A gallary of pictures from the island of Pagan in hopes to spread more awareness of the beauty of the Northern Mariana Islands, specifically Pagan.
The latte stone represents the strength of our ancestors.
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Heres a picture of the active volcano on the island of Pagan. It was a pretty crazy experience living on the island for two weeks. More pictures to come..
A minuscule island littered with luscious coconot groves and pine tree forests, Pagan is apart of the unique island chain of the Northern Mariana Islands. Previously inhabited by local families from the southern island of Saipan, they were forced to be evacuated due to the rude awakenings of the northern volcano. Currently, there are a number persons that live on the Northern Mariana Islands Chain that live the stress-free life. This video compiles my last trip to Pagan which was the summer of 2010. I was apart of a research team to conduct a census on certain animals on the island. Currently, the military is interested in turning Pagan into a firing range. After viewing this video, ask yourself if this is what you want Pagan to be used for…. PEACE
I had some time to kill so I walked over to the ocean and noticed this view. A great contrast of colors. Today brought great weather which always contributes to productivity. Always appreciate good weather because when it rains, it pours.
Along the northern shoreline of the beautiful island of Rota, a freshwater swimming hole can be found that is protected by lush jungle and coral reefs. It seems as if its big tide pool. However, the pool’s looks are deceiving. Once you jump in and taste the water, you will know that the water is not 100% salt water. It is a great place to hang out with friends and family enjoying the warmth of the sun.
I found this beauty while my partner and I were exploring the back roads of Rota. We saw this hilitai from afar allowing myself to creep out of the car very slowly to snap a few shots. It’s yellow spotted skin helps camouflage the creature into the rootedness of the dense Rota jungle. The closer I approached, the more it proved to be a very shy and timid creatures. The hilitai is one of many creatures that can be find on the beautiful island of Rota.
The beautiful island Rota serves as a safe haven for various indigenous creatures of the Northern Mariana Islands. The humble Ayuyu, commonly known as the coconut crab, is one of many indigenous creatures that can be found on the island. There are a few common places to find this creature in its natural habitat. The easiest way to spot an Ayuyu is to take a stroll on the back road of Rota that connects the Song Song village to the Sinapalo village. It is a dirt road that is nested into the beautiful jungle that engulfs the limestone island. Be sure to take this journey at night due to their increased crab activity during this time of the day. Keep an eye out for the reflection of their eyes from the lights of your vehicle.
It is mind boggling to think how these ancient megaliths were excavated and transported to this latte site. When in the presence of such remarkable accomplishments of the ancient chamorro culture, I always ponder what the ancient chamorro society was like. Would I fit in? Where would my role be in regards to being a hunter, a gatherer, a craftsmen, a farmer, etc? As time continues to tick, there will always be a sense of curiosity and amazement when it comes to our ancient Chamorro roots.
Only one latte stone sits erected since the time of the ancient Chamorros who occupied the Mariana Islands. Prior to the war ( WWII), there were several sets of latte sites that could be found on this part of the island of Tinian. Either during or after the war, the other tasa and haligi that surrounded this particular site were removed. In my opinion, I think it was to reconstruct the area to be commercial friendly in regards to infrastructure of the island. Once the United States of America established control over the Northern Mariana Islands, they quickly utilized the islands to become one of the most significant air bases during the war.
I recently made a trip to the island of Tinian for the annual Pika Festival. This festival showcases the notorious donne’, or hot pepper, that is known for its intense spicy flavor. You can find Tinian Hot Pepper in stores. However, the best Tinian Donne’ you can find are from the local families who make the concoction by hand. I managed to take a stroll to the House of Taga. It is always a great feeling to be surrounded by megaliths made by Ancient Chamorros. Not only will you be in awe, you will appreciate the strength of the culture by creating your own hypothesis on how these megaliths were excavated and constructed. If your ever on the island of Tinian, be sure to take a few minutes and appreciate this Chamorro Heritage site.