Prime 10 Issues to Do in Guam (For a 3-Day Itinerary or Extra)

Guam is a small tropical island vacation spot in Micronesia that’s arguably overshadowed by its fashionable ‘neighbors’ comparable to that of Hawaii or Indonesia — however what numerous vacationers don’t know is that it’s the closest U.S. soil to Asia and that it’s undoubtedly a hidden gem of types. (Issues to Do in Guam)

From its pristine sandy seashores to its wealthy Chamorro historical past, this US territory affords an array of actions, points of interest, and cuisines that may cater to simply about any type of traveler. In actual fact, I’ve been to this magical island two occasions now and I nonetheless can’t get sufficient of it!

For those who’re from Asia, a direct flight to Guam can solely final for less than 3.5 hours; as such, it’s an simply accessible getaway.

Lots of Japanese and Koreans truly regard Guam as a high favourite after they’re in search of a tropical escape, and it’s simple to see why as a result of Guam is really a treasure trove of quite a few island actions. Relaxation assured, the throng of vacationers right here isn’t too overwhelming, so you’ll typically end up having fun with a complete stretch of seaside all for your self — which is, naturally, an incredible factor!

Spanning about 549 sq. km, additionally it is a pleasure to drive by means of the island as you are taking it simple to go to varied key spots. For those who ask me, that is my high favourite must-do when on the island.

General, it may appear daunting at first to plan the right Guam itinerary however fret not! With the assistance of this put up that’s based mostly on my experiences, you’ll be able to simply slender down the highest issues to do in Guam in order that irrespective of in the event you’re planning to go to for only some days (or extra), you’ll be profiting from your journey!

» Fast Journey Planning

Prime Issues to Do in Guam

1. Go beach-hopping all around the island

As an island that’s blessed with a year-round tropical local weather and lengthy coastlines, Guam is a paradise for seaside lovers! Let me aid you take out the guesswork from determining the highest locations to see by testing the checklist beneath:

TIP: A majority of the japanese seashores are perfect for swimming because of its calm and shallow waters which might be attributable to outer reefs that break the surf. (In distinction, excercise warning when exploring past the reef as a result of it may be treacherous because of riptides and such).

• ★ Tumon Seashore: That is arguably probably the most well-known seaside in Guam and arguably probably the most iconic too! In spite of everything, it’s situated proper in the principle downtown space of Tumon which is the middle of the island. One of the best half? It has shallow waters so it’s typically idyllic for snorkeling and swimming — even for individuals who can’t swim! It’s also lined by the island’s finest luxurious motels, however don’t let this reality forestall you from exploring the entire of the seaside; in spite of everything, it’s a public seaside so you’re free to discover nearly anyplace.
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• Gun Seashore: Situated simply north of Tumon Seashore, this can be a good spot that’s tranquil and scenic. For those who’re up for a hike, there may be even a well-marked cliff path on the northern finish of the seaside. In any other case, take out your snorkeling gear and discover the close by reef (in case you have a scuba diving license, that is additionally an awesome spot to discover!). And as soon as the solar units, this can be a good spot to remain in for grand views (if not, it’s also possible to view it from the close by Two Lovers Level).
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• Gab Gab Seashore: This can be a lovely stretch of sand that’s lined with tall palm bushes; sadly, until somebody who has a navy ID, it’s unattainable to enter on condition that it’s situated inside a navy base. It’s a bummer, I do know! Nevertheless it helps to say it right here simply in case you would possibly know somebody in Guam who can grant you entry.
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• Household Seashore: [link] A pleasant stretch of seaside discovered inside Apra Harbor which can be nice for swimming (simply be careful for some scuba divers!).
  • In your manner right here, don’t neglect to drop by Emerald Valley which is a phenomenal waterway with turquoise-clear waters! You’ll discover numerous fish right here in addition to water snakes and sea urchins. It’s not splendid for swimming however the view is superb.
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• Shark’s Cove Seashore: For those who’re up for a brief hike (lower than 1km), this secluded seaside is famed for snorkeling — don’t fear, there aren’t any sharks right here! So pack your protecting water sneakers and head to the trailhead that begins on the northern tip of Tagachang Seashore.
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• Taga‘chang Seashore: As distant as Shark’s Cove, this seaside that’s towered by 2 cliffs generally is a good respite from the crowds in the event you’re up for it!
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• Mushroom Rock Hila’an Seashore: Previous Tanguisson Seashore is Hila’an which is a protracted stretch of white sandy seaside that’s coupled with some distinctive mushroom rock formations!
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• Ypao Seashore: If you’d like an alternative choice to the bustling higher a part of Tumon Seashore, simply head on over to its different finish which is that this Ypao Seashore. For those who’re fortunate, you would possibly spot a neighborhood music pageant or a neighborhood village get together that’s being held within the close by Ypao Seashore Park. That being stated, this can be a good spot to go to if you wish to maintain a picnic with household or pals given the pavilions with tables which might be discovered all around the park.

2. Hire a automotive, drive along with your high down, and go to some sights exterior of the town

Guam is an absolute pleasure to discover in a rental automotive! It provides you the liberty to decide on your individual route, and additionally it is the best strategy to navigate your self by means of the entire island’s points of interest.

So far, there are a selection of dependable rental automotive firms you could select from however I extremely suggest Hertz! I acquired my automotive rental from them and the method from pick-up to drop-off was completely hassle-free.

TIP: In case you have the funds, I recommend getting a convertible automotive to benefit from the cool breeze in addition to to maximise the beautiful sceneries throughout your drives!

To jumpstart your journey for the highest issues to do in Guam, you’ll be able to take a look at the next points of interest:

CENTRAL TOUR

• Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica: A beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral that was constructed on the island’s first Catholic church that was inbuilt 1669. At this time, it enshrines the picture of Santa Marian Kamalen, the Patroness of Guam.
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• Governor’s Advanced: The Governor Ricardo J. Bordallo Advanced, generally known as Adelup Level, affords nice coastal views and another buildings such because the Latte of Freedom (meant to embody the energy of CHamoru tradition with the form of the latte stone) and Lone Sailor Statue (a commemoration of the function of the Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard in Operation New Life).
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• Fort Apugan (Santa Agueda): That is the one surviving Spanish fort in Hagåtña and it offers commanding views of the Philippine Sea and different northern cliff strains.
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• Latte Stone Park: Formally known as the Senator Angel Leon Guerrero Santos Latte Stone Memorial Park, this can be a park that’s finest identified for its set of eight historic latte stones.
  • Latte stone or latte is a uniquely-shaped pillar that was used as constructing assist by the traditional Chamorro individuals. These days, this latte stone is seen as an iconic signal of Chamorro’s identification.
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• Plaza De Espana: This was once the situation of the Governors Palace throughout Guam’s lengthy interval of Spanish occupation, and it’s listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations as a result of 3 buildings that may nonetheless be seen in its expanse: the 3-arch gate (Arsenal), the azotea, and the Chocolate Home.
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• Guam Museum: If you’d like a style of Guam’s historical past, that is one of the best place to go to and it’s discovered good in entrance of the Plaza De Espana.

NORTH TOUR

• ★ Ritidian Level: Because the northernmost level of the island, it’s a part of the 1,203-acre Guam Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. Although you’ll be able to’t precisely swim right here (because of robust currents) you’ll be able to nonetheless benefit from the white seaside in addition to its well-maintained trails: Nature (1.25 miles), .75 Latte Loop (.75 miles), and Ritidian Caves (.5 miles). You are able to do the hike by your self however I’d recommend giving the Guam Nationwide Wildlife Refuge (671-355-5096) a name forward of time to schedule a guided tour so to benefit from the expertise.
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• Mangilao Golf Membership: Situated on the east of Guam, this course needs to be excessive up in your high issues to do in Guam particularly in case you are a golfer! In spite of everything, the Mangilao Golf Membership ranks among the many high 100 programs on this planet and it has been designed by grasp Robin Nelson.
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• Pagat Cave and Level: The path to the cave is nicely marked by pink ties across the bushes and although it’s brief, it helps to notice that it might probably get pretty steep. However, you’ll be rewarded with a cool swim in a pool of pure recent water contained in the cave. Don’t neglect to climb to the opposite aspect of the cave the place you’ll discover the scenic Pagat Level which opens up a view of the ocean and surrounding rocky coast.
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• Ague Cove: Discovered within the village of Dededo, Ague Cove is a hidden gem that’s well worth the hike in case you have the time! Nevertheless, as it’s situated on personal property, it’s a should to contact the proprietor beforehand who’s Mr. Jesus Pangelinan ((671) 477-9269). It additionally helps to notice that you need to train warning always whereas going by means of the path as it may be steep and rocky.

SOUTH TOUR

• Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad: Listed on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations, that is the fourth of 4 Spanish fortifications that protected the bay in Umatac. These days, it has been made right into a park and you will discover a number of cannons right here in addition to a preserved bunker.
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• Sella Bay Path: This can be a moderately-challenging hike that takes you Sella Bay after an hour-long hike. You’ll be rewarded with scenic overlooking views and a picturesque bay as you undergo lush greenery.
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• Talofofo Falls Resort Park: For a small entrance price, you’ll be able to take pleasure in one in every of Guam’s hottest waterfalls the place it’s also possible to take pleasure in a variety of different actions comparable to using a cable automotive, visiting a historic museum, and lots of others!
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• Talofofo Caves: Well-known for showcasing remnants of the indigenous Chamorro as evidenced by petroglyphs and work on the partitions, I recommend exploring these caves with a information.
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• Tarzan Waterfalls: One more must-see waterfall on the island and it may be simply reached with only a brief hike. Ensure to pack your swimsuit so to take pleasure in a swim after the stroll!
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• Valley of the Latte Journey Park: If you wish to mix journey with schooling, this journey park is a should in your Guam itinerary! Aside from a number of reveals of Chamorro historical past, you’ll additionally get to take pleasure in a variety of thrilling actions comparable to an Journey River Cruise (Guam’s solely inland boat tour), a Kayak Journey Tour, carabao rides, and lots of others.
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• ★ Inarajan Swimming pools: A well-liked spot for each locals and vacationers, you’ll completely love the pure system of swimming holes discovered on the shore. You’ll even discover a tall diving platform in addition to a number of different picnic facilities to benefit from your drive-by.
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• Waterfall Valley: This can be a nice newbie’s hike that leads you to five lovely waterfalls that vary from 8 ft as much as 25 ft. For those who ask me, it’s excellent for households who would love a jungle journey that’s mixed with a number of dips in freshwater swimming pools.
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• Cetti Bay Overlook: Cetti Bay is a geological delight on condition that it’s an space the place you will discover a series of a thousand foothills which might be part of Guam’s Territorial Seashore Park. It’s a straightforward drive to this viewing spot to the south of Guam.

3. Go to the statement deck at Two Lovers Level

For those who ask me, Two Lovers Level (Puntan Dos Amantes) would possibly simply be the topmost identified vacationer attraction on the island; plus, as one of many 4 Nationwide Pure Landmarks of Guam, it’s undoubtedly one of many high issues to do in Guam!

This can be a brief drive from Tumon Seashore and for a small entrance price of solely $3, you’ll be able to entry the 368 feet-high statement deck that grants you an incredible view of the coast and its turquoise waters. The location additionally features a reward store, the Two Lovers statue, and a sister bell that’s related with different “Lovers Factors” in locations comparable to these in Japan.

The story behind this attraction, nonetheless, is a timeless but bittersweet story of everlasting love. As legend has it, in the course of the Spanish period, there lived a rich household and their oldest daughter was organized to be married to a Spanish captain — naturally, she was distraught and so she ran away. She then met a younger man from a humble Chamorro household and the 2 fell in love instantly. Upon studying of their relationship, the daddy demanded that she marries the Spanish captain; collectively together with a number of Spanish troopers, they pursued the 2 lovers up till they reached the excessive cliff above Tumon Bay. With nowhere else to go, the lovers tied their lengthy black hair collectively in a single knot and leaped over the steep cliff and into the roaring waters, without end intertwined in life and in demise.

OPERATIONAL HOURS: 7AM to 7PM

4. Bask in a meals journey spree and store for souvenirs

Because the island’s #1 present, the Taotao Tasi present is unquestionably one of many high issues to do in Guam!

Since 2015, this beachfront 150-foot stage has been backdropped by probably the most gorgeous sundown views whereas lovely performers and fireplace dancers entertain audiences from all around the world. With designers and producers (a few of which have labored with the well-known Cirque du Soleil), you’ll be taken by means of an exhilarating present as you be taught the island’s treasured previous in tune, dance, and storytelling.

The icing on the cake? The doorway price comes with a scrumptious buffet BBQ banquet! For cocktails, go and provides their Corona-Rita and TaoTao Maolek a strive.

TIP: For one of the best charges, book online right now!

6. See wealthy and colourful marine life

In case you don’t know, Guam can be famed for having a number of the finest snorkeling and scuba diving spots on this planet! So if I have been you, you shouldn’t miss the chance to discover the island’s underwater scene.

• Snorkeling/Scuba Diving
  • For snorkeling, you’ll be able to take your decide from any of the seashores that I’ve listed above underneath #1 for the highest issues to do in Guam.
  • For scuba diving, you’ll be able to take a look at this list. Apra Harbor can be a typical favourite in the event you’re inquisitive about exploring historic shipwrecks from the 2 world wars.
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• Dolphin Watching: Attempt your luck and spot some spinner dolphins! You may avail of this tour from locations such because the Guam Bikini Island Membership.
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• SeaTREK Expertise: Ever needed to expertise strolling on an ocean flooring? On this institution, you’ll be able to! It’s mainly a helmet-diving exercise that’s excellent for anybody since you don’t want any swimming or diving abilities. To avoid wasting your spot, it’s finest to book online.
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• Underwater World Guam: On the Guam Aquarium Advanced, you’ll be capable to stroll by means of a see-through tunnel that’s 7 ft vast and seven ft tall, permitting you to get a more in-depth take a look at totally different underwater species. To avoid wasting your spot, it’s finest to book online.
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• Fish Eye Marine Park: Instead, you’ll be able to take a look at this underwater observatory! Different actions you could strive are the Eco Snorkeling Tour, Dolphin Watching Cruise, and Island Cultural Dinner Present.

7. Hike Mt. Lamlam

As a few of you would possibly already know, Guam is well-known for its strategic navy place and multi-colonialism with the final 400 years marked by 3 totally different powers specifically Spain, USA, and Japan. If you wish to be taught extra about its previous, see here.

In any other case, in fact, because you’ll already be in Guam, make it one in every of your high issues to do to go to these websites with the intention to be taught extra in regards to the island’s wealthy historical past!

• Pacific Struggle Museum: Marine Corps Vietnam Struggle veteran John Gerber established this museum and it accommodates varied reveals associated to the navy within the Pacific theater of World Struggle II with a give attention to the USA Marines. As such, in the event you’re a world battle buff who’s inquisitive about studying extra about what occurred in Guam throughout such a time, then a cease at this place is a should!
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• Magellan Monument: Erected in 1521 to commemorate Guam’s first contact with the western world which is thru the Portuguese navigator, Ferdinand Magellan. Again then, Magellan was touring underneath the order of the Spanish Crown to navigate the entire globe (additionally in quest of spices), when he arrived in Guam by likelihood. These days, there’s a robust festive environment within the surrounding Yuma Tak village each March 21; it’s known as Remembrance Day and it marks the touchdown of Magellan.
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• Struggle within the Pacific Nationwide Historic Park: As a multi-unit protected space established in 1978, this honors the bravery and sacrifice of those that have participated within the Pacific Theatre of WWII. Right here you can find a mess of former battlefields, gun emplacements (just like the spot known as Piti Weapons), trenches, caves, and historic buildings.

9. Deal with your self and luxuriate in tax-free buying

One of many high issues to do in Guam is definitely to discover its vibrant tradition, however greater than this, do you know that it has particular tax-free offers for guests?

So if I have been you, it is best to reap the benefits of this — come and store right here until you drop within the variety of retail manufacturers and buying facilities and expertise duty-free buying! Some locations you shouldn’t miss out on are:

• Tumon Downtown Space: Splurge and deal with your self to the variety of high-end manufacturers discovered right here comparable to Louis Vuitton, Balenciaga, and extra.
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• Micronesia Mall: Guam’s greatest duty-free shopping center with over 130 retailers, boutiques, and eating places.
• Guam Premier Shops: Constructed again in 1997, you will discover a variety of American manufacturers right here comparable to Ross Gown for Much less, Tommy Hilfiger, and extra.
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• Kmart: Open 24 hours a day, this can be a huge grocery store the place you will discover a variety of merchandise, produce, and so on. (e.g. be careful for the aisle showcasing a variety of totally different varieties and flavors of Spam — that being stated, do you know that Guam is the most important shopper for Spam? For this reason it’s no marvel that you just’ll discover distinctive flavors being bought right here comparable to Spam tocino, black pepper, and garlic amongst many others.)
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• Agaña Buying Heart: Has over 100 shops and eating places with a superb mixture of native and USA manufacturers.
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• DFS/T Galleria: For those who’re in search of extra luxurious manufacturers to buy in, that is one other place that needs to be excessive in your high issues to do in Guam!

10. Attempt different thrilling actions

The enjoyable doesn’t cease if you’re on the islands! As one in every of your high issues to do in Guam, it is best to take a look at the variety of different exhilarating actions that you are able to do which aren’t restricted to riverboat cruises, kayaking, flyboarding, and lots of others.

For the highest trusted exercise suppliers that you need to take a look at, they’d be:

• Guam Bikini Island Membership: That is your one-stop marine leisure sports activities membership situated within the south of Guam! They’ve a variety of choices you could select from that are delightfully packaged. We tried their Bikini Island Tour which was a 5-hour bundle jampacked with a number of actions: dolphin watching, jetskiing, snorkeling, banana boat trip, and tremendous screamer trip — it was one of the best ways to finish our weekend getaway!
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• Guam Adventures: Established in 2019, this firm is trusted for giving one of the best thrilling experiences together with ziplining, snorkeling, paddleboarding, Go Karting, mountain biking, mountaineering, and off-roading (I personally tried their offroad ATV journey and it was superior!).

TIP: For those who’ve bought the time, it is best to take a look at the abandoned tropical island of Alupat which is simply off Tumon Seashore (entry is thru the Onward Seashore Resort). In actual fact, it’s much less than simply 1,000 ft from the shore so that you cna kayak, jetski, or swim your strategy to it (simply apply warning particularly when swimming!). As soon as there, you’ll be able to lay out a picnic to benefit from the sandy cove.

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Guam Journey Information

» Greatest Time to Go to

Guam enjoys a tropical local weather with little seasonal temperature variation (25° to 32°) and uncommon damaging typhoons — therefore, it is a perfect vacation spot at any time of the yr! For those who’re seeking to go to throughout its warmest occasions, it is best to come round Could or November. If you wish to keep away from probabilities of rain or typhoons, come any time throughout its dry season (although it helps to say that even when it does rain, it can typically solely occur for a short while in a day!).

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» Getting in to Guam

By air. Antonio B. Received Pat Worldwide Airport  (GUM) is the one business airport to and from the island, and it’s discovered only some kilometers from Tumon. The airways that primarily fly to the island are United Airways, Japan Airways, Korean Air, China Airways, Eva Airways, and Philippine Airways.

To be able to discover one of the best flight offers out of your level of origin, I like to recommend shopping by means of Skyscanner.

From the airport, I don’t recommend taking a taxi as a result of they’re far costly. Since public transportation isn’t obtainable from the airport, what I’d suggest is to rearrange a non-public switch, do a car rental, or e book a Stroll automotive (Guam’s model of Uber).

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» Visa for Guam

Entry necessities for the island are the identical as these of the USA. So far, there are over 40 countries eligible for visa-free entry into the USA so long as you apply for the Digital System for Journey Authorization (ESTA) on-line earlier than departure. For those who’re not a citizen of any of these international locations, you have to to use for a USA visa.

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» The place to Keep (Guam Lodging)

To seek for one of the best lodge lodging in Guam at one of the best costs, I recommend cross-checking lodge costs between Agoda and Booking.com. However in the event you’re fairly inquisitive about renting comfy homes or residences, it is best to search by means of AirBnB.

See right here too for the checklist of the BEST motels in Guam.

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» Guam Foreign money

United States Greenback (USD / $) is Guam’s official forex, on condition that it’s a USA territory. Within the occasion that you just need to alternate your native cash for USD, I extremely advise that you just do NOT alternate your cash on the airport for the reason that charges there aren’t aggressive.

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» Value of Journey in Guam

It is best to count on to journey to the Philippines with a mean every day value of about USD $90~ per particular person on a funds, or a minimum of $200~ if you wish to expertise extra consolation on actions, excursions, motels, and extra. (Values beneath present low-budget to medium-budget ranges solely).

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» Methods to Get Round Guam

By strolling. That is solely splendid in case you are exploring the principle districts of Hagåtña and Tumon; nonetheless, strolling across the island isn’t advisable because of vehicular visitors and lack of sidewalks.

By bus. There are buses obtainable, together with the Vacationer Buying Buses that make stops in most motels in Tumon (it prices $4 for a one-way ticket and $12 for a every day cross).

By taxi. Taxis are sometimes costly on the island however an alternate can be a Stroll automotive (Guam’s model of Uber).

By automotive. That is the BEST strategy to go round Guam and I extremely suggest it as a result of driving a automotive offers you extra freedom and suppleness. For this, I recommend getting a rental automotive from one of many automotive firms which might be already discovered on the airport (for me, I bought my automotive rental from Hertz).

TIP: Once you’re mapping out your day-to-day route, simply use Google Maps as a result of it can present intimately the quickest route you are able to do.

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» Security in Guam

Guam is a protected vacation spot to go to and there may be little crime on the island; in truth, the Chamorro are one of many kindest and warmest individuals you’ll ever meet, so solo vacationers don’t have a lot to fret about on this superb nation!

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» Useful Chamorro/CHamoru Phrases

The native’s native language is Chamorro (CHamoru) however English is the widespread language in Guam. However, it might probably assist impress some locals when a Chamorro phrase or two!

Hey: Håfa adai! (Hah-fuh-day)
How are you: Håfa tatatmanu hao? (Hah-fuh-tah-taht-mah-noo-How?)
Thanks: Si Yu’os Må’ase’. (C-zu-oohs-Muh-ah-seat)
You’re welcome: Buen probechu. (Bwen-pro-bet-sue)
Goodbye: Adiós. (Ah-Deh-Oss)

Good morning: Buenas días. (Bwenas-Dee-as)
Good night (see you tomorrow): Esta agupa’. (eh-stah-ah-goo-pah)

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Different Guam F.A.Q.

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Reserving Necessities

TIP: It’s a good suggestion to crosscheck the costs with different fashionable journey insurance coverage suppliers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)!

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Nevertheless, take word {that a} journey insurance coverage’s affordability sometimes means lesser protection; so please at all times make sure that you learn the fantastic print with the intention to decipher which journey insurance coverage firm is the correct match for you and your journey!