Agat: The Gem of Guam's Western Shore

• HelloHåfa adai
  [HA-fa a-DIE]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [a-DYOS]
• YesHao
  [HAO]
• NoTi
  [TEE]
• Please/You're welcomeFan boka/Na'sai
  [fan BO-ka/NA-sai]
• Thank youSi Yu'us ma'åse
  [SEE YOO-us ma-AH-se]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa/Sinedåyu
  [di-SPEN-sa/si-ne-DAI-yu]
• How are you?Ña'mu hao maolek?
  [NYA-mu HAO ma-oh-LEK]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Hu gof maolek?
  [ma-O-lek. hu gof ma-oh-LEK]
• Do you speak English?Inagof hao siha i Inglés?
  [i-NA-gof HAO see-HA i in-GLES]
• I don't understandTi hu sotba' hao
  [TEE hu SOT-ba HAO]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLao' hu manu, fan boka
  [LA-oh hu MA-nu, fan BO-ka]
• I don't eat meatTi hu manngge
  [TEE hu MANG-ge]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-ba]
• I would like to pay, pleaseLao' hu faguat, fan boka
  [LA-oh hu fa-GWAT, fan BO-ka]

• Help!Ayuda!
  [a-YU-da]
• Go away!Kao tuge'!
  [KAO tu-GE]
• Call the Police!Tåya i Polisia!
  [TAI-ya i po-LI-si-a]
• Call a doctor!Tåya i sinseru!
  [TAI-ya i sin-SE-ru]
• I'm lostAtmåt yu'
  [at-MAT yu]
• I'm illInasångan yu'
  [i-na-SANG-gan yu]

• I'd like to buy...Lao' hu belen...
  [LA-oh hu BE-len]
• I'm just lookingTi hu siña
  [TEE hu SEE-nya]
• How much is it?Kånto båba?
  [KAN-to BA-ba]
• That's too expensiveKao demasiadu esta
  [KAO de-ma-SEE-ado ES-ta]
• Can you lower the price?Kånto na'i?
  [KAN-to na-EE]

• What time is it?Kånto na oras?
  [KAN-to na O-ras]
• It's one o'clockApat na oras
  [a-PAT na O-ras]
• Half past (10)Dås na medio (10)
  [DAS na me-DYO (10)]
• MorningGof mañaina
  [gof ma-NYA-ina]
• AfternoonGof tapångngelo
  [gof ta-PANG-ge-lo]
• EveningGof atdao
  [gof AT-dow]
• YesterdayKåumulang
  [KAN-mu-lang]
• TodayI tano'
  [i TA-no]
• TomorrowI lunes
  [i LU-nes]
• 1Uno
  [U-no]
• 2Dos
  [DOS]
• 3Tres
  [TRES]
• 4Kuåtro
  [KWA-tro]
• 5Singko
  [SING-ko]
• 6Sais
  [SAIS]
• 7Siette
  [SI-et-te]
• 8Ocho
  [O-cho]
• 9Nuebi
  [NWE-bi]
• 10Dies
  [DYES]

• Where's a/the...?Ånna i...
  [AN-na i]
• What's the address?Sumåti i direksion?
  [su-MAT-i i di-rek-SYON]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Puede i mapatgue (gi i mapa)?
  [pwe-DE i ma-PAT-gwe (gi i MA-pa)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kånto na siguru?
  [KAN-to na si-GU-ru]
• A ticket (to ....)Un bilite (gi ...)
  [un bi-LI-te (gi)]

Agat, like the rest of Guam, was originally settled by the Chamorro people over 4,000 years ago. The Chamorros developed a unique culture characterized by a matrilineal society, complex social structures, and advanced seafaring skills. They lived in coastal villages, built distinctive latte stone structures, and engaged in extensive trade with other Pacific island communities.

The Spanish colonization of Guam began in 1668 when Jesuit missionary Diego Luis de San Vitores arrived on the island. Agat became an important location for the Spanish, who established a mission and used the area as a base for spreading Christianity. The Spanish influence brought significant cultural changes, including the introduction of new crops, livestock, and Catholicism.

During World War II, Agat played a significant role in the Battle of Guam. On July 21, 1944, American forces landed on the beaches of Agat as part of the broader campaign to recapture Guam from Japanese occupation. The battle was fierce and resulted in heavy casualties, but it ultimately led to the liberation of Guam. Today, the War in the Pacific National Historical Park in Agat commemorates this pivotal event.

After World War II, Agat underwent extensive rebuilding and development. The U.S. military presence continued to influence the area, contributing to economic growth and modernization. Infrastructure improvements, educational advancements, and increased tourism transformed Agat into a vibrant community. The village's cultural heritage was preserved through festivals, traditional crafts, and the continued practice of Chamorro customs.

Today, Agat is a thriving village that blends its rich history with modern amenities. The community is known for its scenic beauty, friendly residents, and cultural festivals. Visitors can explore historical sites, enjoy water activities along the pristine beaches, and experience the local cuisine. Agat's unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination on Guam.

Agat is located on the western coast of Guam. The nearest international airport is Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) in Tamuning, approximately 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a shuttle service to reach Agat. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Public buses also run from the airport to Agat, offering a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Agat is a small village, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, local taxis are available but can be expensive. Public buses operate within Agat and connect to other parts of Guam. Renting a car is a convenient option for exploring the area and provides the flexibility to visit nearby attractions at your own pace. Bicycle rentals are also available for those who prefer an eco-friendly mode of transport.

The official currency in Guam is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Agat, making it easy to withdraw cash if needed.

Agat is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Agat does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Agat has a local police station and medical facilities to help with emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the village where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a warm 'Hafa Adai' (Hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Agat like a local, visit the Agat Village Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Chamorro goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the village's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the War in the Pacific National Historical Park for a glimpse into Guam's WWII history. For a unique experience, attend one of the village fiestas, which are vibrant celebrations of Chamorro culture.