Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in Guamor should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
I found that Amex worked fine for dining and hotels in Guam’s main areas but not everywhere. Several local businesses still prefer Visa or Mastercard, and ATMs often only work with those two. So carrying backup cards when visiting Guam is a smart move, plus a bit of cash for markets or small vendors.
Amex users will find decent acceptance in Guam, particularly in the tourist-heavy zones. But outside of that, cards like Visa and Mastercard are more universally recognized. For convenience, keep a backup card ready and some cash in US dollars for places that don’t take Amex or cards at all.
Traveling with Amex in Guam was mostly smooth. I used it at luxury hotels like the Dusit Thani and major malls like Micronesia Mall. Yet, for everyday purchases in markets and smaller shops, Visa and Mastercard are safer bets. ATMs usually are linked more with Visa and Mastercard than Amex, so keep those handy as backup.
In Guam, Amex cards are well accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and big retail chains especially in Tamuning and Tumon Bay. However, many smaller vendors and local businesses prefer Visa or Mastercard. I always carry a backup Visa or Mastercard just in case, but Amex generally works fine around the main tourist areas.