Guam is open and may offer you $500 just for visiting.

Guam is not only open for business, but they're also considering giving travelers $500 to spend while visiting. Yes, tourists could begin receiving $500 in debit cards for use in Guam starting this September, as first reported by The Guam Daily Post. Now that we have your attention, keep reading to learn more about this U.S. territory in Micronesia and all the details you need for your trip.

Essentials for visiting Guam

As of July 21, a public health emergency remains in effect until at least Aug. 31 due to COVID-19. The U.S. State Department does not issue travel advisories for U.S. territories. The island reported just over 8,500 COVID-19 cases as of July 28.

As of July 4, a 10-day quarantine is still required for incoming travelers, except for those who:

• Must be fully vaccinated (two weeks after the second dose in a two-dose series or two weeks after receiving a single-dose vaccine) with a vaccine authorized by the World Health Organization or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
• Provide proof of a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.

To qualify for quarantine exemption, you need to present:

• Photo identification (such as a passport, driver’s license, or state-issued ID).
• A COVID-19 vaccination record card that includes the individual's name, date of birth, vaccination dates, and the brand of vaccine received.
• Another form of COVID-19 vaccine verification, which could include a record from the vaccinating health authority, a letter from the vaccinating provider, a receipt for the administered vaccine, or another approved verification method at the border.
• A signed declaration form confirming your COVID-19 vaccination status.

Additionally, any traveler who has recovered from COVID-19 within three months before their trip to Guam may also qualify for quarantine exemption.

Travelers who present a negative antigen test taken within 72 hours of arriving in Guam will still be required to undergo a 10-day quarantine at a government-approved facility (free of charge), unless they have been granted permission to quarantine at a rental property or their personal residence by the Guam Department of Public Health and Social Services.

Furthermore, all travelers are required to complete a Health Declaration Form upon arriving in Guam. Those subject to quarantine measures must also sign a voluntary quarantine acknowledgment form; failure to do so will lead to mandatory quarantine.

Activities to explore in Guam

"Savor a variety of beaches and water sports, engage in adventures, discover local attractions, and enjoy the nightlife," states Visit Guam, the island’s official tourism board. "There’s plenty to experience whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family. Explore numerous cultural and historical landmarks, as Guam is rich in World War II history that has shaped the island into what it is today."

If you are fortunate enough to get the previously mentioned $500 debit card, shopping is a must-do activity.

"Enjoy a shopping spree where you can find everything from locally made Guam products to unique souvenirs and mementos, along with outlet items and luxury goods for the discerning traveler," states Visit Guam.

According to The Guam Daily Post, the Guam Visitors Bureau has allocated around $2.5 million for a tourist debit card incentive program that aims to provide between 2,500 and 5,000 visitors with $500 to spend on the island, starting in September.

"The silver lining is that they are capable of doing it," Gerry Perez of GVB informed the local news. "However, the downside is that it will take around 45 to 60 days to deliver the debit cards." The report mentioned that GVB is still awaiting quotes from potential suppliers for the debit cards.

Air travel options to Guam

Due to Guam's position in the Western Pacific, the most efficient way to reach it from the U.S. is through the West Coast, where the average round-trip flight costs around $1,650—unless you happen to be departing from Hawaii. Current prices are quite steep. At present, United is the only major airline providing service from the U.S. to Guam, with round-trip fares starting at $2,100, and there are no nonstop flights available.

For instance, you can book a United economy-class flight from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) with a stop in Honolulu (HNL) to Guam's A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM) for $2,160.

MileagePlus members can opt for the same flight using nearly 162,000 miles plus $15.16 in taxes and fees for the main cabin, which includes one complimentary checked bag under 50 pounds. This is still quite expensive. A business or first-class ticket for the same journey would cost 352,400 miles plus $15.16 in taxes and fees, utilizing United's Everyday Awards, which are not limited by capacity controls for MileagePlus Premier members.

Accommodations in Guam

Visit Guam suggests staying in Tumon Bay, described as the "premier resort area of the island," featuring "luxurious international-standard hotels... set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens on the beachfront" and recognized as the primary tourist hotspot. Additionally, there are several hotels in the southern and central regions of the island, offering business and family-friendly options in Hagatna, Maite, Tamuning, and Mangilao.

A few points-eligible hotels include the Sheraton Laguna Guam Resort, located right on the beach in Tamuning, and the Westin Resort Guam on Tumon Bay for Marriott Bonvoy members. Booking in advance is recommended for the Sheraton, while members can secure a two-queen room at the Westin with a partial ocean view for as low as $238 per night. A full ocean view room costs $256 per night.

Other points-eligible hotels are the Hilton Guam Resort & Spa and Hyatt Regency Guam on Tumon Bay, along with the Wyndham Garden Guam in Tamuning.

Keep in mind that, due to the island's compact size, Visit Guam points out that most accommodations are just minutes away from the airport.