Making Most of Okinawa Many Things To Experience
Lance Cpl. Jovane M. Holland

Since my arrival on Okinawa a year ago, I’ve heard many opinions about living on the island from the Marines stationed here. Although some take full advantage of the opportunities that abound as a EDITORIAL result of living on a sub-tropical island, many more use the liberty restrictions as an excuse to stay holed up in their room and only hit up the clubs and bars when they do venture outside the gate.

Even though the vast majority of Marines E-3 and below don’t have a privately owned vehicle or any other reliable transportation to speak of, that doesn’t mean you can’t be resourceful and find your own way to experience the island. There are plenty of venues that enable you to get out and explore.

There are cost effective means of transportation such as The Green Line and Okinawa public transportation. Island tours from Marine Corps Community Services often cost only a small fee, and transportation is almost always provided. The MCCS tours range from educational to pure entertainment, plus you can call and schedule your own tour with a group of friends.

There are other ways to organize your own activities, to include getting a scuba license or volunteering with the Single Marine Program, Personal Services Center or your unit. Help keep the environment clean and organize a beach clean-up or lend a helping hand with the Boy Scouts or Girls Scouts. Explore the caves unique to the island or the different local cultures ranging from Naha to Nago. Your own curiosity is also a great way to discover new places off base.

You don’t have to spend your entire time on Okinawa stuck in your room, playing video games and cursing your misfortune.

Get out, be proactive and take matters into your own hands to ensure you get the most out of your time on island.
 
For more information on available tours or scuba licensing dates, visit www.mccsokinawa.com.

Holland is a combat correspondent with the Okinawa Marine.