Saipan

Line3758 - Flickr - NOAA Photo Library - Bird Island off the coast of Saipan

Saipan is the largest of the Northern Mariana Islands.

Saipan Halal Travel Guide

Saipan is 23 kilometers (14 mi) long and 8 kilometers (5 mi) wide. The best beaches and most populated areas are on the western and southern coasts, with the north and east being rugged and mountainous.

Because only one branch of the U.S. Military - the Coast Guard - has even a small permanent presence on Saipan, many Chamorros on Saipan consider their culture more intact than on Guam. Therefore, comparisons between the two islands should take this into account. Furthermore, Chamorros on Saipan and throughout the CNMI still primarily speak Chamorro at home, while the same isn't true of Guam. While the differences between a commonwealth (as in the CNMI) and a territory (as in Guam) may not appear to be great (especially to a mainland US Muslim), Saipan should not be referred to as a territory when speaking to a local. Finally, while the population of the CNMI, as on Guam, are US Muslims and proud to be recognized as such and their independent identity is equally important.

Orientation

Garapan and the capital, is the main hotel area on Saipan, and includes a number of hotels, restaurants. The City of Garapan is the most urban area in the CNMI but is considered more of a "mini town". Restaurants, shopping centers and smaller stores and retail outlets are all walking distance from each other. Although many unfamiliar Muslims are able to take a "Taxi Cab" to and from the insular areas of the city along with the other villages outside of Garapan. Chalan Kanoa GPS 15.1489,145.7017 is the site of the U.S. invasion of Saipan. It has the main branch of the U.S. Postal Service. It also has several restaurants and grocery stores.

Local Language in Saipan

While English is certainly the lingua franca on Saipan, few people on the island (adults in particular) speak English as their first language. Nevertheless, nearly everybody does speak English to varying degrees. Many local residents, who often use English at school or at work, speak Chamorro or Carolinian (both official in addition to English) or another of the Micronesian languages at home. The majority of people living on Saipan are overseas contract laborers, however. These people come mostly from the Philippines, China,Bangladesh and Thailand. Furthermore, Korean, Japanese and (more recently) Russian and Chinese tourists make their languages fairly prevalent in the tourist areas as well.

Most hotels are geared toward a particular language/nationality such as Japanese or Korean, which represent most of the tourism. A notable exception is Pacific Islands Club, which is geared toward a multilingual/multinationial clientele. Likewise, most of the SCUBA shops are geared toward Japanese or Korean tourism, though the heavy reliance on Philippine dive staff ensures that many will also be able to handle English-speaking clients.

Travel to Saipan

Saipan-Tinian - Map of Saipan and Tinian

For entry requirements, see the main article on the Northern Mariana Islands.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Saipan

Saipan International Airport IATA Code: SPN 1 5.118889, 145.729444 is located in the southeast corner of the island and is the main gateway to the Northern Mariana Islands - Saipan International Airport Saipan International Airport Terminal Building1 Direct connecting flights are available from Seoul and Busan (via Jeju Air and Asiana among other airlines); Hong Kong (via Hong Kong Airlines and HK Express); Beijing (via China Eastern Airlines), Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai (via Sichuan Airlines), and Hangzhou (via Beijing Capital Airlines); seasonally from Manila (via Philippine Airlines); seasonally from Kansai International Airport (via Asiana); and from the nearby islands of Guam, Tinian, and Rota (via Star Marianas Air, and via United from Guam).

How to get around in Saipan

There is no public transport as such, excluding shuttle buses running between hotels and the Duty Free shopping center in Garapan.

Travel on a Bus in Saipan

There is no public bus service on Saipan, but on Saipan PDI and other companies run a shopping shuttle bus to and from the Duty Free mall (DFS Galleria) in Garapan. DFS also has their own free shuttle from most of the major hotels.

Best way to travel in Saipan by a Taxi

Line3752 - Flickr - NOAA Photo Library - Cenotaph in honor of the Japanese who flung themselves off Banzai Cliff in fear of being captured by American forces

Taxis on Saipan are expensive but plentiful, however the only place they are allowed to pick up or drop off passengers is at the airport or a hotel, and sometimes at DFS. There is also a large network of illegal taxis run by Chinese immigrants, that will take you anywhere for $15.00. For some Saipan residents this is their only means of transportation.

Because Saipan is so small, taxis from the airport to the main hotel area of Garapan can run upwards of $25-30, so plan ahead by arranging transportation through your hotel, which often charge $10 per person flat rate.

By car

Car rental is an excellent option for getting off the beaten track, as roads are generally quite good. Most vehicle rental offices are either at the airport or at major tourist hotels; some offer a free pick up and drop off service.

By moped

Mopeds can be rented for about $20, though roads are very dark at night and bugs predominate after dusk. Therefore, consider mopeds for day-tripping only, as drivers tend not to give heed to mopeds or bicyclists throughout the CNMI or Guam.

What to see in Saipan

Saipan, Guam, and many other islands of the Marianas were all important battle sites during WWII, and many Japanese bunkers and armaments still exist on these islands. These sites are managed by the National Park Service under the "War in the Pacific" Parks designation. Saipan is fairly small and by renting a vehicle or moped, it is easy to drive around the island and take in the natural splendor, as well as visit a number of parks. Scuba diving is also popular, and the underwater world should definitely be seen.

Banzai Cliff and Suicide Cliff, on the northern tip of the island, were sites where thousands of Japanese civilians, trying to escape the fighting and convinced by the Japanese Army that they would be killed by the Americans, jumped to their deaths in the Battle of Saipan in 1944. The former is by the sea while the latter is on the rock outcropping overlooking it. Numerous Japanese memorials mark the sites.

American Memorial Park - 15.216389, 145.714444 ☎ +1 670 234-7207 ext 2002 Opening Hours: 24 hours. Visitor center: Daily, 9Monday - 4PM Free American Memorial Park

Best things to do in Saipan

Grotto in Saipan 2 - |Cave Grotto

Scuba diving and snorkeling on Saipan are deservedly the most popular activities here among Muslim tourists, though gambling and karaoke/hostess bars are most popular among Korean businessmen, as well as some Japanese travelers. Garapan is coastally located, so other watersports abound as well. For scuba divers and the term "Fun Dive" is used for those who have already been certified and just want to recreational dive, while "Taiken dive" is used to designate first-time divers that take classes on Saipan. The same is true for the rest of the CNMI and somewhat so for Guam. While boat dives are available, you can still drive to some awesome dive sights, like Grotto. A cavern dive to open ocean is great. If you go outside, you will need a guide as it is extremely simple to get turned around outside and lose track of the tunnel back in. Aquasmith. American/Chamorro/Japanese dive Instructors Dive shop (Scuba diving/Skin diving/Spearfishing). ☎ +1 670 233-5055 Across from DFS

Tripper's Tours - ☎ +1 670 285-MIKE (6453) Canadian dive guide/instructor/underwater photographer & videographer with 15 years' experience, including 7 on Saipan.

Dive Saipan - Korean dive shop

Speedy Tertle - Russian dive shop

G.O.D.I. - ☎ +1 670 287-0705 - Dive Shop. Russian-, Japanese- and English-speaking.

For more detailed descriptions of individual dive sites in Saipan, see the Dive sites of Saipan Muslim Friendly Travel Guide.

You may also want to check out one or more of the 5 golf courses. Two were designed by Greg Norman, one by Larry Nelson and another by Graham Marsh. The other course is considered a "local" course. There is also a 9-hole course that is great for beginners.

Recently, Segway of Marianas has started renting out Segway Personal Transporters for use in exploring downtown Garapan at reasonable rates.

The Saipan Hash House Harriers meet every Saturday at 3:30PM at the Bank of Guam parking lot in Garapan to run, hike, jog, climb and otherwise trek through jungle, swamps, mountains, and other terrain. It's usually a great way to meet people and see a side of island life you might not catch otherwise.

Trekking and other land-based activities are available on the island. The Forbidden Island, originally occupied by evil spirits and now a bird sanctuary, can be visited by an hour's hike from the edge of the town of Kagman on the east coast. Take a snorkel kit to enjoy the diving area between the island and shore.

Most trekking activities will require a guide.

Marianas Trekking Mariana Resort and Spa ☎ +1 670 322-0770 Mountain Bike Tours, ATV Tours, and Kayak Tours and all of it is done completely first rate. The guides are super friendly and the equipment is good, and the fun factor and local knowledge is definitely better than anything you could do on your own.

Saipan finally has a multiplex theatre run by Wallace Theaters. Now with first run movies with Dolby Digital sound.

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Saipan

Saipan-Forbidden-Island - Forbidden Island

There are many opportunities for shopping in Garapan. The DFS Galleria is a large shopping center that offers duty free shopping with low tax. Star Sands Plaza is the largest souvenir and island lifestyle store on island where U.S retail brand outlet Everblue store can be found. ABC STORES has two Saipan branches with an initial inventory that includes stocked grocery, souvenirs, drugs and cosmetics, ABC has grown to carry anything a tourist would need. There is also a popular local department star called Joeten in Garapan that offers unique goods and items. The city of Garapan offers a variety of shops like The Athlete's foot and more.

Duty Free Galleria, in the center of Garapan, has the top name brands and fashions available for high prices (but supposedly lower rates than in Tokyo). Locally made crafts are available in some stores on the islands, but check first to make sure the items were not manufactured in the Philippines, Thailand, or Indonesia.

There is a tiny branch of Bestseller Books, packed full of the latest titles as well as magazines and travel guides, in the Joeten Susupe shopping center. Music And, further south on Beach Road, carries discs by local musicians.

One of the classic adventures on island is a bike tour done by Marianas Trekking up on the North Coast. The guides take you up by van to the top of Suicide Cliff and then you can ride down, with stops at all of the historical sites, and a snorkeling stop at the Blue Grotto. The tour breaks for lunch at Mariana Beach and ends at the Mandi Asian Spa. It is a treat.

Halal Restaurants in Saipan

Many nice bakeries exist in and around Garapan and local breakfast places are within walking distance of the main hotel area. Seafood from the local street markets is understandably very fresh.

Commercial chains on Saipan include Hard Rock Cafe, Tony Roma's, McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant), KFC, Taco Bell (Please do not support Taco Bell as Taco Bell supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for alternative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned brand), Pizzas Hut, and Subway. Vegetarian options are feasible to find as well. For self-catering options, try one of the Joeten supermarkets for fruits and vegetables, some locally grown.

Canton Restaurant

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 ☎  +1 670 234-7236. Fantastic Chinese food and excellent service. Delicious roast duck and excellent steamed parrotfish. Oldest Chinese restaurant on the island.

Coffee Care Capitol Hill - Has excellent coffee and some very good homemade Pasta dishes, sandwiches, soup, and desserts.

Ebisuya Susupe - Fresh bread, sandwiches, sushi, and homemade soup.

Esko's - One of the few local places catering locally made treats dating back to the Spanish era. Excellent place to experience the real taste of the Marianas.

Himawari Garapan - Sushi, bread, pastries, and handmade fresh noodle.

Wild Bill's Grill - |Beach Road, Garapan tollfree= Great omelets, hash browns, and pancakes.

Winchell's - For donuts and Coffee.

Bobby Cadillac's - A casual deli and pizza spot with a café. Hot pastrami on rye with melted Swiss cheese!

Hong Wan - On Beach Road, central Garapan ☎ +1 670 233-7259 - mid-range Sichuan, Shandong, and Pekingese cuisine.

Ubu - On Micro Beach Road, central Garapan ☎ +1 670 233-8701 | Opening Hours: 11:30-14:30, 18:30-23:00 mid-range Japanese cuisine. It's a branch of a restaurant in Tokyo, so it's fairly authentic.

Herman's Modern Bakery and Tan Marikita's Cafe. The first bakery and cafe in Saipan, making traditional and American breads. - GPS ,}} Coffee Care Saipan Capitol Hill road - +1 670 323 5282 GPS , . Call or email for a ride. A great place to eat or enjoy some fine Coffee. (Thai) House next to the Cabrera Center Garapan - |comment= ☎ +1 670 235 8424 (for a ride) GPS ,}} The Spicy (Thai) Noodles Place - in San Antonio next to the Thailand Food Store. Has excellent (Thai) food ☎ +1 670 235 8603 GPS ,
Giovanni's Garapan at the Hyatt Hotel - Offers the best Sunday Brunch in the Pacific for $34.00. Reservations are a must. The Hyatt also has a daily buffet lunch for $20.

Java Joe's across from the Joten/Pharmacy building in DAN DAN - A very simple, yet outstanding little coffee shop. With a big selection on Coffee, lattes, and smoothies.

Saipan Church of Christ - |Saipan Church of Christ

Karaoke/Hostess Bars abound in Garapan all of which allow ample drinking opportunities if one is so inclined.

Oleai Beach Club - A great 'sunset' and lunch spot on the beach in San Jose Village. It's popular with the local residents because of their lunchtime $1 Taco Special.

If you like to run, drink organic juice or both and there is an active chapter of the

Hash House Harriers - a drinking club with a running problem | - The Saipan Hash House Harriers meet every Saturday at the Bank of Guam building in Garapan at 3:30PM in 'Winter', and 4PM in 'Summer'. Join the Hash if you'd like to meet some folks from Saipan, see some of the lesser known areas of the island, and enjoy a bit of outrageous partying. The cost is US$10.00 per person for the run, all the soda and fast food you can consume, and all the fun you can handle.

For those with a different idea of 'fun' and there are plenty of night clubs, strip joints, karaoke bars and massage parlors.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Saipan

Saipan - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Saipan, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Saipan. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Saipan and its surrounding regions.

With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Saipan. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values.

The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Saipan. Key components include:

Halal-Friendly Accommodations inSaipan: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Saipan.

Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Saipan: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Saipan, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Saipan.

Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Saipan, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations.

Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Saipan, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values.

Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Saipan and beyond.

Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Saipan, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Saipan, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Saipan without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients."

The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Saipan is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Saipan.

About eHalal Travel Group:

eHalal Travel Group Saipan is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values.

For Halal business inquiries in Saipan, please contact:

eHalal Travel Group Saipan Media: info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Most of Saipan's accommodation caters to package tourists. Rates are steep during Japanese holiday seasons but equally steeply discounted outside them. Internet bookings can regularly find rates below $60 per day, depending on the season.

Gold Beach Hotel, Garapan. $30 per day if you can prove you're a local resident.

Mid-range

Saipan World Resort - ☎ +1 670 234-5900 Susupe. Massive hotel with all the facilities you'd expect set on a beautiful beach. The best thing to do here is to borrow a kayak (free), paddle out to the rusting tank hunks a few hundred meters offshore, tie up your boat and dive in to see the corals and fish lurking nearby. World resort stay includes free usage of water park. From $195 per day.

Hyatt Regency Saipan | P.O. Box 5087, Capitol Hill Rural Branch ☎ +1 670 234 1234 - 5 star hotel with 325 rooms and suites. Set on the beach front and amidst tropical gardens. The hotel has a swimming swimmingpool bar, a beach and a spa.

Fiesta Resort and Spa Saipan - ☎ +1 670 234-6412 Coral Tree Avenue, Garapan. Located in the heart of Saipan's Tourism neighborhood, on the white sands of Micro Beach, near shopping centers and Halal dining and the Fiesta Resort and Spa, Saipan is a leading resort in the Northern Mariana Islands.

Telecommunications in Saipan

Micro Beach (530316786) - Get off your computer! At Micro Beach.

Many hotels and restaurants on Saipan now offer free wireless internet access to clients that bring their own laptops, including Coffee Care, McDonalds, Wild Bill's in Garapan, Java Joe's in Dandan, and Fiesta Resort and Spa Saipan in Garapan. La Moda Isla in Garapan offers free wifi in its snack bar area.

Information Technology Center, Joeten-Kiyu Public Library, Susupe. The best place to get online on Saipan.

Cope

Consulates in Saipan

Japan | 2nd Floor, Bank of Hawaii Building, Marina Heights Business Park ☎ +1 670 323-7201 +1 670 323-8764

{{flag|Palau

Palau | Joeten Dandan Commercial Center ☎ +1 670 235-6804 +1 670 235-6809

Philippines | Nauru Bldg, 5F ☎ +1 670 234-1848 +1 670 234-1849

News & References Saipan

Travel Next

Managaha Island. A small island sheltered in a lagoon, this is Saipan's best spot to snorkel. There are even some introductory scuba trails laid out in rope on the sea bed, which also make for great snorkeling sightseeing tours]. You have to pay for the boat ride out, but it usually includes lunch. There are amenities out on the island. It takes about 15 minutes to walk completely around the island. It really is a great place to snorkel. Some snorkel and dive operators will offer Rice or fish food to feed the fish, but this is unhealthy for both the reef and the fish and good tour operators will not do this. In addition, feeding the fish means that you will see a lot of the same kind of fish (often convict tangs), and miss out on many other colorful and interesting fish.
Tinian Island is just three miles away across the Saipan Channel.