Page 459 - Visitor Guides

Guam’s Unique Culture And Proud Heritage FRUITS & FLOWERS OF GUAM

While new cultures to the To learn more about our
island are evident wherever island’s rich culture, visit the
you visit, take special note of Guam Museum in Hagåtña or
those Chamorro traditions see it for yourself at a village
that continue to thrive thanks fiesta. No matter who you are,
to oral traditions passed Chamorros will welcome you
down from elder genera- with open arms.
tions. Legends and folklore
about ancient village spirits Guam is comprised of people
(taotaomo’na), doomed lovers from America, Europe, Asia,
leaping to their deaths off and Micronesia, and all have
Two Lovers Point (Puntan Dos left their footprint on this
Amantes), and Sirena, a beau- beautiful island. We call this
tiful young girl who became spirit of cooperation and
a mermaid, are portrayed in pride in our island’s history
stories and through dance. the “Hafa Adai” spirit. Don’t
be afraid to show yours by
Guam’s traditional arts are trying Chamorro food, visit-
also very much alive. Dur- ing our scenic and historic
ing island cultural fairs and sites, and giving your best
exhibitions, visitors have the “Hafa Adai” (which means
opportunity to watch master hello” in Chamorro) to anyone
6 weavers, carvers, and even you meet on your journey. 7
blacksmiths demonstrate
techniques that have been Here are a few other phrases
passed down from generation for you to learn:
to generation.

Chamorro English

Manana Si Yu’os Good Morning
Ha’anen Maolek Good Afternoon

Pue’ngen Maolek Good Evening
Håfa Adai Hello
Si Yu’os Ma’åse’ Thank You

Na’an hu si My name is:

Hunggan Yes
Åhe’ No
Adios Goodbye