marianas islands borders on Caroline islands that are under guardianship and lie 1100 km from the island Company, to the east - Marshall islands, in the west -, to the north and northwest is located. To the east of the islands is perhaps the most important local geographical attraction, familiar to everyone from school geography lessons - Mariana Trench, with a depth of 11,775 meters.

Saipan- the main island of the state, located approximately 2660 km east of Manila; 2730 km north of Port Moresby ( Papua New Guinea) , 5980 km west of Honolulu (Hawaii, USA) and approximately 80 km northeast of the island Guam (USA). There are no cities on the islands in their usual sense, and even the inhabited territories cannot be called urbanized. After all, even the island Saipan, with administrative centers Susupe and Goropan occupy an area of ​​only 120 sq. km.

The ubiquitous and demanding Japanese and Koreans dominate here among the tourists. They really know a lot about quality service. They come here in tens of thousands every month, especially during the days of the Japanese golden week or at New Year . This is explained by the fact that Tokyo or from Seoul before Saipan the flight is approximately three and a half hours. And the state language here, it seems, is English, and the monetary unit is the dollar USA, but still, at times, the impression does not leave the impression that these islands are almost Japanese or Korean - this is how the presence of Asian tourists is felt here. Many restaurants with Japanese names willingly accept both Japanese yen and Korean won for payment, and hotel staff willingly answers in both Korean and Japanese.

Most recently the newspaper "Saipan Tribune" wrote about how a Japanese doctor named Hiroyuki Maida, who has been visiting for ten years in a row Saipan from Tokyo, arrived on the island for the jubilee hundredth time. To the question: "Why?" - he laughs and replies that on his very first visit here he fell in love with Saipan and now he likes it here as much as ten years ago.

Tourists from Russia here in the vast minority, although they appear here, perhaps more often than other Europeans. And they're starting to like it too. And everyone has their own reasons for this. Diving enthusiasts, for example, can be seduced by the beauties Grotto- a natural cave with underground lakes up to 15 meters deep and tunnels to the open sea. Here you can also dive to the crash sites of World War II planes in the harbor Tanapag, to the caves and breeding sites of conger eels in the area Obyan Beach, as well as to huge coral massifs off the coast in the area. But for snorkeling the best place on Saipan- Island Managaha, on the Tignane- beach Tachona, and on Company - Corell Gardens, coral gardens in the bay Sasanaya. If you have never dived at all, then on Saipan everything you need, you will be taught by Russian dive guides.

The same tourists who are far from diving, masks, snorkels and scuba gear are not familiar with Marianas the islands will also be very good. This is perfect place for both relaxing and active recreation. There are a huge number of cycling and hiking trails. On the Saipan main route - trail Laderana Tangka through the forest Marpy Commonwealth. There is a beautiful route along the coast Cummer and Taga south of San Jose on the Tignane.

Other ways to relax include windsurfing, which is extremely popular here (the best place is the beach Micro on the Saipan), tennis, golf and short underwater excursions in the lagoon between Saipan and island Managaha, where you can see at the bottom of the sea, in addition to its numerous inhabitants, traces of the wrecks of Japanese ships or American bombers "Superfortresses" B-29. Don't forget to take your driver's license with you to travel around scenic roads anywhere on the island.

Beach holidays here are a real pleasure. One of the favorite places for tourists is the island Managaha, which is located half an hour by boat from Saipan(round-trip ticket 50USD). It's best to spend the whole day here. The island is small, quiet and cozy. The whole beach is pure white sand, no algae and shells. You can rent sun loungers and a mask with a snorkeling tube (15USD) and swim, look at undersea world… There are a huge number of various inhabitants of the seabed, of all shapes and colors, and they are completely not frightened - many of them can be easily touched with your hands, and if you offer them some kind of delicacy, they will be happy to eat from your hands ... And when you get hungry themselves, numerous restaurants, many located in the shade of palm trees, will offer you dishes for every taste.

Local population - chamorro. Smiling, welcoming and friendly. They smile not because it is necessary to do so out of courtesy, but simply because the smile reflects their state of mind. To characteristic features local etiquette can be attributed almost Japanese reluctance to refuse a guest or fear of upsetting him with his refusal. Therefore, situations of complete misunderstanding are not uncommon, since a local resident can easily give the advice that, in his opinion, will not upset the tourist, and not at all the one that corresponds to reality. At the same time, some Asian "compliance" is striking, which, however, does not go beyond the usual careful attitude towards tourists. And at the same time, in some regions, especially on the outlying islands, the influence of the old traditions of the indigenous inhabitants of the islands is noticeable, with numerous taboos and ceremonies. In most places visited by tourists, the orders are quite European, and any difficulties in communicating with local residents you can not be afraid.

Nature and Climate

If you ask a local resident about what kind of Saipan if the weather happens, then you will not hear many and lengthy explanations. The weather all year round is either good or very good. Often very good. That is, it is when it is warm, regardless of the time of year + 27 + 30 degrees in the shade. Clear sky, blue-blue ocean and water temperature +26 degrees. BUT good weather differs from a very good one in that it is only a couple of degrees lower.

It is worth noting that sometimes the islands are hit by typhoons that originated in the open spaces Pacific ocean. But even these typhoons did not prevent us from taking Saipan worthy place in Guinness Book of Records for the most stable weather and temperature in the world.

The sun is very hot here and the level of solar radiation is very high, so it is recommended to wear sunglasses, hats and light protective clothing, which should not be discarded when swimming, especially in the first days after arrival - a thin layer of water does not save from ultraviolet radiation at all.

Do not underestimate the danger of tidal currents - when passing through the cracks and narrowness of the reefs, they form quite powerful eddy currents that can seriously impede navigation. For unaccustomed swimmers, you should be careful in the ocean surf, because even a small wave with a force of up to two points generates intense rebound waves that can greatly complicate the beach access.

Many beaches covered with coral rubble and volcanic rocks are quite difficult to move around and require strong shoes. Also, special requirements for footwear and clothing are imposed when visiting caves, in which ideally smooth sections of rocks are periodically replaced by characteristic limestone "brushes" with rather sharp edges.

Currency exchange and Banking

The state currency is the US dollar (USD). The exchange rate fluctuates in line with changes in the financial market.

There are 100 cents in one US dollar. There are banknotes in circulation in denominations of 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 dollars, as well as coins in denominations of 1 dollar, half dollar (50 cents, half dollar) and quarter dollar (25 cents, quarter) and denominations of 5 and 1 cent.

Almost everywhere they accept Japanese yen and Korean won.

Traveler's checks in US dollars are accepted everywhere. USA, and it is absolutely not necessary to visit a bank branch, since most hotels, restaurants and large stores cash them on the spot. If during the trip you are going to visit small islands, we still recommend that you stock up on the necessary amount of cash in advance.

Bank branches are open from Monday to Thursday, from 10.00 to 15.00, on Fridays - from 10.00 to 18.00. Some banking offices on the outlying islands may operate on their own schedule.

ATMs and Credit Cards
All major international credit cards of common payment systems are accepted everywhere: VISA, Master Card, Diners Club, American Express. On remote islands, you may encounter problems when trying to pay for something with a plastic card, because often small private shops simply do not accept card payments. Most hotels, restaurants, car rental agencies and diving centers on Saipan, Tinyan and Company accept plastic cards for payment. ATMs can be found in bank branches and large shopping centers.

VAT and Tax-Free
When paying for services in hotels, a hotel tax of 10% is charged. There are no other commercial taxes, including VAT.

Customs and Passport Control

The import and export of national (USD) or any other foreign cash currency, as well as checks, including travel, debt and securities, is allowed. Imported cash exceeding the equivalent of 10,000 USD is subject to mandatory declaration. Items made of gold and precious stones are subject to mandatory declaration.

Prohibited import to Marianas islands of drugs, stimulants, psychotropic substances, anabolic steroids and growth hormones, amphetamines, erythropoietin, barbiturates, hallucinogens and some other medicines.

The transport of weapons is strictly regulated: firearms, pneumatic, cold steel and sports (including nunchucks, bows and crossbows, slingshots, switchblade and folding knives), as well as ammunition for it and parts of weapons, which require appropriate certificates and licenses issued by the office of the General prosecutor CNMI.

Perishable products, mangoes from the Philippines, meat and meat products are prohibited for import into the country, except for those made in the mainland. USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, on the Hawaii and Guam, noodles with instant meat and other "dry" foods.

We allow duty-free import of the following goods:
- no more than 600 cigarettes manufactured in USA marked Surgeon General's Warning, or, no more than 200 cigarettes manufactured in other countries;
- up to 450 grams of cigars;
- up to 1 liter of strong alcoholic beverages(for persons over 21 years of age);
- up to 1 liter of weak alcoholic beverages (for persons over 21 years old);
- up to 2 ounces (56 ml.) of perfume;

If the specified norms are exceeded, the owner of alcohol must pay a duty for each fluid ounce in the amount of: 5 cents for beer and wine, 3 cents for spirits. Commercial items are not exempt from taxes and duties, as they are not considered everyday items.

You should pack flammable items, aerosols, hairspray, lighter gas, piercing items in your luggage, as they will not be allowed on the plane as hand luggage.

Transportation of animals
With rules for the transport of pets and clearance travel documents we recommend that you familiarize yourself with them in advance, when booking and purchasing air tickets. Please note that the weight of the animal and the container for its transportation is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid exclusively as excess baggage. Only guide dogs accompanying their owners in flight are transported free of charge.

Time

On the Marianas On the islands, time is not converted to winter and summer. It always remains in one unchanged time zone and is + 10 hours to the time Greenwich.
Hourly difference between Moscow and Saipan is + 7 hours.

Visas and Consular Information

Since October 3, 2019, visa-free entry to the Mariana Islands has been canceled for citizens of the Russian Federation. To visit Saipan or Guam, Russians need to have an American B1 or B2 visa, which entitles them to multiple entries into the United States within 180 days. A visa must be issued in advance at the US Embassy in the Russian Federation.

An important condition for entry to the Mariana Islands is the presence of a biometric foreign passport (i.e. valid for 10 years).

Opening hours of institutions, shops and museums

The usual working hours of trade enterprises are from Monday to Friday, from 08:00 to 12:00 and from 13:30 to 17:00, on Saturdays from 08:00 to 13:00. Many private shops have their own hours and are often closed on Sundays, but most large department stores and duty-free shops are Saipan open all week.

Bank branches are open from Monday to Thursday, from 10:00 to 15:00, on Fridays - from 10:00 to 18:00. Some banking offices on the outlying islands may operate on their own schedule.

Transport

The remoteness of the islands from each other made the plane the most convenient means of transportation. Railways no at all. Except taxi public transport is absent. The best way to get to know Saipan is a rental car.

Aircraft
Almost all tourists come to Marianas islands by plane. The main and most major airports is situated on Saipan and Guam. Airplanes from countries arrive at this airport daily. Asia and North America. Flights are operated by airlines Japan Airlines, Continental Micronesia, Northwest Airlines and Asia Airlines.

Direct flights to Marianas islands from Moscow and other cities Russia does not exist. The shortest route to Northern Mariana islands for tourists Russia passes through countries South-East Asia. Usually tourists from the Russian Federation go to Saipan or Guam with transit stops at Tokyo, Hong Kong or Seoul.

Domestic flights between the islands are operated by local airlines. The plane is the most convenient means of transportation on the islands. There are several domestic flights daily between Saipan, Rota and Tignan.

Buses
There is no developed system on the islands bus service, however, there are several routes connecting the main cities. But you can easily find a taxi at the airport and in the city, in parking lots near hotels. A number of hotels organize regular bus routes to major shopping malls and the airport.

Car rental
The most convenient way to travel around the islands is by car.

Renting a car will not be difficult for you. There are many car rental agencies on the island. It is best to take a car in already well-known and proven companies Hertz or Avis. All rights are valid on the island and no deposit is required. The rental price depends on its term and, of course, on the class of the car. The cost of gasoline is 1.9 USD per gallon (4 liters).

Before you get behind the wheel, be sure to familiarize yourself with the peculiarities of the traffic rules adopted on the island.

Telephone codes

In order to call Marianas islands, you need to dial the code:

8 - 10 - 1 - 670 - "island code" - "subscriber number"

Subscribers on all islands have seven-digit numbers, where the first three digits of the number indicate a specific island, and the rest are the subscriber's number.

telephone system Marianas islands is modern and integrated with communications USA. International telephone communications available from any public phone, from most hotels and restaurants.

pay phones
You can find pay phones everywhere. All of them work with telephone cards, which are sold at post offices, newspaper and tobacco kiosks. You can make local, as well as long-distance and international calls from any pay phone. You can purchase cards T&E Long Distance and PTI Long Distance denominations of 5 and 10 USD. All local calls cost, depending on the place of the call, from 25 to 35 cents, from a hotel room - 50-75 cents per minute. Some phones accept credit cards AT&T and credit cards.

cellular
Cellular communication covers almost all the southern islands and part of the northern ones. Roaming with local networks PTI Pacifica Inc.(GSM 850 standard) and Wave Runner LLC Mariana Islands(i CAN GSM, GSM 1900) is available to subscribers of the largest Russian cellular companies through the networks of other operators in the region.

Internet
Internet services in the territory Marianas islands are relatively poorly formed, but in recent times certain efforts are being made to develop them. Internet cafes are few and far between, mostly focused on Saipan, however, almost all major hotels and business centers have their own access points, including those equipped with WiFi.

Representations of the Russian Federation

In the territory Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands diplomatic, trade and other missions Russian Federation no.

Electricity

On the Marianas On the islands everywhere the voltage in the network is 220-240V, with a current frequency of 50Hz. Plugs and sockets are class A, i.e. those that are widely used in Northern and Central America and in . The plug consists of two parallel blades. In the Japanese version, the contacts are the same length. In the American one, one is slightly longer than the other. Devices with a Japanese plug can be used in American outlets, but not vice versa.

Tips

Tipping is accepted but not required and usually amounts to no more than 10-15% of the bill. Mandatory tips -1 USD, are given only to hotel employees when bringing luggage and to dancers in striptease clubs. When paying for rooms directly at the hotel, a hotel tax of 10% is charged. There are no commercial taxes. Bargaining is not accepted.

Additional Information

The Marianas use the imperial system of weights and measures.

Personal safety
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands considered a safe country to visit. The crime rate is low, the situation with personal security is quite calm. There is petty theft, currency fraud and other offenses, without outgrowing, however, the local sizes familiar to the islands. When visiting the country, it is recommended to be guided by common sense - you should not leave valuables and documents unattended, it is not recommended to deliberately demonstrate your well-being or visit certain areas alone and at night, this especially applies to Philippine neighborhoods.

Health and Medicine
No vaccinations are required to cross the border of the country. When visiting outlying islands vaccination against hepatitis B and dengue is recommended.

All drinking water on the islands comes from natural sources or through rainwater harvesting and within settlements practically safe to use. However, it is recommended that you only use boiled or bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, or making ice, especially during the first week of your stay. Milk and dairy products are usually pasteurized and are safe to consume. Meat, seafood and fish are considered safe, but still it is recommended to use them only after preliminary heat treatment, preferably hot. Vegetables should be thoroughly washed and pre-treated, and fruits should be peeled.

Medical care at Marianas islands is quite high quality, but relatively expensive. On the Saipan, Tinyan and Company there are quite modern clinics, with qualified staff and good equipment to provide most medical services. Ambulance is provided free of charge, for other cases of contacting doctors, you will need to pay on the spot. Cash is preferred, however some clinics accept credit cards. In case of serious medical problems, patients are transferred to clinics Hawaiian islands or Japan.

Dangerous plants and animals
There are no dangerous animals on the territory of the islands. However, there are many poisonous or rather aggressive sea creatures in the surrounding waters, so when swimming and diving under water, you should pay attention Special attention to the bottom and the water column. The backbones of many bottom-dwelling fish are venomous, and the quills sea ​​urchins and the sharp edges of coral massifs leave harmless, but rather painful and long-healing wounds. It is recommended in all cases of diving in unfamiliar places to consult with local residents or diving instructors.

manners
When photographing locals, you should always ask their permission beforehand.

Saying hello and goodbye is accepted by the hand.

Attitude towards clothing is quite democratic. In formal occasions, it is supposed to have strict evening wear - light trousers or a long skirt and a strict shirt with medium-length sleeves will be enough, and in the evenings a light sweater will be useful. In everyday life, you can get by with a light dress and even jeans, although jeans are not the best choice in the local hot climate. The most appropriate leisure wear is a t-shirt and shorts. Beach suits are not recommended to be worn outside the coastline, too open bikinis can also cause disapproval.

The Mariana Islands are an archipelago of fifteen large and several small islands in the west of the central Pacific Ocean. The islands form the northern part of the Western Pacific sub-region of 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 property, and the US Constitution has a limited effect 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 surface of the water 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 formed - the deepest section of the bottom of the oceans. As of 2011, its depth is 10,994 ± 40 m below sea level.
The islands of the northern chain are represented by cones of volcanoes, among which some are active, up to 965 m high. In total, there are about 50 underwater volcanoes in the archipelago; 11 stratovolcanoes form the islands. The southern chain is represented by coral and tectonic volcanoes.
The Mariana Islands are in a zone of tectonic activity, and earthquakes are not uncommon here. In addition, the archipelago is located in the tropical climate zone, so typhoons often pass here.
Unlike many Pacific Islands, the Mariana Islands are covered with dense thickets of tropical forests; there are also areas of savannahs, the vegetation of which is represented by flowerless cryptogamous plants: ferns, horsetails.

Discovery history

The Mariana Islands, located on the edge of the abyss 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 his 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 also be a small island near Guam.
Magellan tried to start an exchange and trade with the locals, who called themselves tao-tao-tano, or "people of the earth", and received the name khachamori (chamorro) from Europeans. They were typical Micronesians, and even managed to create a semblance of civilization. Its remains have been 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 their 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 ​​the rest of the land, bearing the name of the Northern Mariana Islands.
The Mariana Islands served for many years as a transit point for the Manila galleons of Spain, and in the 20th century. acquired military significance. It was from here that the bombers took off that destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
The islands got their current name in 1667, when Spain officially claimed the rights to them. In Spanish, it sounded "Las Marianas", in honor of the Spanish Queen Marianne of Austria (1634-1696).
From the second half of XVII in. the colonization of the islands began, missionaries were sent here. Local leaders prevented the spread of Catholicism, and attacks on members of the mission led to a war between the Spaniards and the natives, which broke out in 1672 and lasted 25 years.
In just a hundred years of colonization, most of the Chamorros died from diseases brought to the islands by the Spaniards. Those who managed to survive mingled with the Spaniards. Mestizos - descendants of mixed marriages - still live in the Mariana Islands.
For the Spaniards, the islands served as an intermediate stop for the so-called Manila galleons, which sailed between the Mexican and Philippine islands. The islands remained Spanish colony until the Spanish-American War (1898), as a result of which the Spaniards handed over Guam to the Americans. This year began the political separation of Guam from other islands of the archipelago. Under an 1899 treaty, the Spaniards sold the remaining Mariana Islands to Germany, which annexed them to their New Guinea protectorate.
In 1914, Japan occupied the Northern Mariana Islands, creating large plantations of sugar cane here. Later, already during the Second World War, the archipelago became the scene of fierce battles between the Japanese and the Americans. Especially bloody for the islands was 1944, when the Americans lost more than 2 thousand people dead 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 to bomb Japan. Both aircraft with 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 Marianas.
After the end of the war, all the Mariana Islands came under the full control of the United States. America did not begin to unite them with Guam, but created a separate administrative territory of 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 have equipped the largest Pacific naval and air force bases, including Andersen and Apra Harbor. They are served by the majority of the island's population. Here, on Guam, the city of Hagatna is located - the main passenger and fishing port of the archipelago.
At present, the Marianas have become tourist center in the western Pacific. Actually, it was thanks to the American military that the Marianas earned the fame of one of the best resort areas Pacific Ocean.
The most ancient attraction of the archipelago is the preserved latte stone pillars. The origin and purpose of the pillars are unknown, there are only suggestions that they served for some mysterious cult purposes. There are about 500 of them in total, and they are often compared with stone sculptures on Easter Island.

general information

Location: western Pacific.

Islands: 15 major islands(Agihan, Agrihan, Alamagan, Anatahan, Asuncion, Guam, Guguan, Maug, Pagan, Rota, Saipan, Sarigan, Tinian, Farallon de Medinilla, Farallion 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-territorial 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, Chinese.

Ethnic composition: Guam Island: Chamorro - 37.1%, Filipino - 26.3%, other Oceanian - 11.3%, white - 6.9%, other Asian - 6.3%, other ethnic groups - 2.3%, mestizo - 9.8%, 2000; Northern Mariana Islands: Asian 56.3%, Oceanian 36.3%, Mestizo 4.8%, White 1.8%, Other 0.8%, 2000

Religions: Catholicism, local beliefs.

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

The most important airports: international Airport them. Antonio B. Won Pata (Guam Island), Saipan International Airport. Francisco Sea Ada (Saipan, 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 (2013).

Population density: 296.3 people / km 2.

Urban population: 93% (2010).

125.5 km.
highest point: Peak Lamlam (406 m).
Northern Mariana Islands

Area: 463.6 km2.

Population: 51,170 (2013).

Population density: 110.4 people / km 2.

Urban population: 91% (2010).

Coastline length: 1482 km.
highest point: Agrikhan volcano on the island of the same name (965 m).

Climate and weather

tropical marine. The influence of the trade winds.
Average annual temperature:+24 - +30°С.

Rainy season: July-October.

Average annual rainfall: 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 production (sugarcane, bananas, coffee, cotton, taro, citrus fruits, copra, vegetables, breadfruit), animal husbandry (poultry, pig breeding, dairy and meat animal husbandry).
Maintenance of US Air Force and Navy bases (Guam Island).
Industry: construction, food, textile.
Minerals: phosphorites, sulfur, iron and manganese ores.
Fishing (tuna).
Service sector: 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 Agaña (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 (Adelap Point Peninsula), World War II Japanese Coastal Gun Exhibition, University of Guam Marine Laboratory, Ty Lavers Point Limestone Cliffs, Caching Zoo, China Park, Gath Pago Inalahan Village , Gadao cave, Talofofo waterfall, Historical Museum Guama, Yokoi Caves, Meriso 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 Korean women taken out by the Japanese to work in Saipan, 1981), Grotto Natural Cave, Tag House (residence of Tag the Great, king of the ancient Chamorro state, Tinian).

Curious facts

■ The island of Guam is only three times the size 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 burial 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 about $4.1 million at the current rate.
■ During World War II, 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 that Pearl Harbor was raided. The Japanese actually attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7th, but the International Date Line in the Pacific must be taken into account.
■ Residents of the island of Guam are recognized as US citizens without the right to vote in national elections. Guam has one non-voting delegate, elected for two years, in the US House of Representatives.