Hagatna, capital city of Guam

Hagatna is the capital city of Guam

Once somewhat a Pacific theme park for tourists from Japan, Guam and its capital of Hagåtña are in the middle of a tourism overhaul. The result of the government's drive to retool the island's image is a resurgence in Chamorro culture with a growing focus on the local food and the intriguing stories that underlie many of the villages. The capital city has its own quaint village vibe in the middle of a Pacific tropical paradise filled with enchanted waterfalls, secluded swimming holes, white sand beaches and protected bays.

The Chamorro people are indigenous to Guam, and their mix of Spanish, Asian and American cultures is integral to Hagåtña. Visitors can shop for authentic handicrafts at the Chamorro Village, built in the traditional style as an outlet for local farmers, merchants and artisans. While at the markets, sample some of the island's most delicious treats: chicken kelaguen, made with green onions, coconut, boonie peppers, onions and lemon juice, octopus stewed in coconut milk, and eskabeche, a freshly fried fish dish covered with soy sauce, vinegar and a delectable mix of local vegetables.

The heart of Hagåtña is the Plaza de España. The Spanish ruins and spacious grounds were home to the governor of the island from 1669 until the Second World War. Many of the original structures have survived, including the circular Chocolate House, where the Spanish custom of serving hot cocoa each afternoon was carried out. Built in the typical Spanish style, the Chocolate House is made of coral stones covered with smooth lime mortar. Inside are two Spanish coat-of-arms uncovered after the Governor's Palace was destroyed in the Second World War. The plaza continues to be the center of many civic and government activities.

Next to the Plaza de España is the Dulce Nombre de Maria Agana Cathderal and Basilica. Erected in 1669, it is Guam's oldest Catholic church. Pope John Paul II paid the site a visit, and a monument stands nearby to commemorate the occasion.

Behind the cathedral is the Latte Stone Park, filled with the popular icons of Guam's culture. Built around 500 AD, the stones are believed to be pillars used to support elevated houses. Each latte is made of two stones. The haligi is the shaft stone that juts up from the ground, and the tasa is the cap stone that creates a “T” shape. The park's examples were imported from a remote village in the south, but the enduring stones are found in many of the island's river valleys and coastal areas.

Built to protect the bay and city of Hagåtña, Fort Santa Agueda was built by the Spanish in 1800. Little of the original fort remains, but the platform provides spectacular views of the city and the Philippine Sea.

Although Guam is a territory of the United States, July 4 has little significance to most locals. Instead, they celebrate Liberation Day on July 21 to remember the day American troops liberated the country during the Second World War. The festive celebrations make July the best time to visit Guam. Throughout the month, many beaches erupt with carnivals complete with games, rides, food and fireworks, and the entire island has a lively party atmosphere.