The Basics

Time

GMT +10

Electricity

Electricity in Guam is 110/120 volts, 60Hz. Two-prong, flat-blade plugs are standard.

Language

English and Chamorro are the official languages of Guam.

Travel Health

Although no vaccinations are required for travel to Guam, hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for all travellers. A Japanese encephalitis vaccination is recommended for those planning to spend time in rural areas or outdoors. An MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) vaccination is recommended if not previously given.

Visitors should not drink tap water in Guam unless it has been boiled, filtered, or chemically disinfected, and should avoid having ice in their drinks. There are medical facilities available on the island but, for life-threatening injuries or diseases, travellers may well need to be transferred overseas to receive treatment; comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. It is best for visitors to bring along any medication they require, with a signed and dated letter from their doctor detailing the medication they need and why.

Safety Information

Trips to Guam are usually trouble free but travellers should take precautions to protect themselves against petty theft and pickpocketing. Visitors should make sure they have duplicate copies of their travel documents, and they shouldn't carry all their valuables in one pocket or bag. It's best to use hotel safes and not to flash wealth.

Local Customs

The urban population of Guam is diverse and generally accepting, but modest clothing is always good etiquette. The native Chamorro people are predominantly Catholic, and respect for the elderly and authority figures is crucial.