Yigo: The Tranquil Gateway to Guam's Natural Wonders

• HelloHafa Adai
  [hah-fah ah-dai]
• GoodbyeHåfa Adios
  [hah-fah ah-dee-ose]
• YesHao
  [how]
• NoTi
  [tee]
• Please/You're welcomePor Favor
  [pore fah-vore]
• Thank youSi Yu'us Ma'åse
  [see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryDispensa
  [dees-pehn-sah]
• How are you?Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
• Fine. And you?Maolek. Y ti?
  [mah-oh-lek. ee tee]
• Do you speak English?Håfa i isla i inglés?
  [hah-fah ee ee-slah ee een-glays]
• I don't understandTi hu guaha
  [tee hoo gwah-hah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseLao'ån menu put i, si Yu'us Ma'åse
  [lao-ahn meh-noo poot ee, see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]
• I don't eat meatTi manu i karni
  [tee mah-noo ee kahr-nee]
• Cheers!Biba!
  [bee-bah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseLao'ån put i, si Yu'us Ma'åse
  [lao-ahn poot ee, see yoo-oos mah-ah-seh]

• Help!Ayudame!
  [ah-yoo-dah-meh]
• Go away!Mungge!
  [muhng-geh]
• Call the Police!Llamame a la Policia!
  [yah-mah-meh ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
• Call a doctor!Llamame a un doctor!
  [yah-mah-meh ah oon dohk-tor]
• I'm lostKao guaha
  [kah-oh gwah-hah]
• I'm illKao na'chu'
  [kah-oh nah-choo]

• I'd like to buy...Lao'ån put i...
  [lao-ahn poot ee]
• I'm just lookingTi manu ha'
  [tee mah-noo hah]
• How much is it?Ångok este?
  [ahng-ohk ehs-teh]
• That's too expensiveMås takana
  [mahs tah-kah-nah]
• Can you lower the price?Mås båba i preis?
  [mahs bah-bah ee preys]

• What time is it?Kuantos na ora?
  [kwan-tohs nah oh-rah]
• It's one o'clockManayon i ora
  [mah-nah-yohn ee oh-rah]
• Half past (10)Mamong (10)
  [mah-mohng (10)]
• MorningMananågåhi
  [mah-nah-nuh-gah-hee]
• AfternoonManhåfa
  [mah-nhah-fah]
• EveningManlalåhi
  [mah-nlah-lah-hee]
• YesterdayKåum
  [kah-oom]
• TodayÑora
  [nyoh-rah]
• TomorrowBukåm
  [boo-kahm]
• 1Unu
  [oo-noo]
• 2Dos
  [dose]
• 3Tres
  [trehs]
• 4Kåtro
  [kah-tro]
• 5Sinko
  [seen-koh]
• 6Sais
  [sah-ees]
• 7Siete
  [see-eh-teh]
• 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
• 9Nuebi
  [noo-eh-bee]
• 10Dies
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Maimaga i...
  [mah-ee-mah-gah ee]
• What's the address?Kuanto direksion?
  [kwan-toh dee-rehk-see-ohn]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mås li'e (gi mapå)?
  [mahs lee-eh (gee mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuando åntes?
  [kwahn-doh ahn-tehs]
• A ticket (to ....)Un ticket (para ....)
  [oon tee-keh (pah-rah)]

Yigo, like much of Guam, was originally settled by the Chamorro people, an Austronesian-speaking population. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been inhabited for over 4,000 years. The Chamorro people lived in small villages and engaged in fishing, agriculture, and intricate weaving. They built latte stones, which are large stone pillars that served as the foundations for their elevated homes.

In 1521, Ferdinand Magellan's expedition arrived in Guam, marking the beginning of Spanish influence. By the late 17th century, Spain had established colonial rule over the island. Yigo, like other parts of Guam, experienced significant changes under Spanish rule, including the introduction of Christianity and new agricultural practices. The Spanish also built several churches and forts in the region.

Yigo played a crucial role during World War II. After Japan occupied Guam in 1941, the area became a focal point for resistance and guerilla activities. In July 1944, the Battle of Yigo was one of the final and fiercest confrontations during the liberation of Guam by American forces. The battle led to heavy casualties and significant destruction but ultimately resulted in the liberation of the island from Japanese occupation.

After World War II, Yigo, along with the rest of Guam, underwent extensive reconstruction. The U.S. military established several bases on the island, including Andersen Air Force Base, located in Yigo. This brought economic growth and modernization to the area. Infrastructure such as roads, schools, and hospitals were built, transforming Yigo into a more developed and prosperous region.

In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in Chamorro culture and heritage in Yigo. Efforts have been made to preserve traditional practices, language, and arts. Festivals and cultural events celebrate Chamorro identity, and educational programs aim to teach younger generations about their rich history. Modern Yigo is a blend of its ancient heritage and contemporary influences, making it a unique and vibrant community.

Yigo is located in the northern part of Guam. The nearest international airport is Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) in Tamuning, approximately 20 miles south of Yigo. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rent a car, or use a shuttle service to reach Yigo. The drive typically takes around 30 to 40 minutes.

Yigo can be explored by various means of transportation. Renting a car is the most convenient option for getting around, as public transportation is limited. Taxis are available but can be expensive for longer trips. For those who prefer public transport, the Guam Regional Transit Authority (GRTA) operates buses that connect Yigo to other parts of the island, though the schedules can be infrequent.

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, especially for smaller businesses and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Yigo for withdrawing cash when needed.

Yigo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Yigo, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are local police stations and medical facilities available in Yigo. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies in Yigo can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain 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 friendly 'Hafa Adai' (Hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Yigo like a local, visit 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 area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting Ritidian Point, which offers beautiful beaches and ancient Chamorro cave art. For a unique experience, explore the Yigo Amusement Park and get a glimpse of local life.