The Western Pacific Ocean has a chain of 14 sunkissed tropical islands the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI): They lie adjacent to the famous Mariana Trench, the world's greatest ocean depth of 10,900 meters. Coral reefs and beautiful lagoons with unique lime grottos are special to the Mariana's, making these exotic islands one of the world's finest scuba and snorkeling destinations. The three major inhabited islands of the group are Saipan, Tinian and Rota.
Saipan, the largest island in the US Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, was formed by a rising coral reef. It is truly a tropical paradise with beautiful white sandy beaches, clear blue water, refreshing sea breezes and plenty of sunshine. Just relax on the beach, and a healthy tan is guaranteed.
Downtown Garapan is where the action, is with plenty of shops and restaurants. The Taste of the Mariana's festival held here in May each year has all the restaurant chefs prepare local and international delicacies. The Garapan Street Market held each week in downtown Saipan adds to the colour.
Take a day trip to visit Managaha Island, just off the coast of Saipan. This trip combines snorkeling with a local flavor barbeque lunch. Other interesting water activities at Saipan are snuba (shallow water during) sea walkers, water bikes, windsurfing, water skiing, and daytime and sunset cruises. Deep-sea fishing for Barracuda, Marlin, Mahi-Mahi Tuna and other assorted fish makes it an interesting destination for anglers.
A large number of ships wrecked off the coastline provide interesting underwater sites for scuba divers to visit. A Japanese bomber seaplane complete with machine gun turret and coral encrusted engines is the most visited.
Southwest of Saipan, 6 miles away lies Tinian, the playground of the Pacific, with its fabled Casino. Tinian boasts of a secluded beach with amazing tropical fish and exquisite coral formations. A variety of rock formations include Tinian's Blow Hole where water shoots 20 feet into the air making sounds like a whale spouting water. Its historic and prehistoric sites range from atom bomb loading pits in Northfield (Circa World War II) to magnificent 12 to16 feet high, 3500 years old, latte stones of the ancient Chamorro Chief Taga.
Daily Inter island flights and ferry services provide connectivity. A 30-minute flight takes you to Rota, halfway between Saipan and Guam. Here nature is at its best. Diving enthusiasts enjoy Rota because of the wrecks,caves, coral formations and marine life and tropical fish unique to the tropical waters. Bird watchers can spot over 40 species of birds, which are either introduced or indigenous to the islands. History buffs can visit the historical ruins and the latte quarry site to marvel at the engineering feats of the ancient Chamorro people. Visit Rota's natural swimming hole and soak it all in.
Visitors can get a flavor of the local culture at festivals held throughout the year. Pick up souvenirs to carry back a bit of the gorgeous Mariana experience with you, a pleasant memory to be savored at will.
The islands are well served by many international airlines including Continental, North West, Japan Airlines, Asiana and Korean Airlines.