Tamuning: The Heartbeat of Tumon, Guam

• HelloHåfa adai
  [HAH-fah ah-DYE]
• GoodbyeAdios
  [AH-dyos]
• YesHao
  [HOW]
• NoTi
  [TEE]
• Please/You're welcomeFanatånu
  [FAH-nah-TAH-noo]
• Thank youSi Yu'os Ma'åse
  [SEE YOO-oss mah-AH-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dees-PEN-sah]
• How are you?Cómo estás?
  [KOH-moh ess-TAHS?]
• Fine. And you?Åndai. Ya bai hu?
  [AHN-dye. YAH by hu?]
• Do you speak English?Kao esta i lengguahe i inglés?
  [KOW ESS-tah ee LENG-gwah-hey ee een-GLEHS?]
• I don't understandTi hu tungo' iyo
  [TEE hoo TOONG-oh EE-yoh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseTaitai hu gösu i menu, fa'åsen
  [TAH-ee-tah-ee hoo GOH-soo ee MEH-noo, fah-AH-sehn]
• I don't eat meatTi hu manngi karne
  [TEE hoo MAHN-gee KAR-neh]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [BEE-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseTaitai hu fa'gåi, fa'åsen
  [TAH-ee-tah-ee hoo fah-GAH-ee, fah-AH-sehn]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [ah-yoo-DAH-meh]
• Go away!Låo!
  [LAH-oh]
• Call the Police!Llama i Polisia!
  [YAH-mah ee poh-LEE-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Llama i dotå!
  [YAH-mah ee doh-TAH]
• I'm lostTi hu pérdi
  [TEE hoo PEHR-dee]
• I'm illTi hu manjåña
  [TEE hoo mahn-HAH-nyah]

• I'd like to buy...Taitai hu kömprå...
  [TAH-ee-tah-ee hoo KOM-prah]
• I'm just lookingTi hu sali
  [TEE hoo SAH-lee]
• How much is it?Kåhåo masångane?
  [KAH-hah-oh mah-SANG-gah-neh]
• That's too expensiveAñe' na mäsångane
  [AH-nyeh nah mah-SANG-gah-neh]
• Can you lower the price?Åyúmåsi kumuentos?
  [AH-yoo-MAH-see koo-mwehn-tohs]

• What time is it?Kåhåo i tiempu?
  [KAH-hah-oh ee TYEHM-pooh]
• It's one o'clockÅpat na
  [AH-paht nah]
• Half past (10)Mitad despues di dies
  [MEE-tahd dehs-PWEHS dee DEE-ehs]
• MorningGåiåsai
  [GAH-ee-sah-ee]
• AfternoonKåntiåsai
  [KAHN-tee-ah-sah-ee]
• EveningKålenai
  [KAH-leh-nyah-ee]
• YesterdayKåmyånta
  [KAHM-yahn-tah]
• TodayHåyi
  [HAH-yee]
• TomorrowBåba
  [BAH-bah]
• 1Uno
  [OO-noh]
• 2Dos
  [Dohs]
• 3Tres
  [TREHS]
• 4Kwatro
  [KWAH-troh]
• 5Sinko
  [SIN-koh]
• 6Seis
  [SAYCE]
• 7Siete
  [SYEH-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [OH-choh]
• 9Nueve
  [NWEE-veh]
• 10Diez
  [DEE-ehs]

• Where's a/the...?U na...
  [OO nah]
• What's the address?Kåhåo i direksion?
  [KAH-hah-oh ee dee-rehk-SYON]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Åyúmåsi ku enseña yu (sångane mapå)?
  [AH-yoo-MAH-see koo ehn-SEHN-yah yoo (mah-SANG-gah-neh mah-PAH)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kåhåo i siguiente guagua?
  [KAH-hah-oh ee see-GWEE-ehn-teh GWAH-gwah]
• A ticket (to ....)Un billete (para ....)
  [OON bee-YEH-teh (PAH-rah)]

Before the arrival of European colonizers, the area now known as Tamuning was inhabited by the Chamorro people. They developed a rich culture characterized by their unique customs, language, and a deep connection to the land and sea. The indigenous population engaged in fishing, farming, and trade, developing a lifestyle that was sustainable and intertwined with the natural environment, with significant sites like *Latte Stones* marking their settlements.

In 1565, Guam was claimed by Spain, leading to significant changes in Tamuning and the greater Tumon area. The Spanish established Catholic missions, introducing Christianity to the Chamorro people. This period saw the construction of churches and the incorporation of Spanish customs into local traditions, creating a blend of cultures that still influences Guam today.

During World War II, Guam was occupied by Japanese forces from 1941 until the U.S. liberation in 1944. Tamuning experienced considerable destruction during the conflict, which left lasting scars on the community. The aftermath of the war prompted a rebuilding phase that reshaped the infrastructure and demographics of the area, leading to an influx of American military personnel and their families.

The post-war period marked a significant transformation for Tamuning, as it became a key area for the burgeoning tourism industry in Guam. The establishment of hotels, resorts, and shopping centers catered to visitors from around the world, particularly from Japan and the United States. This economic shift not only revitalized Tamuning but also contributed to the global perception of Guam as a premier tourist destination.

In recent decades, there has been a concerted effort in Tamuning to preserve and promote Chamorro culture and history. Festivals, cultural events, and museums showcasing traditional arts, crafts, and practices have become more prominent, allowing both locals and visitors to engage with the island's rich heritage. This cultural renaissance is vital in maintaining the identity of Tamuning amidst the ongoing influences of modern tourism.

Tamuning is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in Tumon. If you are staying in Tumon, a short taxi ride or a rental car can take you to Tamuning in about 10 minutes. Public buses also operate in the area, connecting major hotels in Tumon to Tamuning. The nearest airport is Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport, just a few miles away, which makes it convenient for travelers arriving by air.

Tamuning is a compact area, and the best way to explore is on foot. For longer distances, local buses and taxis are available. While Guam does not have a train system, bike rentals are popular—many hotels offer bicycles for guests to use. Additionally, ride-sharing services are operational in the area, providing another convenient option for transportation.

Tamuning is generally safe for tourists. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially in secluded areas or at night. High-crime areas in Guam tend to be outside tourist zones, but it is wise to avoid poorly lit streets after dark and to keep valuables secure. Always be cautious in crowded places to prevent theft.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are medical facilities and urgent care centers in Tamuning, such as the Guam Memorial Hospital. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications and basic health needs.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for the tropical climate. Don't wear swimwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs, particularly in churches. Don't take photos where prohibited. Public Transport: Do give up your seat for the elderly. Don't talk loudly or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a smile and a friendly wave. Don't interrupt ongoing conversations. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like red rice and kelaguen. Don't waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.

To experience Tamuning like a local, visit the Chamorro Village Night Market held every Wednesday, where you can enjoy local foods and crafts. Engage with local vendors for authentic cultural experiences. Don't miss out on the beautiful beaches like Ypao Beach Park, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Additionally, learn a few phrases in Chamorro to connect with locals, as they appreciate the effort.