Wednesday, July 17, 2024 Guam is an enchanting destination with miles of sandy beaches, coconut groves, waterfalls, dramatic sunsets, starry night skies, and vibrant coral reefs. This picturesque island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history, spanning 4,000 years from pre-colonial culture and archaeological sites to WWII battlefields and Spanish forts. Guam’s culture and history thrive with a cosmopolitan twist, evident in its festivals, music, art, cuisines, and fashion scenes.
Adventure lovers can immerse themselves in both land and sea activities, with abundant opportunities for sports and thrilling experiences. Whether it’s exploring underwater worlds, hiking lush trails, or enjoying local traditions, Guam provides a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Discover why Guam stands apart as a travel destination by experiencing its diverse attractions and vibrant culture firsthand.
From its historical landmarks to its natural wonders, Guam offers a captivating escape for every traveler. The historical sites in Guam coupled with impeccable natural surroundings make for numerous sights of interest in Guam. The elegant remains of the Spanish buildings, stone bridges in Hagåtña, the Plaza De España and other edifices along Guam’s southern part clearly testify Spanish influence in the region’s architecture.
Between the Meragan Point to the west and Tagua Point to the east lies the northern littoral of Guam Island which is geographically named as Tarague. The breathtaking landscape renders much of its charm to its coral reefs, the lagoon and the towering limestone cliffs. The coral reef represents Tarague’s major environmental aspect and restores vibrant sub aquatic life including algae, corals, sea urchins, crabs and others.
The ancient village of Talofofo has probably its name rooted in the phrase “ entalo’ i fe’fo’ ,” which means “between the cliffs,” or the word “ fo’fo’ ,” which means a sparkling stream. The area stretches from the shore along the Ugum and Talofof Rivers up to the interior valleys. Most of the pre-Spanish era inhabitants lived in settlements along these two rivers.
The remnants found in the Talofofo Caves testify of human existence in the earliest times in this region, albeit for short periods at a time or seasonally. Located on the southern edge of the Apra Harbour, Sumay was originally the prehistoric village of Chamorro. Due to a naturally deep water port, ships from various countries across the globe frequented Sumay.
One of the major attractions in Sumay is the Guam Military Museum. The museum is part of the Naval Base Guam and is located near the site of the pre-war USMC barracks. It exhibits guns, photographs and other displays.
Due to its strategic location, Sumay withstood the first Japanese bomb attack on the island of Guam on December 8, 1941. The Fish Eye Marine Park Underwater Observatory is the only one of its kind in Micronesia. The underwater park displays an amazing seascape at one of Guam’s most impressivereefs and over 200 species of colourful tropical fishes.
From the upper deck of the observatory, one can watch the stunning emerald and blue hues of the ocean which appears to be a kaleidoscope of colour to the eyes. Some of the most popular activities in the Fish Eye Marine Park Observatory include Eco Snorkeling Tour, Island Cultural Dinner Show and Dolphin Watching Cruise. These unforgettable experiences offer real feast to your senses! The 252 acres of coral reef and limestone forest of Haputo is listed in the Guam and National Registers of Historical Places.
The forested area won the recognition of ecological reserve in 1984 to protect it from invasive species and notorious human practices. The idyllic beach of Haputo is accessible by a hiking trail comprising of 212 narrow man-made steps. The steps descend about 100 feet down a fairly steep incline to the emerald sea waters.
Nearby, there are the remains of an ancient Chamorro village. Explore the cultural village at GefPa’go located in Inarajan and experience how life was in the early days of the island. At the Valley of the Latte in Talofofo, reenactments make the past come alive while ancient customs and traditions are open for discovery.
Guam’s historical landmarks include churches, forts, historical trails and ancient archaeological sites that immerse the visitor in history and bring the guests in contact with landmarks that are hundreds, and in some cases, thousands of years old. Guam abounds with vibrant nightlife and if bars and clubs are your places of interest, then Tumon is the place to be. The Chamorro Village Night Market is a must-visit place to buy locally made products and food items.
During the holiday season, you can come across alluring displays in the night markets of Tumon. The pubs and lounges of Guam come to life with live music, frenzied dance beats, lounge singers and DGs. Music of all genres are performed behind the action-packed bars and modern dance floors, making them pulsate with energy.
The Cetti Bay Overlook is a chain of thousand foothills nestled in Guam’s Territorial Seashore Park which provides significant clues to the unique geological phenomenon. The overlook is a popular site for viewing Guam’s breathtaking mountain ranges and the ocean to one side. To the north, one can see Attelong Acho, a striking example of pillow lava which was formed underwater during a volcanic explosion.
Guam is a great place for die-hard epicureans to explore. The island not only offers diverse array of culinary adventures from across the continents, but is also popular for its unique gastronomy. The eateries at Guam provide fusion platters with distinct Asian, Pacific Islands and Spanish culinary influences.
Guam has some of the world’s most premium designers and brands for the fashionistas who keep themselves up to date with the latest global fashion trends. Buyers can take a tour around the small stores, night markets, boutiques and three large shopping malls to get their best picks. From exclusive apparel to local handcraft items, there is a wide selection of shopping opportunities in Guam.
And remember, all retail purchases are tax-free! Guam’s culture and tradition thrives in 17 th century Catholic churches, fandangos, local cuisines, music, folklores and several other activities that are quintessential to the island. Forged from a Neolithic foundation and shaped by historical events, the island’s living culture has expanded into a bustling cosmopolitan way of life: The list of Guam’s attractions is literally endless.Explore the landmarks across central, northern and southern Guam along with its capital Hagåtña and discover the wonders awaiting you.
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