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Samoa is a group of islands towards the west of the Pacific Ocean and located about 18 degrees south of the equator. It is not the Pacific atoll of the imagination but is mountainous with lush tropical forests, fringed by white coral sand beaches and calm aqua lagoons.
As a holiday destination it is unsurpassed. There is no need to do battle to find a spot on the beach, pick a beach and in all likelihood it will be yours for the rest of the day. The more popular Pacific destinations, such as Fiji and the Cook Islands have holiday developments that are totally out of character with their location, catering for large numbers of vistors. In Samoa you will find small hotels blending into to the locale or for those on a more limited budget, small fale on the beach where you can hear the sea lapping on the shore and the breeze blowing through the coconut trees. Where ever you stay their will be an opportunity to experience the centuries old Polynesian culture that is found in its purest form in Samoa, whether it be sampling traditional food at a fiafia and watching the varied forms of dance or eating to the point of immobility at a tonai'i on Sunday.
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There are beautiful sandy beaches to laze on, coral reefs to explore by snorkel or scuba, tropical rainforests to walk through, cool fresh rivers and pools to swim in and the chance to watch flying foxes as they roost or circle around the inside of ancient volcanic craters. When you find yourself thouroughly relaxed, and on the verge of suffering from Polynesian paralysis, you can visit the restaurants, bars and nightclubs along the waterfront in Apia.
These pages are provided to help you make the most of your stay in Samoa, and if you find yourself bitten by the bug you can learn more about the history and culture of the country and its people.
While Aitutaki is famous for its Lagoon, enjoyed by travelers ever since TEAL flying boats plied the Coral route, islands such as Mangaia and Atiu feature makatea (raised coral reef) with spectacular limestone caverns and caves. The northern group atolls of Manihiki and Tongareva are home to exquisite South Seas black pearls, while life in Pukapuka is now legend through the literature of Robert Dean Frisbie. The uninhabited atolls of Manuae, Suwarrow and the island of Takutea are visited only occasionally to monitor the marine and wildlife sanctuaries established there.
Something you will find wherever you venture in our islands is the warm hospitality and friendliness of the people, who are always interested in sharing local culture and learning of other lands and customs. |