Northern Mariana Islands — Travel Tips
Social Conventions
The Chamorro culture of the original inhabitants can still be traced, although it is overlaid by strong American influences. Western conventions are well understood.
International Travel
Getting There By Air
Airlines serving the Northern Mariana Islands include Asiana Airlines (OZ) (website: www.flyasiana.com), China Southern Air (CZ) (website: www.csair.com/en/), Continental Airlines (CO) (website: www.continental.com) and Cape Air (9K) (website: www.capeair.com).
Departure Tax
None.
Main Airports
Saipan (SPN) (website: www.cpa.gov.mp) is situated 5km (3 miles) south of Chalan Kanoa. To/from the airport: Taxis are available to the town (journey time – 15 minutes) and tour buses may meet some flights. Facilities: Bureau de change, refreshments and car hire.
There are smaller airports at Rota (ROP) and Tinian (TIQ).
Getting There By Water
Main port: Saipan (website: www.cpa.gov.mp). Several shipping and cruise lines sail there.
Duty Free
Overview
The following goods may be imported into the Northern Mariana Islands without incurring customs duty:
• 600 cigarettes or 454g of cigars or tobacco.
• 2.3L of alcoholic beverage.
• 3.8L of wine and Japanese sake.
• A reasonable quantity of perfume.
Prohibited Imports
Narcotics and certain cooked and uncooked foods. Enquire at Immigration Office for details (see Passport/Visa section). Firearms require a license.
Internal Travel
Getting Around By Air
Commuter aircraft are available to take visitors from Saipan to Tinian (journey time – 12 minutes) and Rota (journey time – 30 minutes). Cape Air (website: www.flycapeair.com) also fly between Saipan and Rota.
Getting Around By Water
There is a ferry from Tinian to Saipan (journey time – 55 minutes).
Getting Around By Road
There are good roads in and around major island centers.
Bus: There is a public shuttle bus service to major shopping facilities from hotels.
Taxi: Available in all main centers.
Car hire: Self-drive cars are available in towns; US driving laws are followed.
Documentation: International Driving Permit or national license accepted.
