Guam, USA | 17 May 2024 | 10 MIN READ
Remote Work Paradise: 4 Days in Guam (with a Layover in Korea)
123 days ago
Originally published in 202. Updated: May 17, 2024
Guam? Where’s Guam?
Guam is probably not the first place you think of when you imagine a Pacific island.
However, Guam, a U.S. territory nestled in the heart of the Pacific, isn’t just a picturesque island escape.
Guam tends to get overlooked as a destination (compared to Hawaii), but it’s a vibrant blend of cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and modern amenities, making it an ideal spot for remote workers, adventure seekers, and avid K-drama fans alike.
Why Would You Go There?
When a group of friends and I were discussing places to go, one of my friends mentioned Guam. Both of us were like, “Where’s Guam?”
Guam is often overshadowed by Hawaii, but like Hawaii, this destination is actually home to a very large military presence. When we were there, we saw a lot of signs that welcomed different Pacific fleets.
Guam’s strategic location, just a three-hour flight from South Korea, makes it a key regional geopolitical player. However, for those of us on the U.S. mainland, Guam feels a world away. Flights from the mainland can be quite expensive, often double or triple the cost of a flight to Hawaii.
For instance, a discount airline like Southwest Airlines flight from Ft. Lauderdale to Hawaii might average around $400, while the same distance to Guam could set you back $2200-3200. And, discounted Southwest Airlines doesn’t fly to Guam, leaving you with pricier options like United with travel times of 45 hours or 28-hour Delta flights.
Additionally, you would have to combine airlines like ANA (with a layover in Haneda) or Korean Air. These flight options, along with the travel time and distance, can be quite expensive and exceed the budget of many Americans. In contrast, a South Korean traveler could fly roundtrip from Seoul to Guam for as low as $102 on budget airlines like Jin Air, T’Way Air (annoying website), or Jeju Air (see below).
This disparity in cost makes a destination like Guam even more shocking when talking to coworkers and other travelers, since Guam is a rarer choice for Americans to select as a tourist compared to arriving as military personnel
On the bright side, it does make the destination less subject to overcrowding, unlike what I’ve seen in Honolulu, HI.
The Hidden Pacific Gem
Actually, you will be able to find some of the bluest waters here (scroll down to see where).
This makes the island a perfect place for either a short or long-term stay, whether for work, travel, or visiting military families.
Even though you might be put off by the remoteness of the island, there’s plenty of reliable Wi-Fi at luxury resorts like the Westin to ensure you can stay connected and productive while enjoying the island’s laid-back atmosphere. Imagine taking Zoom calls with a backdrop of swaying palm trees and crystal-clear waters, or wrapping up work before heading out to explore hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches.
Guam’s allure isn’t limited to remote work, though. The island’s diverse population, particularly the influx of tourists from South Korea and Japan, creates a dynamic cultural exchange. It’s not uncommon to hear Korean and Japanese spoken alongside English and Chamorro, the island’s indigenous language.
Additionally, Guam offers close proximity to other Micronesian islands like Saipan or remote islands like Chuuk, Rota, and Koror, Palau, making it a good access point if island hopping is your thing.
Popular Destination for South Koreans
However, what truly sets Guam apart is its starring role in numerous Korean dramas.
From romantic getaways to luxurious vacations for the chaebol (재벌) elite, Guam has become synonymous with paradise in the world of K-dramas.
On more than one occasion, I remember watching a drama on Netflix where the chaebol’s son is going to Guam on vacation, making it seem like a lavish expense.
So, whether you’re a digital nomad looking for a change of scenery, a thrill-seeker eager to explore Guam’s natural beauty, or a K-drama enthusiast chasing the perfect island dream, Guam has something to offer everyone.
Getting to Guam – Affordable Flights and Layover Tips
Reaching Guam can be budget-friendly with smart booking. I booked my journey from Seattle initially with United Airlines but then switching to Delta via the American Express travel portal to save money—a decision that saved me over $400.
The United Airlines flight from Seattle to Guam cost $2,163.52, while the Delta flight with a layover in Seoul cost $1,754.14. This switch saved me $409.38, which is approximately 18.9% of the United Airlines fare. Additionally, this meant I could earn substantial SkyMiles (which are not as big of a deal anymore since Delta values MQDs, but given the cost, this still fits the bill).
The total flight time was around 21 hours, including a four-hour layover in Seoul. This layover wasn’t just a pause; it was a great opportunity for me to stock up on South Korean beauty products and also indulge in some of my most favorite Korean snacks like tteokbokki.
I might be one of the few who loves airports, but even if you don’t, there’s always something to take advantage of, especially if you’re transiting through another country to end up back on U.S. soil. So be sure to take advantage of layovers that offer a preview into a new culture’s language and cuisine–don’t just sit at the gate for several hours.
Gear Used
Essential gear that kept me going on my travels (disclaimer: contains affiliate links).
Picking a Hotel
For this Guam trip, we went with the Westin Resort Guam, mainly because of its central location in Tumon, making it easy to explore the island.
The perk of choosing the Westin is that it’s a familiar brand where you can keep racking up rewards, since it’s part of Marriott Bonvoy.
You’ll notice that compared to mainland Westins, this one has a slightly different vibe, especially the exterior.
The interior is surprisingly spacious, similar to the typical Westin style. Unfortunately, I was using film when I first visited, so my photos didn’t turn out great. But trust me, the real gem is near the Starbucks. They have a bakery case with local goodies, and the Ube Cream Pan is a MUST-TRY and sells out FAST.
This one is SUPER SUPER HARD to get since it’s always sold out. In fact, there are people waiting to come early to grab it. People will also drive to the hotel to pick this up. So make sure to ask when they will get the next shipment from the bakery that delivers these delicious goodies.
While the Westin Guam might be different from what you’d expect at a mainland Westin, my experience was super pleasant. The rooms were clean and comfortable, the staff was friendly and accommodating, and the amenities, like the pool and restaurants, were top-notch. It felt like a great home base for exploring the island.
Island Adventures – ATV Tours, and More
Do you want to go there to get the best view of the island and water? If you answered, “YES,” then take a look at Guam Adventures, where you will see some of the bluest waters during the tour.
Adventure Activities: The ATV tours were a major highlight, offering not just thrills but also spectacular views of Guam’s rugged and less-traveled paths.
We chose Guam Adventures, which provided fun and exhilarating way to explore the island’s natural beauty.
We opted for their Off Road Adventure in a Double Buggy, allowing one person to drive while the other filmed (as seen below). The cost for this tour is approximately $75.
The distance from The Westin Guam Resort to Guam Adventures is approximately 2.3 miles (3.7 km). They also offer a pick-up service which should take around 8-15 minutes to get there.
I think the ATV tour with Guam Adventures is a must-do. Their expert guides lead you through rugged terrain and to a hidden lookout point with a view so breathtaking it feels like a scene straight out of a movie – I consider it the island’s best-kept secret.
From the vantage point they took us, the water is such a vibrant shade of blue, you’d swear you cranked up the saturation in Lightroom/someone’s presets or played with the curves in Photoshop. I’ll say it again–this is easily Guam’s best-kept secret, and a highlight of my entire trip.
Haircut
If you need a haircut while on the island, check out Royalty Cutz in Guam, especially Harry Cruz (@harryinthekut).
This is a popular spot to get a fade with both locals and military personnel. This shop is located in Tumon View Plaza on S. Marine Corps Dr. It’s just a quick 2-minute drive or a 12-minute walk from the Westin Resort Guam. (We opted for walking back since it would have taken longer waiting for an Uber. You will notice Uber times can vary on this small island vs. somewhere like Honolulu.)
Island Tips – Where to Eat, When to Go, and What to Do
Plan Your Meals
Many places in Guam close early, so planning your meals ahead of time is essential. For late-night cravings and to get Guam-branded gifts to take back home, the ABC Store is a reliable option. If you don’t plan, then you will be eating a lot of spam musubis from this ABC across from the Westin.
Hotel Eats
The Westin’s Taste restaurant offers a diverse international buffet with themed dinners. Highlights include the Sunday brunch and the Island BBQ on Wednesdays. You will have to book early for the restaurants since spots can fill up pretty quickly. Also, It is common for locals to make reservations at these restaurants for larger festivities.
Other Dining Options
- Outback Steakhouse: Embarrassingly, I went to Outback Steakhouse twice because it was convenient and open, and it’s literally across the street from the Westin, making it an easy walk. But they just had really, really great service.
- Little Pika’s: Just a short 5-minute stroll from the Westin, Little Pika’s is known for its Chamorro fusion cuisine. The Tinaktak Burger, a unique twist on a classic burger featuring local spices and flavors, is a must-try for any culinary adventurer.
While Guam boasts a surprising variety of dining options, from upscale restaurants to casual cafes, it’s also home to many, many chain restaurants.
Layover Luxury: Indulge in Korean Beauty and Cuisine
If your journey includes a layover in Seoul, take advantage of the time at Incheon Airport to experience a taste of Korean culture.
My trip to Guam included two layovers, both of which were in Seoul’s Incheon International Airport. If your journey includes a layover in Seoul, you’ll want to take advantage of the time at Incheon to experience a taste of Korean culture, whether your arriving to your destination or heading back home. Also, this will depend on which terminal your airline is situated.
If you’re taking Delta, then head to Terminal 2 (where the Guam departure gate should be), where you’ll find both duty-free shops offering multiple deals on popular Korean beauty brands and a taste of local cuisine. I tried to do this on both layovers.
As a big fan of Innisfree skin care products, so I always make sure to check out their stores when traveling, especially for their Jeju Orchid line. Their Enriched Cream with Hyaluronic Acid is my favorite face moisturizer, but they offer a wide array of high-quality Korean skincare products. Additionally, I use this time to stock up on extra gifts to take back home – got to stay young, right?
Other stores at Incheon Airport also carry different brands with fantastic deals on face masks, like three-for-one offers, making it a no-brainer to stock up. The shopping experience is not just about buying products but also about exploring and indulging in the vibrant beauty culture that South Korea is known for (or what’s being drilled into us from K-Dramas).
Like I mentioned above, if you’re hungry, grab a quick and delicious tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) before your flight. I recommend a short 5-minute walk to C&Deli, located near Gate 267, to grab a quick and delicious tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) before your flight.
If you’re looking for a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, Coffee@Works is conveniently located right next to the departure gate for your flight to Guam. You can enjoy a cup of coffee and even take some fresh coffee beans to go. It’s the perfect way to end your layover and start your island adventure feeling refreshed and energized.
Tumon Bay, Guam
Tips, Tricks, and Logistics
- Book in Advance and Use Travel Rewards: Especially during peak season, booking your flights and accommodations well in advance can ensure availability and potentially lower prices. Leverage travel reward points from Delta Airlines that can be used with Korean Air. Additionally, programs like Marriott Bonvoy can provide substantial hotel savings.
- Consider Layovers: A layover in a city like Seoul can add another dimension to your trip, offering a chance to experience a new culture and cuisine. And a layover could also reduce the overall cost of the plane ticket.
- Explore Tumon Bay: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, Tumon Bay is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing by the sea. It’s a popular spot with a crescent of powdery sand and beautiful views from Two Lover’s Point.
- Visit Historical and Cultural Sites: Learn about Guam’s significant role in WWII and its historical importance at the Pacific National Historical Park or insights into Chamorro history at the Guam Museum.
- Discover Local Art and Culture: Explore artist’s like Guam’s Roquin-Jon Quichocho Siongco (installation seen above) who focuses on Pasifica art that honors cultural customs and incorporates innovative combinations of materials.
- Pack Smart: Guam’s weather is tropical, so pack light, breathable clothing. Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good pair of walking shoes.
Trip Soundtrack
Because every adventure needs a soundtrack, each of my trips comes with a theme song. And for this trip's anthem? Well, it's...
Jung Il Woo - A Person Like You (Flower Boy Ramyun Shop OST Part 3)
Guam – Your Next Remote Work Escape
Guam also known as ‘Where America’s Day Begins,’ is more than just a beautiful island; it’s a remote paradise fit for remote work that offers a unique cultural blend mixed with a culinary adventure and a thrill-seeker’s dream—all rolled into one.
Unlike the typical Pacific island destinations, Guam provides a distinct experience due to its proximity to Asia while remaining a U.S. territory.
I will admit I found it to be an interesting paradox that its more affordable to fly “internationally” to Guam through South Korea (requiring a passport for the layover) than to fly directly from the U.S. mainland.
To recap, I used Ft. Lauderdale, Florida as an example. But, let’s illustrate with the West Coast, basically the closest you can get to Guam aside from Hawaii. A roundtrip flight from Los Angeles to Guam can cost around $1,622, significantly more than the roughly $400 for a flight to Honolulu. This higher cost, coupled with the distance, contributes to a less crowded, more authentic island experience on Guam, reminiscent of what Hawaii might have been like before the tourism boom.
So whether you’re exploring rugged ATV trails, sampling Chamorro cuisine alongside international favorites, or simply relaxing by the pool, Guam provides a one-of-a-kind escape that’s worth the journey.