Sinajana: The Heartbeat of Guam

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [HAH-fah AH-dye]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [AH-dyos]
• YesHågu
  [HAH-goo]
• NoTi
  [tee]
• Please/You're welcomePorfabor
  [pohr-fah-BOHR]
• Thank youSi Yu'os Ma'åse
  [see YOO-ohs mah-AH-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dees-PEHN-sah]
• How are you?Cómo estás?
  [KOH-moh ehs-TAHS]
• Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
• Do you speak English?¿Hågu Siha Inglés?
  [HAH-goo see-HAH een-GLEHS]
• I don't understandTi hu fa'fåsen
  [tee hoo fah-FAH-sehn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBai hu na'lå'åsen i menyu, porfabor
  [by hoo NAH-lah-AH-sehn ee MEHN-yoo pohr-fah-BOHR]
• I don't eat meatTi hu mannglo' karne
  [tee hoo mahnng-loh KAHR-neh]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBai hu na'hugat, porfabor
  [by hoo nah-HOO-gaht pohr-fah-BOHR]

• Help!Ayuda!
  [ah-YOO-dah]
• Go away!Manhuyong!
  [mahn-HOO-yohng]
• Call the Police!Llamåt Polisin!
  [yah-MAHT poh-lee-SEEN]
• Call a doctor!Llamåt un doktor!
  [yah-MAHT oon DOHK-tohr]
• I'm lostGae'gu hasso
  [GAH-eh-goo HAH-soh]
• I'm illGae'gu håyi
  [GAH-eh-goo HAH-yee]

• I'd like to buy...Bai hu mannga'...
  [by hoo mahnng-gah]
• I'm just lookingÅtga'an lang
  [AHT-gah-ahn lahng]
• How much is it?Kåntu?
  [KAHN-too]
• That's too expensiveMå'pos este na ti mahålang
  [mah-POHS EH-steh nah tee mah-HAH-lahng]
• Can you lower the price?Mågof i prisu?
  [mah-GOHF ee PREE-soo]

• What time is it?Kåntu na ora?
  [KAHN-too nah OH-rah]
• It's one o'clockÅtman na ora
  [AHT-mahn nah OH-rah]
• Half past (10)Mekkek (10)
  [MEH-kkeh (10)]
• MorningAgupa'
  [ah-GOO-pah]
• AfternoonKatpus
  [KAHT-poos]
• EveningMångga
  [mahng-gah]
• YesterdayAnahon
  [ah-NAH-hohn]
• TodayUmåna
  [oo-MAH-nah]
• TomorrowBåba
  [BAH-bah]
• 1Mås Uno
  [mahs OO-no]
• 2Mås Dos
  [mahs DOHS]
• 3Mås Tres
  [mahs TREHS]
• 4Mås Kuåtro
  [mahs KWAT-roh]
• 5Mås Sinko
  [mahs SEEN-koh]
• 6Mås Sais
  [mahs sah-EESS]
• 7Mås Siette
  [mahs sye-EH-teh]
• 8Mås Ocho
  [mahs OH-choh]
• 9Mås Nueve
  [mahs NWEH-veh]
• 10Mås Dies
  [mahs DEE-ehs]

• Where's a/the...?Sainai...?
  [sah-EE-nye]
• What's the address?Kåntu i direksion?
  [KAHN-too ee dee-rehk-SYOHN]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mågof i prutebia (gi mapå)?
  [mah-GOHF ee proo-teh-BYAH (gee mah-PAH)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåntu i sigiente (bis)?
  [KAHN-too ee see-GYEHN-teh (bees)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un biahe (para ....)
  [oon BYAH-heh (PAH-rah)]

Sinajana, located in the central part of Guam, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The Chamorro people, the indigenous inhabitants of Guam, established settlements in the area long before European contact. Archaeological evidence suggests that these early settlers lived in latte stone houses, which were raised on stone pillars that can still be seen in some parts of Sinajana today.

In the 17th century, Guam became a strategic outpost for Spanish explorers and missionaries. Sinajana, like other parts of the island, was influenced by Spanish colonization. The Spanish introduced Christianity, and many Chamorros were converted to Catholicism. The legacy of Spanish rule is evident in the local culture, including the annual fiestas and the architecture of historical churches.

During World War II, Guam was a significant battleground between Japanese and American forces. Sinajana experienced the turmoil of war firsthand. The Battle of Guam in 1944 saw the liberation of the island from Japanese occupation. Although Sinajana was not the primary site of the battle, the entire island, including this village, was deeply affected by the conflict. Today, war memorials and historical markers commemorate this period.

After World War II, Sinajana, like the rest of Guam, underwent extensive reconstruction. The village saw the development of new infrastructure, including roads, schools, and community centers. This period marked a time of growth and modernization, as residents rebuilt their lives and the village transformed into a more modern community.

Sinajana is known for its vibrant cultural traditions and festivals that celebrate the Chamorro heritage. The annual Sinajana Fiesta, held in honor of the village's patron saint, is a significant event that brings together residents and visitors. During this festival, traditional Chamorro music, dance, and food are prominently featured, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the village.

Today, Sinajana is a thriving community that blends its historical roots with modern influences. The village is home to various educational institutions, parks, and residential areas. Despite the changes over the years, Sinajana has managed to preserve its cultural identity, making it a unique and vibrant part of Guam.

Sinajana is centrally located on the island of Guam. The main gateway to Guam is Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM), which is approximately a 15-minute drive from Sinajana. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use ride-sharing services to reach Sinajana. Public buses also run from the airport to various parts of the island, including Sinajana.

Sinajana is a small village, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, renting a car is a convenient option as it allows you to explore the island at your own pace. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available. Public buses run regularly and are an economical way to get around, but they may not be as frequent as in larger cities.

The official currency in Guam is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available, and you can withdraw cash as needed. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets where credit card facilities may not be available.

Sinajana is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's important to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Sinajana, but staying vigilant is always a good practice.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The nearest medical facilities are located in Hagåtña, just a short drive from Sinajana. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Håfa Adai,' a common Chamorro greeting. A handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Sinajana like a local, visit the village's community events and festivals, which often showcase traditional Chamorro culture and cuisine. Engage with locals at the village market, where you can buy fresh produce and local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the nearby Latte Stone Park, which offers insight into Guam's ancient history. Additionally, participating in a cultural workshop or taking a guided tour can provide a deeper understanding of the local heritage.