The US island territory Guam is popular as a stunning destination and a shopping haven. Its sights and sounds made it a popular on many’s bucket list. Guam is rich in natural resources and boasts of diverse colonial history and local culture, which account for its one million visitors a year. Lucky for us here in the Philippines, the exotic island is located only a few hours away by plane.
Off-the-beaten-path paradise
Guam is lush and tropical, complete with breathtaking ocean views that make it seem like an untouched paradise despite the proliferation of tourists. Impressively, the island manages to protect its resources well. Its beaches like Tumon and Tanguisson for instance boast of an abundant marine life.
It is also surrounded by thriving coral reefs that make Guam a year-round snorkeling and diving destination. While in the ocean, divers can learn a bit of history while enjoying breathtaking sights as the shipwrecks of the wards, SMS Cormoran and the Tokai Maru, are both popular sites.
The island is also blessed with a slew of natural wonders such as towering cliffs, beautiful limestone forest terrains, and other wonders such as the Pagat Caves, Sigua Falls, Ague Cove and Marbo Cave. Another must-see wonder is Talofofo Falls, a scenic 30-foot waterfall in the Ugum River that can be accessed by a cable car.
Shopping and dining haven
Guam may be a remote island but it certainly doesn’t lag when it comes to shopping and high-end retail options. And to top it all off, shopping in Guam is tax-free.
Shopaholics will find a slice of heaven in Tumon, dubbed as Guam’s center of shopping and fashion. Check out the DFS Guam Galleria and Tumon Sands Plaza, where all the popular designer brands, as well as all-time favorite American brands, are available at marked down prices.
While the shopping industry of Guam boasts of international brands, it’s their local cuisine that takes the spotlight when it comes to dining. Similar to most Asian countries, rice is a staple in Guam; red rice, to be precise. Called hineksa’ aga’ga in the Chamorro language, red rice is prepared by cooking short-grain rice with achote (annatto) water.
Another must-try signature local dish is kelaguen, which is similar to ceviche and enjoyed with flour or corn tortillas. This dish is prepared with chicken, octopus or squid, in a pickling marinade of lemon juice, fresh coconut, green onions and hot red chilies.
The locals, called Chamorros, are fond of making dishes that are closely similar to Filipino dishes, such as meat stews, coconut-infused dishes and candied fruits. It could be attributed to the fact that Filipinos comprise approximately 25 percent of Guam’s population.
Good news for us here, the country’s leading budget airline Cebu Pacific has begun offering low-fare flights between Manila and Guam, making it accessible for more to enjoy what this exotic destination has to offer.
Grab the chance to warmly greet Guam “hafa adai” by booking a flight now. Cebu Pacific’s lowest year-round fares start from P7,197 all-in, but seat sales go as low as P2,500. Visit www.cebupacificair.com for more details.