Cover feature///Tourism
Faces of Tourism Story and photos by Wayne Chargualaf
I
n celebration of Tourism Month in May, Buenas spoke with some front-line employees in Tumon, those who interact with tourists on a daily basis and serve as their first point of contact with Guam’s tourism industry. The millions of dollars that pour into one of the biggest drivers of the island’s economy all come down to the friendly smiles and warm welcome of people just like the six profiled.
Jaimielyn M. Pinaula Position: Receptionist, clerk typist I, Guam Visitor’s Bureau Length of time in position: Seven months Time in tourism industry: Seven months How she contributes to the tourism industry: “By showing people around and helping them out. A lot of tourists don’t really understand English, so it’s great that we have an [electronic] translator. It translates word-for-word, so sometimes it’s not exactly right so we kind of have to figure it out.” What tourism means: “The world is full of different kinds of places and different kinds of cultures, so tourism is about different people learning about each other. Also, it’s really important to Guam’s economy.” Languages spoken: “American Sign Language. I’ve used it in the medical field, but I haven’t used it in the tourism industry yet.” Funny story: “For Chamorro Month, GVB set up some food in the front of the building. Tourists are so willing to try everything, sometimes we have to stop them from trying to eat pugua like it’s food.”
Leonard K. Kaae Jr. Position: Co-owner, Hafaloha Length of time in position: “We incorporated Hafaloha in 2013, so about five years.” Time in tourism industry: “I didn’t really work in the tourism industry [before Hafaloha]. My grandparents owned a luau service, so I had a little interaction with tourists, but not much.” How he contributes to the tourism industry: “I like to think we do a good job of serving tourists and giving them a quality product.” What tourism means: “It means everything, especially living on an island. It’s our main source of income and it’s crucial to Guam’s success.” Languages spoken: “I pretty much just speak English and Pidgin.” Funny stories: “There’s a lot, mainly from the language barrier. But being islanders and being hospitable, it’s pretty easy to get around that. We’ll just crack some jokes and be friendly, just be who we are.” 15