November 2, 2007

Visit Samoa in the South Pacific

Do you contemplate life on a South Pacific island? How about a vacation to American Samoa?

Samoa is located about 2600 miles southwest of Hawaii. Some portions of the territory is undeveloped, including American Samoa National Park. Samoa is actually four separate islands that are named Ta’u, Ofu, Olessego, and Tutuila. The weather is warm year around, but rain showers are quite frequent, so don’t forget your umbrella.

One of the great benefits of Samoa is the beautiful, crystal clear water. You can explore one of the many large reefs that are the home of more than 800 native fish and 200 different coral species. If you love nature, you may want to check out the flying foxes in Amalau Valley. There is no shortage of beautiful scenery in Samoa.

When visiting Tutuila, you will want to drive down the scenic roads and stop at different places to check out the panoramic views. If you take your time, you can even stop and enjoy the hospitality of an overnight stay at Afono or Vatia.

If you enjoy snorkling, then you will want to visit Ofu. You will need to bring your scuba gear from Tutuila and be sure to see what regulations there are for diving. You will also want to take a walk on the beach at Ofu. The super-fine coral sand is perfect for a long walk at sunset.

The National Park area is in Tau, which is the entire southeastern half of the island. You can go hiking on the beaches, but if you want to go into more remote areas, you need to have a guide. You can find a guide through the National Park office. If you want to visit the volcanic areas, then you need to be sure that you have the right shoes to protect your feet.

You can rent a car and take a drive to Saua. Saua is a sacred area that is considered to be the birthplace of the Polynesian people.

Keep in mind that Samoan customs are much different than our customs in the United States. They usually cover most of their body, so be sure that you dress modestly so that you do not offend them. Even when swimming, keep in mind their customs and keep the bikini at home.

The Samoan people are very welcoming and hospitable to visitors. If you want, it is even possible to find a Samoan family to host you while you stay on the island. This is a great way for you to learn more about their life and customs. Just be sure you follow their customs to show respect to your hosts.

Some of their customs are:

Ask their permission before you take their pictures, play on the beach, or do other activities, even if you do not feel that it is necessary. They will usually grant permission and you will be showing them respect by asking permission.

If you are fortunate enough to be invited into a traditional Samoan home, you need to sit on the floor before you eat, drink, or talk. Cross your legs or pull a mat over them to cover them. It is considered rude to leave your legs uncovered if you stretch them out.

Sunday in Samoa is very quiet and swimming or other activities may not be allowed. The Samoans consider Sunday a day for rest and church activities.

Villagers observe a prayer time called sa every evening at around sunset. If you enter a village during this time, it is important to stop and wait quietly until it ends. You may even be invited to join in prayer with a Samoan family. If you are not in a village during sa, then you do not have to stop.

If you have the honor of sharing a local drink made from the pepper plant root(called ava), show your hosts respect by spilling a few drops in front of you on the ground or on your mat, then raise the cup and say “Manuia” before drinking it.

Don’t eat or drink while walking through a village. This is considered rude and disrespectful.

If you are looking for a friendly and welcoming place to visit, then this beautiful Polynesian paradise is right for you. You will return home relaxed, refreshed, and full of knowledge about the wonderful people of Samoa.