Guam is the largest of the Marianas Islands and home to the Chamorro people. Although it was colonized by the Spanish in the 16th century, many of Guam's villages have histories dating back thousands of years. Today, Guam's villages are typically centered on a church formerly used by the Spanish used to convert the Chamorro to Christianity. Most villages have a patron saint, honored through fiestas and festivals that have their basis in tradition that precedes any Christian belief. Although Guam can be explored in a day or two, it's worthwhile spending time here to absorb village music, cuisine and ambiance.
Pago village is on the island's eastern coast and predates Spanish contact with the indigenous Chamorros. The village is near the mouth of the Pago River, which feeds into the largest bay on the island, Pago Bay. Dededo is Guam's most populous village and encompasses around 30 square miles in the northwest of the island. Mangilao village is located in central Guam between the villages of Chalan Pago and Barrigada. Although the village of Mangilao is fairly new, the area has ancient sites dating back over a thousand years.
The island's many villages hold festivals large and small throughout the year. The village of Mangilao holds the annual Donne' festival, which celebrates the fiery red Donne' chilies used in cooking throughout the island. Each village also holds festivals and parades dedicated to a particular patron saint. In the village of Umatac, the landing of Ferdinand Magellan in 1521 is celebrated every March. Malojloj Fiesta is an annual festival held in May in the village of Inarajan.
According to Chamorro scholar Dr. Katherine Aguon, the concept of inafa' maolek is the foundation of the Chamorro people's culture. According to Guampedia, the literal translation of inafa' maolek is to "make good," meaning to restore harmony. This is achieved through traditions of respect for members of the community and family. Visitors to Guam's villages should err on the side of modesty when interacting with local Chamorro people. Although English is a first language on the island, Chamorro words feature frequently, as do words borrowed from Spanish.
Accommodations in the villages of Guam include resorts, bed and breakfasts and hotels. The villages of Hagatna, Maite, Tamuning and Mangilao offer family-style accommodations, which are far cheaper than anything found in Tumon Bay, the island's premier tourist destination. An example is the Guam Garden Villa in Hagatna. Many of Guam's hotels, such as the Hotel Mai'ana and Days Inn Guam, are situated near the airport. While camping is permitted in some parks and on some beaches, visitors should check with the Guam Visitors Bureau before pitching a tent.
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