Guam is an island, surrounded by coral reefs and located in the north-western part of the Pacific Ocean, at the edge of the Pacific Plate. This location causes occasional earthquakes.

It is the southernmost of the Mariana Islands and with the total area of 541 square kilometres also the largest island in Micronesia.

The capital of Guam is Hagatna. The island was first inhabited about 6 000 years ago by Chamorros, who yet today form about 57% of the total population.

Environment

In Guam there are more than 600 species of plants of which 100 are trees, which is a result of the fact, that Chamorros used them for various purposes. Flame trees are considered being very spectacular while blooming from May to August. There are many endangered bird species living in Guam. There are millions of snakes Boiga irregularis, originally coming from New Guinea. They are responsible for extinction of several bird species and other endangered ones.

The culture of Guam

Music plays a very important role in the lifestyle serving as an element of social gatherings. Many traditional arts in Guam are still alive. During exhibitions you can see the work of weavers, carvers and blacksmiths. It is said that Guam is a hub of the western Pacific because there are not only Chamorros and Americans, but also Filipinos, Koreans, Japanese and Europeans. So the ethnic composition is very variable. English is quite common language but local people continue speaking Chamorro. It is said that learning a few expressions of Chamorro will be the fastest way to make new friends in Guam.

What to do in Guam

Most dive experts claim that diving in Guam belongs to the best in the whole world. Water sports are undoubtedly the Guam’s finest offer. Guam is famous for its vivid turquoise lagoons and water clarity. Jet ski, windsurfing, sea kayak, nearly anything including the lessons is offered, even spear fishing.

For tough Boonie stompers there are many tours with different difficulties that can be undertaken, what explains the fact that Guam is so often visited by hikers. Bicycling, snorkelling, jogging belong to popular activities here but you can also choose to go to a dog race or just sunbathe on Guam’s beaches. The duty-free status makes from Guam a place full of shopping centres with lower prices and some special products like island clothing and Micronesian handicrafts.