The Vibrant Heart of Tumon: Guam's Premier Tourist Hub

• HelloHåfa Adai
  [hah-fah ah-dye]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [ah-dee-ose]
• YesHå'å
  [hah-ah]
• NoTi
  [tee]
• Please/You're welcomeFanatångu/Malago'
  [fah-nah-tang-goo/mah-lah-goh]
• Thank youSi Yu'os Ma'åse
  [see yoo-ohs mah-ah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa/Hu guaiya hao
  [dees-pehn-sah/hoo gwah-ee-yah how]
• How are you?Håfa tatatmanu hao?
  [hah-fah tah-taht-mah-noo how]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Hao?
  [mah-oh-lek how]
• Do you speak English?Kao un famalåo'an Ingles?
  [kow oon fah-mah-lah-oh-ahn ing-gless]
• I don't understandTi hu tungo' hao
  [tee hoo toong-goh how]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseBai hu manaotao i menu, palao'an
  [bah-ee hoo mah-now-tow ee meh-noo pah-lah-oh-ahn]
• I don't eat meatTi hu manmanok
  [tee hoo mahn-mahn-ohk]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [bee-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseBai hu fa'fa'et, palao'an
  [bah-ee hoo fah-fah-ett pah-lah-oh-ahn]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [ah-yoo-dah-meh]
• Go away!Manmamåtåt!
  [mahn-mah-mah-taht]
• Call the Police!Mungge i Polisia!
  [moong-geh ee poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Mungge i manmagåhet!
  [moong-geh ee mahn-mah-gah-hett]
• I'm lostTi hu manhahasso
  [tee hoo mahn-hah-hahs-so]
• I'm illTi hu manmåtai
  [tee hoo mahn-mah-tahee]

• I'd like to buy...Bai hu sumåi...
  [bah-ee hoo soo-mai]
• I'm just lookingTi hu manunas
  [tee hoo mahn-oo-nahs]
• How much is it?Kåo saina i prisu?
  [kow sigh-nah ee prees-oo]
• That's too expensiveLumås ya
  [loo-mahs yah]
• Can you lower the price?Kao manmanlågo i prisu?
  [kow mahn-mahn-lah-goh ee prees-oo]

• What time is it?Kåo na tiempo?
  [kow nah tee-em-poh]
• It's one o'clockKåo siha?
  [kow see-hah]
• Half past (10)Media i diez
  [meh-dee-ah ee dee-ess]
• MorningGofli'e
  [goh-flie-eh]
• AfternoonAftonun
  [ahf-toh-noon]
• EveningKåo
  [kow]
• YesterdayGinen
  [gee-nen]
• TodayFåna'
  [fah-nah]
• TomorrowMåñana
  [mah-nyah-nyah]
• 1Måhåna
  [mah-hah-nah]
• 2Gualo
  [gwah-loh]
• 3Trentå
  [tren-tah]
• 4Kuåtto
  [kwah-toh]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Gunum
  [goo-noom]
• 7Fitu
  [fee-too]
• 8Guåsu
  [gwah-soo]
• 9Nuebi
  [noo-eh-bee]
• 10Månottå
  [mah-noht-tah]

• Where's a/the...?Kao na...
  [kow nah]
• What's the address?Kao na direksion?
  [kow nah dee-rek-see-ohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kao manmamumuno hao (gi mapå)?
  [kow mahn-mah-moo-moo-noh how (gee mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåo na patgonu?
  [kow nah paht-goh-noo]
• A ticket (to ....)Un tikit (para i...)
  [oon tee-keet (pah-rah ee)]

Tumon, located within the municipality of Tamuning, is deeply rooted in the history of the Chamorro people, the indigenous inhabitants of Guam. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Chamorros settled in the region over 4,000 years ago, establishing a vibrant culture characterized by unique customs, oral traditions, and a strong connection to the sea. The village was known for its fishing and farming, which formed the backbone of their subsistence lifestyle.

The arrival of Spanish explorers in the 16th century marked a significant turning point for Tumon and Guam as a whole. In 1668, the Spanish established a mission in Tumon, leading to the conversion of the Chamorro people to Christianity. This period also saw the introduction of European agricultural practices and the development of infrastructure, including roads and churches, which transformed the landscape and culture of the region.

Tumon witnessed significant military activity during World War II, particularly during the Japanese occupation from 1941 to 1944. The area was strategically important due to its coastal location. The U.S. recaptured Guam in July 1944, and the battle for Tumon was fierce, resulting in extensive destruction. Post-war, Tumon began its journey of rebuilding and modernization, which laid the groundwork for its future as a tourist destination.

In the 1970s, Tumon evolved into Guam's primary tourist hub, spurred by the construction of hotels, resorts, and entertainment facilities. The establishment of the Guam International Airport in 1950 further facilitated tourism, making Tumon accessible to international visitors. The area began to attract a diverse array of tourists, particularly from Japan, leading to a cultural blending that is still evident today.

Today, Tumon is not only a center for tourism but also a showcase of Chamorro culture through various festivals and events. The annual Guam Micronesia Island Fair celebrates the region's diverse heritage, and events such as the Fiesta, which includes traditional food, music, and dance, highlight the enduring legacy of Chamorro customs. Tumon continues to be a vibrant neighborhood that balances modernity with its rich historical and cultural roots.

Tumon is located approximately 5 miles from the Guam International Airport. Upon arrival, travelers can take a taxi, which typically takes around 15 minutes to reach Tumon. Alternatively, rental cars are available at the airport for those wishing to explore Guam at their own pace. For those staying in other neighborhoods within Tamuning, Tumon is easily accessible via public buses that run regularly throughout the day.

Tumon is a compact area, making it convenient to explore on foot. However, public buses connect Tumon to other parts of Guam, with schedules available at local bus stops. Taxis are also readily available, and ride-sharing services operate in the area. For a unique experience, consider renting a bicycle to enjoy the coastal views along the Tumon Bay promenade.

Tumon is generally a safe area for tourists, but like any tourist destination, it is important to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night, particularly around the outskirts of Tumon. While most crimes are petty thefts, incidents can occur, especially in crowded places. It’s advisable to keep valuables secure and be cautious of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Local hospitals, such as Guam Memorial Hospital, provide medical services. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, there are several pharmacies in Tumon where over-the-counter medications can be purchased.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight and modest clothing suitable for tropical weather, especially when visiting cultural sites. Don’t wear overly revealing swimwear outside of beach areas. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and traditions. Don’t take photographs in sacred places without permission. Public Transport: Do be courteous and allow others to board first. Don’t eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or ‘Hafa Adai’. Don’t use overly formal greetings, as a casual approach is preferred. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy meals at local restaurants. Don’t waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.

To experience Tumon like a local, visit the nightly Chamorro cultural shows that many hotels host, which showcase the island's rich heritage. Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and fresh produce. Engaging with locals can provide insight into hidden gems and dining spots away from tourist traps. Don't miss the opportunity to try local delicacies such as red rice and kelaguen at nearby eateries.