Santa Rita: Guam’s Coastal Gem

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [HA-fa a-DYE]
• GoodbyeHåfa Adai
  [HA-fa a-DYE]
• YesHåguaiya
  [ha-GWAI-ya]
• NoTaya
  [TA-ya]
• Please/You're welcomeKao magahet
  [KOW ma-GA-het]
• Thank youSi Yu'os Ma'åse
  [see you-OS ma-AH-se]
• Excuse me/SorryKao magahet
  [KOW ma-GA-het]
• How are you?Haånai maolek?
  [ha-AN-eye ma-O-lek]
• Fine. And you?Mahålang. Yan yu'?
  [ma-HA-lang. yan yu]
• Do you speak English?Ha'åni i mas ångok?
  [HA-ani ee mas AN-gok]
• I don't understandTi hu tungo
  [tee hoo TUNG-goh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseHa achok na' menu, kamlu
  [ha a-CHOK na ma-NU kamlu]
• I don't eat meatTi hu kåne'
  [tee hoo KAN-eh]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-ba]
• I would like to pay, pleaseHa lina' yu', kamlu
  [ha LEE-na yu kamlu]

• Help!Ayuda!
  [ah-YOO-da]
• Go away!Ufresi!
  [oo-FRE-see]
• Call the Police!Lågu i Polisia!
  [LA-goo ee po-LEE-see-ya]
• Call a doctor!Lågu i manma'åmama'!
  [LA-goo ee man-ma-AH-ma]
• I'm lostTi hu fahåran
  [tee hoo fa-HA-ran]
• I'm illTi hu manhaggan
  [tee hoo man-HAG-gan]

• I'd like to buy...Ha saina...
  [ha SAI-na]
• I'm just lookingTi hu fihu
  [tee hoo FEE-hoo]
• How much is it?Ilelek ina?
  [ee-LE-lek EE-na]
• That's too expensiveLeklek yan
  [LEK-lek yan]
• Can you lower the price?Ha tuge' i prisu?
  [ha TOO-geh ee PREE-soo]

• What time is it?Kåo triståt na ora?
  [KOW tree-STAHT na O-ra]
• It's one o'clockEsta i ora humåtto
  [ES-ta ee O-ra hoo-MA-to]
• Half past (10)Kåo gi i 10
  [KOW gee ee 10]
• MorningMåsåna
  [ma-SAH-na]
• AfternoonTånon
  [TAH-non]
• EveningGåni
  [GA-nee]
• YesterdayKåo fumatåno'
  [KOW foo-ma-TAH-no]
• TodayKåo gi este
  [KOW gee ES-te]
• TomorrowKåo gi håfa
  [KOW gee HA-fa]
• 1Måsso
  [MA-sso]
• 2Gualo
  [GWA-lo]
• 3Tulu
  [TOO-lo]
• 4Få'gu
  [FAH-goo]
• 5Lima
  [LEE-ma]
• 6Gualua
  [GWA-lua]
• 7Månu
  [MA-nu]
• 8Fatman
  [FAT-man]
• 9Sånga
  [SAH-nga]
• 10Manhåyi
  [man-HA-yee]

• Where's a/the...?Kao gi i...
  [KOW gee ee]
• What's the address?Kåo gi i dirision?
  [KOW gee ee dee-ree-SYON]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ha muna'ån-muna'ån hita (gi i mapa)?
  [ha moo-na-ah-moo-na-ahN HEE-ta gee ee MA-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåo ya-na'?
  [KOW ya-NA]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billete (para ...)
  [oon bee-YET-te (PA-ra)]

Long before European explorers arrived, Santa Rita was part of the thriving Chamorro civilization. The Chamorro people developed a sophisticated society with unique cultural practices, including the construction of latte stones, which served as foundations for their homes. These stones remain a significant symbol of Chamorro heritage in Santa Rita.

In 1668, Spanish missionaries led by Father San Vitores arrived in Guam, marking the beginning of the Spanish colonial era. Santa Rita, like other parts of the island, experienced significant changes as Catholicism and Spanish customs were introduced. The village was originally named Pago until its relocation and renaming in the early 20th century.

During World War II, Santa Rita played a crucial role in the Battle of Guam. After the Japanese invasion in 1941, the island, including Santa Rita, was under occupation until the American forces liberated it in 1944. The village was heavily affected by the war, with many residents evacuated and homes destroyed during the conflict.

Following World War II, Santa Rita underwent significant reconstruction. The establishment of the U.S. Naval Base at Apra Harbor brought economic growth and modernization to the area. The village was relocated and renamed Santa Rita in honor of Saint Rita of Cascia, reflecting the strong Catholic influence in the community.

In recent decades, there has been a revival of Chamorro culture in Santa Rita. Efforts to preserve the Chamorro language, traditional crafts, and cultural practices are evident throughout the village. Santa Rita today is a vibrant community that honors its rich history while embracing modern development.

Santa Rita is located on the southwestern coast of Guam. The nearest airport is Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) in Tamuning, which is approximately a 30-minute drive from Santa Rita. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use airport shuttles to get to Santa Rita. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests.

Santa Rita is a small village with limited public transportation options. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area and the rest of Guam. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer distances. For shorter trips within the village, walking or biking is feasible. Public buses do service the area, but they can be infrequent and may not cover all tourist spots.

The official currency in Guam is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for use in smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in Santa Rita, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash in more populated areas like Tamuning or Hagåtña to ensure you have enough funds.

Santa Rita is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Santa Rita does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Santa Rita has a local police station and medical facilities. 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. The nearest hospital is Guam Memorial Hospital in Tamuning.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always dress appropriately when visiting churches and other religious sites. 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 handshake or a simple 'Hafa Adai' (hello). It's a sign of respect and friendliness. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Santa Rita like a local, visit the local markets 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 Fort Nuestra Señora de la Soledad, which offers stunning views of Umatac Bay. For a unique experience, participate in local festivals and events, where you can enjoy traditional music, dance, and cuisine.