Manners in Guam
Learn about cultural etiquette and manners of this country
Greetings
- Handshake
- Greeting with "Håfa Adai"
Etiquette
- Shoes are often removed when entering homes
- Address elders with "Auntie/Uncle" to show respect
- Business responses slow on Sundays due to church attendance
- Smoking in public places is legally restricted
- Leave 15% tip at restaurants if service charge not included
- Avoid revealing clothing at beaches and churches
- Photography prohibited around military facilities and bases
- Take trash home; removing coral or shells subject to fines
- Alcohol sales restricted to 21+, ID verification required
- Right-side traffic, strong pedestrian priority culture
- Respect the relaxed "Chamorro time" sense
- Follow disaster instructions during typhoons, helping with window protection appreciated
- Public buses infrequent, allow extra time
- Strong indoor air conditioning year-round, bring layers
- Smile and eye contact considered courteous even on first meeting