Guam travel tips
Guam travel tips: A U.S. territory in Micronesia, boasts tropical beauty, rich Chamorro culture, historic sites, and strategic military importance.
Municipalities 🌎
Guam travel tips. Here is a list of all the municipalities of the Guam.
Agana Heights
Agat
Asan-Maina
Barrigada
Chalan Pago-Ordot
Dededo
Hagåtña
Inarajan
Mangilao
Merizo
Mongmong-Toto-Maite
Piti
Santa Rita
Sinajana
Talofofo
Tamuning
Umatac
Yigo
Yona
Before you go 🛩
Important information you should know before your trip
Info
Capital | Hagatna
Flag Codes:
ISO alpha-2 GU,
ISO alpha-3 GUM
Currency
Badge | US Dollar
CODE | USD
NUMBER | 840
SYMBOL | $
FRACTION | penny
Mobile Coverage
Dialing Code | +1-671
SIM Card
Coverage | 3G / 4G / 5G |
Mobile Networks |
Location
Guam is an island territory located in the western Pacific Ocean. It is situated in the Mariana Islands archipelago, specifically in the westernmost region of Micronesia. Guam is approximately 2,500 miles southwest of Hawaii, 1,500 miles east of the Philippines, and 3,800 miles west of California.
Geographically, Guam is located at approximately 13.4 degrees North latitude and 144.8 degrees East longitude. It is the largest and southernmost island of the Mariana Islands chain and covers an area of about 210 square miles (approximately 544 square kilometers).
As an unincorporated territory of the United States, Guam is part of the United States’ jurisdiction but has its own local government. It serves as a strategic military outpost and is home to several military installations, including Andersen Air Force Base and Naval Base Guam.
Currency
The currency of Guam is the United States dollar (USD).
Guam is an unincorporated territory of the United States, and as such, the U.S. dollar is the official currency used for all transactions on the island.
The currency is denoted by the symbol “$” and is subdivided into cents (¢).
The denominations of U.S. dollar bills commonly used in Guam include $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, while coins include 1 cent (penny), 5 cents (nickel), 10 cents (dime), 25 cents (quarter), and occasionally, $1 coins.
ATMs are widely available on the island, and major credit cards are accepted at most establishments.
Languages
The official and most widely spoken language of Guam is English. English serves as the primary language for government, business, education, and everyday communication on the island. As an unincorporated territory of the United States, Guam follows American English conventions and uses English in schools, official documents, and public services.
In addition to English, the Chamorro language also holds an important place in Guam’s cultural heritage. Chamorro is an Austronesian language and is considered an indigenous language of Guam. It is spoken by a significant portion of the population and is taught in schools as part of efforts to preserve and promote the Chamorro culture.
Climate 🌡
Guam has a tropical marine climate characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and distinct wet and dry seasons. Here are the main features of Guam’s climate:
Temperature: Guam experiences relatively consistent temperatures throughout the year, with little variation. Average temperatures range from around 75°F (24°C) in the cooler months to about 86°F (30°C) in the warmer months. High temperatures can occasionally reach the 90s°F (32-35°C) during the hottest times of the year.
Wet Season: The wet season on Guam typically runs from July through December, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between August and November. During this period, the island experiences frequent showers, thunderstorms, and occasional typhoons. The wet season is characterized by high humidity and lush, green vegetation.
Dry Season: The dry season on Guam generally spans from January through June. This period is characterized by lower rainfall and drier weather. While occasional rain showers are still possible, the dry season sees fewer significant storms and a decrease in overall humidity.
Typhoon Season: Guam is located in the typhoon-prone region of the western Pacific. The typhoon season typically extends from June through November, overlapping with the wet season. Typhoons, which are large tropical cyclones, can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges to the island. It’s important to stay informed about weather updates and follow any advisories or warnings issued by local authorities during this time.
Ocean Temperatures: The ocean surrounding Guam remains warm throughout the year, with water temperatures ranging from the low 80s°F (around 27-29°C) in the cooler months to the mid-80s°F (29-30°C) in the warmer months. These pleasant water temperatures make Guam a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.
Guam travel tips
If you’re planning a trip to Guam, here are some travel tips to enhance your experience:
Entry Requirements:
Check visa requirements and ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.
Local Customs:
Respect the local Chamorro culture. Modesty is appreciated, and removing shoes when entering someone’s home is customary.
Outdoor Activities:
Snorkeling, diving, and exploring the island’s natural beauty are must-do activities.
Historical Sites:
Visit historical sites like Two Lovers Point, the War in the Pacific National Historical Park, and the Guam Museum.
Transportation:
Renting a car is the best way to explore Guam. Taxis are available, and there’s limited public transportation. View Guide.
Island Hopping:
Consider exploring nearby islands like Rota, Saipan, or Tinian for a broader Micronesian experience.
Cultural Events:
Check for local festivals or cultural events happening during your visit for a more immersive experience.
Enjoy your time in Guam!
The best of the best
Guam, as a Pacific island with a unique cultural heritage, offers a diverse range of traditional foods that reflect the island’s history and influences.
Kelaguen
Kelaguen is a popular dish in Guam made with grilled or cooked meat (commonly chicken, beef, or fish) that is finely chopped or shredded.
Kadon Pika
Kadon Pika is a spicy chicken stew that showcases the fusion of Chamorro and Spanish flavors.
Kadu
Kadu is a traditional Chamorro soup or stew made with pumpkin or squash, vegetables, and various meats such as chicken, beef, or pork.
Here are some typical foods of Guam:
Red Rice: Red Rice is a staple side dish in Guam. It is made by cooking rice with achote (annatto) seeds, which gives the rice its vibrant red color. The rice is often flavored with onions, garlic, and sometimes bacon or sausage to add additional depth of flavor.
Chicken Kelaguen: Chicken Kelaguen is a specific variation of kelaguen where chicken is the primary ingredient. The chicken is cooked, shredded, and mixed with lemon juice, grated coconut, onions, and hot peppers. It is a popular dish at Chamorro gatherings and fiestas.
Coconut Candy: Coconut candy, locally known as latiya or coconut candy, is a sweet treat made with grated coconut, sugar, and condensed milk. The mixture is cooked and then shaped into bite-sized pieces. Coconut candy is a popular dessert or snack in Guam.
Titiyas: Titiyas are a type of flatbread or tortilla made from corn or rice flour. They are often served as a side dish or used as a base for other Chamorro dishes. Titiyas can be enjoyed plain or with various fillings or spreads.
Chamorro cuisine embraces flavors from the local ingredients and blends them with influences from Spanish, Filipino, and other Pacific island cultures. Exploring the local markets, restaurants, and food stalls on the island will provide you with a wider variety of traditional dishes to savor during your visit to Guam.
Transportation 🚥
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