Member News/Updates

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Nature was deemed the most memorable aspect of The Marianas in a recent survey conducted by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) at the Seoul International Travel Fair 2025 in Korea earlier this month.

Along with winning the “Best Booth Event Award” at the event, the MVA conducted a consumer survey with 600 respondents. Among the 150 respondents who had previously visited The Marianas, 41% selected “natural scenery” and 15% chose “sports and activities” as the most memorable aspects of their trip. In terms of first impressions of The Marianas, “the ocean” (31%) and “a relaxing destination” (8%) were the most frequently mentioned, reinforcing the image of The Marianas as a peaceful, nature-based travel destination.

Of all respondents, 63% were in their 30s and 40s. When asked about their travel preferences, 52% indicated they preferred independent travel over package tours, and 72.5% said they obtain travel information through social media platforms led by Instagram, YouTube, and NAVER blog. Notably, 32% specifically cited Instagram as their primary source for travel content, reflecting the growing trend among younger travelers for customized and non-traditional travel experiences.

“Through our travel fair survey, we once again confirmed that The Marianas is not just a relaxing getaway, but the perfect destination for independent travelers looking to create their own experiences in nature,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron. “Many respondents said they get their travel content from social channels, which is exactly why the MVA has been helping to develop more local content creation, such as through our #TheMarianasExperience video contest held last during May Marianas Tourism Month. Check out the winners on our social channels, share, and help us promote our Marianas natural beauty!”

Participants in the survey had the chance to win hotel certificates from major hotel partners, including Aqua Resort Club Saipan, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Grandvrio Resort Saipan, LaoLao Bay Golf & Resort, and Marianas Beach Resort. Additionally, the MVA demonstrated Chamorro and Carolinian dancing and coconut fond weaving and distributed its newly designed travel guidebook in Korean via QR code at the booth.
 

SAIPAN INTERNATIONAL FISHING TOURNAMENT ON JULY 12-13, 2025 New Festival to Highlight Marianas Fishing Culture

Rota, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI)  – Students of Sinapalo Elementary School visit the World War II Japanese canon site in Rota, The Marianas, on May 17, 2025, as part of the Marianas Visitors Authority’s “Tourists for a Day” familiarization tour for the school’s MY WAVE Club and Student Council. Other sites visited include As Nieves Latte Stone Quarry, Chenchon Bird Sanctuary, and the WWII Japanese Last Command Post, followed by a meal at local eatery Pizzaria to complete the visitor experience.
 

CHICKEN KELAGUEN COOK-OFF, J-POP AT TASTE OF THE MARIANAS

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – That savory Marianas side dish chicken kelaguen is expected to have mouths watering at the 26th Annual Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival this Saturday (May 24).

This year’s HANMI-NMTech Chefs Competition will feature the Chicken Kelaguen Cook-off at 6 p.m. with current or former students of the Northern Marianas Technical Institute culinary program. Cash prizes of $500 for 1^st place, $300 for 2^nd place, and $200 for 3^rd place will be handed out by HANMI, the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, also a Silver sponsor of the entire festival.

“NMTech is an invaluable partner to the hotel industry in training and inspiring people who help keep guests in our many hotel restaurant outlets full and happy,” said HANMI Chairman Dennis Seo. “We’re excited to partner with the institute on another chefs’ competition this year, and we’re looking forward to some mouth-watering entries!”

Chicken kelaguen is a common Marianas side dish made of shredded roast chicken seasoned with lemon, green onions, and salt and wrapped in a warm corn or flour tortilla…shredded coconut, red ginger, or “donne sali” hot pepper are optional.

Taste of The Marianas is an annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) aimed at attracting media attention and visitors to the islands. The festivities kick off at 5 p.m. at American Memorial Park in Garapan, Saipan. In addition to 26 food and drink vendors and arts and crafts sales, the night’s entertainment will include the appointment of an MVA’s honorary tourism ambassador, the J-pop group SkySyllabus of Japan, who will also perform live at 7:30 p.m.

The group was founded in 2021 and performs across Japan and internationally. The music video of one of their signature songs – “Kirameki White Splash!” - was filmed on location in Saipan in 2023 in collaboration with the MVA. Since 2023, the song has also been the background music for the National High School Baseball Championship airing on Chiba Television in Japan, gaining national-wide exposure. SkySyllabus also performed at Taste of The Marianas last year, attracting fan followers from Japan to the event. 

“SkySyllabus has a deep connection to The Marianas, which is why they continue to return time and again,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron. “We are honored to name the group as Marianas Goodwill Idol Ambassador. Their upcoming music video, being filmed right here this month, will help share the charm and natural beauty of our islands with fans in Japan and beyond.”

The entertainment lineup for Saturday is slated to be: Definitive Yorp (5 p.m.), Sugar King (5:30 p.m.), Helen Chin Opera (6:30 p.m.), The Marianas Experience Awards Presentation (7 p.m.), South Korea Human Chorus with Conductor Kang Hang Goo (7:10 p.m.), SkySyllabus (7:40 p.m.), Profound Bandits (8:40 p.m.), Voices of The Marianas (9:10 p.m.), and Tattoo (9:40 p.m.). 

Festival entry is free. Food, drink and art vendors accept only debit/credit cards and Taste tokens. Cash is not accepted. Taste tokens are sold at the festival token booth and may also be purchased in advance at the MVA office on Beach Rd. I Liyan, Saipan during regular working hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding weekends and public holidays.

This year’s festival eateries include Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Herman's Modern Bakery, V-Lyn's BBQ, Benki, Kinpachi Japanese Restaurant, 123 Foods, CK Smokehouse & Salad, T Bar, The Hut, Kanto 10, Yaya's Baked Goods, Loco & Taco, Lanlan Tea House, Fork & Spoon, Matty's BBQ, Tupu Cane Juice, Oh My Grill, 38 Mitsubachi, Surf Club Saipan, Great Harvest, Saipan World Resort, Dea Jang Kum, Chow Time, and Pho Tam. Drink vendors are WSTCO, MARPAC/Unified Sports Organization, and Napu Brewing.

Festival Platinum Sponsors are IT&E and Dave Electronic Center. Gold Sponsor is American Memorial Park. Silver Sponsors are Hotel Association of Northern Mariana Islands (HANMI), Northern Marianas Technical Institute, Century Insurance, Subway, Foremost, Coca-Cola, Inas’ Kitchen, Jose & Ruri Ayuyu Foundation, EST Rental, Marianas Variety and M&C LLC General Construction.

For more information, visit www.mymarianas,com, @VisitTheMarianas on Facebook, or @TheMarianas on Instagram. 

Saipan World Resort is one of 26 food and drink vendors at the 26th Annual Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival on May 17, 2025, at American Memorial Park, Saipan. The festival continues on Saturday evenings throughout May.
 

TASTE OF THE MARIANAS IN'TL FOOD FESTIVAL KICKS OFF ON MAY 3

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The 26th Annual Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival in Saipan kicks off this Saturday (May 3) for a full month of fun during Marianas Tourism Month.

Taste of The Marianas is an annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) and will be held every Saturday night from 5-10 p.m. (until 11 p.m. on the final night) at American Memorial Park in Garapan, Saipan. The festival is a gourmet’s delight, offering some of the destination’s best cuisine and featuring affordable dishes from local hotels and restaurants, live entertainment, eating and cooking contests, arts and crafts sales, and more. Entry is free. This weekend’s opening ceremony will start at 4:30 p.m.

“Saturday marks the beginning of five weeks of the best food, drinks, festivities, and fun The Marianas has to offer,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron. “Showing a true spread across the islands, ‘Taste’ will also feature free samples of grass-fed roasted cow from our Tinian delegation on May 10 and local medicine from our Rota delegation on select Saturdays. Whether by social media, word of mouth, or posting a flyer, we invite everyone to help spread the word near and far about this gourmet extravaganza we call ‘Taste,’ one of the best times of the year to visit The Marianas.”

The Subway Sandwich Challenge be held on the secondary stage at 6:30 p.m. this Saturday, pitting 12 contestants against an 18-inch Subway sandwich, the clock, and each other.

“We have only one slot left for any fast eater 16-years-old or older who wants to join. Just download the registration form from our website and return it to our office,” said MVA Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “There’s some nice prizes in store for the winners, not to mention a fresh, tasty sandwich each contestant will get to enjoy.”

The top three finishers will win gift certificates from Subway/Coca-Cola/Powerade/Foremost: $300 worth for 1st place, $200 for 2nd place, and $100 for third place. 

The top two finishers in this Saturday’s Subway Sandwich Challenge will also go on to compete next Saturday (May 10) against teams from South Korea and Japan in the Inas’ Kitchen International Food Challenge. Professional food fighter and 2024 champion Sang Hyuk Kwon of South Korea, also known as Sanghaegi (상해기), will defend his title with teammate Hyunhwa Kim, a self-proclaimed dessert-loving mukbang creatoo. Sachiyo Masubuchi of Japan, a former champion of several “Taste” food challenges will be joined by fellow food fighter Max Suzuki.

The entertainment lineup for Saturday is: Admiral Herbert H. Hopwood Middle School Refaluwasch Uprising (5:30 p.m.), Saipan Awadori (6 p.m.), Saipan Dance Studio Ballet (6:30 p.m.), Introduction of Liberation Day Candidates (7 p.m), Saipan Dance Studio Ballet (7:15 p.m.) Rota Primitive Dance Crew (8 p.m.), Pacifica Dancers (8:30 p.m.), Flores Sinser (9 p.m.). and CAB Dancers (9:30 p.m.).

Vendors will accept only debit/credit cards and Taste tokens. Cash is not accepted. Taste tokens will be sold at the festival token booth and may also be purchased in advance at the MVA office on Beach Rd. I Liyan, Saipan during regular working hours, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding weekends and public holidays.

This year’s festival eateries will include Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Herman's Modern Bakery, V-Lyn's BBQ, Benki, Kinpachi Japanese Restaurant, 123 Foods, CK Smokehouse & Salad, T Bar, The Hut, Kanto 10, Yaya's Baked Goods, Loco & Taco, Lanlan Tea House, Fork & Spoon, Matty's BBQ, Tupu Cane Juice, Oh My Grill, 38 Mitsubachi, Surf Club Saipan, Great Harvest, Saipan World Resort, Dea Jang Kum, Chow Time, and Pho Tam. Drink vendors will be WSTCO, MARPAC/Unified Sports Organization, and Napu Brewing.

Festival Platinum Sponsors are IT&E and Dave Electronic Center. Gold Sponsor is American Memorial Park. Silver Sponsors are Hotel Association of Northern Mariana Islands (HANMI), Northern Marianas Technical Institute, Century Insurance, Subway, Foremost, Coca-Cola, Inas’ Kitchen, Jose & Ruri Ayuyu Foundation, EST Rental and M&C LLC General Construction. Additional sponsor is Marianas Variety.

For more information, visit www.mymarianas,com, @VisitTheMarianas on Facebook, or @TheMarianas on Instagram.

OMG (Oh My Grill) serves up barbecue at the Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival in May 2024 in Saipan. The 26^th Annual Taste of The Marianas will be held by the Marianas Visitors Authority on May 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, 2025, starting at 5 p.m. at American Memorial Park.

Guampedia Pulan Lumuhu Newsletter 2025

MARIANAS RECORDS 13,981 VISITOR ARRIVALS IN MARCH 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) reports that visitor arrivals to Saipan, Tinian, and Rota totaled 13,981 in March 2025, a 27% decrease compared to 19,213 visitors received in March 2024.


South Korea Remains the Leading Source Market

South Korea remained the largest visitor market, contributing 8,936 arrivals in March 2025—a 38% drop from the 14,403 visitors in March 2024. The decline is largely attributed to the cessation of flights by Asiana Airlines to Saipan in July 2024, as well as the reduction in flights by Jeju Air following the December 2024 crash in Korea, including a reduction in its nighttime flight from daily to 4x a week from March 7-29, 2025. However, Jeju Air has announced they will add eight flights from April 30 to May 7 to accommodate peak holiday travel demand.

A continuing aircraft shortage across multiple carriers, fierce competition with Southeast Asian destinations, and other industry factors continue to challenge flight service to The Marianas from Korea. In March the MVA joined CNMI Governor Arnold I. Palacios and representatives of the Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands, Commonwealth Legislature and Commonwealth Ports Authority in meeting with airline partners in Korea to negotiate air connectivity.


Japan Market Holds Steady

Visitor arrivals from Japan reached 1,121 arrivals in March 2025 compared to 1,470 in March 2024. The 24% difference was largely due to the arrival of nearly 700 ship passengers last March. In March 2025, the average aircraft load factor – the percentage of occupied air seats – from Japan was 24% higher than last March.


China Market Outpaces Japan

Arrivals from China reached 1,471 in March 2025, reflecting a 20% increase from the 1,222 visitors recorded in March 2024. Arrivals from China comprise 9% market share, a slight increase compared to 7% market share from Japan. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, China was the Marianas' second-largest source market, with multiple direct flights. MVA previously maintained a representative office in China to support these efforts.


Other Markets

Additional visitor arrivals in March 2025 included:

• Guam: 1,076 visitors
• United States: 882 visitors
• Other Markets (Combined): 495 visitors

MARIANAS DIVING PROMOTED AT ADEX OCEAN FESTIVAL 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Right after winning 2^nd place as Best Diving Area Overseas at Japan Marine Diving Awards, The Marianas touted its diving and other attractions on April 4-6, 2025, at ADEX Ocean Festival 2025, the largest dive expo in Asia.

The expo in Singapore included a diverse array of activities and attractions presented by 168 exhibitors, 325 booths, and 111 speakers. Activities included immersive dive experiences, interactive workshops, marine conservation talks, underwater photography and videography showcases, cutting-edge diving gear displays, and more.

“ADEX is a celebration of the ocean, bringing together diving enthusiasts, marine conservationists, industry experts, and adventure seekers,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Deputy Managing Director Judy C. Torres. “Through the various speakers and activities, the festival helps foster a deeper appreciation of the ocean's wonders and helps promote conservation practices. The MVA uses ADEX to both network with key stakeholders in the diving and marine tourism industry and, through our information booth, promote the amazing, award-winning diving attractions in Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and the Northern Islands, as well as Micronesia at large.”

The MVA joined Palau Visitors Authority and Guam Visitors Bureau in a Micronesia pavilion at the event, which attracted 50,000 attendees, including approximately 28,000 consumers, 19,000 trade representatives, and 3,000 other guests. Torres was joined by Dive Operator Mayuki Policare of Heart of Gold Divers and MVA Media Marketing Specialist Ezra Lizama.

Organizers dedicated this year’s festival to cephalopods, including octopuses, cuttlefish, squid, and nautiluses and celebrated marine life behavior.
 

Representatives of the Marianas Visitors Authority, Palau Visitors Authority, and Guam Visitors Bureau promote diving and other attractions together at the Micronesian Pavilion of the ADEX Ocean Festival 2025 in Singapore on April 4-6, 2025. The festival attracted 50,000 attendees.
 

Marianas Visitors Authority Media Marketing Specialist Ezra Lizama promotes Marianas’ diving and other attractions at ADEX Ocean Festival 2025 in Singapore on April 4-6, 2025. The festival attracted 50,000 attendees.
 

Guampedia Newsletter - Pulan Umatalaf 2025

MTEC TOUTS TOURISM, "TASTE" AND MORE WITH YOUNG PARTNERS

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – “Tourism is Everybody’s Business,” and the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) are on track with their goal of sharing the message with every public school this year.

The MTEC-MVA team visited Marianas High School on Wednesday (April 2) and Francisco M. Sablan Middle School on Monday (March 31), sharing basic facts about The Marianas tourism economy, visitor profiles and activities, the work of the MVA, and how and why students can help support the industry.

“The presentation was very interactive, and it was great to see all the students engaged,” said 7^th grade teacher Annie Arriola. “It was very informative.”

With this year’s theme, “Planting Peace - Manånånum Pås- Ffóttol llol Tipiyeew,” the annual school outreach targets ^4th graders, ^7th graders, and 10^th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver, the hospitality industry. 7th grade teacher Ezekiel Macario also commended the content shared by the tourism industry team.

“Clean, organized, and engaging for the students,” Macario said. “Good execution by the presenters.”

The educational outreach was conducted by MTEC Board Member Catherine Perry and MVA Community Projects Coordinators Jack Aranda and Sherman Santos. MTEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is three-fold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the “Hafa Adai-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the island community.

For more information about MTEC, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.
 

Students of Marianas High School share some of the facts they’ve learned about tourism as Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos listens. The MVA and the Marianas Tourism Education Council visited the school in Susupe, Saipan, on April 2, 2025, to teach about fundamentals of The Marianas tourism economy and how students can support the industry.
 

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda addresses 7^th graders at Francisco M. Sablan Middle School on March 31, 2025. The MVA and Marianas Tourism Education Council visited the students to teach them about the fundamentals of tourism and how they can help support the tourism industry.
 

MARIANAS DISCUSSES PROSPECTS WITH 17 AIRLINES AT ROUTES ASIA

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Representatives of the CNMI Office of the Governor, Commonwealth Ports Authority (CPA), and the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) met last week with 17 airlines at Routes Asia 2025 – the region’s top aviation route conference - to explore the prospects of new air service to The Marianas.

Routes Asia provides a platform for executives and senior leaders of airports, airlines and industry associations to meet, network, and establish new routes and to provide expertise and insight into the future of air service and tourism development across the Asia-Pacific region. Attended by airlines, airports, tourism authorities, and other aviation-related organizations, this year’s forum was held on March 25-27, 2025, in Perth, Australia.

“Routes Asia is an annual opportunity for The Marianas to meet personally with high-level airline decision-makers to share about our destination and discuss opportunities for new flight services,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika T. Taijeron. “It’s reported that over half of the world’s new air services have been connected to meetings at Routes events, so The Marianas’ attendance is a ‘must.’ Talks were positive with several airlines we met, but it’s an extremely competitive business, and there are many factors and regulations involved.”

Among the hundreds of attendees, many of whom stopped by The Marianas’ information booth, the Marianas delegation was allotted time for in-depth B2B sessions with 17 airlines, including several that previously provided either regular or chartered connections to Francisco C. Ada/Saipan International Airport. Meetings were held with HK Express, Beijing Capital Airlines, China Airlines, JetStar, AirAsia, Japan Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Philippine Airlines, Korean Air, Alaska Airlines/Hawaiian Airlines, Peach Aviation, Hainan Airlines, Qantas Airways, Cebu Pacific Air, Starlux Airlines, Fiji Airways, and VietJet Air.

“The airlines all shared a consistent message...they are experiencing delays in the delivery of their new aircraft. As a result, they expect to add more routes in 2026 and 2027 once their fleets are expanded,” said Taijeron. “So, while we are currently exploring ways with airlines to make the most of their existing fleet capacity, we also have time to develop strategic plans for new routes next year and beyond. And by focusing on generating demand in our source markets ahead of time, we can ensure that when the new aircraft are delivered, we are well-positioned to secure routes and fill seats.”

In additional to fleet capacity, other factors airlines must take into consideration before starting air service include consumer demand, whether The Marianas lies within their route system, national and international certifications, availability of crew, and airport facilities and costs.

The Marianas delegation also had an information booth to provide information and answer questions for the estimated 1,100 conference attendees.

The forum was attended by MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron, MVA Marketing Manager Thomas Kim, CPA Enforcement/Lease Compliance Officer Jo Ann Tenorio, and Glen Hunter representing the CNMI Office of the Governor.
 

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron, second left, leads a meeting with delegates to Routes Asia Show 2025 held on March 25-27, 2025, in Perth, Australia. Seventeen airlines from the Asia-Pacific region held B2B meetings with the Commonwealth Ports Authority and the MVA to explore the feasibility of establishing new air service to The Marianas.
 

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron, third right, speaks with delegates to Routes Asia Show 2025 held on March 25-27, 2025, in Perth, Australia. Seventeen airlines from the Asia-Pacific region held B2B meetings with the Commonwealth Ports Authority and the MVA to explore the feasibility of establishing new air services to The Marianas. Also pictured are Glenn Hunter representing the CNMI Office of the Governor, second left, and CPA Enforcement/Lease Compliance Officer Jo Ann Tenorio, second right.

SUBWAY SANDWICH CHALLENGE AT TASTE OF THE MARIANAS

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Just how fast could you eat an 18-inch submarine sandwich? The Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) is looking for 12 contestants with hearty appetites to take on the Subway Sandwich Challenge on May 3, 2025, during opening night of the 25th Annual Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival in Saipan, The Marianas.

The Subway Sandwich Challenge will time competitors to find the fastest to finish an 18- inch sandwich, their respective portion of three 6-foot Giant Subway Sandwiches. The top three finishers will win gift certificates from Subway/Coca-Cola/Powerade/Foremost: $300 worth for 1st place, $200 for 2nd place, and $100 for third place. The top two finishers will also go on to compete the following Saturday (May 10) in the Inas’ Kitchen international food fighters competition against contenders from South Korea and Japan.

“Subway, Foremost and Coca-Cola have a long history of giving back to the communities where we live and work. Our companies and team of dedicated employees take pride in being active, caring members of our island-community,” said Virgie Avendano, Senior Marketing and Media Executive.

Rules and registration form for the Subway Sandwich Challenge are available at www.mymarianas.com and at the MVA offices in Saipan, Tinian and Rota. Entry is free.

“We are looking for food fighters from The Marianas, Guam, or any other region who would like to take on our Subway Sandwich Challenge as we kick off Taste of The Marianas on May 3. First-come, first-serve!” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron. “And for the rest of us, we can take our time savoring the many international flavors to be offered by 28 food and drink vendors throughout this month-long Marianas food extravaganza.”

Taste of The Marianas is an annual signature event of the MVA and will be held every Saturday night from 5-10 p.m. (until 11 p.m. on the final night) during May Tourism Month 2025 at American Memorial Park in Garapan, Saipan. The festival is a gourmet delight, offering some of the destination’s best cuisine and featuring affordable dishes from local hotels and restaurants, live entertainment, eating and cooking contests, arts and crafts sales, and more. Entry is free.
 
This year’s festival eateries will include Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Herman's Modern Bakery, V-Lyn's BBQ, Benki, Kinpachi Japanese Restaurant, 123 Foods, CK Smokehouse & Salad, T Bar, The Hut, Kanto 10, Yaya's Baked Goods, Loco & Taco, Lanlan Tea House, Fork & Spoon, Matty's BBQ, Tupu Cane Juice, Oh My Grill, 38 Mitsubachi, Surf Club Saipan, Great Harvest, Saipan World Resort, Plumeria Steakhouse, Dea Jang Kum, Chow Time, and Pho Tam. Drink vendors will be WSTCO, MARPAC/Unified Sports Organization, and Napu Brewing.

Festival Gold Sponsors are American Memorial Park. Silver Sponsors are Coca-Cola/Foremost/Subway, Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands (HANMI), EST Rental, M&C LLC Construction Company, IT&E and Century Insurance.

“Taste” food and drink vendors will be accepting both credit/debit cards payments or “Taste” tokens. Tokens will be available for purchase at the festival with cash or credit/debit cards or at the MVA office on Beach Rd. in Garapan beginning April 17, 2025.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at communityprojects@mymarianas.com or 1.670.664.3200.

Mark McDonald, right, and other contestants tackle five footlongs during the Subway Sandwich Challenge at the 25th Annual Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival in Saipan, The Marianas. The 26^th Annual Taste of The Marianas will be held by the Marianas Visitors Authority on May 3, 10, 17, 24, & 31, 2025, at American Memorial Park.

MARIANAS SEMINAR IN JAPAN PROMOTES REVIVIAL OF TIES

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Renewing historic ties between The Marianas and Japan was the focus of the Marianas Visitors Authority’s (MVA) seminar in Tokyo on March 18, 2025, with key industry partners.

The Marianas Seminar was attended by 59 travel agents, media, and other representatives and highlighted the long-standing ties between the two destinations, introducing the Marianas Revival Project that targets not only travelers, but also business and government. The seminar was also attended by a representative of the U.S. Embassy Ministry of Commerce in Japan.

“The Marianas and Japan have a relationship that spans over a century—one shaped by shared history, mutual respect, and a deep cultural connection,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron in welcoming seminar participants. “From the early days when Japanese communities flourished in Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, to the present, where we continue to welcome thousands of Japanese visitors to our shores, our bond remains strong.”

In January the MVA organized a visit to Saipan and Tinian by ten members of Hiroshima Prefecture Assembly and 13 businesspersons toward the goal of exploring new opportunities for partnership. During the visit, members of the Hiroshima delegation met with CNMI Governor Arnold I. Palacios, Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan, Saipan Mayor Ramon “R.B.” Camacho, representatives of Commonwealth Economic Development Authority and Northern Marianas College, and others.

“Today, the Marianas remains one of the most accessible and welcoming tropical destinations for Japanese travelers,” Taijeron told participants. “Your trust in our destination, your investment in tourism, and your belief in the beauty and hospitality of the Marianas are what drive us forward…We are enhancing our tourism infrastructure, developing new experiences tailored for Japanese visitors, and ensuring that every guest who visits the Marianas feels a deep sense of connection, relaxation, and joy.”

The seminar provided details about Saipan, Tinian and Rota, with the goal of generating new media coverage to attract more Japanese travelers to the destination. Highlights were also made of the destination’s quiet and rejuvenating nature, its appeal as a family destination due to its short flight time and comprehensive children’s programs, its professionally designed golf courses, and the option of long-term stays. The event also shared details on flight service; the MVA’s marketing activities and promotional campaigns, annual signature events like May’s Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival, and new tourism infrastructure such as improvements to several key tourism sites in Marpi that are nearing design completion.
 
The MVA is now accepting applications for the Marianas Revival Project through its Japan office from partner companies and organizations interested in learning more about opportunities in the destination. The MVA will help facilitate meetings and inspection tours in The Marianas, including business networking and connection with agencies offering business incentives, such as the CNMI Qualifying Certificate Program.

"Toward the goal of expanding tourism, business, cultural exchange, and other ties with Japan, the Marianas Revival Project provides an exciting opportunity to bring more partners to the table from both Japan and The Marianas," said Taijeron.

Direct service from Tokyo to Saipan is provided by United Airlines three times a week.

Nearly 60 representatives of travel trade, media, and other tourism related entities attend the Marianas Seminar held on May 18, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan, by the Marianas Visitors Authority. The seminar provided updates on The Marianas and promoted renewed ties between Japan and destination.

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika R. Taijeron gestures to her “mwar” while addressing nearly 60 attendees of the Marianas Seminar held on May 18, 2025, in Tokyo. The MVA emphasized the opportunities of renewed ties between Japan and The Marianas across various sectors including tourism, business, and government.

SMORGASBORD OF CUISINE AT TASTE OF THE MARIANAS IN MAY

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – It’s an international smorgasbord of food slated for the 26th Annual Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival every Saturday in May 2025 in Saipan.

Twenty-five food vendors and three drink vendors will offer a variety of cuisine at the festival, organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) during Marianas Tourism Month and held in the heart of Garapan at American Memorial Park. This year’s festival will be held starting at 5 p.m. on May 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 2025 and will feature food and drinks, live entertainment, nightly competitions, arts & crafts, and more.

Participating food vendors this year are Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Herman's Modern Bakery, V-Lyn's BBQ, Benki, Kinpachi Japanese Restaurant, 123 Foods, CK Smokehouse & Salad, T Bar, The Hut, Kanto 10, Yaya's Baked Goods, Loco & Taco, Lanlan Tea House, Fork & Spoon, Matty's BBQ, Tupu Cane Juice, Oh My Grill, 38 Mitsubachi, Surf Club Saipan, Great Harvest, Saipan World Resort, Plumeria Steakhouse, Dea Jang Kum, Chow Time, and Pho Tam. Drink vendors will be WSTCO, MARPAC/Unified Sports Organization, and Napu Brewing.

“With over 20 different ethnicities from around the world making their home here, Taste of The Marianas is an opportunity to celebrate and enjoy the many flavors you can find in the islands,” said MVA Managing Director Jamika Taijeron. “Whether your preference is a chicken empanada, chicken adobo, or chicken curry, you’ll be sure find something delicious at ‘Taste’. We invite everyone to make plans now to join us for any – or every – Saturday night in May for a great time of friendship, fun, and food in the park.”

Taijeron said this year’s festival is anticipated to again include an international food fighters’ competition, cooking challenges, and more. Entry is free.

For more information or for vendor inquires, contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200.
 

FILE – A festivalgoer makes her choice at the Taste of The Marianas International Food Festival in The Marianas in May 2024. The 26th Annual Taste of The Marianas will be held every Saturday evening in May 2025 in American Memorial Park in Garapan, Saipan.

21st ANNUAL MAHI MAHI DERBY IN SAIPAN ON APRIL 12, 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Saipan Fishermen’s Association (SFA) will hold the 21st Annual Mahi Mahi Fishing Derby on April 12, 2025, in The Marianas.

The derby will start at 6 a.m. and will conclude at 5 p.m. the same day, launching from Smiling Cove Marina. Prizes will include $2,500 cash for 1st place, $1,500 for 2nd place, $1,000 for 3rd place, and consolation prizes for 4th and 5th places.

The registration fee is $100 per boat, including one captain and one angler, and $25 for each additional angler. Pre-registration will be held on April 11 from 4-6 p.m. at the Smiling Cove Marina weighing station. Derby officials from the SFA will also brief participants on the rules and regulations of the competition.

“Sport fishing in The Marianas is a niche market highlighting the beautiful waters of The Marianas, our rich marine resources, and our unique fishing culture,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika Taijeron. “The MVA is pleased to continue to partner with Saipan Fishermen’s Association in spreading the word about their tournaments. Following the Mahi Derby, we’ll be collaborating on expanding the July Saipan International Fishing Tournament to make it more of a visitor attraction. Stay tuned for more details!”

Spectators are invited to see the day’s catch as fishermen begin returning to Smiling Cove Marina at approximately 4 p.m. on derby day. Event organizers are reminding participants that no catch will be entered after the 5 p.m. deadline. The awards party will immediately take place after the derby at Smiling Cove Marina immediately after the event. Boats are encouraged to conduct a pre-boat safety inspection by calling the Dept. of Public Safety Board Safety Unit at 1.670.664.9000.

For more information about the derby, contact MVA Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas at 1.670.664.3200 or [email protected].

590+ RUNNERS SO FAR FOR SKECHERS SAIPAN MARATHON ON MARCH 8

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – With 598 for runners from 19 countries and territories registered so far, organizers are doing their final warming up for Skechers Saipan Marathon 2025 on Saturday (March 8) in The Marianas.

“After months of preparation, our team is coming down to the finish line now for another exciting race on Saturday,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Jamika Taijeron. “We invite everyone to join us for the first ever marathon festival at the finish line and to cheer for our runners – many of whom have travelled to Saipan just to run. Also, a tremendous thank you to all our sponsors and supporters for making tourism their business, especially our co-organizer Northern Marianas Athletics.”

Participating countries and territories registered so far including Australia, China, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Lebanon, Netherlands, Philippines, Poland, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, United Kingdom, USA, and The Marianas.

“Many thanks to Marianas Visitors Authority, especially our sponsors and all the runners with their supporting friends for using running as a platform to empower wellness and creating a healthier world promoting physical activity,” said NMA President Ray Tebuteb.

Today (March 6) at 5 p.m. is the final deadline to sign up at raceroster.com. The full marathon race will start at 4:00 a.m., followed by the half-marathon, 10K, and 5K. The full marathon course will depart American Memorial Park, follow Middle Rd. south to just before the Oleai intersection, then proceed north to Marpi before ending at American Memorial Park again.

The festival will be held from 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the start/finish line and will include food and drink booths, Skechers Photo Zone, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and more. In lieu of the traditional evening awards banquet, top finishers will receive their awards at the festival as soon as they finish the race. Food vendors will be Island Grindz, The Hut, OMG Oh My Grill, Caravan, Napu Brewing and The Kuxsins. Runners will be provided complimentary meal coupons with their certificates of completion and race t-shirts after the race. Cash and credit cards will also be accepted by vendors. Arts and craft vendors will be Creations and Galuti Club.

“It’s looking to be another great race day on Saturday,” said MVA Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “As always, we ask drivers to exercise caution when driving that morning along the route and to follow all traffic officers’ directions. We also remind all dog owners to ensure their pets are secured so they don’t chase our participants. And the public is invited to join all the festivities at the Saipan Marathon festival!”

An annual signature event of the MVA, Saipan Marathon is a certified measured course by World Athletics in cooperation with AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). The event is sanctioned under Northern Marianas Athletics rules and regulations. In addition to Exclusive Title Sponsor SKECHERS, Platinum Sponsor is Coca-Cola/Powerade/Subway/Foremost; Gold Sponsors are Bridge Capital, United Airlines, and Ideal Signs; and Silver Sponsor is Enterprise Rent-A-Car. In-kind contributors are Dave Electronics and All-star Sporting Goods/Boarderline/The Athlete’s Foot.

Race Packet Pickup will be on Friday (March 7) from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater. Race Packet Pickup is mandatory for all participants. A participant may send a representative to pick up their race packet only with a written authorization and a copy of the participant’s photo ID.

Wacky Awards for Best Costume, Most Awesome Shoes, Ugliest Shoes, Shortest Shorts, and Craziest Hair will also be awarded.

Aid stations will be provided by Congressman Joel Camacho, Marianas Beach Resort, Bridge Capital, Enterprises Rent-A-Car, Saipan World Resort, Pacific Islands Club, Atkins Kroll Toyota, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, Aqua Resort Club Saipan, Kensington Hotel Saipan, Northern Marianas Athletics and Marianas Health Services.

For more information, visit https://raceroster.com or www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Ed Diaz at 1.670.664.3210 or [email protected].
 

TINIAN HOT PEPPER FESTIVAL 2025
A PICTURE-PERFECT WEEKEND

Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – It was a picture-perfect weekend in The Marianas for the 21ST Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025.

Clear skies and an enthusiastic crowd made for a festive weekend of homage to the island’s diminutive hot pepper “donne sali,” which played prominently in the festival’s contests. Bragging rights for chomping through 100 pepper pieces went to Silvia Biz in 1^st place, followed by Nicholas Wedel and Maria San Nicolas. In the JC Café Pika Burger Eating Contest, Jay Wolf chomped his way to 1^st place, followed by Rene Esteban and Mat Komisars. The Katdun Pika cooking crown went to Rene Dungong, followed by Sylvia Biz, and then Junior Fernandez and Francisco Hossain tied for 3^rd place.

The Pika Run 5K early on Saturday morning attracted 106 registrants, with winners in several categories. Juan Salgado crossed the finish line first, followed by Edmar Tirona, and Soren Hoffman. Topping the Men’s Division was Miguel Rodriquez, finishing first in the Women’s Division was Melissa Hawls, and finishing first in the Under Age 18 Division was Taliana Longonia.

In the kid’s Umang Race, Kyjuhn Alambra’s hermit crab raced to 1^st place, followed by Joe White and Simone Ree Deleon Guerrero. In the Booth Decoration Contest, Blackout Bar was declared the best, followed by Emy’s and Tropics Bar. Winners of all contests won cash prizes.

The Tinian Hot Pepper Festival is organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) in cooperation with the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan and was held at the Fiesta Grounds in San Jose, Tinian, featuring live entertainment, food and drinks, arts and crafts, and more.

“Once again, the Tinian Hot Pepper Festival was a resounding success, thanks to the tremendous support of our sponsors, our partners and vendors, and most especially, the Tinian community,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Un dangkulu na si Yu’us ma’ase para todos– a big thank you to everyone!”

The annual festival is held on President’s Day weekend in The Marianas.

 

The 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival is held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas. The festival is an annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority, organized in cooperation with the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan.

 

Non-profit 500 Sails offers free canoe rides at the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

The Pika Run 5K attracts 106 registrants during the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

Pika Run 5K top finishers Juan Salgado, left, and Edmar Tirona celebrate their winning finish at the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

Pilar Jones, left, and a friend enjoy the Pika Run 5K during the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

Jay Wolf, center, chomps his way to 1^st place in the JC Café Pika Burger Eating Contest during the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

Rene Dungong prepares her eventual 1^st place entry to the Katdun Pika Cooking Contest during the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

An entry in the Katdun Pika Cooking Contest during the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas. The festival pays homage to the small but potent “donne sali” hot pepper.

 

Tinian Cultural Dancers perform at the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

The diminutive but potent “donne sali” hot pepper is the star of the show at the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.

 

TINIAN YOUTH CONNECT PIKA FEST WITH TOURISM

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) took their tourism message to school children in Tinian on Friday (Feb. 14) just in time for the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival.

The festival – known to locals as Pika Fest - is an annual signature event of the MVA aimed at attracting visitors and media attention to the island. Students also learned about marketing and other programs of the MVA, as well as the value of tourism and how they can help their community and families by supporting tourism.

“The young people of Tinian have a wonderful, welcoming spirit and a lot of healthy pride in their island home,” said MTEC Board Member Catherine Perry. “And it’s obvious from how clean Tinian is that keeping the island beautiful is a way of life for them, as well. Pika Fest was the perfect time for them to see how hospitality, island beautification, tourists, and the economy all work together.”

“Planting Peace - Manånånum Pås- Ffóttol llol Tipiyeew” is the theme of this year’s outreach to students, a message shared with students at Tinian Elementary School and Tinian Jr./Sr. High School.

The annual school outreach aims to engage 4^th graders, 7^th graders, and 10^th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver.

MTEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is three-fold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the “Hafa Adai-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the island community. The organization is also preparing for its annual MTEC Tourism Summit with school MY WAVE Clubs in January 2025.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.

4^th graders at Tinian Elementary School welcome presenters from the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority to their school in San Jose, Tinian, on Feb. 14, 2025, to learn about tourism.

 

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos, left, leads 4^th graders at Tinian Elementary School in pledging to be friendly to visitors and help keep their island clean during a presentation at their school in San Jose, Tinian, on Feb. 14, 2025. The MVA and Marianas Tourism Education Council visited the students to teach them about the tourism industry.

 

CREATIVES FIND INSPIRATION IN REMOTE ROTA IN THE PACIFIC

Rota, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Could the quiet shores of the remote island of Rota in the western Pacific Ocean be the next muse for the world’s great creatives?

The Marianas archipelago - a U.S. commonwealth - is perhaps best known for its proximity to the deep waters of the Marianas Trench in the western Pacific. As Ernest Hemingway found his inspiration for “The Old Man and the Sea” in a sleepy fishing village in Cuba, on the other side of the planet the quiet ways of Rota beckon the creative mind to deep waters.

“Rota is an oasis from the storm, even among our own people,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “It’s unspoiled nature, quiet and scenic beaches and roadways, and a friendly, unassuming community that make it the perfect place to relax, reconnect, rejuvenate, and yes – create!”

With two villages and a population of about 3,000 people, Rota offers the modern conveniences of high-speed internet connection, air-conditioning, and a surprising number of small restaurants for such a small community. At the same time, the island is steeped in the history and traditional ways of the indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people. Here, one can find giant stone monoliths called latte that were used by ancient Chamorros as support structures for their houses. The island is also a year-round diver’s paradise cocooned in a peculiar ocean color that locals call “Rota Blue,” a hue created by pure rainfall percolating through an unpolluted limestone island before running out into the ocean.

“My six-day stay in Rota was filled with joy,” said writer Ye-jin Hyun. “The island’s deep blue, true to the name ‘Rota Blue,’ the vibrant green forests, the countless stars that lit up the night sky, and, most of all, the warm-hearted people who welcomed us—Rota is a place that allows anyone to fully open their hearts. Now, I hope to carry the energy I received from Rota into my daily life. I plan to weave together the words I discovered here into my writing. Thank you to everyone who shared this journey with me.”

Most recently, Hyun and three other South Korean artists spent a week at the quaint Katie House guesthouse nestled among the islands lush jungle in the area called Tenenu.

“During this trip to Rota, I felt a sense of liberation,” said visual artist Ryeo-jin Hwang. “In Seoul, my body and mind felt rigid, but here, I was able to relax, naturally blending into the people and nature around me. I was truly happy to immerse myself fully in Rota.”

Hyun and Hwang were joined by singer-songwriter Jandy Shin and photographer Jong-won Jeon in a creative residency program supported in part by the Marianas Visitors Authority to introduce the island to creatives of all types.

“Rota is a perfect place for artists to create,” said Shin. “The island's stunning ocean, the sounds of birds, and the untouched forests provided endless inspiration. I hope that many artists around the world will be able to capture Rota’s beauty in their works.

Drawing inspiration from their time in this tropical gateway, the artists are working on original works that will be released over the next several months.

“This is my second visit to Rota, following last year’s trip,” said Jeon. “I am always grateful for the warm hospitality. Thanks to it, I was able to capture some of Rota’s breathtaking scenes, both through my camera and my own eyes. I will now carefully curate these moments into my second photo book.”

This island retreat is accessible on a 30-minute flight via light commuter aircraft from the capitol island of Saipan or the neighboring island of Guam, or book a boat charter.

For more information, visit www.mymarianas.com or contact Marianas Visitors Authority at [email protected].
 

The island of Rota in The Marianas archipelago is an oasis from the modern world and a quiet escape for writers, artists, and other creatives. (Photo credit: Junji Takasago)

 

Swimming Hole on the island Rota in The Marianas archipelago in the Pacific is a natural pool fed by ocean waves.

 

Photographer Jong-won Jeon finds inspiration in the night sky of Rota, a remote island in The Marianas archipelago in the western Pacific. With its small population and geographic isolation, the island is ideal for stargazing, and the Milky Way is also seasonably visible.

 

A group of artists of various genres find inspiration for content and enjoy the relaxed pace on the island of Rota in The Marianas in January 2025.

 

South Korean visual artist Ryeo-jin Hwang finds inspiration on the island of Rota in The Marianas archipelago in the western Pacific in January 2025.

 

BOAT RIDES, CORNHOLE TOURNEY FOR TINIAN HOT PEPPER FESTIVAL

Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The historic ties of The Marianas and Hiroshima, Japan, laid the foundation for work by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) last month for a renewed and expanded relationship between the islands and the Japanese prefecture.

The festival will be Feb. 14-15, 2025. Weniol Boat Charter and Peskadufus Pika Fest Charters are offering one-way transport for $50/person and roundtrip transport for $80/person. Weniol Boat Charter will operate on Feb. 12-16, 2025, and Peskadufus Pika Fest Charters will operate on Feb. 13-15. Both boats will depart Saipan at 8 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.ms. The boats will depart from Tinian Marina on the same days at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., and 6:30 p.m.  Passengers must check-in with the boat 20 minutes before departure. A maximum of 40 lbs. carry-on/cargo is allowed per person. Dogs are not permitted. For more information or to purchase a seat, contact James Roberto of Peskadufus Pika Fest Charters at 1.670.285.3110 or Weniol Boat Charter at 1.670.989.8785 or 1.670.989.0611. Peskadufus charters will depart from Smiling Cove Marina. Weniol charters will depart from Garapan Fishing Base.

Liquid Culture is also providing boat transport on Feb. 15 & 16 for the same price. Liquid Culture will depart Saipan on Feb. 15 & 16 at 7 a.m., 10 a.m., 2 p.m., and 5 p.m. and return from Tinian at 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. On Feb. 16, the boat will depart Smiling Cove Marine at 8 a.m., 11 a.m., and 2 p.m. and return from Tinian Marina at 9:30 a.m. only. For more information or bookings, call 1.670.285.5639 or email [email protected].

One-way flights between Saipan and Tinian on Feb. 15 & 16 only on STAR Marianas will be $55 for CNMI residents with valid photo i.d. Also, the airline will be extending their scheduled flights by one hour on Feb. 14, 15 & 16. Charter flights may also be arranged by contacting Star Marianas at 1.670.433.9996/7/8 or [email protected].

This year’s festival will also include an independently organized 2025 Pika Fest Cornhole Tournament on Feb. 15. Registration is $50 for a 2-man team and a cash prize will be awarded. Registration is open on the Scoreholio app or at 2 p.m. at the festival grounds before the tournament starts at 3 p.m. For the tournament QR code linking to Scoreholio visit The Marianas Calendar, or call Juan Inos at 1.670.287.4687 for more information.

“It’s exciting to see the community come together to entice more visitors to Tinian for Pika sFest, and we thank them for partnering with the MVA to give everyone an incredible experience this weekend. A perfect example of making tourism your business!” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Looking forward to see everyone there.”

The Tinian Hot Pepper Festival is organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority in cooperation with the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan and will be held at the Fiesta Grounds in San Jose, Tinian.

"A heartfelt thank you to all our participants, sponsors, and visitors for bringing this festival to life every year,” said Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan. “Let's come together to make this year's celebration truly unforgettable!"

On Feb. 14 the festival opens at 6:30 p.m. with an official ceremony. The entertainment lineup has been updated as follows: Tinian Cultural Dancers (7 p.m.), Jason Mauricio (7:30 p.m.), Anti-tobacco Dancers (8 p.m.), Tinian Cultural Dancers (8:30 p.m.), JC Black Bird Band (9 p.m.), and JJ Aguon (9:30 p.m.). On Feb. 15, entertainment and games will be held include: Pika Run 5K (6:30 a.m.), Katdun Pika Cooking Contest (2 p.m.), Cornhole Competition (3 p.m.), Pika Run 5K Awards Ceremony (4 p.m.), Children’s “Umang” (hermit crab) Race (5 p.m.), Little Miss & Mr. Pika 2025, J.C. Café Burger Eating Contest, Hot Pepper Eating Contest, Maranatha Cultural Mission Dancers from South Korea (6 p.m.), UNIFIL Folk Dancers (6:30 p.m.), Cha-cha Dance Contest (7 p.m.), Joe Guam (7:30 p.m.), and Tatz Selepeo & JJ Aguon (8:45 p.m.). 

Food vendors open at 10 a.m. on Saturday, and the festival closes at 11 p.m.  Contestants may sign up for contests in person on a first-come, first-serve basis at the festival. 

The festival, affectionately known as “Pika Fest” among locals (“pika” means spicy), pays homage to Tinian’s small but famous “Donni’ sali” hot pepper.   DOCOMO Pacific is Exclusive Platinum Sponsor for the festival.

The 2^nd Annual Pika Run 5K will start at 6:30 a.m. on Feb. 15. Registration is $15. Cash prizes will be awarded in Men and Women’s Divisions: $150 for 1^st place, $100 for 2^nd place, and $75 for 3^rd place in two categories, Over-All and Under 18. Registration forms are available on The Marianas Calendar at www.mymarianas.com/event-calendar. 
Registration can be made the MVA offices in Tinian or Saipan or with the Tinian International Women’s Alliance at the Office of the Mayor of Tinian or by emailing [email protected] or [email protected]. 
Registration and payment can also be made on race day from 6:00 – 6:30 a.m. at the start line. Participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt while supplies last.

Free camping is available at Jones Beach, Taga Beach (toilets, barbecue pits, and outdoor showers available), and at the adjacent Tachogna Beach (barbecue pits, outdoor showers, and toilets are available). Hotel accommodations are provided by Tinian Ocean View Hotel, Tinian Diamond Hotel and Casino, Tinian Diamond Suites, Tinian Western Lodge Hotel, Lorilynn’s Hotel, Tinian Street Motel, Fleming Hotel, Sunshine Hotel and Green Lion House Hotel.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos at communityprojects@mymarianas.com or 1.670.664.3200, Tinian Field Office at 1.670.433.9365, or for the Pika Run 5K contact the Tinian Mayor’s Office at dorthy.san[email protected] or 1.670.433.1802. 

Katdun Pika and other local delicacies laced with “donne Sali” hot pepper will be featured at the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival on Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian, in The Marianas.
 

Contestants in the Hot Pepper Eating Contest at the Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in The Marianas in February 2024. The 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival will be held Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian

 

MVA MAKES INTRODUCTIONS FOR MARIANAS, HIROSHIMA

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The historic ties of The Marianas and Hiroshima, Japan, laid the foundation for work by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) last month for a renewed and expanded relationship between the islands and the Japanese prefecture.

Ten members of Hiroshima Prefecture Assembly and 13 businesspersons visited Saipan and Tinian on Jan. 23-26, 2025, on a whirlwind tour organized by MVA that included meeting with local dignitaries, learning about commonwealth tax incentives, and visiting historic sites.

The government and business group was led by Chairman Takashi Nakamoto of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly and President Tetsuya Matsuda of Hiromaz Holding Co., an affiliate of Mazda Motor Corporation. During their visit, the group met with Governor Arnold I. Palacios, Saipan Mayor Ramon B. Camacho, Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan and Tinian Municipal Councilmembers, and the MVA.

“The Marianas and Japan share a long history of peace and friendship – over 111 years,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Since my visit to Hiroshima last year, we have continued to discuss ways to promote exchanges with Hiroshima. In July 2024, I received an invitation to meet in person with the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly, and this month’s visit is the result of months of planning following that first meeting.  We hope that the connections made during their brief visit will bring forth continued partnership, especially as we approach the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.”

Concepcion also noted that personal assistance of Matsuda in coordinating the visit.

“Mr. Matsuda helped facilitate this tour from the beginning,” said Concepcion. “His support has been invaluable, and the business community and local government now have a number of positive partnership opportunities that they can move forward on.”

The Japanese business group also met with officials of the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority who shared tax advantages of doing business in The Marianas, and The Japanese government group also met with officials of the Northern Marianas College. Island tours were taken of historic sites from the Japanese administrative era in the islands in both Saipan and Tinian, including Japanese memorials. The government group also visited the atomic bomb loading pits at North Field in Tinian.
 

CNMI Governor Arnold I. Palacios, second left, presents a plaque to Chairman Takashi Nakamoto of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly on Jan. 24, 2025, at the Office of the Governor in Saipan, The Marianas. From left, Chairperson Daizou Hayashi of the Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly Committee for International Peace and Multicultural Coexistence, and Investment in People, Palacios, Nakamoto, and Lt. Governor David M. Apatang.
 

Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly Chairman Takashi Nakamoto, standing left, presents Ramon RB Camacho, Mayor of Saipan, with a Kumano brush, a Hiroshima specialty, as a souvenir on Jan. 24, 2025, at the Office of the Mayor of Saipan in The Marianas.
 

Northern Marianas College Vice President Frankie Eliptico, center, welcomes Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly delegates on Jan. 25, 2025, at the college in As Terlaje, Saipan. Also pictured are college staff.
 

Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan, seated second left, welcomes Hiroshima Prefectural Assembly delegates on Jan. 24, 2025, at the Triple J conference room in Tinian, The Marianas. Also pictured are members of the Tinian Municipal Council and management and staff of the Mayor’s Office and Marianas Visitors Authority.
 

On Jan. 24, 2025, Japanese businesspersons meet with the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority in Saipan to learn about business opportunities and tax incentives in The Marianas. 

STAR MARIANAS LAUNCHES PROMO FOR TINIAN HOT PEPPER FEST

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Heading to the Tinian Hot Pepper Festival on Feb. 14 & 15, 2025, in The Marianas? Star Marianas Air is offering discounted tickets and an extra hour of evening flights on select days.
One-way flights between Saipan and Tinian on Feb. 15 & 16 only will be $55 for CNMI residents with valid photo i.d. Also, the airline will be extending their scheduled flights by one hour on Feb. 14, 15 & 16. The last flight from Saipan will be at 6 p.m. and the last flight from Tinian will be 6:30 p.m. Flights leave Saipan hourly starting at 7:30 a.m. and at the top of the hour thereafter. Flights leave Tinian at the bottom of the hour. Charter flights may also be arranged by contacting Star Marianas at 1.670.433.9996/7/8 or [email protected].
“Pika Fest – as we locals call it – is always a great time to kick back, relax, and enjoy the island vibe in Tinian,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Thanks to the support of Star Marianas with their discounts and extended hours, we hope more people will have a chance to join us at the festival this year, even for a day trip.”

The Tinian Hot Pepper Festival is organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority in cooperation with the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan and will be held at the Fiesta Grounds in San Jose, Tinian, adjacent to the picturesque Jones Beach and House of Taga, a U.S. National Historic Landmark featuring limestone monoliths carved by ancient Chamorros.

"Join us for the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival!” said Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan. “This much-anticipated event celebrates the vibrant culture and rich agricultural heritage of our island. It's more than just a spicy treat…it is a showcase of Tinian's community spirit and resilience. With a variety of activities including savoring our unique homegrown peppers, experiencing traditional music and dance, there's something for everyone to enjoy. We warmly invite you to experience the hospitality and warmth that Tinian has to offer.”

On Feb. 14 the festival opens at 6:30 p.m. with an official ceremony. The entertainment lineup has been updated as follows: Tinian Cultural Dancers (7 p.m.), Jason Mauricio One-man Band (7:20 p.m.), Tinian Cultural Dancers (7:30 p.m.), Anti-tobacco Dancers (8 p.m.), Tinian Cultural Dancers (8:30 p.m.), Tinian Blackbird Band (9 p.m.), and JJ Aguon and Joe Guam (9:30 p.m.). On Feb. 15, entertainment and games will be held include: Pika Run 5K (6:30 a.m.), Katdun Pika Cooking Contest (2 p.m.), Cornhole Competition (3 p.m.), Pika Run 5K Awards Ceremony (4 p.m.), Children’s “Umang” (hermit crab) Race (5 p.m.), Little Miss & Mr. Pika 2025, J.C. Café Burger Eating Contest, Hot Pepper Eating Contest (6 p.m.), Maranatha Cultural Mission Dancers from South Korea (6 p.m.), UNIFIL Folk Dancers (6:30 p.m.), Cha-cha Dance Contest (7 p.m.), Jayson Mauricio (7:30 p.m.), and JJ Aguon and Joe Guam (8:45 p.m.). 

Food vendors open for lunch both days and the festival closes at 11 p.m.  Contestants may sign up for contests in person on a first-come, first-serve basis at the festival. 

The festival, affectionately known as “Pika Fest” among locals (“pika” means spicy), pays homage to Tinian’s small but famous “Donni’ sali” hot pepper.   DOCOMO Pacific is Exclusive Platinum Sponsor for the festival.

The 2nd Annual Pika Run 5K will start at 6:30 a.m. on Feb. 15 at the Fiesta Grounds Road Intersection and proceed along the historic World War II-era Broadway before returning to the starting point. Registration is $15. Cash prizes will be awarded in Men and Women’s Divisions: $150 for 1st place, $100 for 2nd place, and $75 for 3rd place in two categories, Over-All and Under 18. Registration forms are available on The Marianas Calendar at www.mymarianas.com/event-calendar. Registration can be made the MVA offices in Tinian or Saipan or with the Tinian International Women’s Alliance at the Office of the Mayor of Tinian or by emailing [email protected] or [email protected]. Registration and payment can also be made on race day from 6:00 – 6:30 a.m. at the start line. Participants will receive a commemorative t-shirt while supplies last.

Free camping is available at Jones Beach, Taga Beach (toilets, barbecue pits, and outdoor showers available), and at the adjacent Tachogna Beach (barbecue pits, outdoor showers, and toilets are available). Hotel accommodations are provided by Tinian Ocean View Hotel, Tinian Diamond Hotel and Casino, Tinian Diamond Suites, Tinian Western Lodge Hotel, Lorilynn’s Hotel, Tinian Street Motel, Fleming Hotel, Sunshine Hotel and Green Lion House Hotel.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200, Tinian Field Operations Supervisor Vida Borja at [email protected] or 1.670.433.9365, or for the Pika Run 5K contact the Tinian Mayor’s Office at [email protected] or 1.670.433.1802. om or 1.670.433.1802.

FILE - Brian Ayuyu of the Marianas Visitors Authority carefully counts out 100 “donni Sali” hot peppers for the Hot Pepper Eating Contest at the Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in The Marianas in February 2024. The 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival will be held Feb. 14-15, 2025, in San Jose, Tinian.
 

BRIDGE CAPITAL STRIKES GOLD FOR SKECHERS SAIPAN MARATHON

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Bridge Capital LLC Vice President/General Manager Bart Jackson, second right, presents a $3,000 donation on Jan. 29, 2025, to the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) as a gold sponsor of Skechers Saipan Marathon 2025. From left, are MVA Community Projects Specialists Jack Aranda and Ed Diaz, Jackson, and MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos. The marathon will be held on March 8, 2025.
 

MTEC TOURISM SUMMIT GATHERS 300+ MYWAVE STUDENTS

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Over 320 students and chaperones of school MY WAVE - Marianas Youth Welcome All Visitors Enthusiastically – Clubs gathered for the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) Tourism Summit on Friday (Jan. 24) at Garapan Central Park.

This year’s theme “Planting Peace - Manånånum Pås- Ffóttol llol Tipiyeew” encouraged students to understand, appreciate, and contribute to fostering peace in The Marianas, especially in recognition of this year’s 80^th year of peace in The Marianas since the end of World War II.

MTEC also launched a project with MYWAVE Clubs students to fold 1,000 paper cranes to commemorate the anniversary and express hope for continued peace. The project is inspired by the life and story of Sadako Suzuki, a young Japanese girl who survived the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and sought to fold 1,000 origami cranes to wish for peace. In Japanese culture, a person who folds 1,000 paper cranes will be granted a wish.

“The concept of peace - especially for a travel destination- is so important,” said MTEC Chairwoman Vicky Benavente. “I hope that the students were influenced by the MTEC Tourism Summit to make sure that we remain a safe and peaceful destination for our visitors and guests.”

Students also visited educational exhibits by American Memorial Park; Carolinian Affairs Office; CNMI Historic Preservation Office; Div. of Fish & Wildlife Aquatic Education Program, Sea Turtle Conservation Program, and Fisheries Conservation & Management; Dept. of Land & Natural Resources; Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA); Northern Marianas College; Northern Marianas Humanities Council; Northern Marianas Museum of History & Culture; National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration National Marine Fisheries Service; Office of Indigenous Affairs, U.S. Fish & Wildlife, and Western Pacific Maritime Academy.

Following lunch, students planted five trees at Garapan Central Park with the support of the Dep.t of Lands & Natural Resources Division of Agriculture.

The MTEC Tourism Summit was supported by the MVA.

For more information on MTEC, contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at [email protected] or tel. no. 1.670.664.3200/1.
 

School MYWAVE Club members learn from an exhibitor from Northern Marianas College during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan.
 

Jack Sablan of the CNMI Historic Preservation Office teaches school MYWAVE Club members about coconut fiber rope College during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan.
 

Students explore coconut frond weaving during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan.
 

Steve McKagan of NOAA National Marine Fisheries Service, rights, speaks to school MYWAVE Club members the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan.
 

Students of Da’ok Academy perform during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan.
 

Students of Koblerville Elementary School MY WAVE Club perform during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan.
 

Motono Higuchi of the Japanese School of the Japanese Society of the Northern Mariana Islands teaches students of MY WAVE Clubs how to make paper cranes during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan. The clubs will fold 1,000 origami cranes to mark 80 years of peace in The Marianas since World War II.
 

Students of MY WAVE Clubs learn to make paper cranes during the Marianas Tourism Education Council Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, at Garapan Central Park in Saipan. The clubs will fold 1,000 origami cranes to mark 80 years of peace in The Marianas since World War II.
 

MY WAVE Club students plant a tree at Garapan Central Park in Saipan during the Marianas Tourism Education Council on Jan. 24, 2025. In all, clubs planted five trees at the park.
 

SKECHERS SAIPAN MARATHON 2025 ADDS FESTIVAL FOR COMMUNITY

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Skechers Saipan Marathon 2025 on March 8, 2025, is turning its start and finish line at American Memorial Park into a celebration open to the public.

“Thanks to the generous support again this year of our exclusive title sponsor Skechers, we are inviting the public to join the Saipan Marathon experience with some fun activities at the finish line,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “It’ll be a great opportunity for everyone to be a part of the marathon, refresh themselves, and most importantly, cheer on all our participants as they cross the finish line!”

The festival will begin at 8 a.m. and will include food and drink booths, Skechers Photo Zone, arts and crafts, live entertainment, and more. In lieu of the traditional evening awards banquet, top finishers will receive their awards at the festival as soon as they finish the race. Runners will be provided complimentary meal coupons as part of their official Saipan Marathon race packet. Also, cash and credit cards will be accepted by vendors.

Marathon registration is open at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/92790/saipan-marathon-2025. Rates are $90 for the full marathon, $70 for the half marathon, and $60 for the 10K and 5K. For CNMI residents and U.S. military, the rate is $70 for the full marathon, $60 for the half marathon, and $50 for the 10K and 5K. With valid photo ID, youth ages 18 or younger on March 5, 2025, may register for 10K or 5K for $45. Full marathon participants must be age 16 or older. Half marathon participants must be age 14 or older. Fees will increase on Saturday (Feb. 1). The deadline to register is 5 p.m. ChST on March 5, 2025.

Cash prizes will be awarded for top finishers and by age division. Participants will receive a Limited Edition Official Saipan Marathon T-shirt, official Saipan Marathon medal, Certificate of Completion and other giveaways.

An annual signature event of the MVA, Saipan Marathon is a certified measured course by World Athletics in cooperation with AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races). The event is co-organized by Northern Marianas Athletics (NMA) and is sanctioned under the Northern Marianas Athletics rules and regulations.

Race Packet Pickup will be on March 7, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at the American Memorial Park Amphitheater. Race Packet Pickup is mandatory for all participants. A participant may send a representative to pick up their race packet only with a written authorization and a copy of the participant’s photo ID.

Saipan Marathon follows some of Saipan’s most scenic roadways, providing stunning views of the azure lagoon and lush mountains of the island. The course begins and ends at American Memorial Park in Garapan, and a half-way cut off point will be implemented. The marathon was last held in March 2024 with participants from nine countries.

For more information, visit https://raceroster.com or www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Ed Diaz at 1.670.664.3210 or [email protected].
 

FILE - Runners prepare to take on Skechers Saipan Marathon 2024 in The Marianas. Skechers Saipan Marathon 2025 on March 8, 2025, will feature a finish line festival open to the community at Micro Beac. Race registration is open at www.raceroster.com.

Skechers Saipan Marathon 2025 on March 8, 2025, will feature a finish line festival open to the community at Micro Beach. Race registration is open at www.raceroster.com.

Guampedia Pulan Tumaiguini Newsletter 2025

ROTA MARATHON NEARLY DOUBLES IN 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Marianas Visitors Authority’s newest annual signature event – Rota Marathon – nearly doubled its number of registrants in its second run on Jan. 18, 2025.

While the 2024 inaugural event had attracted 83 registrants, this year’s race – again featuring a full marathon, half marathon, and 5K – attracted 150 registrants from eight countries and territories, including the USA, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Guam, China, Fiji, and The Marianas.

“Rota Marathon 2025 exceeded our expectations for Year Two, providing a picture-perfect showcase of the best of The Marianas – stunning natural beauty, quiet island charm, and unmatched hospitality,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “Once again, we thank the municipality of Rota for joining the MVA in turning the spotlight on the gem of an island that Rota is for nature lovers and sports enthusiasts looking for an escape to paradise.”

In true Marianas style, this year’s race results highlighted family and friendship among participants.

They say, “Rota is romantic,” and couple James Munnis (3:52:36) and Krista Hawley (4;06:06) made it a weekend to remember by taking 1^st place in the full marathon Men’s and Women’s Divisions, respectively.

“Rota is beautiful. It’s my first road marathon, and I felt so lucky to run it on the beautiful island of Rota,” said Hawley, a recently returned former resident of The Marianas. “It was really well supported; the volunteers were amazing. I felt well taken care of. I loved the 4 a.m. start because you avoided the heat.”

Hawley arrived on-island extra early for the event, providing more time to enjoy the island ambience.

“I flew in Thursday morning,” she said at the awards dinner. “I feel very relaxed. I’m glad I was able to spend three whole days here enjoying the Swimming Hole, the beaches, and the people…and the food!”

Munnis was followed in the Men’s Division by Damon Jensen (3:59:36) of USA in 2^nd place and Yishi Lao (4:14:45) of China in 3^rd. Hawley was tailed by Aspen Egbert (4:20:07) of USA in 2^nd place, who also had several family members among the top finishers. Ann Bang (4:32:17) of The Marianas rounded out the Women’s Division of the full marathon in 3^rd.

In the half marathon Victor Nash Santos (1:26:38) of The Marianas set the pace with his 1^st place finish, followed by Eldon Egbert of USA (1:34:44) and Michael Owen (1:39:02) of USA. The Women’s Division was led by Lily Muldoon (1:42:03), of USA. Heather Brook (1:46:59) of USA, and Shawna Brennfleck (2:00:41) of USA.

Half-marathon participant Jeff Maguire of Colorado has run half-marathons in 33 states across the U.S. with his sister and - fresh off a half-marathon in Japan the week before - took a short flight detour to the U.S. commonwealth to participate in Rota Marathon.

“The race was awesome. Everyone here has been super friendly, way friendlier than any race I’ve done before,” Maguire said. “The course support was great. I believe everyone got out at 4 a.m. to put water out and everything. Awesome job, all round. I love just hanging out on the beach. I’m really glad I came. Totally worth it!”

In the 5K Victor Neil Santos (22:15) of The Marianas echoed the winning form of his brother Victor, cruising to the top spot in the Men’s Division. Hot on his heels was Jun Shimada (22:48) of Japan, followed by Peter John White (25:06) of The Marianas. Siblings Paylor (25:37) and Cambrie Egbert (26:46) of USA crossed the line first in the Women’s Division, while 3^rd place finisher Megumi Takaku Shimada (27:19) of Japan joined her husband Jun in the 5K winner’s circle.

Over $4,000 in cash and other prizes were awarded. All participants received a Limited Edition Rota Marathon race t-shirt and entry to the awards dinner at the Rota Round House, featuring island dishes such as deer kelaguen (raw deer meat marinated in lemon juice and other spices), chicken kelaguen, and fresh coconut juice. Race finishers also received a medal and certificate of completion.

Rota Marathon is organized by the MVA in cooperation with Rota Mayor’s Office. This year’s sponsors include Platinum Sponsor STAR Marianas Air, Gold Sponsor Ambros/Marpac, and In-kind Sponsors I-Shop, Coral Ocean Resort, and Hybrid Shop. Aid stations will be provided by Offices of the Governor & Lt. Governor, Rota Mayor’s Office, Office of Senator Dennis Mendiola, Office of Representative Julie Ogo, Dr. Rita H. Inos Jr./Sr. High School JROTC Buck Battalion, Calvo’s Ent., and Light Heart Hotel. Supporting agencies are Dept. of Public Safety, Dept. of Fire & Emergency Medical Services, Rota Municipal Council, and Dept. of Public Works.

Several student groups also cheered on participants: MY WAVE Club, AmeriCorps, National Honor Society, and STUCO.

Rota is 30 minutes from the capitol island of Saipan by light-aircraft. In addition to daily flights, charter flights are operated by STAR Marianas Air to Rota from Saipan and Guam. The island also offers award-winning dive opportunities, numerous historic sites, and rich culture.
 

The 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon on Jan. 18, 2025, attracted 150 registrants from eight countries and territories to the southernmost island in The Marianas. The annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority featured a full marathon, half-marathon, and 5K.
 

Marvin Tamangided, left, and Sean Torres White of Saipan take on the 5K course of the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon on Jan. 18, 2025. The annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority attracted 150 registrants from eight countries and territories.
 

Lynnae Yobech, left, of The Marianas and Diane Abigania take on the 5K course of the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Daniel Calvo of The Marianas takes in the sights as he heads to the finish line of the half marathon course during the 2nd Annual Rota Marathon on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Ancient limestone monoliths called latte stones point the path forward for Dasom Kim of South Korea as she runs the half marathon course of the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025. Rota is home to several U.S. National Historic Landmarks, including the Latte Stone Quarry at As Nieves.
 

Stephen Dame of The Marianas takes on the half marathon course during the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025. Rota, called Luta by locals, has several monikers based on its charms, including Rota is Beautiful, Rota is Romantic, and Rota is Delicious.
 

Hometown youth Hazel Mejia was among dozens of locals who joined the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025. The event was inaugurated in 2024 by the Marianas Visitors Authority and the Rota Mayor’s Office to attract visitors to the island.
 

Michael Pimentel of The Marianas takes on the half marathon course during the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Men’s Division 1^st place finisher James Munnis counts down the final few miles of the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Local students cheer for runners in the village of Songsong during the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Aubrey Paige Arriola White of The Marianas takes on the 5K marathon course during the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Sarah Faegre, left, crosses the finish line with her son after finishing the half marathon in the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025.
 

Top finishers in the 5K course of the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025, receive their medals at the finish line. From left, 2^nd place Eldon Egbert, 1^st place Victor Nash Santos, and 3^rd place Michael Owen.
 

Top marathoners in the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025, receive their awards. Starting fourth from left, Women’s Division 3^rd place Ann Bang, 2^nd place Aspen Egbert, and 1^st place Krista Hawley; and Men’s Division 1^st place James Munnis, and 2^nd place Damon Jensen. Not pictured is 3^rd place Yishi Lao.
 

MVA GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MTG. ON JAN. 23, 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) will hold its biannual general membership meeting on Jan. 23, 2025, at Kensington Hotel Saipan in San Roque, Saipan at 10 a.m. Registration will open at 9:30 a.m.

Guest speakers will be from the MVA’s off-shore offices: MVA Korea Country Manager Julia Koo and MVA Japan Project Manager Ishida Yu. A brief update on other MVA programs will also be given.

The meeting cost is $36/person for MVA members and $41/person for non-members and includes morning refreshments. Payments may be made at the door via cash, credit card, or debit card. Seating is available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

“This month’s general membership meeting will provide an update on the situation on the ground in our top source markets of Korea and Japan, as well as our marketing efforts to develop a third source market, among other updates,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion.

The MVA welcomes businesses, organizations, and individuals to its membership. Membership is $100/year, and accounts can be registered and paid on MVA’s English website at www.mymarianas.com or at the MVA office.

To RSVP for the general membership meeting, request a membership application, or for more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200.
 

2^nd ANNUAL PIKA RUN 5K ON FEB. 15, 2025, IN TINIAN

Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Get ready to run like your tail’s on fire!

The 2^nd Annual Pika Run 5K fires up on Feb. 15, 2025, on Tinian as part of the 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in The Marianas.

“Pika” means “spicy” in the Chamorro language. The run will start at 6:30 a.m. at the Fiesta Grounds Road Intersection in San Jose, Tinian, and proceed along the historic World War II-era Broadway before returning to the starting point.

Registration is $15. Cash prizes will be awarded in Men and Women’s Divisions: $150 for 1^st place, $100 for 2^nd place, and $75 for 3^rd place in two categories, Over-All and Under 18. Registration forms are available on The Marianas Calendar at www.mymarianas.com/event-calendar. Registration can be made the MVA offices in Tinian or Saipan or with the Tinian International Women’s Alliance at the Office of the Mayor of Tinian or by emailing [email protected] or [email protected]. Registration and payment can also be made on race day from 6:00 – 6:30 a.m. at the start line. All participants will receive a t-shirt.

The iconic Tinian Hot Pepper Festival returns to The Marianas on President’s Day holiday weekend with food, fun, and flaming hot spiciness. The festival will be from 6:30 p.m to 11 p.m. on Feb. 14 and from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Feb. 15. Food vendors will open at lunchtime. Festivities will include food sales, live entertainment, competitions, arts, and crafts sales, and more on the island of Tinian, a 10-minute commuter flight from the capitol island of Saipan. The festival, affectionately known as “Pika Fest” among locals (“pika” means spicy), pays homage to Tinian’s small but famous “donni’ sali” hot pepper.

“It’s going to be another great Pika Fest in Tinian next month, and we invite everyone to come over and enjoy the festivities,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Tinian Field Operations Supervisor Vida Borja. “It’s already almost a full house at our hotels for the weekend, but we’ve got beautiful camping grounds right next to the festival, so come for the day or come for the weekend, but just come!”

The Tinian Hot Pepper Festival is an annual signature event of the MVA organized in cooperation with the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan and will once again be held at the Fiesta Grounds in San Jose, Tinian, adjacent to the picturesque Jones Beach and House of Taga, a U.S. National Historic Landmark featuring limestone monoliths carved by ancient Chamorros.

Free camping is available at Jones Beach, Taga Beach (toilets, barbecue pits, and outdoor showers available) and at the adjacent Tachogna Beach (barbecue pits, outdoor showers, and toilets are available). Hotel accommodations are provided by Tinian Ocean View Hotel, Tinian Diamond Hotel and Casino, Tinian Diamond Suites, Tinian Western Lodge Hotel, Lorilynn’s Hotel, Tinian Street Motel, Fleming Hotel, Sunshine Hotel and Green Lion House Hotel.

For more information, contact Tinian Field Operations Supervisor Vida Borja at [email protected] or 1.670.433.9365, MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos at [email protected] or 1.670.663.3200, or the Tinian Mayor’s Office at [email protected] or 1.670.433.1802.
 

FILE- Men’s 2^nd place finisher Jeff Pierrot, left, and Women’s 1^st place finisher Virginie Ternisien accept their prize money for Top 3 finishes in the Pika Fun Run in February 2024 during Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in The Marianas. The 21st Annual Tinian Hot Pepper Festival organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority will be held on Feb. 14-15, 2025, with the Pika Run 5K starting at 6:30 a.m. on Feb. 15.
 

EXTRA FLIGHTS, CASH INCENTIVES FOR ROTA MARATHON 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - Commuter airline STAR Marianas is offering extra perks for the 2nd Annual Rota Marathon in The Marianas on Jan. 18, 2025,

To help boost visits to Rota for the annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), STAR Marianas has added flights between Rota and Saipan on Jan. 17, 18, and 19. The flights depart Saipan at 3:30 p.m. and depart Rota at 4:30 p.m. each day. Seven seats are available per flight, and flights are bookable at www.starmarianas.com.

In addition, race registrants travelling to Rota for the event are eligible to have their race registration fees reimbursed by presenting their marathon registration form upon check-in to Rota with STAR Marianas. In addition, race participants who present their race certificate of completion upon check-in when departing Rota with the airline will receive an additional reimbursement equal to the registration fee.

“The MVA started Rota Marathon last year to attract more visitors and media attention to the destination, and this year’s event is looking to be another success,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “We are so grateful to Platinum Sponsor STAR Marianas for giving their full support again this year to grow the race. Registration numbers have already exceeded our growth goal for this year, rooms are nearly all booked, and these additional flights are a great addition. We invite everyone to take advantage of the opportunity for a great weekend in Rota this month for Rota Marathon 2025!”

As of yesterday (Jan. 7), 113 registrants from South Korea, USA, Guam, and The Marianas have signed up for the event, compared to 83 registrants for the inaugural race last year.

Rota Marathon is organized by the MVA in cooperation with Rota Mayor’s Office. In addition to STAR Marianas, this year’s sponsors include Gold Sponsor Ambros/Marpac, and In-kind Sponsors I-Shop, Coral Ocean Resort, and Hybrid Shop. Aid stations will be provided by Offices of the Governor & Lt. Governor, Rota Mayor’s Office, Office of Senator Dennis Mendiola, Office of Representative Julie Ogo, Dr. Rita H. Inos Jr./Sr. High School JROTC Buck Battalion, Calvo’s Ent., and Light Heart Hotel. Supporting agencies are Dept. of Public Safety, Dept. of Fire & Emergency Medical Services, Rota Municipal Council, and Dept. of Public Works.

Rota Marathon features a full marathon, half-marathon and 5K courses on one of the most picturesque islands of The Marianas archipelago, also known as “The World’s Friendliest Island.”

The race falls on the weekend of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal and local holiday. Registration is $40 for the full marathon, $30 for the half-marathon, and $20 for the 5K. Full marathon participants must be 16 years of age or older. Half marathon participants must be 14 years of age or older.

Cash prizes will be awarded to the Overall Top 3 Finishers, male and female. In the full marathon, prizes are $400 for 1st place, $300 for 2nd place, and $200 for 3rd place. In the half-marathon, prizes are $300 for 1st place, $200 for 2nd place, and $150 for 3rd place. In the 5K, prizes are $200 for 1st place, $150 for 2nd place, and $100 for 3rd place. Rota is 30 minutes from the capitol island of Saipan by light-aircraft. In addition to daily flights, charter flights are operated by STAR Marianas Air to Rota from Saipan and Guam. The island also offers award-winning dive opportunities, numerous historic sites, and rich culture. Free camping grounds are open at the beach of Chamorro Village adjacent to the Rota Round House in Songsong, the site of race packet pickup, start and finish line, and awards dinner. Restrooms facilities are available, and a shower spigot is available for rinse-offs.

The final day to register is Jan. 17, 2025. Mandatory race packet pickup will be on Jan. 17 from 5-6 p.m. at Rota Round House in Songsong, and the race briefing will be at 6 p.m. On Jan. 18, the full marathon will begin at 4 a.m., half-marathon will begin at 5 a.m., and the 5K will begin at 6:30 a.m.

Registration includes a Limited Edition Official Rota Marathon t-shirt, Rota Marathon medal, and one entry to the awards banquet to be held at 6 p.m. on race day. Registration may be made online at www.mymarianas.com or in person at the MVA office in Saipan at 3366 Beach Rd., Suite 101, Garapan or at the MVA field office in Songsong, Rota.

For more information, visit www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Ed Diaz at communityprojects@mymarianas.com or 1.670.664.3200 or MVA Rota Field Operations Supervisor Dave Atalig at [email protected] or 1.670.532.0327

FILE – Marathon top finisher Chang Whan Jang heads into the homestretch of Rota Marathon 2024 on Jan. 13, 2024, in The Marianas. Registration is open at www.mymarianas.com for the 2^nd Annual Rota Marathon on Jan. 18, 2025, featuring a full marathon, half-marathon, and 5K.

MAJOR SPORT FISHING EVENTS SET FOR THE MARIANAS IN 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The Saipan Fishermen’s Association (SFA) is making an early announcement of three major events for 2025 in The Marianas, hoping to draw more regional and international sport fishermen.

The 21st Mahi-Mahi Derby will be held on April 12, the 41st Saipan International Fishing Tournament on July 12-13, and the 3rd Annual Classic Billfish Tournament on Sept. 13.

“We are inviting fishermen from near and far to mark their calendars for our 2025 events in Saipan,” said SFA President Tony Scragg. “Last year we had over 90 boats and 200 fishermen for our 40^th Saipan International Fishing Tournament. It’s always a great time of fishing and camaraderie on tournament weekend, and we welcome all those looking to try their luck in Marianas waters.”

Tournament registration fees, regulations and prize amounts will be announced once set at the SFA website at www.sfacnmi.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/sfacnmi. An awards banquet open to all participants is usually held the day after the tournament.

The Mahi-Mahi Derby will seek the common dolphinfish - a surface-dwelling ray-finned fish found in off-shore temperate, tropical, and subtropical waters. The 41^st Saipan International Fishing Tournament will include categories for bill fish, yellow fin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and skipjack tuna. The Classic Billfish Tournament will award the largest billfish, including blue marlin frequently encountered in Marianas waters.

For more information about the tournaments or boat charters, contact SFA President Tony Scragg at [email protected] or 1.670.483.4597 or visit www.sfacnmi.com.
 

FILE - Captain Aaron Benavente, left, and crew Jesse Ramon of Only Reels with their winning 211-lb. marlin at the Saipan International Fishing Tournament in The Marianas in 2024. The Saipan Fishermen’s Association has set three tournament dates for 2025: the 21st Mahi-Mahi Derby on April 12, the 41st Saipan International Fishing Tournament on July 12-13, and the 3rd Annual Classic Billfish Tournament on Sept. 13. (Photo credit: Saipan Fishermen’s Association).

MS ASUKA IN PORT OF SAIPAN ON DEC. 31, 2024

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The cruise ship MS Asuka II will visit the Port of Saipan on Dec. 31, 2024, arriving at approximately 8 a.m. and departing at 5 p.m. The ship carries 793 guests and 510 crew on board.

MTEC TOURISM SUMMIT 2024 SET FOR JAN. 24, 2025

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) will hold its annual MTEC Tourism Summit on Jan. 24, 2025, for school MYWAVE - Marianas Youth Welcome All Visitors Enthusiastically – Clubs.

This year’s theme “Planting Peace - Manånånum Pås- Ffóttol llol Tipiyeew” will encourage students to understand, appreciate, and contribute to fostering peace in The Marianas.

“As we share with the students in our school presentations, one of the top considerations for travelers when choosing a destination is whether it’s safe and peaceful,” said MTEC Chairwoman Vicky Benavente. “Add to that the fact that most visitors to The Marianas have said – based on our last exit survey – that they’re top planned activity is to enjoy nature here. This makes the theme of ‘Planting Peace - Manånånum Pås- Ffóttol llol Tipiyeew’ a timely topic to discuss with the students in an educational and meaningful way at the summit.”

The annual summit will gather hundreds of MYWAVE Club members and chaperones at Garapan Central Park in Saipan. In addition to exhibitors, students will have the opportunity to participate in folding 1,000 origami paper cranes to commemorate 80 years of peace in 2025 since the end of World War II. Meanwhile, MTEC and the Marianas Visitors Authority have concluded their first semester of school presentations, sharing about the tourism industry with fourth graders at two schools on Wednesday (Dec. 18).

“Going back to one of the sayings, ‘Tourism is Everybody’s Business,’ it really helps our economy,” said Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School Principal Raena Camacho in welcoming the outreach team. “If everyone is helping out, we can attract more tourists. And I think it starts young, by teaching them how important tourism is and how it’s important for all of us to help out our CNMI.”

The MTEC-MVA team also visited Koblerville Elementary School.

“They are our future generation and need to know this information to carry on not only the enhancement of tourism business but also our culture,” said Koblerville Elementary School Principal Naomi Nishimura. “And the earlier we start with them, that will help build that growth mindset. Even as young as they are, we value what they think and we want them to have a little understanding of what runs our economy.”

For more information on MTEC, contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at [email protected] or tel. no. 1.670.664.3200/1.
 

Students at Koblerville Elementary School respond during in a presentation about tourism by Marianas Tourism Education Council and the Marianas Visitors Authority on Dec. 18, 2024, at the school in Koblerville, Saipan.

Students at Koblerville Elementary School work together to answer questions about tourism posed by Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda. The MVA and Marianas Tourism Education Council presented at the school on Dec. 18, 2024, in Koblerville, Saipan.

Students at Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School participate in a presentation about tourism by Marianas Tourism Education Council and the Marianas Visitors Authority on Dec. 18, 2024, at the school in San Roque, Saipan.

Students at Gregorio T. Camacho Elementary School work together to answer questions about tourism posed by Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects Specialist Sherman Santos, right. The MVA and Marianas Tourism Education Council presented at the school on Dec. 18, 2024, in San Roque, Saipan.

WINNERS AWARDED IN #MARIANASADVENTURE CAMPAIGN

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI)- First place winner Patricia Castillon (@_chuchai), center, and other winners of the Marianas Visitors Authority’s (MVA) #MarianasAdventure Campaign are awarded for their winning Instagram videos promoting the destination on Dec. 16, 2024, at the MVA Office in I Liyan, Saipan, in The Marianas. From left, MVA Marketing Specialists Brenda Repeki and Skye Seo, 3^rd place winner Deejay Santomin (@svwfctr), Castillon, 2^nd place winner Antonette Castro a.k.a. Netty Cee (#nettyceeofficial), MVA Media Marketing Specialist Ezra Lizama, and MVA Marketing Manager Thomas Kim. 

HELL OF THE MARIANAS 2024 A HEAVENLY SIGHT

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - It was picture-perfect weather for this year’s Hell of the Marianas century cycle on Saturday (Dec. 7), delivering a heavenly sight for the 160 bikers who signed up for the challenge on the Pacific island of Saipan.

In the Professional Division 100K, Ryo Inoue of Japan crossed the finish line first and in unison in 3:08:34, shaving nine minutes off last year’s winning time.  He was followed Michiya Suzuki of Japan (3:04:31) and Rick Nobel of the Netherlands (3:08:24). Topping the Women’s Division on the long course, Miso Kim (3:29:28), of South Korea repeated her winning performance of 2023, followed by Yukako Suzuki of Japan (3:39:44). Jiseon Jang (5:11:11) of South Korea, who finished in 2^nd place last year, also made the winners podium again this year in 3^rd place.

“It was very hard,” said Inoue after his 1^st place finish. “My favorite part was Suicide (Cliff) - climbing, the beautiful scene. Very beautiful! This is my first visit to Saipan, but I love (it). I want to come back next year.”

Cerulean skies dotted with soft white clouds framed the 100K course that traversed the Pacific island’s most picturesque natural landscapes, all while challenging participants to nearly 5,000 feet of ascents and descents in a race sure to be remembered by participants for both its beauty and pain.

Among the non-pros, topping the Men’s Division were Ryusei Kuragagi (3:32:52) of Japan, Arvin Velasco (3:34:37) of The Marianas, and Dan Aponik (3:45:44) of Guam. For the women, it as Robyn Spaeth (4:28:15) of The Marianas, Kimiko McKagan (4:47:53) of Japan, and Nahyun Kim (5:02:23) of Korea. 

In the short course of 50K, finishing first for the Men was Hernando Cristobal of the Philippines (1:42:31) and Willy Barbo (1:44:04) edging out Pax Guevarra (1:44:07), both of The Marianas. Finishing first for the women were Heather Brook (1:49:05) of The Marianas and Hyowoon Kim (1:52:18) and Ha Song (1:53:12) of Korea.

Other participating countries and territories were Russia, Ireland, Canada, and USA. The annual race was jointly organized by the MVA and Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) Cycling Federation.

“Hell of The Marianas is breath-taking, in more ways than one,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “It’s been a great opportunity to showcase some of the best nature scenes on Saipan. We were excited to see more of the bikers from prior years returning again this year.  Also, we’re grateful to our local community for helping to keep participants safe on the road. A great race we can all be proud of.”

Started in 2007, Hell of the Marianas challenges participants to a grueling course, including steep climbs and fast descents, making it a true test of endurance and skill.  The first part of the course traversed the more populated roadways in the southern half of the island, while the second half took participants along the forested scenic byways and beaches of Windward Rd. and the cultural and historical landscapes of northern Marpi.

Hell of The Marianas was sponsored by Tan Siu Lin Foundation, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, United Airlines, Hawaiian Rock Product, Saipan Bike Pro, Seman Law Offices, Latte Built, and Turnkey Solutions. The event was also supported by the Dept. of Public Safety, Div. of Parks & Recreation, Dept. of Public Works, Dept. of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and numerous other volunteers.

Hell of The Marianas is traditionally held on the first Saturday of December in Saipan, the capitol island in The Marianas accessible via direct flight from Tokyo, Seoul, and other major Asian cities.

Cyclists take off to take on the challenge of Hell of The Marianas century cycle in Saipan, The Marianas in Dec. 7, 2024. The race attracted 160 bikers from 10 countries and territories to take on 4,900 feet of ascents and descents.

 

 

Ocean, sky, and green hills frame a biker on the course for Hell of The Marianas century cycle on Dec. 7, 2024, in Saipan, The Marianas. The race attracted 160 bikers from 100 countries and territories to take on 4,900 feet of ascents and descents.

 

Bikers take on the 100K Hell of The Marianas on Dec. 7, 2024, in Saipan, The Marianas. The race attracted 160 bikers from 100 countries and territories to take on 4,900 feet of ascents and descents.

 

The forests of Marpi on Saipan are the last part of the course for Hell of The Marianas century cycle on Dec. 7, 2024, in Saipan, The Marianas. The race is an annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority.

Cyclists descend from the peak of Suicide Cliff during Hell of The Marianas on Dec. 7, 2024, in Saipan, The Marianas. The race attracted 160 bikers from 100 countries and territories to take on 4,900 feet of ascents and descents

 

CHRISTMAS IN THE MARIANAS CONTINUES THIS WEEKEND

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The Marianas Visitors Authority's (MVA) 20^th Annual Christmas in The Marianas returns for a final night on Saturday (Dec. 14) in Saipan with middle school and high school students bringing the spirit of the holidays to the main tourist district of Garapan.

On Tinian the MVA’s Christmas in The Marianas Variety Show will be held on Friday (Dec. 13) at the Fiesta Grounds beginning at 5 p.m. On Rota, island residents will have the opportunity to win cash prizes for the best decorated yard on (Friday) Dec. 13. A Christmas float parade will be held on Saturday (Dec. 14) at 5:30 p.m. from the Roundhouse in Songsong to Tun Kindo Baseball Field in Sinapalo.

“Last week was the start of a great celebration for the communities across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota and the festivities continue this weekend,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “We’ve lit up Paseo de Marianas with holiday lights and we invite everyone to come down for a final evening of fun and festivities with our students and to join the respective festivities in Rota and Tinian. Merry Christmas to all!”

School Christmas caroling at Paseo de Marianas kick off at 5 p.m.: Agape Christian School (5 p.m.), Dandan Middle School (5:15 p.m.), Tanapag Middle School (5:30 p.m.), Saipan Community School (5:45 p.m.), Admiral Hopwood Middle School (6 p.m.), Francisco M. Sablan Middle School (6:15 p.m.), Agape Christian School (6:45 p.m.), Saipan International School (7 p.m.), Grace Christian Academy (7:15 p.m.), Mt. Carmel School (7:30 p.m.), Marianas High School (7:30 p.m.), Marianas High School (7:45 p.m.), and Saipan Southern High School (8 p.m.).

A Christmas Costume Catwalk will be held at 8:15 p.m. Awards for schools with the best presentations will be awarded at 8:45 p.m.

Food vendors will be Yaya’s Baked Goods, Chagi Norf Kitchen, JTM Snack Bar, and Dae Jang Kum Restaurant.

Event sponsors include Tinian Diamond Hotel Casino & Restaurant, Friends of Paseo De Marianas and IShop.

For more information, contact lead event coordinator and MVA Community Projects Coordinator II Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.
 

 

The 20^th Annual Christmas in The Marianas kicked off on Dec. 7, 2024, in Garapan, Saipan. The annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority featuring school children performances will return on the evening of Dec. 14.

 

 

Students sing Christmas carols at the 20^th Annual Christmas in The Marianas on Dec. 7, 2024, in Garapan, Saipan. The annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority featuring school children performances will return on the evening of Dec. 14.

 

 

Students sing Christmas carols at the 20^th Annual Christmas in The Marianas on Dec. 7, 2024, in Garapan, Saipan. The annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority featuring school children performances will return on the evening of Dec. 14.

 

 

A pageant of Christmas Trees decorated by school children are on display at Paseo de Marianas in Garapan, Saipan, in The Marianas as part of the 20^th Annual Christmas in The Marianas organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority.

 

 

A pageant of Christmas Trees decorated by school children are on display at Paseo de Marianas in Garapan, Saipan, in The Marianas as part of the 20^th Annual Christmas in The Marianas organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority.

 

MTEC ENCOURAGES "PLANTING PEACE" TO AID TOURISM

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) visited three more schools in the last week, encouraging youth to appreciate the value of keeping The Marianas a peaceful community and travel destination.

“Planting Peace - Manånånum Pås- Ffóttol llol Tipiyeew” is the theme of this year’s outreach to students, a message shared with students at Garapan Elementary, Da’ok Academy, and the “Peacebuilders” of WSR Elementary.

“It’s a wonderful experience for the kids to know and understand where they come from and why people come to visit here,” said Jonathan Sanchez, a 4^th grade teacher at W.S.R. Elementary.

Students had the opportunity to learn about the Marianas tourism industry, what types of people visit the islands, why travelers choose The Marianas, what the role of the MVA is, and how students can support tourism.

The annual school outreach aims to engage 4^th graders, 7^th graders, and 10^th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver.

“I really enjoyed it. I got to learn a little bit about our tourism – how it helps our economy and how it brings people together and brings peace,” said Owen Quitugua of Da’ok Academy. “I would really like to put in more ideas on tourism, too, because I’m interested in helping.”

In an impromptu demonstration of marketing, Quitugua successfully convinced a majority of the class to choose his Magas brand t-shirt over a competitor’s during the presentation, a hands-on example of how The Marianas must also compete against other travel destinations.

MTEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is three-fold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the “Hafa Adai-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the island community. The organization is also preparing for its annual MTEC Tourism Summit with school MY WAVE Clubs in January 2025.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.

 

Students at Da’ok Academy receive a presentation about The Marianas tourism industry on Dec. 6, 2024, by Marianas Tourism Education Council and Marianas Visitors Authority at the school in Koblerville, Saipan.

 

 

4^th graders at Garapan Elementary School receive a presentation about The Marianas tourism industry on Dec. 4, 2024, by Marianas Tourism Education Council and Marianas Visitors Authority at the school in Garapan, Saipan.

 

ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AT CHRISTMAS IN THE MARIANAS ON DEC. 7
Paseo de Marianas Closed to Traffic at 8 a.m.

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - Elementary school students take the stage this Saturday (Dec. 7) to bring the spirit of the holidays to Saipan’s main tourist district at the 20th Annual Christmas in The Marianas in Garapan.

Festivities kick off with holiday music at 5 p.m. at Paseo de Marianas – which will be closed to vehicular traffic beginning at 8 a.m. that day until after the event.

“We invite everyone to head down to Paseo this weekend as we kick off the first of two Saturdays of Christmas in The Marianas this year,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “If you can, join us before 6 for the exciting Christmas Illumination Countdown starting at 5:55 p.m. – kids will love it. The Christmas string lights above the street, student-decorated Christmas trees, and palm trees on Beach Rd. bring the magic of Christmas to the island this holiday season for both visitors and residents, alike.”

School Christmas caroling and skits kick off right after the countdown: Mt. Carmel School (6 p.m.), Green Meadow School (6:15 p.m.), Kagman Elementary (6:30 p.m.), Saipan International School (6:45 p.m.), Grace Christian Academy (7:15 p.m.), Oleai Elementary (7:30 p.m.), San Vicente Elementary (7:45 p.m.), Brilliant Star School (8 p.m.), William S. Reyes Elementary (8:15 p.m.), and Koblerville Elementary (8:30 p.m.)

Food vendors will be Yaya’s Baked Goods, Chagi Norf Kitchen, JTM Snack Bar, and Dae Jang Kum Restaurant.

On Rota, the official Christmas Tree will be lit in Songsong village this Saturday (Dec. 7) at 7 p.m. Island residents will have the opportunity to win cash prizes for the best decorated yard on Dec. 13. A Christmas float parade will be held on Dec. 14 at 5:30 p.m. from the Roundhouse in Songsong to Tun Kindo Baseball Field in Sinapalo.

The Municipality of Tinian will have the lighting of its Christmas display at Veterans Park in San Jose this Friday (Dec. 6), and the MVA’s Christmas in The Marianas Variety Show will be held on Dec. 13, 2024, at the Fiesta Grounds beginning at 5 p.m. Christmas in The Marians will return to Paseo de Marianas in Saipan on Dec. 14 for a final night of festivities with middle and high school student performances.

Event sponsors include Tinian Diamond Hotel Casino & Restaurant, Friends of Paseo De Marianas and IShop.

For more information, contact lead event coordinator and MVA Community Projects Coordinator II Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.
 

SAFETY FIRST FOR 150+ BIKERS IN HELL OF THE MARIANAS ON DEC. 7

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - Tourism partners are putting safety first for the 155 bikers signed up for Saturday’s (Dec. 7) Hell of The Marianas century cycle in Saipan.

Ten countries and territories are represented in the pack, including the Netherlands, Russia, Ireland, USA, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Philippines, and The Marianas. The lineup includes the return of the 2023 race Professional Division winners, Ryohei Fujita and Rinichiro Shigeta of Japan for the men and Miso Kim of Korea for the women.

“It’s all systems ‘go’ and a nice weather forecast for Saturday, and bikers will be taking off from Marpi bright and early at 6 a.m.,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “We encourage all drivers to drive slowly, exercise caution, and obey all traffic officers along the route, heading from Marpi to Beach Rd. and down to Koblerville, through Papago to Windward Rd., down Capitol Hill to Suicide Cliff and back. Good luck, bikers!”

All dog owners along the route are reminded to tie or fence their pets on Saturday morning for the protection of bikers.

“It’s going to be a grueling three hours or more – a test of sheer physical and mental strength,” said Northern Mariana Islands Cycling Federation President Vince Seman. “Thank you to all our event sponsors and organizers for joining the federation and the MVA in making 2024 Hell of The Marianas possible. We invite everyone to come out and cheer for our bikers!”

The race is sponsored by TSL Foundation, Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan, United Airlines, Hawaiian Rock Product, Saipan Bike Pro, Seman Law Offices, Latte Built, and Turnkey Solutions. Event supporters are Department of Public Safety, Department of Public Works, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and Parks and Recreation.

The Hell of the Marianas features a 100-kilometer course that winds its way through Saipan’s hills, valleys, and scenic byways. Participants must navigate 4,900 feet of ascents, including steep climbs and fast descents, making it a true test of endurance and skill. The event is open to both amateur and professional riders.

For more information, contact NMI Cycling Federation President Vince Seman at [email protected].

 

FILE - Cyclists take on the challenge of Hell of The Marianas 2023 in Saipan, The Marianas in December 2023. Hell of The Marianas 2024 – featuring 100K and 50K courses – returns on Dec. 7, 2024, and is organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority and Northern Mariana Islands Cycling Federation.

MVA SETS CHRISTMAS IN THE MARIANAS EVENTS FOR TINIAN, ROTA

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - Spreading the holiday cheer across the archipelago, the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) will join the respective mayor’s offices to host a Christmas variety show in Tinian next month, as well as several events in Rota.

The Christmas in The Marianas Variety Show will be held on Dec. 13, 2024, at the Fiesta Grounds in San Jose, Tinian. Beginning at 5 p.m., revelers of all ages will present Christmas carols, dance performances and costumes throughout the evening. The best performances for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in each category will win cash prizes, and food vendors will be on hand to satisfy the appetite. Individuals and groups may register to participate by contact MVA Tinian Field Operations supervisor Vida Borja at [email protected] or 1.670.433.9365.

“In collaboration with the Marianas Visitors Authority, we are thrilled to invite you to this year's Holiday Variety Show, a wonderful opportunity to come together as a community and celebrate the festive season with joy and unity,” said Tinian Mayor Edwin Aldan. “This event is not just a showcase of diverse talent; it’s a celebration of the spirit that binds us all. I encourage everyone to join in the fun and support our talented young performers. Let’s make this holiday season a memorable one!”

On Rota, the official Christmas Tree will be lit in Songsong village on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. Island residents will have the opportunity to win cash prizes for the best decorated yard on Dec. 13. Cash prizes are $500 for 1st place, $300 for 2nd place, and $200 for 3rd place, with separate judging and prizes for three areas: Songsong, Sinapalo I, and Sinapalo II & III combined. A Christmas float parade will be held on Dec. 14 at 5:30 p.m. from the Roundhouse in Songsong to Tun Kindo Baseball Field in Sinapalo. Interested participants may register with the Rota Mayor’s Office at 1.670.322.9451.

“It’s a Marianas Christmas and the perfect season for a getaway to Tinian or Rota, especially during these festive events,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “With additional inter-island flight service, we expect more travelers will get to enjoy the special island-flavored Christmas of Tinian and Rota this holiday season.”

On Saipan, the MVA will host the 20th Annual Christmas in The Marianas in Saipan in collaboration with PDM Promoters, Team PDI, and local schools.

This year’s celebration will gather revelers from 5-9 p.m. on Dec. 7 & 14, 2024, in Garapan, Saipan, at Paseo de Marianas, which will be partially closed to vehicle traffic. Twenty public and private schools have signed up to share their holiday spirit with Christmas caroling, skits, and costumes. The festivities also will include a display of Christmas Trees featuring natural and recycled decorations made by schoolchildren will be staged for the public to enjoy. Festivities will kick off with a countdown to the lighting of the Christmas Trees on Dec. 7 at 5:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded on Dec. 14, 2024, to the top schools in various contests.

Sponsors include Tinian Diamond Hotel Casino & Restaurant and IShop.

For more information, contact lead event coordinator and MVA Community Projects Coordinator II Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.

 

FILE - Students perform at Christmas in The Marianas in December 2023. The 20th Annual Christmas in The Marianas celebration will be organized by Marianas Visitors Authority with numerous community events on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota.

  

MTEC, MVA VISIT KAGMAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) visited students at Kagman Elementary School on Wednesday (Nov. 20) with their message that “Tourism is Everybody’s Business.”

Students had the opportunity to learn about the Marianas tourism industry, what types of people visit the islands, why travelers choose The Marianas, what the role of the MVA is, and how students can support tourism.

“They informed our students on how they can help MVA in promoting our islands,” said 4th grade teacher Dorothy Santos. “I think it’s meaningful for them since they also experience when tourists come to our islands. Sometimes there are tourists that come to our school…they think it’s a park! They learned that they need to be kind.”

The annual school outreach aims to engage 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver.

MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos assisted with the presentation for the first time.

"I was amazed at how much knowledge the 4th grade classes had with regards to tourism,” said Santos. “All the students were excited and eager to learn more about what we do at the MVA. Overall, great participation from all the students."

MTEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is three-fold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the “Hafa Adai-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the island community. The organization is also preparing for its annual MTEC Tourism Summit with school MY WAVE Clubs in January 2025.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.

 

Students at Kagman Elementary School respond as Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos presented about The Marianas tourism industry on Nov. 20, 2024, at the school in Kagman, Saipan.

 

 

Students at Kagman Elementary School respond during a presentation about The Marianas tourism industry on Nov. 20, 2024, by Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority at the school in Kagman.

 

GARAPAN STREET MARKET REDUCES VENDOR FEES

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - To entice more vendors to the Garapan Street Market in Saipan, the Commonwealth Council for Arts & Culture (CCAC) has reduced its vendor fee to $50/night. Vendors must provide their own tents, tables, and chairs; electrical power is available for an additional $25/night. Garapan Street Market – featuring street food, arts and crafts, and other items - will resume on Dec. 5, 2024, at Paseo de Marianas on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. (the market will be cancelled on Dec. 12 and resume on Dec. 19). Interested vendors may contact CCAC at 670.322.9982 or contact CCAC Executive Director Gloriana Teuira at [email protected] to register by Nov. 27, 2024.

The Marianas is an archipelago of 14 islands - including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota - in the Western Pacific. The Marianas are home to indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people, as well as over 20 different ethnicities from around the world who live and work in this harmonious tropical paradise. Ancient latte stone limestone monoliths, traditional nature-based ocean navigation not reliant on modern technology, and a culture seasoned by East and West influences are just a few of the experiences found in The Marianas, where pristine sea, sand, and skies are only a 3–4-hour flight from major Asian gateway cities. From South Korea, Jeju Air and T’Way provide direct flights to Saipan from Seoul-Incheon. United Airlines flies three times a week from Tokyo-Narita, Japan, and daily from Guam. Hong Kong Airlines flies twice weekly from Hong Kong. Interisland travel between Saipan, Tinian, and Rota is provided by Star Marianas Air. For more information on The Marianas, visit www.mymarianas.com, Facebook/VisitTheMarianas, or Instagram @themarianas.

21st ANNUAL TINIAN HOT PEPPER FESTIVAL ON FEB. 14-15, 2025

Tinian, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The iconic Tinian Hot Pepper Festival returns to The Marianas for its 21st staging on Feb. 14-15, 2025, with food, fun, and flaming hot spiciness.

Festivities will include food sales, live entertainment, competitions, arts, and crafts sales, and more on the island of Tinian, a 10-minute commuter flight from the capitol island of Saipan. The festival, affectionately known as “Pika Fest” among locals (“pika” means spicy), pays homage to Tinian’s small but famous “donni’ sali” hot pepper.

“Tinian on President’s Day weekend is the place to be,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “How much fun can you pack into a weekend? An amazing beautiful island, friendly people, good food and drinks, live bands and dances, exciting contests, laid back vibe…and a touch of donni’ sali as the perfect seasoning. Hotel rooms are filling up fast so grab one today or pack your camping gear for an unforgettable Pika Fest in February!”

The festival will kick off on the evening of Feb. 14 and will continue on Feb. 15 in the evening. The event is organized by the MVA in cooperation with the Office of the Mayor of Tinian and Aguiguan and will once again be held at the Fiesta Grounds in San Jose, Tinian, adjacent to the picturesque Jones Beach and House of Taga, a U.S. National Historic Landmark featuring limestone monoliths carved by ancient Chamorros.

Free camping is available at Jones Beach, Taga Beach (toilets, barbecue pits, and outdoor showers available) and at the adjacent Tachogna Beach (barbecue pits, outdoor showers, and toilets are available). Hotel accommodations are provided by Tinian Ocean View, Tinian Diamond Hotel and Casino, Tinian Diamond Suites, Tinian Western Lodge Hotel, Lorilynn’s Hotel, Tinian Street Motel, Fleming Hotel, Green Lion House Hotel, Lucky Homes Hotel, and the Marpo Valley Inn.

For more information, contact Tinian Field Operations supervisor Vida Borja at [email protected], MVA Community Projects Coordinator Sherman Santos [email protected], or 1.670.433.9365 or the Tinian Mayor’s Office at 1.670.433.1802.
 

 

The Marianas is an archipelago of 14 islands - including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota - in the Western Pacific. The Marianas are home to indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people, as well as over 20 different ethnicities from around the world who live and work in this harmonious tropical paradise. Ancient latte stone limestone monoliths, traditional nature-based ocean navigation not reliant on modern technology, and a culture seasoned by East and West influences are just a few of the experiences found in The Marianas, where pristine sea, sand, and skies are only a 3–4-hour flight from major Asian gateway cities. From South Korea, Jeju Air and T’Way provide direct flights to Saipan from Seoul-Incheon. United Airlines flies three times a week from Tokyo-Narita, Japan, and daily from Guam. Hong Kong Airlines flies twice weekly from Hong Kong. Interisland travel between Saipan, Tinian, and Rota is provided by Star Marianas Air. For more information on The Marianas, visit www.mymarianas.com, Facebook/VisitTheMarianas, or Instagram @themarianas.

2023’S MISO KIM LOOKS FORWARD TO HELL OF THE MARIANAS 2024 Early Bird Registration Deadline on Nov. 23, 2024

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - Miso Kim of South Korea, the top finisher in the women’s division of last year’s Hell of the Marianas, is returning to Saipan next month for the grueling century cycle with her eye on another 1st place finish.

“I really want to win again this year,” said Kim. “Earlier this month, I won the women’s category at a four-day event in Korea, which I believe was excellent training for Hell of The Marianas coming up in about a month. I’ll keep preparing hard in the remaining time.”

One of the toughest cycling events in the Pacific region is set to return to The Marianas on Dec. 7, 2024, with the early bird registration deadline fast approaching on Saturday (Nov. 23). Last year the race attracted nearly 200 bikers from six countries and territories, taking on the challenging course under cooler but cloudy skies.

“Last year, it rained during the race, and I had a slip in the downhill and corner sections,” said Kim. “This year, I’ll focus on safety, especially on the downhills, and hope for clear weather this time.”

The Hell of the Marianas features a 100-kilometer course that winds its way through Saipan’s hills, valleys, and scenic byways. Participants must navigate 4,900 feet of ascents, including steep climbs and fast descents, making it a true test of endurance and skill. The event is open to both amateur and professional riders.

In addition to the course, Kim says one of her most memorable moments came after the finish line.

“The after-party following the race really stood out to me,” she said. “In Korea, races typically end with a simple awards ceremony at the venue and then wrap up. However, at Hell of The Marianas, we gathered in the evening after the race to look back at photos taken during the event and celebrate on the podium in various categories, which allowed many people to be recognized and congratulate each other. Last year, many Korean riders made it to the podium, which made me proud.”

Registration is open at www.hellofthemarianas.com. Prizes will be awarded to winners in various categories. Participants will also receive a race t-shirt and entry to the awards banquet.

“Hell of The Marianas is an important event for tourism and our local cycling community,” said MVA Community Projects Manager Martin Duenas. “We invite the community to take a moment along the course to cheer for our bikers, and we thank our many sponsors and supporting agencies for their support, including Department of Public Safety, Department of Public Works, Department of Fire and Emergency Medical Services, and Parks and Recreation.”

For more information, contact NMI Cycling Federation President Vince Seman at [email protected].

 

MVA JOINS WORLD TRAVEL MARKET Shares CNMI Tax Advantages

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - Casting a wider net to attract travel investors and visitors to The Marianas, the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) talked travel trade and CNMI tax structure at World Travel Market on Nov. 5-7, 2024, in London.

World Travel Market organizes six annual business to business events across six continents, creating opportunities for travel industry professionals to network and negotiate with exhibitors and fellow participants. In addition to sharing tourism information at The Marianas promotional booth, the MVA recruited the expertise of Managing Partner David Burger of Burger Comer & Associates to entice potential investors with the tax advantages available in The Marianas.

“World Travel Market is an opportunity for us to reach beyond our traditional source markets and meet with potential partners from the entire world. We were able to share details about our destination and what makes The Marianas an ideal place to visit and do business,” said MVA Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “In our B2B meetings, what we heard is that the European market is looking for new and exotic destinations. They love food, adventure, culture, history – and The Marianas offers all of that and more. We took advantage of the opportunity to share about our favorable tax structure and incentives like our qualifying tax certificate program administered by the Commonwealth Economic Development Authority, which are both great advantages to doing business in The Marianas.” 

The MVA also held individual meetings with travel agencies, tour operators, airlines, television programs, key opinion leaders and social media influencers during the event. Participation in World Travel Market was fully funded by a federal grant administered by the Northern Marianas Housing Corporation.

More than 4,040 global exhibitors from 184 countries and 46,316 individuals attended the event, with over 34,000 pre-scheduled meetings held.

 

Japan, Korea, and The Marianas were among more than 4,000 global exhibitors from 184 countries participating in Travel Market London on Nov. 5-7, 2024. The Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) MVA promoted The Marianas and its tax structure and qualifying certificate program to 46,316 attendees of the event.

The Marianas is an archipelago of 14 islands - including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota - in the Western Pacific. The Marianas are home to indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people, as well as over 20 different ethnicities from around the world who live and work in this harmonious tropical paradise. Ancient latte stone limestone monoliths, traditional nature-based ocean navigation not reliant on modern technology, and a culture seasoned by East and West influences are just a few of the experiences found in The Marianas, where pristine sea, sand, and skies are only a 3–4-hour flight from major Asian gateway cities. From South Korea, Jeju Air and T’Way provide direct flights to Saipan from Seoul-Incheon. United Airlines flies three times a week from Tokyo-Narita, Japan, and daily from Guam. Hong Kong Airlines flies twice weekly from Hong Kong. Interisland travel between Saipan, Tinian, and Rota is provided by Star Marianas Air. For more information on The Marianas, visit www.mymarianas.com, Facebook/VisitTheMarianas, or Instagram @themarianas.

MARIANAS VISITOR ARRIVALS AT 15,000 IN OCTOBER 2024

SSaipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - According to monthly statistics from the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), arrivals to the islands of Saipan, Tinian and Rota decreased 23% to 15,226 visitors in October 2024, compared to 19,731 visitors received in October 2023.

In October, visitor arrivals from South Korea registered 11,533, 30% lower than 16,374 visitors received in October 2023. The Marianas received 88 flights from Korea this October compared to 133 flights last year. The suspension of Asiana Airlines operations to Saipan since July, along with the planned suspension of Jeju Air's night flight starting on October 28, negatively affected arrivals. Also this year, the Chuseok holiday travel period took place in mid-September, while last year Chuseok occurred between September 29 and early October and National Foundation Day also fell in October. Furthermore, the shutdown of major Korean e-commerce platforms Tmon and WeMakePrice has continued to negatively affect overall outbound travel from Korea.

Visitor arrivals from Japan registered 595 in October 2024 compared to 375 visitors in October 2023, a 59% increase. While the desire to travel abroad is gradually recovering, the strong U.S. Dollar and weaker Japanese Yen continue to influence travelers to choose non-U.S. or domestic destinations, as well a continuing preference for domestic travel among Japanese travelers.

China arrivals in October 2024 reached 1,175 compared to 1,289 arrivals in October 2023, a decrease of 9%. Prior to the pandemic, China was the second largest source market of visitors to The Marianas with multiple direct flights a week from five cities. Hong Kong Airlines now flies twice weekly between Hong Kong and Saipan.

In October The Marianas also received 930 visitors from Guam, 554 visitors from USA, and a combined 439 visitors from all other markets.

 

 

The Marianas is an archipelago of 14 islands - including Saipan, Tinian, and Rota - in the Western Pacific. The Marianas are home to indigenous Chamorro and Carolinian people, as well as over 20 different ethnicities from around the world who live and work in this harmonious tropical paradise. Ancient latte stone limestone monoliths, traditional nature-based ocean navigation not reliant on modern technology, and a culture seasoned by East and West influences are just a few of the experiences found in The Marianas, where pristine sea, sand, and skies are only a 3–4-hour flight from major Asian gateway cities. From South Korea, Jeju Air and T’Way provide direct flights to Saipan from Seoul-Incheon. United Airlines flies three times a week from Tokyo-Narita, Japan, and daily from Guam. Hong Kong Airlines flies twice weekly from Hong Kong. Interisland travel between Saipan, Tinian, and Rota is provided by Star Marianas Air. For more information on The Marianas, visit www.mymarianas.com, Facebook/VisitTheMarianas, or Instagram @themarianas.

“HALITAI” SHARE TOURISM HIGHLIGHTS LEARNED

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Students of Hopwood Middle School were taught – and then successfully tested – about The Marianas tourism industry during an educational presentation by the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) on Nov. 6, 2024, at the school.

The annual school outreach aims to engage 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver. Following the presentation, several students volunteered to share various facts they had learned, including which country most visitors now come from, ways students can support tourism, the #1 activity visitors plan to do when visiting (enjoy nature), details of the ongoing MVA video contest “Show Us Your #MarianasAdventure,” and more.

"Today's presentation provided students with an opportunity to learn about tourism, gain insight into the current situation of the CNMI, and explore ways they can contribute to making the Marianas a top travel destination for future tourists,” said teacher Jonathan Sugatan.

The presentation also included an overview of the work the MVA, including marketing and its annual signature events such as Christmas in The Marianas next month, Rota Marathon in January, Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in February, and Saipan Marathon in March.

“It is important to educate our students on the importance of tourism to our islands and what ways they can contribute...by greeting our tourists showing the Håfa Adai and Tirow spirit, beautifying our beaches, and volunteering and participating in community events and projects,” said Monica Pangelinan, a 7th grade Chamorro Carolinian Language Heritage Studies teacher and long-time advisor for the school MY WAVE Club.

MTEC is a non-profit organization whose mission is three-fold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the “Hafa Ada-Tirow” hospitality spirit throughout the island community.

The organization is also preparing for its annual MTEC Tourism Summit with school MY WAVE Clubs in January 2025.

For more information, contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200/1.

 

Students at Hopwood Middle School respond during a presentation about The Marianas tourism industry on Nov. 6, 2024, by Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda, right. Aranda and representatives of the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) presented at the school in Chalan Piao, Saipan.

 

Students of Hopwood Middle School share what they’ve learned about The Marianas tourism industry on Nov. 6, 2024, as Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) Board Member Catherine Perry looks on. MTEC and the Marianas Visitors Authority presented at the school in Chalan Piao, Saipan.

PATA Micronesia Chapter 3rd Tri-Annual Meeting

Alii and Iokwe, Esteemed PATA Members!

We are excited to share some great news as we prepare for the PATA Micronesia Chapter 3rd Tri-Annual Meeting in Guam, USA, from December 9-12, 2024! Thanks to the dedication and support of our renewed members, we have secured exclusive travel discounts and special rates to make this event as accessible and enjoyable as possible.

A Special Thank You to Our Renewed Members

To our members who have already renewed their membership through 2024 – thank you! Your commitment to PATA and our mission to promote Micronesian tourism makes opportunities like these possible. We’re looking forward to seeing you in Guam and sharing this valuable experience together.

Exclusive United Airlines Discount

We’re thrilled to offer a 20% discount on United Airlines round trip economy fares for travel to Guam, available to all active members who have renewed for 2024. Here are the details:

• Reference Code: GC2402
• Applicable Markets: Saipan, Chuuk, Pohnpei, Kosrae, Majuro, Yap, Palau, Manila, and Honolulu to Guam.
• Travel Period: December 2 - December 19, 2024.
• Booking Information: Please book at least seven days prior to departure. Reservations can be made at United’s Airport Ticketing Office (ATO) or Guam City Ticket Office (CTO). For CTO bookings, email [email protected] with the subject: "PATA Micronesia Booking (GC2402) – [Your Full Name]".
• Stopover: One permitted for a $100 USD fee.
• Note: This discount excludes taxes and cannot be combined with other discounts.

Hotel & Car Rental Discounts

In addition to the airfare discount, we have arranged special rates at select hotels and for car rentals. These options are available only to renewed members, so please be sure to take advantage by confirming your membership! Details on these accommodations and car rentals are attached.

Not Yet Renewed? We’d Love to See You in Guam!

If you haven’t renewed yet, now is a great time to do so! By renewing your membership, you’ll not only receive these exclusive rates but also join us in strengthening the network of Micronesian tourism professionals. Let’s make this gathering in Guam an inspiring and impactful experience for everyone involved.

We are grateful for each of you and the unique perspective you bring to PATA. Let’s come together to celebrate our shared vision and create memories that reinforce our dedication to this beautiful region. If you have any questions or need assistance with membership renewal, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Looking forward to reconnecting with all of you in Guam!

MTEC ENGAGES STUDENTS WITH TOURISM TALKS

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Fresh off its kick-off of annual school presentations in Rota, the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) engaged students at three schools in Saipan on Oct. 31, 2024, with the message, “Tourism is Everybody’s Business.”

The annual outreach aims to engage 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver, how tourism impacts their lives, and ways students can support tourism even at a young age.  In addition to 4th graders, Oleai Elementary had 5th graders join the presentation, as well.

“Our kids need to understand the importance of tourism in our economy,” said school Principal Alisa Pangelinan, who also holds an A.A.S. degree in Hospitality Management from Northern Marianas College. “We start off these bright minds with the importance of tourism, and what we can also learn from the kids is, what’s trending…Tiktok, social media, different avenues to attract visitors.”

Students also had the opportunity to share their knowledge, thoughts, and opinions about tourism through the interactive presentation.

“The students will remember that there are so many ways that they can help our tourism industry,” said Teacher Christina Ruiz. “The MTEC presentation was great!”

The presentation also includes an overview of the work the MVA, including marketing and its annual signature events such as Christmas in The Marianas in December, Rota Marathon in January, Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in February, and Saipan Marathon in March.  Following Oleai Elementary, the outreach team engaged 7th graders at Dandan Middle School.

"Tourism is a way of presenting ourselves and our culture to the rest of the world in various ways to help our local economy,” said 7th grade teacher Jerry Bahillo.

Lastly, the MYWAVE Club of Saipan Southern High School welcomed the team over lunch in the school library.

“The MYWAVE Club has provided SSHS students with the opportunity to learn about the tourism industry through annual conferences, hotel tours, visits to historical sites, and service activities like beach cleanups, marathons, golf tournaments, airport and seaport greetings, and Christmas in the Marianas in partnership with the Marianas Visitors Authority,” said club advisor Rosalyn Ajoste, “We look forward to trying new activities that align with this year's focus on planting peace and fostering cross-cultural understanding.”

The outreach was led by MTEC Chairwoman Vicky Benavente, MTEC Board Member Catherine Perry, MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda, and MVA Community Projects Specialist Sherman Santos. 

MTEC is also preparing for its annual MTEC Tourism Summit with school MY WAVE Clubs in January 2025.

For more information or to donate to MTEC, contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200 for more information.

 

Students at Oleai Elementary School learn about The Marianas tourism industry on Oct. 30, 2024, from Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) Board Chairwoman Vicky Benavente, front left, and other representatives of MTEC and the Marianas Visitors Authority at the school in Oleai, Saipan.
 

 

Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) Board Member Catherine Perry engages students at Dandan Middle School with information about their role in The Marianas tourism industry on Oct. 30, 2024, at the school in Dandan, Saipan. The presentation was made jointly by MTEC and the Marianas Visitors Authority.
 

 

Students of Dandan Middle School Marianas are quizzed by Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda on Oct. 30, 2024, at the school in Dandan, Saipan. Following an educational presentation on The Marianas Tourism industry, the students were able to name how tourism benefits them, various careers in the industry, several signature events organized by the MVA, and ways they can support tourism.
 

 

Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda teaches about the work of the MVA at Dandan Middle School on Oct. 30, 2024, at the school in Dandan, Saipan. The MVA and the Marianas Tourism Education Council visited 7th graders at the school to share about the importance of tourism and how students can support the industry.
 

 

Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda teaches about the work of the MVA to Saipan Southern High MY WAVE Club on Oct. 30, 2024, at the school in Koblerville, Saipan. The MVA and the Marianas Tourism Education Council visited the school to share about the importance of tourism and how students can support the industry.

SAIPAN MARATHON 2025 EARLY BIRD DEADLINE ON OCT. 31, 2024

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The early bird registration deadline is today (Oct. 31) for Saipan Marathon 2025 slated for March 8 in The Marianas. Online registration is available at https://raceroster.com/events/2025/92790/saipan-marathon-2025.

An annual signature event of the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA), the race is a certified measured course by World Athletics in cooperation with AIMS (Association of International Marathons and Distance Races).  

“On par with other international marathons, this year Saipan Marathon has opened registration earlier than ever, and we are already receiving a number of local, regional, and international registrations,” said MVA Community Project Manager Martin Duenas.  “It’s a great race for great value – including our festive awards celebration, which is something not a lot of other marathons offer. We encourage everyone who is planning to join to not delay and get the best price by signing up by this Thursday (Oct. 31).

Early bird registration through Oct. 31, 2024, is $80 for the full marathon, $60 for the half marathon, and $50 for the 10K and 5K. For CNMI residents and U.S. military, the early bird rate is $60 for the full marathon, $50 for the half marathon, and $40 for the 10K and 5K. With valid photo ID, youth ages 18 or younger on March 5, 2025, may register for 10K or 5K for $35 through Oct. 31, 2024. However, full marathon participants must be age 16 or older. Half marathon participants must be age 14 or older.

Cash prizes will be awarded for top finishers and by age division. Participants will receive a Limited Edition Official Saipan Marathon T-shirt, official Saipan Marathon medal, Certificate of Completion and other giveaways.

Fees increase incrementally beginning on Nov. 1, 2024, and again on Feb. 1, 2025. The deadline to register is 5 p.m. ChST on March 5, 2025.

The event is co-organized by Northern Marianas Athletics (NMA) and is sanctioned under the Northern Marianas Athletics rules and regulations.

Saipan Marathon follows some of Saipan’s most scenic roadways, providing stunning views of the azure lagoon and lush mountains of the island. The course begins and ends at American Memorial Park in Garapan, and a half-way cut off point will be implemented.  The marathon was last held in March 2024 with participants from nine countries.

For more information, visit https://raceroster.com or www.mymarianas.com or contact MVA Community Projects Coordinator Ed Diaz at 1.670.664.3210 or communityprojects@mymarianas.com.

 

FILE - Runners pass through Marpi on the full marathon course in the Skechers Saipan Marathon 2024 in The Marianas. The early bird registration deadline is Oct. 31, 2024, for Saipan Marathon 2025 on March 8, 2025.

MVA SEEKS NEW TOURISM PARTNERSHIPS AT ITB ASIA

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – Alongside other tourism offices from around the world, the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) joined the leading travel trade show in Asia, ITB Asia, on Oct. 23-25, 2024, in Singapore. 

ITB Asia is an annual B2B trade show and convention for the travel industry designed to be the primary event for the Asia-Pacific travel industry, much like its parent event – ITB Berlin.

           With the theme “Making Connections and Grow Businesses, Together,” this year’s show attracted more than 18,500 attendees from 85 countries, including 1,950 exhibitors and 400 high-quality buyers representing destinations, airlines and airports, hotels and resorts, theme parks and attractions, inbound tour operators, cruise lines, spas, venues, other meeting facilities, travel technology companies, and more from across the world. The MVA had 57 pre-set and walk-in meetings with companies from Southeast Asia and other regions, including Japan, Hong Kong, China, Singapore, New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Philippines, Spain, Vietnam, Romania, Thailand, and Israel.

           “Every year ITB Asia attracts travel trade companies from around the region and the world to Singapore, creating an opportunity for the MVA to pitch our destination to many new potential tourism partners, as well as reinforce our existing partnerships. Now that we’ve introduced our product to them, we hope they will take steps to further explore investing in our destination,” said MVA Deputy Managing Director Judy C. Torres. “It was also an opportunity to learn about cutting-edge technology in promoting and selling travel destinations.”

           At The Marianas promotional booth, the MVA also shared general information about The Marianas and its tourist attractions with show attendees.

Over 160 leading industry figures shared industry content delivered through 100 sessions, focusing on the future of MICE, corporate travel, leisure travel, and travel technology. ITB Asia is co-located with MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia covering the key aspects of the travel industry such as Leisure, MICE, Corporate, and Travel Technology.

 

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Deputy Manager Director Judy Torres holds B2B meetings at ITB Asia – an annual B2B trade show and convention for the Asia-Pacific travel industry – on Oct.23-25, 2024, in Singapore. The MVA promoted tourism opportunities in The Marianas and met with potential tourism partners at the event.
 

 

The Marianas is featured on the front page of ITB News, the official daily news magazine of travel trade show ITB Asia 2024 Oct.23-25, 2024, in Singapore, where the Marianas Visitors Authority promoted tourism opportunities in The Marianas and met with potential tourism partners for the destination.

 

The Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) holds B2B meetings at ITB Asia – an annual B2B trade show and convention for the Asia-Pacific travel industry – on Oct.23-25, 2024, in Singapore. The MVA promoted tourism opportunities in The Marianas and met with potential tourism partners at the event.

MTEC SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS KICK OFF IN ROTA

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) – The Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) kicked off its annual school outreach on Friday (Oct. 25) at Rota public schools with a sponsorship offer for students who sign up to join the January 2025 Rota Marathon organized by the Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA).

MTEC and the MVA shared their message on the importance of tourism with students at Dr. Rita H. Inos Jr./Sr. High and Sinapalo Elementary. Throughout the presentation students also shared their knowledge of the Marianas tourism industry. MTEC also pledged to cover the registration costs of the first fifteen students who sign up at the MVA Rota office for the Rota Marathon 5K course by the early bird deadline on Thursday (Oct. 31).

“The MTEC Board is excited to partner with the young people youth of Rota with this event sponsorship,” said MTEC Board Chairwomen Vicky Benavente. “The Rota Marathon is a chance for the students to engage directly with the tourism and hospitality industry, the MVA, and visitors to their beautiful island. It’s a great way for them to experience first-hand that ‘tourism is everybody’s business,’ as we always say. And we know that many youths also volunteer, if they don’t run.”

MTEC’s annual school outreach - conducted alongside the MVA - aims to engage 4th graders, 7th graders, and 10th graders on Saipan, Tinian, and Rota with current information and activities highlighting The Marianas’ primary economic driver, how tourism impacts their lives, and ways students can support tourism even at a young age.
The presentation also includes an overview of the work the MVA, including marketing and its annual signature events such as Christmas in The Marianas in December, Rota Marathon in January, and Saipan Marathon in March.

The Rota schools were visited by MTEC Board Member Catherine Perry and MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda. Other MTEC Board members are Vice Chairman Glenn Policare (Kanoa Resort), Secretary Martin Duenas (MVA), Treasurer Larissa Larson, Dr. Galvin Guerrero (Northern Marianas College), Larry Lee, Naomi Nishimura (CNMI Public School System), Gordon Marciano (PDI), and Dr. Yunzi Zhang (Northern Marianas College).

For more information or to donate to MTEC, contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at [email protected] or 1.670.664.3200 for more information.
 

 

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda teaches about tourism at Dr. Rita H. Inos Jr./Sr. High School during the educational outreach presentation of the Marianas Tourism Education Council and MVA on Oct. 25, 2024, at the school in Songsong, Rota.

MVA JOINS ASIA DIVE EXPO JAPAN IN TOKYO

Saipan, Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) - The Marianas joined diving destinations from around the globe in promoting its world-class diving and other attractions at Asia Diving Expo (ADEX) Japan held Friday (Oct. 25) through Sunday (Oct. 27) in Tokyo.

ADEX is one of the largest and longest-running diving exhibitions in Asia and attracted an estimated 40,000 participants this year on its 30th anniversary. The three-day event presented diverse activities and attractions, including immersive dive experiences, interactive workshops, marine conservation talks, underwater photography and videography showcases, cutting-edge diving gear displays, and more.

“ADEX is a celebration of the ocean, and the diving attractions in Saipan, Tinian, Rota, and the Northern Islands are second to none in the world in that celebration,” said Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Managing Director Christopher A. Concepcion. “ADEX is an opportunity for The Marianas to showcase our award-winning offerings - cavern dive Grotto, snorkeling at Managaha, extraordinary dive instructors like Megumi Takaku of Blue Palms Dive Service Rota, and many more - that have been recognized throughout the years. With ADEX expanding to Japan for the first time this year, it was an excellent opportunity for the MVA to woo more Japanese divers and ocean-lovers to choose The Marianas as their next overseas travel destination. The dive industry has traditionally been a smaller but more lucrative and environmentally conscious market as they are known to be high spenders with a deeper commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental protection. For The Marianas, Japan has historically dominated this niche market since the founding of our tourism industry almost 50 years ago.”

Over 3,000 show attendees stopped by the MVA booth to get more information about The Marianas. In addition, the MVA conducted a promotional campaign for its Japanese Instagram account, gaining 1,100 new followers over the three-day event.

Direct 3-hour flights to Saipan from Tokyo-Narita are operated three times a week by United Airlines.