A young traveler’s guide to Guam’s rich heritage

Guam, USA, only 3.5 hours from Manila, perfectly blends relaxation, adventure, and rich cultural traditions. With pristine beaches, luxury accommodations, and a history intertwined with the Philippines, Guam feels both familiar and exciting. March is the ideal time to visit for a cultural experience as it is Mes CHamoru - a month-long celebration of the CHamoru people’s history, traditions, and resilience. Enjoy cultural performances, local artistry, and authentic island flavors while exploring Guam’s deep-rooted heritage. Many hotels and shops offer Mes CHamoru specials and feature cultural displays.

From March 28-30, join the locals at Gupot CHamoru or Crab Festival in Malesso’, Guam’s southernmost village, where you can experience live performances, arts and crafts, and thrilling crab-themed competitions, including a culinary contest and a crab-catching challenge.

Beyond our cultural ties, Guam offers Filipino travelers an array of unique adventures and immersive experiences. Here’s a recommended itinerary for tourists to explore the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Exploring Guam’s culture and history 

For those eager to step back in time, Guam’s cultural attractions and historical sites serve as windows into its storied past, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern life.

Tumon Bay View

An easy way to start a day in Guam is by enjoying the sunrise over serene waters from your hotel balcony. After a delicious breakfast, continue the tranquil morning with a drive towards the southern part of the island to Valley of the Latte, a cultural attraction that combines nature, local wildlife, ancient CHamoru history, and traditional practices. Tourists who book the Adventure River Cruise morning tour can glide over calm waters to ancient lands, discovering hidden gems and breathtaking landscapes in the heart of the Talo’fo’fo River Valley. As the tour includes lunch, travelers can also get a taste of the unique flavors of Guam. The hands-on experiences at the Valley of the Latte not only bring CHamoru history to life but also give young travelers an opportunity to participate in cultural traditions.

Valley of the Latte

Talo’fo’fo River Valley

Afterward, tourists can enjoy a scenic drive further south along the coast to Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, perched in the village of Humåtak. This historic site stands as a silent sentinel of Guam’s colonial history. Built by the Spanish in the 19th century, the fortress once safeguarded the island’s vital trade routes. Today, its weathered stone walls and sweeping ocean views whisper tales of Spanish galleons that once sailed these waters. Visitors can stand atop its ruins and gaze out at the horizon, where history and legend merge in the waves.

Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad

Next, a 30-minute drive towards the central part of Guam leads to the War in the Pacific National Historical Park, also known as Asan Beach Park, where the echoes of World War II still linger. This park commemorates the pivotal Battle of Guam, with preserved caves, memorials, and battle-scarred beaches serving as reminders of the island’s resilience.

War in the Pacific National Historical Park or Asan Beach Park

Travelers can then make their way towards Hagåtña to visit sites like the Guam Museum and  Plaza de España. Interactive exhibits at the Guam Museum showcase over 300 curated artifacts and an array of images, audios, and short films to guide visitors through the historical, CHamoru narrative of Guam. Plaza de España stands as another tribute to Guam’s Spanish colonial past. It serves as a picturesque reminder of an era that left lasting imprints on the island’s architecture, governance, and traditions.

Guam Museum

Plaza de España

Travelers can end their island tour with a visit to Puntan Dos Amåntes, or Two Lover’s Point, located in the northern part of Guam. The attraction not only offers breathtaking views of the crystal-clear Pacific Ocean but also an emotional connection to one of the island’s most iconic legends.

Cultural Ties Between Guam and The Philippines
For Filipino travelers, Guam’s historical connection to the Philippines offers a sense of familiarity, allowing the U.S. destination to be a home away from home. Both islands share a past shaped by centuries of Spanish colonization, influencing their language, food, and traditions. This shared history is reflected in everyday life, from the prevalence of Catholicism and its religious festivals to the Spanish-influenced cuisine. Food lovers will find comfort in familiar flavors, such as empanadas and lechon, while the Chamorro language shares similarities with Filipino, making the island feel even more welcoming. We are further connected by the shared value of strong family bonds.
Guam’s deep-rooted cultural heritage, coupled with its breathtaking natural beauty, makes it an ideal destination for young travelers and families alike. Mes CHamoru is a perfect time to visit, as it brings together the island’s vibrant traditions with modern-day celebrations, making it a true feast for the senses.