Search flights to Northern Mariana Islands

The Northern Mariana Islands located in the North Pacific Ocean, consists of 14 islands situated in the Western Pacific Ocean. Officially known as the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, it is located north of the equator. The country, formerly known as the Ladrone Islands, is 2400 km east of the Philippines.
Initially discovered by Ferdinand Magellan, the Northern Mariana Islands were first settled by the Spanish. At that time, commonly known as a meeting place for pirates, the Spaniards referred to it as the "Thieves' Islands." In 1667, Queen Mariana of Spain sent Christian missionaries to the island. Subsequently named the Marianas, the country fell under the control of various countries over time and was occupied by Japan during World War II. However, on November 3, 1986, it officially became a territory of the United States. The capital and significant city, Saipan, along with other important cities such as Guam, Tinian, Bases, and Rota, form part of the Northern Mariana Islands.
With an estimated population of around 50,000 in 2021, the Northern Mariana Islands are home to ethnic groups such as Asians, Pacific Islanders, Caucasians, and mixed-race individuals. The country, consisting of 15 islands and 4 local governments, has a majority of its population speaking Filipino languages, Chinese, English, other Pacific Island dialects, and various languages. Agriculture, oil refineries, breweries, livestock, fishing, and similar sectors contribute significantly to the economy. Agriculture, the primary source of income, involves products like coconut, cotton, sugarcane, rice, corn, tobacco, coffee, watermelon, breadfruit, cassava, sweet potato, pandanus, banana, various vegetables, and fruits. Additionally, the country is known for exporting small livestock, fish, seafood, ornamental plants, cattle, and pigs.
Tourism plays a crucial role in the Northern Mariana Islands, with a vast coastline attracting visitors. Supported by the United States, the country's economy relies heavily on the tourism sector. Major ports are located in the significant cities of Tinian and Saipan, while the city of Bases is considered the capital of the island economy. The tropical maritime climate results in a dry season from December to June and a rainy season from July to October. Active volcanoes in Pagan and Agrihan, and typhoons from August to November, pose serious challenges in the country.
Festivals and events in the Northern Mariana Islands garner significant interest from both the local population and tourists. Some popular festivals include the Tinian Hot Pepper Festival in February, the Marianas Cup Beach Volleyball Festival in February, the Sweet Potato Festival in March, the Marianas Winds Kite Festival, the Annual Saipan Laguna Regatta, the Annual Tagaman Triathlon, the Mahi Fishing Derby in April, Annual Flame Tree Arts Festival, San Vicente Fiesta Saipan, Taste of the Marianas International Food Festival and Beer Garden in May, San Antonio Festival in June, Micronesian Cup and Rota!s Fiesta in October, and Walk in the Marianas in December. Additionally, the Liberation Day Festival on July 4th is celebrated with great enthusiasm.
Positioned between Hawaii and the Philippines, the traditional cuisine of the Northern Mariana Islands reflects the cultural characteristics of both countries. Considering the climate and location, the country's cuisine includes delicious and exotic fruits such as papaya, mango, pineapple, and coconut. The diverse seafood offerings in Northern Mariana Islands cuisine, along with dishes made from special coconut water and oil, are particularly popular.
Some well-known local specialties include "whale's meat," Spanish-inspired "savory empanada," Filipino dish panuit, kelaguen cooked with citric acid, tinaktak - a coconut milk-cooked meat dish, and kadu fanihi. The Northern Mariana cuisine also bears influences from Chamorro, Carolinian, Chinese, American, Thai, and Korean culinary traditions, representing a blended version of all countries located in the Pacific Islands.