After my trip to Saipan, I ventured over to Guam – just a very short flight on Continental Airlines, about 50 minutes. I was graciously picked up at the airport by my pal Richard Cruz and then was handed over for a tour of the island with Dave Tydingco, Chairman of the Guam Visitors Bureau.

The people of Guam are welcoming and friendly. Case in point, I was invited that evening to a black tie event at the Hyatt Regency Guam for the annual Guam Hotel and Restaurant Association gala. A black tie event in Guam? Yes, unlike Hawaii, the Guamanians enjoy putting on their best and having a good time – it is said there is always a party to go to in Guam. Without a tux, I was told my pinstripe suit and wrinkled white travel shirt would do. So, I got to ironing and turned on the shower to steam press my suit. Came out pretty good, I must tell you! Did you ever wonder how much water and fuel are wasted by common process if steaming garments in hotels?

The elite of Guam tourism turned out for a spectaculat event hosted by the Hyatt. The theme was Rome and the team at Hyatt had faux plaster busts of Cesar, Plato and others to decorate the cocktail reception. The Grand Ballroom was decorated with Roman columns with flowing fabrics from the ceiling, a fantastic job.

The event benefits their scholarship charity and it is a “make fun of yourself” evening of the best that Guam Tourism has to offer – lots of fun. The function was run by GHRA president Mary Torre, who did a fabulous job coordinating the event, hosting it and making it enjoyable.

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-Fran Gallagher, publisher and CEO