(Molly Carnahan)
As I sit here in the States and reflect on the last four years of my life, a smile comes to my face. When we got orders for Guam in 2014, I didn’t know what to expect, and I admit I was a little scared. The island of Guam was to be my home for four years. There was so much to learn and explore on this island. Guam is full of love and beauty. So, I want to share my top five favorite things about Guam.
First, my all-time favorite place on Guam is Marbo Caves. Every time I went, I swear I could sit there on the cliff line and stare out into the ocean forever. Marbo Caves is known for its swimming hole in the cave, but for me, the cliff line lookout is really where it’s at. When you look out into the ocean, it will bring a sense of peace and calmness to you. I recommend bringing your camera and a towel to sit on so you can enjoy the view.
Gab Gab Beach is definitely a close second. It is, in my opinion, the best place to snorkel. I remember snorkeling there and looking at all the beautiful fish. Suddenly, I look below and see a sea turtle swimming right underneath me. It was such a surreal experience. So, if you haven’t checked out Gab Gab beach down on Naval Base Guam, then definitely head there soon. Be sure to bring a beach chair and snorkel gear!
If you are looking for an adventure, then try out the Spanish Steps hike! The view at Spanish Steps, which is located on Naval Base Guam, is one I will never forget. The hike to get there can be a little crazy, but it definitely is worth it. During the hike, you will get to climb down a ladder and scale ropes. As you walk down the trail, you will see coconut crabs and some caves. But the best part is the spectacular view at the end of the hike! Beautiful water and rocks make it a great place to swim and snorkel. When I went, I was able to see a little baby reef shark! Definitely bring a camera, swimsuit and good hiking shoes.
One of the things I learned how to do on Guam was paddle board. The island is great place to paddleboard because of the calm, crystal-clear water. You can be paddleboarding and look down and see amazing tropical fish. My all-time favorite place for paddle boarding is Matapang Beach down in Tumon. The water is calm and it is great for any beginner who is learning how to board. My dog Skip loved riding on the board with me (Yep, that’s Skip and me on the cover of this magazine.). If you want to try it out, I recommend the SUP Shack. They are located on Matapang Beach and they give lessons and will rent a board to you. Check them out on Facebook. I promise you won’t regret this experience!
One of the things I miss the most about the island is the food. It’s life changing on Guam. On any given morning, you could find me enjoying some fried rice at Kings or a breakfast burrito at Pika’s Café. The best lunch spot is poolside at the Hilton Tree Bar eating one of their delicious cheeseburgers. My two favorite local dinner spots would have to be Meskla Dos and Mosa’s!
The onion rings at Meskla Dos will change your life, and Mosa’s lamb burger is out-of-this-world good. If you are looking for a sweet treat, then you will want to head to Hagan Daz at the Fiesta Resort and get their fondue sampler. I can promise that you will not leave Guam hungry. They have something for everyone!
All I have from the last four years are happy memories and maybe some sand in my backpack. The memories are of awesome people, places and food. If you ever have the opportunity to visit or live on Guam, do it! It just might steal your heart, too.
