Saipan

Saipan is the largest island of the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI), an unincorporated territory of the United States in the western Pacific Ocean.

The American Memorial Park Visitor Centre and World War II Exhibit Hall gives good descriptions of the historic Battle for Saipan.

Take a look at the chief landmarks of the horrific battle - the invasion beaches, Suicide and Banzai cliffs, where Japanese families and soldiers jumped to their deaths and the Last Command Post, a cave where the Japanese readied themselves for their last push against American forces.

A very popular tourist attraction is a submarine ride in Tanapag Lagoon. It has been designed with large viewing ports for full access to the area's tropical fish and wartime wrecks.

Several diving sites lay just off of Saipan, attractions include WWII wrecks, beautiful reefs, wall and cavern dives and a variety of marine.

For golfers, Saipan boasts five golf courses, known for their impressive scenery and remarkable challenges.

Try your hand in one of the island's many poker houses. Poker machines are big business in the Islands and can be found in virtually every village.

Popular beaches include Lau Lau, palm-lined Obyan, which looks across to Tinian Island and Blue Grotto, an ocean cave.

Shopping opportunities include the American Memorial Park, which has a wide selection of books, DVD's and logo-type shirts.

Chicken kelaguen is an island speciality, it’s barbecued chicken breast served with freshly grated coconut, onion leaves and hot peppers. You’ll also find Chinese, Korean, Thai and Japanese restaurants.

Ships dock at a commercial pier, which is tightly regulated by security personnel. There are no tourist facilities here.

There may be a few metered taxis available at the port.

Cruiselines often run complimentary shuttles into Garapan, the island's main commercial area.

It's about a 30 minute walk to the main shopping district and the nearby popular Micro Beach with lots of facilities and watersports.

Car hire is also an option.