Day 3. This time, Molly leads the morning ritual. I meet the group at 9:00am to begin our day of cultural immersion!
Molly leads the ritual.
We pile into the van and head to my favorite spot to introduce guests: Forbidden Island!
At the lookout spot, I share the cultural significance of Forbidden Island (you’ll have to take my tour to hear me explain it!).
A moment of silence to show reverence for the sacred site.
“Over hill, over dale…”
A pause to enjoy the scenery (one of many)
Stunning beauty
Rappelling is probably second nature for this group
Aidan the Explorer
Molly on the rocks
The Intrepid nine
On our way to the secret cave
Note to self: Perhaps I should learn how to swim…
Having fun!
Back from the secret cave
On the way back up
After a brief stop at Lau Lau Bay Golf Course, we head back to Susupe to meet up with John Castro, Canoe Program Coordinator of the Seafaring Traditions Program under the Commonwealth Council for Arts & Culture.
John S. Castro-Mames welcomes the group
Tony Piailug (Master Canoe Carver and a Master Navigator)
Tony is a recent recipient of the Governor’s Humanities Award for Preservation of Traditional Cultural Practices
John shares the Seafaring Traditions program mission and goals
…and takes tons of questions
…and more questions
Can’t have a cultural experience without food! Pat Calvo, his wife Mel, and staff member Marissa of Kim’s Food Court & Snack Bar, share Chamorro cuisine. On the menu: Chicken, yellow rice, taro, fried breadfruit and more!
Catering by Kim’s Food Court & Snack Bar; left side: Marissa, Mel & Pat
Enjoying Chamorro-style cuisine
Aldwin from the Saipan Tribune interviews group member
Aldwin & Me
Pat shares local lore, history and culture with Molly
Aidan receives guidance from Orlando, a trades helper
Sydney gathers info for the next day’s adventure
And that was how Day 3 was spent! Members of the group decided to enjoy Saipan’s beach and calm waters for the rest of the evening!
Micro Beach redux