Preface Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:13 PM
Comprising over a thousand flat coral islands of white sand
beaches and turquoise lagoons, the Republic of the Marshall Islands
beckons visitors with all the promise of a tropical paradise. There
are pristine diving and lush tropical greenery, and the Marshallese
people retain many of their pre-colonial crafts and traditions,
especially on the outer islands. You can still watch outrigger
canoes zipping around the lagoons, though these days you are as
likely as not to find a VCR in that little grass shack and Coke
replacing coconut juice as the drink of choice of many islanders.
Marshallese society has always been stratified, and despite
increasing Westernization and the introduction of a moneyed economy,
social status still comes as much from one's kinship as it does from
one's own achievements. Chiefs continue to wield a great deal of
authority over land ownership and usage.
In travels between the islands, early inhabitants learned to read
the patterns of the waves and the positions of the stars, and they
made stick charts to record and pass on their observations to less
experienced navigators. By tying flat strips of wood together in
imitation of the wave patterns and attaching cowry shells to the
sticks to represent particular islands and atolls, the experienced
navigator could memorize the patterns for when he was out at sea—the
charts were not actually taken on the journeys.
The first Micronesian navigators arrived in the Marshall Islands
sometime between 500 and 2000 B.C.E. Little is known of their origin
or culture.
In 1494 Micronesia was ceded to Spain. The Marshall Islands,
however, were off the main trade routes and consequently received
little attention from early European explorers. In 1525, Alonso de
Salazar of Spain became the first European to sight the islands, but
Spain did nothing to colonize them. After another 200 years devoid
of Europeans, the islands received a visit from English captain John
Marshall (from whom they later took their name) in 1788.
Traders and whalers began to visit the islands en masse in the
early 1800s, until encounters with the “friendly” native Marshallese
began to turn sour. Ship after ship putting into port at various
atolls in the Marshalls quickly weighed anchor after the death of
their captain or crew members.
Germany annexed the Marshalls in 1885 but did not place
government officials on the islands until 1906, leaving island
affairs to a group of powerful German trading companies. Japan took
over in 1914 and colonized the Marshalls extensively. Following
World War II, the Marshall Islands became part of the U.N. Trust
Territory of the Pacific Islands, administered by the United States.
In 1973 the Marshall Islands withdrew from the Congress of
Micronesia, seeking political independence. In 1979, the Marshalls'
constitution became effective.
The flipside to the paradise picture is that many of the
Marshallese still struggle with the effects of 20th century
technology. Two atolls—the Bikini Atoll in particular—served as
testing sites for atomic bombs through 1958. And yet, despite these
hardships, you will find the Marshallese exceptionally welcoming and
their culture and identity alive and well.
The Host Country
Area, Geography, and Climate Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:15 PM
The Marshall Islands are located in the eastern part of the
geographic region known as Micronesia, or “Little Islands,” a myriad
of more than 2,100 coral atolls and volcanic islands scattered
across 3 million square miles of the western Pacific Ocean.
The Marshall Islands lay between latitude 4-14°N and longitude
160-173°E. The 29 coral atolls and 5 single islands of the Marshall
Islands form two parallel groups extending northwest and southeast —
the Ratak (“Sunrise”) Chain and Ralik (“Sunset”) chain. Total land
area of all of the Marshall Islands is 70 square miles. Marine
resources are abundant, but poor soil provides little opportunity
for agriculture, except for the harvesting and drying of coconut
meat into copra, the major revenue opportunity for outer islanders.
Handicraft is another revenue generating source for the outer island
people.
Each atoll is a cluster of small, low lying islands, none more
than a few meters above sea level, circling a lagoon. The
development of a coral atoll begins with coral growth around the
edge of a high, often volcanic mountain. Growth continues as the
mountain slowly sinks beneath the sea, leaving behind a circular
reef that grows into small islands, islets, and open reef
surrounding a lagoon.
Most atolls have free flowing water across most of the reef, with
one or two openings for boats to enter the lagoon. The islands of
most atolls are not contiguous, with stretches of open reef
extending for miles between islands. As the distances between
islands in an atoll can be many miles, travel from island to island
within an atoll can be difficult.
The capital of the Marshall Islands is Majuro, which lies 2,300
miles southwest of Honolulu and nearly 2,000 miles southeast of
Guam. Majuro lies west of the international dateline, making it 17
hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time.
Linking the islands of the southern side of Majuro Atoll runs one
of the longest paved roads in Micronesia, the islands having been
artificially joined over the years by a 32-mile continuous road.
The climate of the Marshall Islands is tropical, with high
humidity, and an average year round temperature of 81°F. Trade winds
pick up in October or November and blow strongly from January
through April, with winds varying from 12 to 22 knots. The trades,
often bringing overcast skies, have a cooling effect, although the
lagoon can become rough, compared to the placid days of glassy
water, so frequent in summer.
Typhoon (tropical hurricane) season is from December through
March. Tropical depressions form in the Marshall Islands and
increase to typhoon strength as they move further west with the
prevailing trade winds, making the Marshall Islands less susceptible
to a full strength typhoon than most islands in the Pacific.
In Majuro, January, February, and March are traditionally the
driest months, with rainfall averaging 6–8 inches a month. September
through December are the wettest months, with 12-14 inches of
average monthly rainfall. The temperature remains stable year round,
averaging 84°F in the day and 76°F at night.
The Marshall Islands enjoy clean air, clear ocean water,
sunshine, and adequate amounts of rainfall, with the exception of
the heavily populated areas of Majuro and Ebeye, where city living
has taken its toll on the environment. Water shortages occur at any
time when rainfall has been below normal, but in Majuro, shortages
will occur most toward the end of the dry season in March. The
situation on Ebeye is sometimes even worse because of less rainfall
and much smaller water storage capacity. The northern islands and
atolls of the Marshall Islands receive less rainfall than the
southern islands and atolls. The use of water catchment devices is
being promoted throughout the Marshall Islands. The outer islands
rely more on a subsistence economy, occasionally experiencing food
shortages due to seasonal variations.
Population Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:17 PM
An ethnically homogeneous population of Marshallese lives in the
Marshall Islands, whose origins, as determined through research of
the language, appear to be in the Malayo-Indonesian area. The
population shares a single language and culture, with some dialect
and sub-cultural differences between the two island chains.
The total population of the Marshall Islands as of the 2004
census was 52,500 people. That was a decrease of 3,450 people since
the 2003 census, due to migration. Majuro and Ebeye are the two
urban population centers. Over 50% of the Marshallese people live on
Majuro Atoll. Out of the total population, 22% live on the island of
Ebeye in the Kwajalein Atoll and 3% on the outer islands of the
Kwajalein Atoll. With just 0.14 square miles of land area, Ebeye
Island is the most densely populated area in the Marshall Islands,
with an equivalent population density of 66,750 persons per square
mile. The islands of Majuro and Ebeye offer amenities, such as
electricity, modern Western lifestyles, and employment opportunities
(albeit limited) that continually draw younger Marshallese from the
outer islands. On the outer atolls the lifestyle is mostly unchanged
and untouched by modern development, although the outer atoll people
are increasingly dependent on shipments of rice and other food
staples from Majuro.
Fewer than 3% of the populations are foreigners. Countries other
than the U.S. are beginning to send diplomatic representatives to
the Marshall Islands. Taiwan and Japan have embassies on Majuro.
The Marshall Islands is a young population, where 43% of the
population is under 15 years of age and 15% is under 5. The working
age group of 15 to 65 years old is 55% of the population. The
population has doubled in the last 26 years.
The urban areas of the Marshall Islands, where lifestyles move
away from the traditional culture, are experiencing increasingly
severe problems with youth suicide, alcoholism, sexually transmitted
diseases, juvenile delinquency, a higher degree of criminal
activities, teenage pregnancies, and disregard of parental
influence.
The social structure in the Marshall Islands is based on
membership in a “bwij,” a system of extended families or small
clans. All members of the bwij work together for the common good,
sharing food, housing, property, and resources. The leader of a bwij
is the “alap,”who acts as manager. Each bwij forms part of a larger
group, led by an “iroij,” or chief. It is traditionally the chief's
responsibility to allocate resources among all his people and to
resolve disputes.
Land is a scarce resource in the Marshall Islands and forms an
important base for the establishment of social structure.
Marshallese own all land; none may be sold to foreigners, although
it may be leased to foreigners if all those holding an interest in
the land agree. The RMI Government does not own any land but leases
what it needs from various landowners. Ownership of land defines
social status and family identity. Land rights are inherited through
membership in a bwij, which is determined through the female line.
Inheritance of titles is also matrilineal.
The traditional Marshallese method of dividing property, crops or
catch, and income is one third for the iroij, one third for the alap,
and one-third for “dri jerbal,”or common people who make up the bwij.
This customary method of allocation is now creating social,
economic, and legal difficulties within Marshallese society, as the
country becomes increasingly Westernized and moves from a
subsistence economy to a money economy. Major disputes arise over
land ownership titles as they command not only great prestige, but,
with the advent of U.S. aid and lease payments, great wealth as
well.
The Marshallese has a relaxed and casual attitude to life and
informal dress is normal. Marshallese have strong family
relationships, and thus, family needs and desires take precedence
over non family matters. Most Marshallese can expect family or
extended family support at any time. This social network allows
relatives from the outer islands, whether invited or not, to join
family members on Ebeye or Majuro, and be assured of a home and
food, even if the newcomer does not plan to work or make a
contribution to the host family. Many young people prefer the
U.S.-influenced lifestyles of Majuro and Ebeye to the remote and
quiet living of an outer island. As the population density of both
centers increases, there are no indications that this trend will
change in the future. It is estimated that there are approximately
15,000 Marshallese living in the United States and more leave for
the U.S. every day. Under the Compact of Free Association between
the U.S. and the RMI, native Marshallese citizens are allowed to
live and work in the U.S. at will.
Public Institutions Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:23 PM
The Marshall Islands were claimed by Spain in 1592, but were left
undisturbed by the Spanish Empire for 300 years. In 1885, Germany
took over the administration of the Marshall Islands and located
trading stations on the islands of Jaluit and Ebon to pursue the
flourishing copra (dried coconut meat) trade. Marshallese High
Chiefs continued to rule under indirect colonial German
administration.
At the beginning of World War I, Japan assumed control of the
Marshall Islands, first under civil and later naval administration.
Their headquarters remained on Jaluit.
In early 1944, U.S. Marines and Army troops with naval air
support took control from the Japanese following intense fighting on
Kwajalein and Enewetak Atolls. In 1947, the U.S. as the occupying
power entered into an agreement with the U.N. Security Council to
administer the Micronesia area as the “Strategic Trust Territory of
the Pacific Islands.” The area included what is now the Republic of
the Marshall Islands, the Federated States of Micronesia, the
Republic of Palau, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas.
During the lengthy negotiations leading to the present political
entities, the various peoples voted to pursue their separate courses
rather than join as one country.
On May 1, 1979, the U.S. extended recognition both to the
Constitution of the Marshall Islands, a document that incorporates
both American and British constitutional concepts, and to the
establishment of the Government of the Marshall Islands.
After 13 years of negotiation, on June 25, 1983, the Government
of the Marshall Islands and the Government of the U.S. signed the
Compact of Free Association. The people of the Marshall Islands
approved the Compact in a U.S.-observed plebiscite on September 7,
1983. The U.S. Congress subsequently reviewed the Compact and
included several amendments that were accepted by the Government of
the Marshall Islands. President Reagan signed the compact into law
on January 14, 1986. The Compact entered into force in the Marshall
Islands on October 21, 1986. The UN voted to terminate the
trusteeship with respect to the Marshall Islands and the Federated
States of Micronesia in December 1990.
The status of free association recognized the Republic of the
Marshall Islands as a self-governing state with the capacity to
conduct foreign affairs consistent with the terms of the Compact.
The Compact places full responsibility for defense of the
Marshall Islands with the U.S. The basic relationship of free
association continues indefinitely, while the economic and defense
provisions of the Compact are subject to renegotiating at the end of
15 years. Congress provides most of the Compact funding through the
U.S. Department of the Interior.
A major subsidiary agreement of the Compact allows the U.S.
continued use of the U.S. Army installation at Kwajalein, an atoll
consisting of 90 islets around the largest lagoon in the world. The
U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) uses the facility on a lease
agreement with the Government of the Marshall Islands. DOD controls
11 islands within the Kwajalein Atoll.
Another major agreement of the Compact provides for settlement of
all claims arising out of the nuclear testing programs that the U.S.
conducted at Bikini and Enewetak Atolls from 1946 to 1958.
The legislative branch of the government is made up of the
Nitijela (Parliament) with an advisory Council of Iroij (high
chiefs). The Nitijela has 33 members from 25 districts that are
elected for concurrent 4 year terms. Members of the Nitijela hold
the title of Senator.
The executive branch is under the leadership of the President,
who is elected by the Nitijela from among its membership. The
President selects the members of his cabinet from the Nitijela
membership. The first president of the republic was elected in 1979.
The Marshall Islands has four court systems: the Supreme Court,
High Court, District and Community Courts, and the Traditional
Rights Court. Most trial cases are heard before a judge. Jury trial
is used only in unusual circumstances because of the difficulty in
finding unbiased jurors within such a small population. Jurisdiction
of the Traditional Rights Court is limited to cases involving
titles, land rights, or other disputes arising from customary law
and traditional practices. The Council of Iroij, representing
traditional authority, advises the Cabinet on matters concerning
customary law.
Arts, Science, and Education Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:23 PM
The Marshall Islands has 77 public elementary schools and five
public secondary schools. There are 26 private elementary schools
and 13 private secondary schools. In 2004, 73.2% of elementary
school age children and 43.8% of the secondary school age children
attended classes.
Test scores reveal that the education system needs to be
improved. Though there is a 19 to 1 ratio of students to teachers,
the quality of education is of great concern. Nearly half of the
teachers in the Marshall Islands have only a secondary school
diploma as their highest qualification. Scores on the entrance tests
to the College of the Marshall Islands (CMI) in February 2000
required 73% of those applying to take remedial training of up to 2
years before being allowed to enroll in traditional college credit
courses. CMI provides 2-year degree programs in liberal arts and
sciences, teacher education, nursing and allied health, business and
computer science, and vocational and occupational education and
training. Remedial programs are available to prepare students to
enter CMI's degree programs, and it has an adult education program
to provide an opportunity for obtaining a high school diploma. The
University of the South Pacific (USP) provides post-secondary
education through extension programs in Majuro. Students are able to
complete full majors and degrees without having to attend classes on
USP campuses.
The Marshall Islands women are respected throughout Micronesia
for the quality of the woven handicrafts they produce from coconut
and pandanus fibers. Intricate and delicate baskets are decorated
with many small shells; fans, mats, belts, handbags, and hats are
woven to be decorative as well as practical. Most of the weaving is
done by women on the outer islands who ship their goods to Majuro
for sale at local handicraft stores. Men carve and assemble small
replicas of the wooden sailing canoes that were once the only means
of travel in the Marshall Islands. They also make modern stick
charts, illustrating the principles of wave shape and change, which
were used by Marshallese navigators to travel throughout the island
chains.
The Marshallese have an oral tradition of song and legend, which
is closely held and not shared with foreigners. With the increasing
move toward a Western society, many fear that much of this tradition
will soon be lost.
The Alele Museum is a private, nonprofit corporation that
operates a small museum with photos and objects of traditional
Marshallese culture and history. It has an extensive microfilm
inventory of documents relating to the history of the Marshall
Islands and the Trust Territories. It actively encourages
preservation and documentation of the Marshallese cultural heritage.
A Marshallese festive occasion always includes a song or two,
sung by men and women in harmony, sometimes a cappella, sometimes
with a ukulele. As individuals, the Marshallese people are quiet and
somewhat reticent, but they will spontaneously form a group and give
an enthusiastic vocal performance at almost any event.
The “jepta” dancing performed by groups of youth and adults at
their respective churches highlights the Christmas celebration. A
month of late night practices culminates in Christmas night dancing,
each group in their own costume, and performing variations of
traditional dances.
Commerce and Industry Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:25 PM
The government is the largest employer in the country, employing
about one third of the workforce. The gross domestic product is
derived mainly from U.S. funded expenditures. Direct U.S. aid under
the Compact of Free Association accounts for two-thirds of the
Marshall Islands' 2006 budget of US$ 146 million.
Per capita gross domestic product during 2004 was about US$1,957,
a figure that helps us to understand the standard of living. The
economy is a mixture of a small subsistence sector and a modern
urban sector. The modern sector is largely a service oriented
economy located on Majuro and Ebeye, primarily sustained by
expenditures of the Marshall Islands Government and the U.S. Army
installation at Kwajalein Atoll (USAKA). Wages, salaries, and other
benefits to employees from these two sectors accounted for more than
half of the gross domestic product in 2004.
The modern private sector consists of wholesale and retail trade,
restaurants, banking and insurance, construction and repair
services, professional services, and a small amount of copra
processing. Despite its small size, however, copra cake, soap and
copra oil are by far the largest exports, standing at US$1 million
in 2004. The Marshall Islands have 22,000 acres of coconut
plantations, and copra production has been the most important single
commercial economic activity for the past hundred years.
Unfortunately, the world market for coconut oil is currently in
decline and diminishes the value of the Marshall Islands' largest
export commodity.
The minimum wage is US$2 an hour, which places the Marshall
Islands at a competitive disadvantage vis-à-vis its potential
Pacific and East Asian competitors. Skilled workers are few. The
U.S. dollar is the official currency.
Outer islanders in an otherwise subsistence economy make copra
and weave handicrafts as their sole source of income. These limited
revenues fund what few items they can afford, such as food, soap,
lantern fuel, and clothing. Most imports are consumed on Majuro and
Ebeye.
Agriculture, marine resources, and tourism are top government
development priorities. The Marshall Islands has no large-scale
fishing operations. Sale of fishing rights to the Japanese,
Taiwanese, and Koreans is a source of income, and the Marshall
Islands is the recipient of aid, particularly from Japan to ensure
the continuation of these rights. The U.S. and Japan are the
Marshall Islands' major trading partners; retail trade with
Australia and New Zealand is increasing. The Marshall Islands
receives additional aid from the Governments of Australia and
Taiwan.
Transportation
Automobiles Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:26 PM
Majuro enjoys one of the longest paved road systems in all of
Micronesia: from Rita, at the eastern end of Majuro Atoll, to Laura,
the village on the far western end, a distance of about 30 miles.
The island is so narrow that when driving the length of the island
there are very few places where you are unable to see the lagoon and
ocean at the same time. There are no street names and no addresses.
As is typical in small towns all over the world, locations are
identified by their occupant, their former occupant, or the nearest
landmark. There are very few traffic signs, and there are no
stoplights. Local police are working hard to enforce good driving
habits but almost anyone who pays the fee required can acquire a
driver’s license. Drivers must be extra cautious as children and
animals dart into the street day and night. There are no sidewalks,
so the narrow roads are shared with pedestrians, and one must be
alert as people and cars seem to come out of nowhere. Because there
are so many vehicles, traffic is becoming a problem especially in
the mornings, at noon, and at 5 o'clock. The speed limit in most
areas is 25 mph, but at times it's impossible to maintain even that
rate of speed.
Gasoline costs about twice as much as in the U.S. The Embassy has
a special duty-free gasoline charge account with a downtown station
that removes the import tax before billing so Embassy personnel get
a little break.
Taxis are the main means of transportation for the Marshallese
people. A person can ride in one direction anywhere from the end of
Rita to the bridge (approximately 7 miles) for $1.00. If a person
were to travel from Rita to Long Island (at the other side of the
bridge) the charge would be $1.50. It becomes more costly to travel
from town to the airport and beyond.
Taxis are not always convenient, especially on Long Island where
the Embassy and Embassy housing are located. At night it is very
difficult and possibly dangerous to get a taxi into town from Long
Island. What makes it dangerous is that there are few streetlights
and people waiting on the side of the road to hail a taxi are not
clearly visible. Drunk drivers are more likely to be driving at
night so standing by the side of the narrow roads after dark is not
a good idea. When using the taxi service you must share the car with
as many people as the driver chooses to pick up. That means that
there are many stops made from when one gets in, to the final
destination.
The convenience of having a personal car is immeasurable. Most
people at the Embassy choose to ship a vehicle. An inexpensive
simple car would be the best to send. After a vehicle is used for
two years in Majuro it may not be in good enough condition to make
it worth while to ship it back to the U.S. and can be sold locally
quite easily. Qualified mechanics are rare so maintenance is a
challenge. Parts when needed are usually not in stock so they must
be ordered from off island which takes time and can become expensive
very quickly. Only the Ambassador's and OMS residence have a garage
so all other vehicles are exposed to the sun and salt air. Buying a
new car locally is a possibility; buying a used car in Majuro, as in
the U.S., can be a gamble.
It is a requirement of the Marshall Islands that vehicles be
licensed. The weight of the vehicle determines the charge, but for
the average car, the fee is $35. Law requires that vehicles be
inspected yearly. Inspection stickers are issued when the car is
licensed, although this law is not strictly enforced. The licensing
fee includes the fee for the inspection sticker. Liability insurance
is required and must be obtained before the vehicle is licensed. The
cost for minimum coverage locally is less then US$200. Persons
planning to drive in Majuro should have a current Marshall Islands
drivers license. This drivers license will be issued for $20. No
test is required but you will probably be asked to present your U.S.
drivers license when applying.
Local Transportation Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:28 PM
Those who don't have their own vehicles move about town using the
local taxi service. Individuals can license cars or vans of all
descriptions as taxis. Taxis cruise the road picking up passengers
who hail them from the roadside. Riders are picked up until the car
is full and then dropped at their various destinations. The fare
schedule is simple, with downtown transfers costing 50 cents and
longer rides out to the Embassy area costing $l.50. Students and
children pay only 25 cents, but, as a result, may be ignored as they
wait for a ride. The ride may be hot and the car rickety and you may
have to wait for a taxi to drive by, but the operators are honest,
and the service proves to be convenient.
To find a nice public sandy beach where you can spend the day
swimming and snorkeling, you must drive to Laura. The road is paved
and the drive is a pleasant one. It can take as much as an hour to
drive the approximately 20 miles from the Embassy to Laura but there
is much to see along the way, as the scenery is beautiful. Laura is
a small village, different from downtown Majuro, with more land and
fewer inhabitants.
Chartered boat trips can be arranged and are a wonderful way to
get away from the city. Just a few islands up the reef from Majuro
you will find islands that are almost completely uninhabited.
Perfectly clear warm water and beautiful sandy beaches are there to
explore. Most island inhabitants welcome guests but you must ask
first.
Travel to the other atolls in the Marshall Islands is by boat or
plane. Air Marshall Islands (AMI) provides service to the 26 grass
airstrips located on various other atolls. Travel within an atoll is
by small, outboard boats, as the islands on an atoll are connected
only by long sections of open reef. Arno, 12 miles away and the
atoll closest to Majuro, is the only outer island accessible from
Majuro by small boat in a single day. Obtain permission to visit the
outer islands from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Because of the
travel impediments and lack of any guest facilities on most of the
outer atolls, the most frequent foreign visitors to the outer
islands are those on occasional sailboats passing through on cruises
of the Pacific. There are guest facilities on a few islands within
the Majuro Atoll and also on Likiep Atoll, Arno Atoll, Mili Atoll
and Jaluit Atoll.
Regional Transportation Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:29 PM
Both Majuro and Kwajalein Atolls have airports that accommodate
large jet aircraft. Continental Micronesia provides jet service
between Honolulu and Guam, via Majuro and Kwajalein. Air Nauru
provides jet service between Majuro, Fiji, and Brisbane, Australia.
Majuro has shipping links to the West Coast of the U.S., Hawaii,
Australia, Japan, the South Pacific, and to other parts of
Micronesia. Regular shipping service is provided by Matson
Navigation Company, NYK, and Forum Lines. Tiger Lines and Saipan
Shipping provide transshipment facilities out of Guam and Saipan.
The ports in Majuro and Ebeye provide containerized cargo handling,
warehousing, and transshipment operations.
Communications
Telephones and Telecommunications Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:31
PM
The Marshall Islands National Telecommunications Authority (NTA)
provides telecommunications services for the Marshall Islands. NTA
provides access to domestic and international telephone service,
local cellular telephone service, and Internet services.
Residential, one-party-line charge is $12 per month with a one time
$35 connection fee. As in the U.S. you can subscribe to enhanced
services such as Call Waiting, Call Forwarding, etc. Charges for
these enhanced services are nominal. Caller ID is provided free of
charge.
There is no service charge for the cellular telephone. However,
there is a $15 charge for installation fee of the sim card (new GSM
system) there is a charge of $0.10 per minute for outgoing call
only. There are calling cards to purchase to use for domestic and
international calls. The prices range from $10, $20 and $50.
Cellular phones are usually available for purchase on the island and
must be compatible with new GSM system.
Internet service is costly compared to the U.S. NTA charges $10 a
month plus $.06 per minute of use. There is an initial $15
installation fee. Dedicated leased Internet lines of 128 kbps and
256 kbps with unlimited use are also available for a monthly fee.
The Embassy is connected to the Internet and employees of the
Embassy may use the Internet in accordance with Department
regulations free of charge if they wish. In addition to the NTA
Internet connection, the Embassy also has Internet connection via
its own VSAT satellite dish.
The country code for Majuro is 692. The Embassy numbers are
Telephone 247-4011 and Fax 247-4012.
Wireless Service Last Updated: 11/23/2005 0:32 AM Various Private
businesses are utilizing the Peer-to-Peer or in-house WireLess
services.
Internet Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:32 PM
Marshall Islands Visitors Authority e-mail: tourism@ntamar.com
RMI Country Homepage: www.rmiembassyus.org
Bikini Atoll Homepage: www.bikiniatoll.net
Yokwe-Eok Marshallese Web site: www.yokwe.com
Alele Museum: www.members.tripod.com/alelemuseum
PATA Micronesia: www.patamicronesia.com
Robert Reimers Ent./Marshalls Dive Adventure: www.rreinc.com
Continental Micronesia: www.flycontinental.com
Destination Micronesia Homepage: www.destmic.com
Marshall Islands Stamp Center: www.unicover.com/HPRLRMS.HT
Mail and Pouch Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:32 PM
The Marshall Islands is a U.S. domestic mail zone and receives
international mail service through the U.S. Postal Service. Because
of the close ties with the U.S. system Majuro has been assigned a
two digit state abbreviation which is MH. The ZIP Code for Majuro is
96960. However, in January 2006, the U.S Postal Service will end,
and the Marshall Islands will use the international postal rate.
(Name of Individual) U.S. Embassy P.O. Box 1379 Majuro, MH
96960-1379
U.S. domestic rates apply to and from the U.S. Although the
Marshall Islands issues its own stamps, the postal system in Majuro
has accepted U.S. postage stamps on single pieces mailed to the U.S.
However, the service will end January 2006 and the Marshall Islands
will use the international rate service.
First class letter mail arrives by air 6-10 days from the East
Coast. Packages sent Priority Mail also arrive about the same time,
or slightly longer. Non first-class mail, including parcel post and
magazines sent second class, arrive by ship within 2–4 months.
For nonfirst class mail, post personnel have found that using the
Embassy's pouch address speeds receipt.
(Name of Individual) 4380 Majuro PL Dulles, Virginia 20189-4380
Although APO facilities at Kwajalein could be made available to
Embassy personnel, the distance and expense of shipment to Majuro
make it impractical. The only transportation link between Kwajalein
and Majuro is via commercial airline.
Embassy personnel have found it best to avoid the use of
“Republic of the Marshall Islands”on catalog orders as firms will
sometimes incorrectly apply higher international mail rates to such
shipments.
In Majuro mail is delivered only to a post office box. Outer
island mail requires a first class stamp; parcels are charged as
freight and delivered by local plane or ship.
The Embassy sends and receives a pouch once a week from Manila.
Although post rarely sends a pouch to Washington, DC, pouches arrive
from Washington, DC, every 1–2 weeks.
Radio and TV Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:33 PM
The Marshall Islands has several radio stations. V7AB, AM 1098,
is run by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, broadcasting news,
announcements, the Nitijela meetings when the Nitijela is in
session, and popular and Marshallese music. Some news and
announcements are in both Marshallese and English. V7AA, FM 104, is
run by the Baptist Church and broadcasts religious music and
programs. Real time news can be heard on the hour on V7AA FM 104,
V7AB, V7Eman and from the BBC; however, the reception for the BBC is
poor. Other private radios are V7Eman, V7DJ and V7Eagle.
Cable TV is available in Majuro through Marshalls Broadcasting
Company. Initial installation is $30 with a monthly charge of $36.
for one TV and $3 a month extra for each additional TV that is
hooked up. For an additional $10 a month a Philippine station can be
accessed. There are about 11 stations in all. Real time news can be
received on CNN, CNBC and BBC. A TV schedule is not published but
many shows are broadcast with some regularity so one is able to
predict when some shows will be aired. Movies are shown both day and
night and most are suitable for all audiences. There are many video
stores on the island and the selections available are quite good.
Newspapers, Magazines, and Technical Journals Last Updated:
11/29/2005 2:34 PM
The Embassy subscribes to two newspapers, the Marshall Islands
Journal and The Pacific Daily News (Guam). The Marshall Islands
Journal is an independently published weekly newspaper and the only
printed source of local news. It is issued every Thursday at a cost
of 1.00 and provides coverage of local events in both Marshallese
and English.
The Embassy subscribes to the following publications: Far Eastern
Economic Review, Pacific Islands Monthly, PC Magazine, The
Contemporary Pacific, Time, Washington Pacific Report, News Week and
Fast Company.
A few magazines and paperback books are available at local stores
but the selection is poor, usually out of date, and the price is
high.
The Majuro public library located in the Alele Museum building is
small and limited. The College of the Marshall Islands makes its
library available to anyone who would want to use it.
Health and Medicine
Medical Facilities Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:35 PM
Medical care in Majuro is not up to U.S. standards. The Majuro
Hospital is staffed with doctors from many countries around the
Pacific. There are no American doctors at this time at the Majuro
Hospital. There is one private clinic operated by a doctor from the
Philippines that the Embassy staff visits when necessary. There is
another private clinic operated by an American doctor. The 177
Clinic is the medical facility serving those affected by the nuclear
testing. Currently, there is a doctor from the Philippines, Dr.
Lavina Gael, manning this facility. Although the 177 Clinic is there
to serve this exclusive group of people, we have been told that if
scheduling permits we can request an appointment with this doctor.
The Youth to Youth in Health has a clinic in Majuro catering to the
young community.
Obtaining medicine is often a problem. Many times the hospital is
not able to stock an adequate supply, so they are frequently out of
some of the most basic medicines. You cannot depend on being able to
have a prescription filled here so bring regularly needed
medications with you or make arrangements to have them sent from the
U.S.
Routine laboratory work is available. More complicated tests are
sent to Honolulu for evaluation.
Dental care is available for simple dental work, checkups,
cleaning, and x ray but again, not up to U.S. standards. Majuro has
one optical care facility. One should bring spare eyeglasses, and
sunglasses. Selections of contact lens solutions are limited. Bring
needed supplies to post and reorder from the U.S.
Bring with you any medicine or medical supplies you anticipate
needing on a regular basis. Simple things like bandages and
antibiotic cream, aspirin, Motrin, Tylenol and cold medicines are
usually obtainable from the two largest stores on the island. You
cannot always count on finding your favorite brands so it would be a
good idea to bring a small supply of your favorites to use until you
find out if they are available here.
Community Health Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:53 PM
Ebeye Island in Kwajalein Atoll, the second-largest population
center in the Marshall Islands, has an expanding health center for
its large population. All other outer island communities are served
by 64 health centers staffed with modestly trained health assistants
who utilize small dispensaries and are connected by marine high
frequency radio to the main center in Majuro. Boats or planes
evacuate medical emergencies from the outer islands to Majuro. In
Majuro there is also a church based health clinic in Laura, a
nongovernment operated clinic run by the Baptist Church and one run
by Mission Pacific.
Common infectious and communicable diseases in the Marshall
Islands include amoebiasis, conjunctivitis, diarrhea,
gastroenteritis, gonorrhea, influenza, leprosy, scabies, syphilis,
and tuberculosis. Water supply, sanitation, personal hygiene and
overcrowding are among factors related to the infectious and
communicable diseases. Tests for HIV/AIDS in 2004 found no positive
cases. However, tests in 2004 detected one positive HIV case. With
the increasing level of prostitution and the large number of foreign
fishing boats calling at Majuro, the risk of HIV and AIDS being
introduced to this area becomes more of a possibility each day.
The most prevalent noncommunicable disease in the Marshall
Islands is diabetes, which is now a major health problem.
Hypertension and heart disease are also on the increase. Poor eating
habits, the consumption of large amounts of alcohol and tobacco, and
the lack of exercise contribute heavily to these major health
problems.
Preventive Measures Last Updated: 11/23/2005 1:02 AM
All personnel and dependents should follow standard State
Department immunization guidelines, including inoculation for
Hepatitis A and B. Vaccine is not available in Majuro but can be
shipped to the Embassy and administered locally. If at all possible
begin the series of immunizations before arrival at post.
Sunburn is a problem year round. Everyone is urged to use
sunscreen and wear sunglasses and protective clothing. Coral cuts
are a common occurrence and no matter how small are slow to heal and
susceptible to infection. Wounds should be cleaned, treated with
antibiotic cream and kept bandaged until completely healed. Prevent
cuts to feet by wearing shoes while in the water and out. Everyone
is urged to drink plenty of fluid in order to stay hydrated.
Eating in major restaurants is safe. Be careful when eating at
private or public events, because food is commonly not refrigerated
properly and could be prepared in less than sanitary conditions.
Most meats, fruits and vegetables are imported from the U.S.,
Australia and New Zealand and are safe. Local vegetables, pork,
chicken and fish are also safe. Some reef fish contain toxins, and
the varieties that are safe to eat vary from atoll to atoll. If you
catch your own fish, check with a local fisherman to see if it is
safe to eat. When purchasing products at any store be sure to check
the expiration dates on the packages as it is common to find many
that are still on the shelf long beyond their shelf life.
The normal tropical rodents and small lizards are present, but
not in excess. Cockroaches and ants can become a problem. The
island's professional exterminator visits the Embassy and
residential housing as needed. Flies and a few mosquitoes are a
nuisance, but often the trade winds keep them away.
The Majuro Water and Sewer Company, which is government owned,
provides the water and sewer system in Majuro. The public water
system relies primarily on a rainwater catchment system, which is
located at the airport runway and in the wells in Laura. Public
water is normally available (depends if it’s a dry season) three
days a week for 14 hours per day. Individual homes must have their
own catchment and storage tanks to provide round the clock water.
Because of the short distance between the Embassy area and the water
treatment plant, the water is up to Environmental Protection
Authority (EPA) standards when it reaches the Chancery and Embassy
housing. The individual catchment units at each place can become
contaminated and mix with the public water so the Embassy houses and
the Chancery have distillation units for drinking water.
A 1999 census reported that 61% of all households in the Marshall
Islands used flush toilets and 25% used pit latrines or no toilet
facilities at all. A great part of the population continues
traditional customs, using the ocean and lagoon reefs for
elimination and personal hygiene, contributing significantly to
local pollution. Public garbage collection exists but unfortunately,
vast amounts of trash are dumped oceanside or lagoonside by
residents, creating, among other problems, unsightly pollution in
many areas. The Embassy housing area is located away from the most
populated area of Majuro but some trash does float by and may wash
up on the beach. Swimming, snorkeling and water activities are safe
in these locations.
Employment for Spouses and Dependents Last Updated: 11/29/2005
2:36 PM
Under the Compact of Free Association, American citizens are
permitted to work in the Marshall Islands. Employment opportunities
for spouses in Majuro are limited by the small size of the community
and the tiny commercial sector.
Teachers either accredited or with a college degree, are in
demand at all schools. The College of the Marshall Islands, which
offers 2-year programs in nursing and teaching, may have a need
depending on current staffing, for part time teachers of ESL,
typing, shorthand, French, etc. The hospital may offer employment
opportunities for skilled medical personnel. Majuro businesses
frequently need accountants and bookkeepers. Local jobs pay below
American pay scales. Employed dependents retain their diplomatic
immunities and do not pay local income tax.
Spouses interested in local employment should alert post of their
professional interest early, in case appropriate positions are
advertised before arrival at post.
An important factor for spouses or dependents considering local
employment in Majuro is the small size of the community and the
network of relationships—social, business, and familial—that exists.
Some local positions might prove difficult for the spouse or
dependent of an Embassy employee to hold. On the other hand, this is
not true of all opportunities; flexibility is the key.
American Embassy - Majuro
Post City Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:36 PM
Majuro is the political and economic center of the Marshall
Islands. The inhabited islands along the southern side of Majuro
Atoll have been joined over time by landfill and a bridge to form a
30‑mile road from Rita, on the extreme eastern end, to Laura, at the
western end. Both villages were so code‑named by U.S. forces in
World War II after favorite pinups Rita Hayworth and Lauren Bacall.
The main downtown business and shopping area is located in Rita
and extends 4 miles to the southeast corner of the atoll, home of a
second shopping center, the Capitol building, and government
offices. The downtown area includes the islands of Djarrit, Uliga,
and Delap (DUD). Newcomers cannot identify where one area ends and
another begins, but it is not necessary for finding one's way. A
single paved main street parallels the lagoon, and a smaller
unimproved road follows the oceanside as far as the government
office area. Schools, offices, shops, restaurants, hotels, and the
hospital are along the street. No longer a village, Majuro is a
small town—compact, offering far more Western amenities than one
might expect in the middle of the Pacific, a place where people know
one another and you cannot get lost.
The DUD area contains approximately 12,000 to 15,000 people
living in mostly crowded housing, many without water and sewer
facilities. Since land is in short supply and controlled by each
clan, graves of family members occupy a central place in front of
many dwellings. Marshallese homes typically have no furniture, only
pandanus sleeping mats, which are rolled out at night. Cooking
facilities, kerosene cookers, or pit fires are often outside and may
be shared by more than one family. The lagoon and ocean have
traditionally been used as toilet facilities. Such use continues,
despite the population increase, and causes health problems at the
Rita end of the lagoon.
The population density lessens as you drive westward, and the
environment becomes more suburban. The housing standard improves;
green grass, coconut, and breadfruit trees are abundant. The area
has a few neighborhood shops, selling individual cigarettes, some
canned foods, soft drinks, and snack food.
The Embassy and Embassy housing are located on Long Island some 7
miles out of town. The Chancery is set on a lawn backing up to the
ocean, with an oceanside tennis court, a small gym, and views of
both the lagoon and ocean. The Ambassador’s residence is across the
street from the Embassy, with lagoon waters lapping at its
foundation. Staff houses are within walking distance. Located also
on the lagoon side, they are on the water and have spectacular
sunsets.
The airport is 2‑1/2 miles further west from the Embassy. Beyond
that, the road becomes increasingly rural on the way to Laura.
The Post and Its Administration Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:37 PM
The U.S. Mission at this Special Embassy Post (SEP) consists of
an Ambassador, Deputy Chief of Mission who handles political,
economic, commercial and consular duties, an Office Management
Specialist, an General Services/Information Program Officer and a
Regional Administrative Officer (RAO). The RAO is based in Majuro
but also serves the U.S. Embassy in Kolonia, Federated States of
Micronesia. The Mission has a local guard workforce and employs
eight Foreign Service Nationals.
The Embassy, one of the finest buildings in all of Micronesia,
was originally built as a large, private residence. It has two
floors of spacious offices with views of the lagoon and ocean. The
large kitchen and public areas, as well as a back deck, are suitable
for entertaining large groups. A tennis court on the grounds is
available for Embassy officers and dependents.
Embassy hours are 8–noon and 1–5, Monday through Friday. The
Embassy phone number and country code is 692, 247–4011. Embassy
personnel will meet and assist new arrivals. Arriving visitors
should double‑check their arrival date. Flights depart Honolulu one
date and arrive in Majuro the following date, crossing the
international dateline on the way. Inform the post in advance of
your travel plans.
Housing
Temporary Quarters Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:37 PM
Majuro has two hotels suitable for TDY personnel. Robert Reimers
Hotel, in the central downtown location is a small, American‑style
hotel on the lagoon with dining facilities at the Tide Table
Restaurant, Majuro's best restaurant. The Outrigger Hotel is located
slightly closer to the Embassy but is still considered in the
downtown area. The Enra restaurant is also excellent.
Mission personnel are usually able to occupy their permanent
quarters on arrival or shortly thereafter. Standard Welcome Kits are
available until personal effects arrive.
Permanent Housing Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:38 PM
The Ambassador’s residence is a two‑story building on one‑quarter
acre near the Embassy. The lower level, with a concrete deck on
three sides, contains a guest apartment, servants quarters, a
two‑car garage, and a large room used for Embassy warehouse space.
The top floor has three bedrooms with a master bath and a guest
bath; the master bedroom has a private “lani” (deck). The large
living room and dining room have sliding glass doors that overlook a
large deck, with wonderful sunset views. Large deck lights
illuminate a variety of tropical fish swimming in the aquatic front
yard. The kitchen is designed for efficient entertaining.
Officer housing consists of two similar houses, both about 2,000
square feet, side by side over the lagoon. Within a small walled
compound, they were built in 1987 on concrete pilings over the
lagoon and are connected to land by small, bridge‑type walkways.
Both houses were built to U.S. design, with surrounding decks and
numerous sliding glass doors, allowing views of the lagoon in all
directions. Each deck has a private stairway to the water. The
houses are separated by a small, sandy, coral beach, perfect for
swimming, snorkeling, windsurfing, and for small and large boat
sailing. A past Embassy officer moored a large sailboat in 30 feet
of water 100 yards in front of his house.
The DCM’s house has three bedrooms, two baths, a large kitchen,
and a large combination living and dining room. The Administrative
Officer's house has three bedrooms, three baths (one off the
kitchen), a den, which may be used for a fourth bedroom; a smaller
living/dining room, a small kitchen; and two outdoor storage
closets. Neither house has garage space, and each has little storage
other than bedroom closets.
The OM’s house is an attractive octagonal place positioned over
the water like the two houses described above. There are two
bedrooms and two baths, a small kitchen, dining room and living
room. This house has an attached garage. There is a small deck with
connections off the bedroom, living room and dining room. A high
stucco wall fences in all three of these houses.
The townhouse assigned to the GSO has two bedrooms and 2‑1/2
baths. Large windows overlooking the lagoon surround the living room
and dining room on the first level. A small yard and access to the
water is just outside a sliding glass door off the living room area.
Furnishings Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:38 PM
Basic furnishings include electric stove, dishwasher,
refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, water distiller, water heater,
vacuum cleaner, and patio furniture. Houses are fully furnished,
carpeted and fitted with blinds on all windows. Although the central
air-conditioning combats moisture and mildew problems inside, the
salt air and coral dust take a toll on any equipment outside.
Utilities and Equipment Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:38 PM
All houses have water storage tanks that fill with both rainwater
and city water, providing a 24‑hour water supply. Electrical current
is 110 v, 60 cycles. The power is stable, although fluctuations are
frequent and surge protectors are a good idea for any sensitive
electronic equipment. Announced outages of a few hours each are
necessary at times to complete system maintenance. The Chancery and
the residence have backup generators but the other Embassy housing
does not.
Food Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:39 PM
Majuro retail stores offer a surprising variety of consumer goods
despite the country's remote location. The two largest grocery
stores in Majuro are Robert Reimers Enterprises and Gibson's. Both
stock a large variety of American grocery products, including
packaged and canned goods, frozen meats, vegetables, ice cream,
bread, fresh vegetables, and a good supply of dairy products. These
two stores have a good selection of household items as well as
clothing, sewing notions, cards, toys, nonprescription drugstore
items, and office supplies. A limited supply of baby food and
formula is available, as are disposable diapers.
Most goods are imported from California, New Zealand and
Australia. Food products look a little different, for example, the
cuts of meat available are not what we are accustomed to but most
people agree that you can find almost anything you need. You have to
plan ahead and buy when you see something that you think you may
want to use in the future and freeze it if it's perishable.
Depending on the item, most food is priced higher than in the U.S.
Fresh vegetables are very expensive and not always of good quality.
Imported rice is a staple in the Marshallese diet. Imported
chicken is the major meat; some fish is available, but most local
families who catch fish only take enough to feed their own families.
Until recently the only locally grown fruits and vegetables were
coconut, pandanus, papaya, bananas, and breadfruit. Recently the
Taiwan government started a farm in Laura, which has produced
wonderful vegetables such as tomatoes, corn, and peppers, which can
be purchased in the local grocery stores.
Majuro is currently an authorized consumable post. Employees
assigned to a 2‑year tour are authorized 2,500 pounds regardless of
family status. Although a significant saving over local purchase is
possible, only limited storage is available in the houses.
Clothing Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:39 PM
Majuro's tropical climate is best appreciated while wearing
cotton. Synthetics may be comfortable in air‑conditioning, but
outside the office, they are uncomfortable in the heat and humidity.
Local stores offer few cotton garments and little of U.S. style
and quality, except for a vast array of Majuro T‑shirts, which are
popular with local and visitors alike. Most personnel bring adequate
clothing with them and supplement these with catalog orders.
Employees and dependents who sew should bring a good supply of
fabric, patterns, and specialty notions, as well as mail order
sources.
Men Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:39 PM
The local dress code is basic. Around town, men wear T‑shirts or
Hawaiian aloha shirts (open‑neck sport shirts usually worn untucked),
long pants (shorts are acceptable in certain situations) and
sandals, athletic shoes or, occasionally, conventional shoes.
Embassy attire is aloha shirts or open‑necked shirts, long trousers,
sandals or conventional shoes depending on the occasion. Officers
wear ties for a limited number of official events during the year,
and jackets are worn less often. Ties are required when entering the
Nitijela (Parliament) chambers, and shorts are prohibited in the
Cabinet building. Outside the office, casual wear is the same as
summertime in the U.S. Formal wear is not necessary.
Women Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:39 PM
Missionaries to the Marshall Islands in the late 1800s introduced
a dress code that remains today. Local women wear long muumuus with
short sleeves and rubber sandals. Few women wear American‑style
clothes; pants and shorts are not usually worn. Women's thighs and
shoulders should be covered. Marshallese women swim in their
muumuus, which are made of silky polyester that dries quickly.
A woman officer’s standard working attire will suffice, although
suits with jackets are too hot. Most women wear skirts and blouses
or dresses. Either is also suitable for evening wear. Because of the
climate, stockings are not worn and sandals, casual and dressy, are
the norm. Fancy or revealing cocktail dresses are out of place in
Majuro. Long skirts and dresses are fine for evening wear, but no
formal wear is needed.
Foreign women normally wear clothing similar to what they wear at
home during hot weather, with the exception that women do not wear
shorts, except those at least kneelength, in public. Foreign women
may wear pants to go to town or to an evening function. Women may
wear a bathing suit into the water, but should wear a skirt or a
wrap around their lower torso while on the beach.
Children Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:40 PM
Several of the private schools in Majuro require uniforms, which
are locally made and available at a modest cost. Otherwise, children
wear T‑shirts, shorts, rubber sandals (known as “zorries”), and
bathing suits. Athletic shoes are occasionally worn and are best
ordered from the U.S. Boys wear long pants to church and girls wear
dresses. Dress clothes are not needed. Climbing coconut trees,
playing on coral sand and rocks, swimming, clothed Marshallese
style, and banana and coconut stains take their toll on children’s
clothes.
Supplies and Services
Supplies Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:40 PM
Majuro has two hardware stores, Ace and True Value, which have
lately been well supplied with basic items. Fishing tackles and rods
are expensive; fishermen should bring their own and buy lures here.
Most items will be more expensive, so if you anticipate needing
something and have the room to ship it, then do so; you will save
money in the long run. The NAPA auto parts store has an uneven
inventory but may have what you need or will order it. Tires may be
ordered and shipped in.
Basic Services Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:40 PM
A few basic services are available in Majuro. There are a few
beauty shops providing haircuts and simple styling. Repair services
for appliances and electronics are limited. There is one drycleaner.
Majuro has only a few reputable car repair shops, so be sure to ask
for recommendations when you arrive as to where the best service can
be obtained.
Domestic Help Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:40 PM
Domestic help is not available in Majuro, although part‑time
untrained help may be found within the Filipino community. Embassy
officers do not hire domestic help. For childcare, maid, or cooking
services, servants must be brought in at the employee's expense. The
Philippines is a good source of domestic help. Relatives of the
Filipino community in Majuro may be willing to be hired directly
from the Philippines to take a domestic position for Embassy
personnel. Embassy staff housing does not have separate live-in
quarters for servants. Living with local relatives is an
alternative.
Religious Activities Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:45 PM
The first Christian missionaries arrived in the Marshall Islands
in 1857, and Christian religions continue to play an important part
in Marshallese life. Churches provide a particularly important
social setting, with gatherings throughout the week. A single
village may have competing churches that create tension within the
community over membership and status. The Bible, translated into
Marshallese, is used as a reading textbook, and many children have
Old Testament names.
Many religious denominations still support missionaries in
Majuro, Ebeye, and the outer islands. Several small, private
religious elementary and high schools exist throughout the Marshall
Islands. Denominations represented include Unified Church of Christ
(Protestant), Roman Catholic, Assembly of God, Seventh‑Day
Adventist, Independent Baptist, Mormon, Jehovah's Witnesses, Baha'i,
and the Salvation Army program. The Unified Church of Christ and the
Assembly of God churches have a theological college in Majuro.
In Majuro, Assumption Roman Catholic Church and the Assembly of
God Church offer weekly services in English. Other services are in
Marshallese, although most of the missionaries in every denomination
are English speaking.
Education
Dependent Education
At Post Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:48 PM The Office of Overseas
Schools (OOC) has rated the schooling available in Majuro inadequate
for all grade levels. Boarding school allowances are available for
all school-age children. The nearest location for boarding school is
Hawaii. Most of the wealthy Marshallese and Marshallese/American
families send their high-school children to private or parochial
schools in Honolulu. A Jesuit-run boarding school for boys is
located in Chuuk (Truk), farther west in Micronesia.
The two private schools in Majuro most used by foreigners are the
Majuro Cooperative School and Assumption Catholic School. Both
schools use American textbooks and follow an American curriculum.
Home schooling is always an option and is used by many Americans
living in Majuro. The situation changes all the time so it is best
to contact OOC for more information on dependent education in Majuro
or home schooling if you are considering bringing school‑age
children to this post.
Recreation and Social Life Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:29 PM
Recreation in Majuro is almost entirely of an aquatic nature.
Fishing is popular with Marshallese and foreigners alike. Small boat
reef fishing, throw netting, and surf casting are popular. Larger
outboard boats are available for deep‑sea fishing for marlin, tuna,
and other gamefish that abound in the Marshall Islands. Although no
commercial charter boats are available, you can arrange for private
charter or to be included in a day's fishing trip on a small boat.
The warm, clear waters are home to vast communities of fish,
coral formations, and abundant tropical marine life, all easily
accessible to snorkelers and divers. Sailing, windsurfing, swimming,
boogie boarding, occasionally surfing, and picnicking at the beach
are popular activities. The local dive shops fill air tanks, rent
equipment, and offer scuba lessons, and have a small inventory of
diving gear for sale.
Chartered boat trips can be arranged and are a wonderful way to
get away from the city. Just a few islands up the reef from Majuro
you will find islands that are almost completely uninhabited.
Perfectly clear warm water and beautiful sandy beaches are there to
explore. Most island inhabitants welcome guests but you must ask
first.
Travel to the other atolls in the Marshall Islands is by boat or
plane. Air Marshall Islands (AMI) provides service to the 26 grass
airstrips located on various other atolls. Travel within an atoll is
by small, outboard boats, as the islands on an atoll are connected
only by long sections of open reef. Arno, 12 miles away and the
atoll closest to Majuro, is the only outer island accessible from
Majuro by small boat in a single day. Obtain permission to visit the
outer islands from the Ministry of Internal Affairs. Because of the
travel impediments and lack of any guest facilities on most of the
outer atolls, the most frequent foreign visitors to the outer
islands are those on occasional sailboats passing through on cruises
of the Pacific. There are guest facilities on a few islands within
the Majuro Atoll and also on Likiep Atoll, Arno Atoll, Mili Atoll
and Jaluit Atoll.
Sports Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:49 PM
Majuro has one large indoor athletic facility, which is used for
sporting events and large assemblies. There are many outdoor
basketball courts, two public tennis courts, a baseball field, and
one bowling alley. Foreigners enjoy walking, bike riding, and
jogging, but because of the narrow roads this can be dangerous. Rust
is a problem with bicycles, and you should bring locks and patch
kits for making repairs. The Embassy tennis court is available for
U.S. Government personnel and it is lit for evening play. A small
gym is available at the Embassy for use by the staff.
Entertainment Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:49 PM
Evening entertainment in Majuro is limited. There are several
good restaurants to go for dinner, several bars that offer live
music are open at night, and there is one movie theater with three
screens.
Marshallese live simply and entertain rarely, except for singular
events, the most common being a “kemem,” or child's first birthday
celebration. These are socially important events to which large
numbers of people are invited. Food preparation for a kemem takes
several days. Marshallese women usually do not accompany their
husbands to events, public or private, but that situation is
changing slowly. It is awkward for a Marshallese to decline an
invitation, so you never can be sure if an invited guest will
attend. An RSVP is not usually understood.
Social Activities
Among Americans Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:49 PM Most of the
foreign social activity consists of friends meeting at homes or at a
restaurant. Many foreigners live in modest housing and have limited
ability to entertain the way they are accustomed. The tiny
diplomatic community, the retiring nature of the Marshallese, the
small number of foreigners, and the lack of social events, public or
private, are all factors that at times emphasize the sense of
isolation in Majuro. Be creative, entertain yourself, and be willing
to meet others. The community is so small that friction and
disagreements of an official nature may carry over into informal
social activities and can be awkward.
Occasional trips off island are useful, although probably
prohibitively expensive for a family, which should plan on an
extended R&R. Bring mail‑order sources for all your hobbies,
reading, and audio needs. Many people find they have time they've
never had before to pursue new interests or delve further into old
ones.
Official Functions Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:50 PM
Majuro is a casual town, where people know one another and first
names are used immediately. Matters of protocol and diplomatic and
business customs, common throughout the world, are unfamiliar here.
Marshallese custom places no importance on punctuality. The concepts
of planning and preparation are unfamiliar. However, rank and
perceived rank still is an important part in society. Delivery of an
official invitation 3 hours before the event begins is not unusual.
American personnel avoid following local custom too completely and
follow American rules of social etiquette. Calling cards are not
customarily used in the Marshall Islands. Officers will need about
500 business cards for a 2‑year tour. The Chief of Mission should
have about the same number of cards. Cards can be printed locally at
reasonable cost, although they will not be up to Washington, D.C.
standards.
Notes For Travelers
Getting to the Post Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:50 PM
Travel to Majuro is via jet from Honolulu or Guam. Continental
Micronesia arrives in Majuro from Honolulu on Tuesday, Thursday, and
Saturday. From Majuro the plane goes on to Kwajalein and then Guam
with stops in Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Chuuk. The plane returns to
Honolulu from Guam on Monday, Wednesday and Friday with stops in
Kwajalein and Majuro. Aloha Airlines flies from Honolulu to Majuro
arriving in Majuro on Friday evenings. Aloha then flies on to
Kwajalein and returns through Majuro on Saturday morning back to
Honolulu.
Customs, Duties, and Passage
Customs and Duties Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:50 PM
Unaccompanied baggage takes about 3-4 weeks by air from the U.S.
During peak passenger seasons, lack of freight space on incoming
flights can cause delays. Surface shipments arrive in 2-3 months
from the East Coast. Shipments are through Los Angeles or Honolulu
from points east of the Marshall Islands. West of the Marshall
Islands there are also good connections, with vessels coming from
Guam, Manila, and Hong Kong. Welcome Kits are available at post.
Airfreight should include the usual items as recommended in the
Foreign Service Assignment Notebook.
Passage Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:50 PM
Official personnel require a valid passport or proof of U.S.
citizenship for entry. No vaccinations are required.
Pets Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:51 PM
Importation of dogs and cats is allowed. However, there is a
quarantine period for a minimum of 120 days (please see requirements
below). Animals are also required to have a health and rabies
certificate, both for transiting Honolulu and to enter the Marshall
Islands. Rabies is not present in RMI. Therefore, strict regulations
must be followed. If pets are being sent unaccompanied, all airlines
are obliged to deliver arriving dogs and cats to the Airport Animal
Quarantine Holding Facility until their onward flight to the
Marshall Islands. However, if the flight delay is over 24 hours
(approximately), the pet(s) will be transported to the Animal
Quarantine Branch facility in Aiea, Hawaii, where they will remain
until their scheduled flight. (If the animal must be transported to
the Aiea facility, there will be charges for this service to include
a $35 registration fee per animal. Additionally, one cannot pay by
credit card or cash; a certified check must be sent to the facility
prior to any boarding arrangements. If your pets will be detained in
Hawaii, it is best to call the Animal Quarantine Branch for details:
Tel: (808) 483‑7145; Fax: (808) 483‑7161. The Marshall Islands have
no kennels or veterinary services, so one must be prepared for any
illnesses that their pet(s) may come down with.
The following requirements must be followed in importing pets
into the country:
1. A permit must be obtained from the Department of Agriculture,
Quarantine Section, which costs $10. The permit is valid for one
shipment only. A copy must accompany the shipment and be surrendered
to a Quarantine Officer on duty upon arrival of shipment into the
RMI.
2. The importation of animals into the RMI requires presentation
of an international animal health certificate, attesting that the
animal(s):
a) were examined within 48 hours of shipment, found to be in good
health, and showed no sign of any infectious disease;
b) have been effectively vaccinated against distemper, hepatitis,
and canine Parvovirus at least 1 month and not more than 3 months
before shipment;
c) have been effectively treated against echinococcosis‑hydatidosis,
round, hook, and whipworms within 3 days of shipment;
d) have been effectively treated against, and found on
examination to be visibly free of, Ectoparasites within 3 days of
shipment;
e) showed no clinical sign of rabies on the day of shipment, and
were kept from birth or for 6 months prior to shipment in the
exporting country where no case of rabies was officially reported
during the 2 years immediately preceding the importation of the
animals concerned;
f) have been vaccinated with an inactivated rabies virus more
than 30 days prior to entry into the RMI; and
g) for animals originating from a country where rabies occurs or
is reported to occur or where rabies vaccination is routinely
practiced, such animals must be confined for a period of not less
than 120 days in an approved quarantine facility in a rabies‑free
area prior to entry to the RMI; or
h) should meet the requirements of the State of Hawaii or the
Territory of Guam.
3. Upon arrival in the RMI, imported animals shall immediately be
taken under the control of a Quarantine Officer to the quarantine
premises previously approved by the Chief of Agriculture where the
animals shall remain until they are released by a Quarantine
Officer.
4. Animals imported not in compliance with the permit
requirements may be re-exported or destroyed upon arrival.
5. The quarantine Section of the Department of Agriculture can be
contacted through the following: Tel: (692) 625-3206; Fax: (692)
625‑3821; E-mail: rndadm@ntamar.com.
Firearms and Ammunition Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:51 PM
Importation of firearms is officially prohibited. No
opportunities for recreational firearm use exist in the Marshall
Islands.
Currency, Banking, and Weights and Measures Last Updated:
11/29/2005 2:51 PM
The U.S. dollar is the official currency of the Marshall Islands.
Credit cards are accepted at a few establishments. Travelers checks
are acceptable, but ask before making purchases. Non‑diplomatic
passengers pay a US$20 departure tax at the airport.
Taxes, Exchange, and Sale of Property Last Updated: 11/29/2005
2:51 PM
Currently, the Government of the Marshall Islands places no
restriction on sale of a personally owned vehicle by departing
diplomatic personnel.
The Embassy payroll is processed through Charleston, SC. Make
arrangements to have paychecks deposited directly to a U.S. bank.
Most Embassy personnel have a local checking account with the Bank
of Hawaii. Personal checks are accepted in Majuro; although
merchants prefer checks written on a local account, Embassy
employees have no difficulty using checks written on Washington,
D.C., area banks.
Recommended Reading Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:52 PM
These titles are provided as a general indication of the material
published on this country. The Department of State does not endorse
unofficial publications.
Carucci, Lawrence. Nuclear Nativity: Rituals of Renewal and
Empowerment. Northern Illinois University, 1997.
Feeney, Thomas J. Letters from Likiep. S.J., D.D. Pandick Press:
New York, 1952.
Hempensatall, Peter J. Pacific Islanders Under German Rule.
Australian National University Press, 1978.
Hezel, Francis X. S.J. The First Taint of Civilization.
University of Hawaii Press: Honolulu, 1983.
Hezel, Francis X. S.J. Strangers in Their Own Land, Century of
Colonial Rule. University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, 1995.
Kluge, P.F. The Edge of Paradise. America in Micronesia. Random
House: New York, 1991.
William Lay and Cyrus M. Hussey. Mutiny on Board the Whaleship
Globe. Corinth Books: New York, 1963.
Micronesia: A Travel Survival Kit. Lonely Planet Publications:
California, 1995.
Niedenthal, Jack. For the Good of Mankind. Micronitor Publshing
2001.
Oliver, Douglas. The Pacific Islands. University of Hawaii Press,
Honolulu, 1989.
Trumbull, Robert. Tin Roofs and Palmtrees. University of
Washington Press, Seattle, 1977.
Weisgall, Jonathan M. Operations Crossroads, Naval Institute
Press, 1994.
Local Holidays Last Updated: 11/29/2005 2:52 PM
The U.S. Embassy observes the following Marshallese holidays, in
addition to authorized American holidays:
New Year’s Day January 1 Memorial Day March 1 Good Friday April
20 Constitution Day May 1 Fisherman’s Day July 6 Dri-Jerbal Day
September 7 Manit Day September 7 President’s Day November 16
Kamolol Day December 7 Christmas Day December 25
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