Photos by Miyuki Takiguchi ()
Whether you’re working from home, sheltering in place or just staying home, if you’re like us, you’re probably dreaming of open skies, sandy beaches, tall mountains, or perfect powdery slopes. Our travel plans may be on hold, but that doesn’t mean we can’t dream up where we’ll go next.
Welcome to virtual vacation video series where we can explore destinations from the comfort of our homes.
Join us as we take a short virtual journey to Guam.
The great thing about this destination is that it is easily accessible from almost anywhere in the Pacific theater and getting there can be relatively inexpensive thanks to many budget airline options in the region.
Guam is an island blessed with beautiful beaches, rich history, traditional Chamorro culture and arts, and delicious cuisine. This is a great place for a quick getaway.
Some of the must-see spots in Guam include:
Chamorro Village – This is one of the most popular tourist haunts on this relaxed island. Looking for Guam products and delicacies? You’ll find them here at this market in Agana, Guam’s capital village. This beautiful market housed in Spanish-style buildings with red-tile roofs is packed full of local vendors and restaurants. Visit for the Wednesday Night Market for a taste of Chamorro arts and crafts, dancing and food.
Dulce Nombre de Maria Cathedral-Basilica and Latte Stone Park— Here you’ll get a peek into the island’s unique history. Built in 1669, the Cathedral-Basilica is the island’s largest and most prestigious Catholic church. This shining white cathedral, its tall clock tower and impressive stained-glass windows are a reminder of the island’s Spanish influence. Nearby, Latte Stone Park offers a glimpse of Chamorro life in ancient times. Visit and take a close look at them and you may feel as if you’ve strayed into the ancient civilization.
Two Lover’s Point – For a panoramic view of the island’s coast and turquoise ocean, Two Lovers’ Point at the top of a 400-foot-high cliff is a great place to go. The legend holds that this is the very spot where in the 1500s a local Chamorro man and Spanish maiden leapt to their deaths to avoid capture and the girl’s forced betrothal to another as a final act of eternal love to each other. Today, tourists enjoy the breathtaking vista and a large statue of two lovers symbolizing their undying love. You can buy heart-shaped locks and plaques to write down heartfelt wishes for romance and attach them to the Love Lock Wall.
A visit to Guam would not be complete without a taste of the local Chamorro food. Make sure to try “kelaguen,” chopped broiled chicken with lemon juice, grated coconut and hot peppers. And add some hot and sour “finadene sauce” over the dish.
I hope you enjoyed our virtual visit to the wonderful island of Guam and that perhaps it's inspired your next trip. Stay safe and get ready to travel with us in our next video. Thanks for watching!
