Tamuning: The Heartbeat of Guam's Coastal Charm

• HelloHafa Adai
  [HA-fa a-DYE]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [a-DYOS]
• YesHao
  [HOW]
• NoTi
  [TEE]
• Please/You're welcomeFanatikos yan mo'bla'i
  [FA-na-TEE-kos yan mo-bla-EE]
• Thank youDångkolo na si Yu'us Ma'åse
  [DANG-ko-lo na see YOOS ma-A-se]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dis-PEN-sa]
• How are you?Håfa tatatmanu hao?
  [HA-fa ta-TAT-ma-nu HOW]
• Fine. And you?Megof na. Yan hao?
  [ME-gof na. Yan HOW]
• Do you speak English?Kao un hao i Inglis?
  [KOW un HOW ee ING-lis]
• I don't understandTi hu tungo'
  [TEE who TUNG-o]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKao un na'ån-hu i menu, malångu
  [KOW un na-YAN-hu ee ME-nu, ma-LANG-gu]
• I don't eat meatTi hu kumuentos na karne
  [TEE who koo-MEN-tos na KAR-ney]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-ba]
• I would like to pay, pleaseKao un na'ån-hu i pago, malångu
  [KOW un na-YAN-hu ee PA-go, ma-LANG-gu]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [a-yu-DA-me]
• Go away!Manhuyong!
  [man-HU-yong]
• Call the Police!Tånggui i Polisia!
  [TANG-gui ee po-LEE-sya]
• Call a doctor!Tånggui i man-maga'lahi!
  [TANG-gui ee man-ma-GA-la-hee]
• I'm lostHu guaha gi tåotao
  [who GWA-ha gi ta-o-TAO]
• I'm illHu man-magof
  [who man-MA-gof]

• I'd like to buy...Kao un na'ån-hu i kumpra...
  [KOW un na-YAN-hu ee koom-PRA]
• I'm just lookingBai hu man-mira
  [BAI who man-MEE-ra]
• How much is it?Kånton i precio?
  [KAN-ton ee PRE-syo]
• That's too expensiveMungnga i precio
  [MUNG-ngu ee PRE-syo]
• Can you lower the price?U ma'åggu i precio?
  [OO ma-ANG-gu ee PRE-syo]

• What time is it?Kånton i ora?
  [KAN-ton ee OR-a]
• It's one o'clockU na ora
  [oo na OR-a]
• Half past (10)Mitulu (10)
  [mi-TU-lu (10)]
• MorningManana
  [ma-NA-na]
• AfternoonMamamaila
  [ma-ma-MAI-la]
• EveningManenggeng
  [ma-NENG-geng]
• YesterdayGåi
  [GAI]
• TodayÅtdåo
  [AT-dao]
• TomorrowMås
  [MAS]
• 1Månot
  [MA-not]
• 2Gualu
  [GWA-lu]
• 3Tulu
  [TU-lu]
• 4Fatfat
  [FAT-fat]
• 5Lima
  [LEE-ma]
• 6Gunum
  [GU-num]
• 7Fitu
  [FI-tu]
• 8Guålu
  [GWA-lu]
• 9Sigua
  [SEE-gua]
• 10Nånko
  [NAN-ko]

• Where's a/the...?Kåntotlok i...
  [KAN-to-tlok ee]
• What's the address?Kåntotloka i direksion?
  [KAN-to-tlo-ka ee dee-rek-syon]
• Can you show me (on the map)?U ma'åggu i mapanita?
  [OO ma-ANG-gu ee ma-pan-NEE-ta]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåntotlok i siguiente (bus)?
  [KAN-to-tlok ee see-gwen-tee (bus)]
• A ticket (to ....)Un ticket (gi ....)
  [oon TI-ket (gi)]

Tamuning is home to the Chamorro people, the indigenous inhabitants of Guam, who have lived on the island for thousands of years. Their rich culture is deeply rooted in traditions, language, and customs that reflect their connection to the land and sea. Tamuning showcases this heritage through local festivals such as the annual Guam Micronesia Island Fair, which celebrates Chamorro music, dance, and cuisine.

In the 16th century, the arrival of Spanish explorers marked a significant turning point in Tamuning's history. The Spanish established a settlement in the area, leading to the introduction of Catholicism and the construction of the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Paz y Buen Viaje in the late 1800s. This church remains a historic landmark and a testament to the Spanish influence on the island's culture and architecture.

During World War II, Guam was occupied by Japanese forces, and Tamuning was significantly impacted by the wartime events. The island was liberated by American forces in 1944, leading to widespread destruction. Post-war reconstruction began soon after, transforming Tamuning into a key commercial hub and tourist destination in Guam, reflecting its resilience and adaptability.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Tamuning became a focal point for tourism in Guam, driven by its beautiful beaches and proximity to the capital, Hagatna. The development of luxury hotels and resorts, along with shopping centers such as the Guam Premier Outlets, has made Tamuning a vibrant area for visitors. This economic shift has elevated the local culture, blending traditional Chamorro elements with modern influences.

In recent years, there has been a concerted effort in Tamuning and across Guam to preserve and revitalize Chamorro culture. Initiatives include cultural festivals, educational programs, and the promotion of the Chamorro language. The establishment of cultural institutions aims to provide a deeper understanding of Guam's heritage, ensuring that the rich history of Tamuning continues to thrive in the face of modernization.

Tamuning is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Guam, particularly from the capital, Hagåtña, which is just about 10 minutes away by car. The Guam International Airport is also situated within Tamuning, making it convenient for travelers arriving by air. Local buses run frequently between major points in Guam, including Tamuning, but taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also readily available for quicker transportation.

Tamuning is relatively small, and many attractions can be reached by walking. However, for longer distances, public buses (the Guam Regional Transit Authority) and taxis are common options. Bicycles can be rented from several local shops, offering a fun way to explore the area. Be cautious of traffic, as roads can be busy, and always use designated bike lanes where available.

Tamuning is generally safe for tourists, but it’s wise to take precautions. Areas around the Tumon Bay tourist district are well-patrolled, while some parts of Tamuning may have higher crime rates, particularly at night. Avoid isolated areas after dark and keep valuables secure. Always be cautious when interacting with strangers and trust your instincts.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Guam Memorial Hospital, located in Hagåtña, is the main healthcare facility on the island. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For non-urgent health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Tamuning.

Fashion: Do wear light and breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Don't wear overly revealing outfits in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in religious sites. Always ask for permission before taking photos. Public Transport: Do be polite and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'Håfa Adai!' (Hello). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like Chamorro BBQ and coconut crab. Don't waste food or refuse offerings, as this can be seen as disrespectful.

To experience Tamuning like a local, visit the Chamorro Village Night Market held every Wednesday for local crafts and food. Engage with residents to learn about the island's history and culture. Explore the beaches early in the morning to enjoy the stunning sunrise and fewer crowds. Consider taking a local bus to explore other areas of Guam, providing a more authentic travel experience.