Located south of the equator, in the Polynesian region of the Pacific Ocean, the Polynesian group of islands known as Samoa consists of Upolu and Savai’i and seven smaller islets. American Samoa is an island surrounded by smaller islands and is classified as an overseas territory of the United States.
With over 3000 years of history, the Samoan culture continues to celebrate and embrace traditional values where a time-honoured tradition is evident in the warm hospitality of the local people. The capital city, Apia is located on the central north coast of Upolu, Samoa’s second largest island. Apia is just 40 kilometres from Faleolo International Airport.
Must-see Samoan activities include a visit to the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, just 5 kilometres from Apia. The famous author wrote Treasure Island and spent his final years living in Samoa. Visitors can visit his grave located at the top of Mt. Vaea. To learn more about traditional Samoan culture and history visit the Samoa Cultural Village on Beach Road in Apia then take a bus tour around the island on one of the colourfully-decorated island busses.
For a spectacular photo opportunity, visit To Sua Trench, the much-photographed 30-metre deep crater filled with sea water. Visit Savai’I, known as Samoa’s largest island famed for its lush tropical rainforests, mountainous interior and swathes of secluded white sand beaches.
Visit the Saleaula Lava Fields, the scene of a volcanic eruption in the early 1900’s. Take a picnic to the Afu Aau Waterfalls then visit the Alofaaga Blowholes. Due to the hot and humid climate, Samoans typically arise early in the morning and take long, restful naps in the afternoon. Do as the islanders do and fall asleep to the sound of waves gently lapping ashore from a Beach Fale on the world famous Lalomanu Beach in Upolu – a typical Samoan beachside residence on stilts.