Tumon, Guam (2024)

Guam is the first US Territory I visited. It has inspired me to try to knock out the others, Puerto Rico should be coming soon. As it was described to me, it is the Kmart version of Hawaii…and that might be the truth as one of the few remaining Kmarts is one of the main stores on the island. It’s hard not to compare Guam and Hawaii. They’re islands, often with tourists, and have their own unique culture and history. Additionally, ABC tourist stores are all over both.

Hafa Adai, the Guam Aloha

Because of the unique position of a US Territory on the opposite side of the international date line, it where America’s day starts. However, this and say Saipan, while US territories, are more found to be more often places for Asian tourists to frequent. This makes sense, there are no direct flights from the US Mainland… just via flights from Hawaii for US residents.

Accommodations

While slightly dated, Hotel Nikko Guam was my choice. It is on the far end of the Tumon tourist area, so it has less drunken tourist vibes than others. You’re welcomed with a bottle of wine and views that give White Lotus season one vibes. My friends stayed at the Dusit, which was more centrally located. As a side note: when you have munchies after being in the sun and having imbibed, the room service can make Japanese style curry.

Things to do:

• Hiking. The island is gorgeous
• Eating. Tons of Chamorro BBQ with red rice is in order. Additionally, there’s all other styles of food for those who don’t want to over do it.
• Surfing. While Guam is not considered a surfing hot spot, I had a lot of fun with Lotus Surf Shop. They provided a great way to hop in a local’s car, drive to the other side of the island, and catch some waves (far away from the coral and small waves associated with Guam.
• Drinking: If you want a dive, the Green Lizard is the watering hole. If you want the beach experience, Tabu Tiki Bar is where it’s at (attached to the Dusit Hotel).

Overall, very much enjoyed by time in Guam. It isn’t hard to imagine getting into the Island Life and soaking up a lot of sun. There isn’t a real LGBT presence, but the people all seemed friendly. Hafa adai!

(At this point in the blog I hope I don’t sound like a travel influencer. If I start saying “walk, don’t run as you come with me to…”, just punch me.)