2016 Workation Trip to Guam
The 2016 workation trip to Guam was a memorable journey that blended family, culture, and purpose. Traveling with our oldest son and granddaughter, the adventure began with a stopover in Honolulu before continuing on to Guam, where we arrived on the evening of June 1st. The excitement of returning to the Pacific was matched by the anticipation of reconnecting with family and exploring new opportunities on the island.
Arrival and Purpose
The trip was more than just a vacation—it was a workation, a mix of leisure and exploration with a goal in mind. Part of the purpose was to research and see if Guam could one day become a place to invest or even settle. The island’s energy, people, and potential made it an ideal destination to consider for future endeavors.
Experiencing FestPac
One of the highlights of the visit was the Festival of Pacific Arts (FestPac), which was in full swing during our stay. The festival brought together cultures and traditions from across the Pacific, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, and art. Meeting people from Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, New Caledonia, and many other islands was an unforgettable experience.
Attending the traditional dance performances with my son and granddaughter was especially meaningful. Watching the colorful costumes, rhythmic movements, and powerful chants gave them a firsthand look at the diversity and richness of Pacific heritage. It was a moment of pride and connection, seeing the next generation experience the beauty of island traditions.
Another unforgettable highlight was meeting a friend from my home island of Elato, who had sailed all the way to Guam on a traditional canoe as part of the FestPac delegation from the state of Yap. Seeing him and the voyaging crew arrive on their canoe was deeply inspiring—a powerful reminder of the enduring strength of Micronesian navigation and the cultural pride that connects islanders across the Pacific.
Family Connections
Beyond the cultural celebrations, the trip also carried deep personal significance. Visiting family on Guam was a priority, especially spending time with my father-in-law, who was very ill at the time. Those moments were precious and reminded us of the importance of family ties, no matter the distance.
During our stay, one of the most memorable family moments came when my son spent an entire night in the hotel swimming pool with his cousins. They were determined to teach him how to swim, and their enthusiasm kept them in the water until morning. We had assumed they had gone down to the pool for a short swim, only to be surprised to find them still there at sunrise. The effort paid off—by the next day, he was confident enough to swim at the popular Ypao Beach, enjoying the open water for the first time.
Meeting my nephews and nieces was another meaningful part of the trip. It became an opportunity to share financial advice and guidance that I hoped they would hold dear. The goal was to inspire them to think about their future, to plan wisely, and to strive for success beyond what we, as the first generation of our families living in the Pacific diaspora, have achieved. Encouraging them to build on our foundation and aim higher was one of the most rewarding aspects of the journey.
Food and the People of Guam
No trip to Guam would be complete without enjoying its food. The island’s dining scene is one of the things that makes every visit special. Denny’s is always a must-stop for the famous Guam Slam breakfast, while King’s offers a hearty Loco Moco that never disappoints. Shirley’s, with its popular fried rice, remains a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The flavors of Guam reflect its diverse culture—comforting, familiar, and full of island warmth.
Beyond the food, what truly makes Guam special is its people. Their friendliness and hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visitor feel at home. Whether at a restaurant, a festival, or a family gathering, the kindness and warmth of the people leave a lasting impression.
Reflections on the Workation
By the end of the trip, it felt like so much had been accomplished. The combination of reconnecting with family, exploring investment opportunities, savoring local food, and immersing in Pacific culture made the journey both productive and fulfilling. It truly embodied the spirit of a workation—balancing purpose with enjoyment, work with rest, and ambition with gratitude.
The 2016 Guam workation remains a cherished memory, a time when family, culture, and vision came together on one beautiful island in the Pacific.
