High 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 well-liked ‘neighbors’ comparable to that of Hawaii or Indonesia — however what loads of vacationers don’t know is that it’s the closest U.S. soil to Asia and that it’s positively a hidden gem of types. (Issues to Do in Guam)

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

In case you’re from Asia, a direct flight to Guam can solely final for under 3.5 hours; as such, it’s an simply accessible getaway.

A whole lot of Japanese and Koreans truly regard Guam as a prime favourite after they’re searching for a tropical escape, and it’s straightforward to see why as a result of Guam is actually 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, a tremendous factor!

Spanning about 549 sq. km, it is usually a pleasure to drive by means of the island as you’re taking it straightforward to go to numerous key spots. In case you ask me, that is my prime favourite must-do when on the island.

General, it might sound daunting at first to plan the proper Guam itinerary however fret not! With the assistance of this publish that’s based mostly on my experiences, you’ll be able to simply slim down the highest issues to do in Guam in order that irrespective of when you’re planning to go to for just a few days (or extra), you’ll be taking advantage of your journey!

» Fast Journey Planning

High Issues to Do in Guam

1. Go beach-hopping everywhere in 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 provide help to take out the guesswork from determining the highest locations to see by trying out the listing under:

TIP: A majority of the japanese seashores are perfect for swimming on account of its calm and shallow waters which are brought on by outer reefs that break the surf. (In distinction, excercise warning when exploring past the reef as a result of it may be treacherous on account 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 any case, it’s positioned proper in the primary downtown space of Tumon which is the middle of the island. The most effective half? It has shallow waters so it’s usually idyllic for snorkeling and swimming — even for individuals who can’t swim! It is usually lined by the island’s greatest luxurious lodges, however don’t let this truth stop you from exploring the entire of the seaside; in any case, it’s a public seaside so you’re free to discover nearly wherever.
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• Gun Seashore: Positioned simply north of Tumon Seashore, it is a good spot that’s tranquil and scenic. In case you’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 (you probably have a scuba diving license, that is additionally a terrific spot to discover!). And as soon as the solar units, it is a good spot to remain in for grand views (if not, you can even view it from the close by Two Lovers Level).
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• Gab Gab Seashore: It is a lovely stretch of sand that’s lined with tall palm bushes; sadly, until you already know somebody who has a army ID, it’s unattainable to enter provided that it’s positioned inside a army 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 also be nice for swimming (simply be careful for some scuba divers!).
  • In your means right here, don’t neglect to drop by Emerald Valley which is a ravishing waterway with turquoise-clear waters! You’ll discover loads of fish right here in addition to water snakes and sea urchins. It’s not superb for swimming however the view is wonderful.
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• Shark’s Cove Seashore: In case you’re up for a brief hike (lower than 1km), this secluded seaside is famed for snorkeling — don’t fear, there are not any sharks right here! So pack your protecting water footwear 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 when you’re up for it!
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• Mushroom Rock Hila’an Seashore: Previous Tanguisson Seashore is Hila’an which is an extended 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 better a part of Tumon Seashore, simply head on over to its different finish which is that this Ypao Seashore. In case you’re fortunate, you would possibly spot an area music competition or an area village celebration that’s being held within the close by Ypao Seashore Park. That being mentioned, it is a good spot to go to if you wish to maintain a picnic with household or pals given the pavilions with tables which are discovered everywhere in the park.

2. Lease a automotive, drive along with your prime down, and go to some sights outdoors of town

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

So far, there are a variety of dependable rental automotive corporations which you can select from however I extremely advocate Hertz! I acquired my automotive rental from them and the method from pick-up to drop-off was completely hassle-free.

TIP: When you have the price range, 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 try 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 present, 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, often called Adelup Level, gives nice coastal views and another buildings such because the Latte of Freedom (meant to embody the power of CHamoru tradition with the form of the latte stone) and Lone Sailor Statue (a commemoration of the position 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 gives commanding views of the Philippine Sea and different northern cliff strains.
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• Latte Stone Park: Formally referred to as the Senator Angel Leon Guerrero Santos Latte Stone Memorial Park, it is a park that’s greatest recognized for its set of eight historic latte stones.
  • Latte stone or latte is a uniquely-shaped pillar that was used as constructing help by the traditional Chamorro individuals. These days, this latte stone is seen as an iconic signal of Chamorro’s id.
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• Plaza De Espana: This was 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 (on account of sturdy 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 to be able to take advantage of the expertise.
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• Mangilao Golf Membership: Positioned on the east of Guam, this course ought to be excessive up in your prime issues to do in Guam particularly in case you are a golfer! In any case, the Mangilao Golf Membership ranks among the many prime 100 programs on the 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 quick, it helps to notice that it may well get pretty steep. Nonetheless, 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 you probably have the time! Nonetheless, as it’s positioned 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 have 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 could find a number of cannons right here in addition to a preserved bunker.
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• Sella Bay Path: It is 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 payment, you’ll be able to take pleasure in one among Guam’s hottest waterfalls the place you can even 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 quick hike. Be sure that to pack your swimsuit to be able 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 take advantage of your drive-by.
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• Waterfall Valley: It is a nice newbie’s hike that leads you to five lovely waterfalls that vary from 8 ft as much as 25 ft. In case you ask me, it’s good 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 provided that it’s an space the place you could find a sequence of a thousand foothills which are part of Guam’s Territorial Seashore Park. It’s a simple drive to this viewing spot to the south of Guam.

3. Go to the statement deck at Two Lovers Level

In case you ask me, Two Lovers Level (Puntan Dos Amantes) would possibly simply be the topmost recognized vacationer attraction on the island; plus, as one of many 4 Nationwide Pure Landmarks of Guam, it’s positively one of many prime issues to do in Guam!

It is a quick drive from Tumon Seashore and for a small entrance payment of solely $3, you’ll be able to entry the 368 feet-high statement deck that grants you a tremendous view of the coast and its turquoise waters. The positioning 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, nevertheless, is a timeless but bittersweet story of everlasting love. As legend has it, throughout 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, endlessly intertwined in life and in dying.

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 certainly one of many prime 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 everywhere in 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 music, dance, and storytelling.

The icing on the cake? The doorway payment 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, e book on-line at the moment!

6. See wealthy and colourful marine life

In case you don’t know, Guam can also be famed for having among the greatest snorkeling and scuba diving spots on the planet! So if I had 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 try this listing. Apra Harbor can also be a typical favourite when you’re fascinated with exploring historic shipwrecks from the 2 world wars.
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• Dolphin Watching: Attempt your luck and spot some spinner dolphins! You possibly can avail of this tour from locations such because the Guam Bikini Island Membership.
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• SeaTREK Expertise: Ever wished to expertise strolling on an ocean ground? On this institution, you’ll be able to! It’s principally a helmet-diving exercise that’s good for anybody since you don’t want any swimming or diving expertise. To avoid wasting your spot, it’s greatest to e book on-line.
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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 better take a look at totally different underwater species. To avoid wasting your spot, it’s greatest to e book on-line.
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• Fish Eye Marine Park: As a substitute, you’ll be able to try this underwater observatory! Different actions which you can 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 army 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 right here.

In any other case, after all, because you’ll already be in Guam, make it one among your prime 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 Battle Museum: Marine Corps Vietnam Battle veteran John Gerber established this museum and it comprises numerous reveals associated to the army within the Pacific theater of World Battle II with a deal with the USA Marines. As such, when you’re a world battle buff who’s fascinated with 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 probability. These days, there’s a sturdy festive environment within the surrounding Yuma Tak village each March 21; it’s referred to as Remembrance Day and it marks the touchdown of Magellan.
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• Battle 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’ll discover a large number of former battlefields, gun emplacements (just like the spot referred to as Piti Weapons), trenches, caves, and historic buildings.

9. Deal with your self and revel in tax-free procuring

One of many prime 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 had been you, it’s best to make the most of this — come and store right here until you drop within the variety of retail manufacturers and procuring facilities and expertise duty-free procuring! 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 largest duty-free shopping center with over 130 outlets, boutiques, and eating places.
• Guam Premier Retailers: Constructed again in 1997, you could find 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, it is a huge grocery store the place you could find 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 mentioned, do you know that Guam is the largest client for Spam? Because of this it’s no surprise that you simply’ll discover distinctive flavors being offered right here comparable to Spam tocino, black pepper, and garlic amongst many others.)
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• Agaña Procuring Middle: Has over 100 shops and eating places with a superb mixture of native and USA manufacturers.
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• DFS/T Galleria: In case you’re searching for extra luxurious manufacturers to buy in, that is one other place that ought to be excessive in your prime issues to do in Guam!

10. Attempt different thrilling actions

The enjoyable doesn’t cease while you’re on the islands! As one among your prime issues to do in Guam, it’s best to try 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 have to try, they might be:

• Guam Bikini Island Membership: That is your one-stop marine leisure sports activities membership positioned within the south of Guam! They’ve a variety of choices which you can 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 simplest 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: In case you’ve obtained the time, it’s best to try the abandoned tropical island of Alupat which is simply off Tumon Seashore (entry is thru the Onward Seashore Resort). In reality, it’s much less than simply 1,000 ft from the shore so that you cna kayak, jetski, or swim your technique to it (simply observe 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

» Finest Time to Go to

Guam enjoys a tropical local weather with little seasonal temperature variation (25° to 32°) and uncommon harmful typhoons — therefore, it is a perfect vacation spot at any time of the yr! In case you’re trying to go to throughout its warmest occasions, it’s best to come round Might or November. If you wish to keep away from possibilities of rain or typhoons, come any time throughout its dry season (although it helps to say that even when it does rain, it’ll 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 just a few 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 looking 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 accessible from the airport, what I’d advocate is to rearrange a non-public switch, do a automotive 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 international locations 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. In case you’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 Reserving.com. However when you’re quite fascinated with renting snug homes or flats, it’s best to search by means of AirBnB.

See right here too for the listing of the BEST lodges in Guam.

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» Guam Forex

United States Greenback (USD / $) is Guam’s official foreign money, provided that it’s a USA territory. Within the occasion that you simply need to change your native cash for USD, I extremely advise that you simply do NOT change your cash on the airport because the charges there aren’t aggressive.

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» Price of Journey in Guam

It is best to anticipate to journey to the Philippines with a mean every day value of about USD $90~ per individual on a price range, or at the very least $200~ if you wish to expertise extra consolation on actions, excursions, lodges, and extra. (Values under present low-budget to medium-budget ranges solely).

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» Methods to Get Round Guam

By strolling. That is solely superb in case you are exploring the primary districts of Hagåtña and Tumon; nevertheless, strolling across the island isn’t advisable on account of vehicular visitors and lack of sidewalks.

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

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

By automotive. That is the BEST technique to go round Guam and I extremely advocate it as a result of driving a automotive gives you extra freedom and adaptability. For this, I recommend getting a rental automotive from one of many automotive corporations which are already discovered on the airport (for me, I obtained 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’ll present intimately the quickest route you are able to do.

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» Security in Guam

Guam is a secure vacation spot to go to and there may be little crime on the island; in reality, 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 wonderful nation!

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» Useful Chamorro/CHamoru Phrases

The native’s native language is Chamorro (CHamoru) however English is the frequent language in Guam. Nonetheless, it may well assist impress some locals when you already know a Chamorro phrase or two!

Whats up: 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 well-liked journey insurance coverage suppliers like World Nomads and HeyMondo (as my reader, you get 5% off)!

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Nonetheless, take notice {that a} journey insurance coverage’s affordability sometimes means lesser protection; so please at all times be certain that you learn the positive print with the intention to decipher which journey insurance coverage firm is the best match for you and your journey!