Ah, those short weekends in Guam

I recently went to the U.S. island of Guam from Oct. 1 through Oct. 3. Just saying that makes me sound like a high roller, especially here in Japan where Guam is one of the biggest tourist destinations for Japanese. I was actually blessed with a free flight. My Japanese friend Masa flew himself, his brother and parents and me to Guam on frequent flier miles. I believe it was his fourth trip to Guam, so he cashes in the miles quite often for brief island getaways.


Guam was, in a word, amazing. Before you all rush off to Guam I need to explain why it was so amazing for me. First off, Guam was America (technically). I have not struggled with culture shock or homesickness too much, but I have been very aware of many of the stark contrasts, the lack of my favorite candies, and the basic fact that almost EVERYTHING is different in Japan. Landing on an American island was a treat in that I didn't need to worry about speaking Japanese (except to Masa's family), I could read everything, the prices were what I am used to, and I could buy all those comfort foods.


The culture of the island of Guam was fascinating as well. The native inhabitants are Micronesian. At some point the island was controlled by Spain, so there is a smattering of Spanish in their language. I believe Japan was in control of Guam during the peak of their imperialism and the United States finally took control during W.W.II. While Guam is officially American, the Japanese are still very much in control there. Almost all of the signs are bilingual. A lot of the locals speak tourist Japanese. Most restaurants have Japanese menus. There are Japanese restaurants and karaoke all over the island. On top of all of these culture collisions, the setting is a beautiful tropical island.


During this brief trip I swam in the ocean and pool a couple of times. The beach near the hotel was a coral beach which is great for snorkeling but not as good for swimming as it never gets very deep. It also was dangerous without sandals and my big toe is paying the price. We also drove around the whole island (which only takes four or five hours), and saw some great views.


We did some shopping, and at an outlet mall I found a number of items that cost a fraction of what they would in Japan. We went to K-mart a few times and I stocked up on candy and vitamins. I have read it is the biggest K-mart in the world and it kind of resembled a Super Walmart.

The most important part of the trip was the eating. We went to Outback, T.G.I. Fridays, Burger King, Taco Bell, and one local BBQ place. I came to some conclusions. I'm definitely not missing fast food in Japan, and I wouldn't have gone if Masa hadn't been so excited (he lived in the States for a year). While the food at Outback and T.G.I. Fridays was delicious, the portions are absurd. I got a good burger at the local place but it was the worst service I received since France.

On the flight back, Masa booked me World Business Class, which was first class on the small 767. I received a drink with an umbrella when I sat down, a fabulous meal, and the amount of space I had was amazing. Too bad it wasn't a longer flight.

All in all a great trip but a little too short. Guam is definitely a place to relax and do nothing. Not a lot in the ways of culture and history unless you count the bizarre, native/Spanish/Japanese/American mishmash. I would definitely go back if I wanted a do-nothing vacation, but I think at this point it's adventure and culture for me, unless someone offers me another free ticket.