Samoa

Samoa, Samoa

Talofa lava—welcome to Samoa! Think of picture-perfect, long sandy white beaches framed by a lapping marine-blue ocean, lush rainforests with cascading waterfalls, vibrant flora and fauna, and under the ocean, the most amazing colourful gardens you could imagine: this is Samoa, the last unspoilt paradise in the world.

Population:

194,768

Currency:

100 sene = WS$1
The Samoa currency is the Tala (dollar) and Sene (cent).

Emergency Numbers:

Police: 995
Ambulance: 996
Hospital: 21 212
Fire: 994

Opening Hours:

Shops are usually open Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 16:30 and Saturday 8:00 am - noon. They are generally closed on Sundays.

Newspapers:

Samoa Observer
Samoa Times
Talamua Online News

The Country

Samoa is a holiday destination suited for couples and families within all budget ranges, and is indeed ‘The Treasured Island of the South Pacific.’ Open arms and laughter are the first things you will notice about the Samoan way of life, and when you´ll arrive, you´ll be greeted by a wide grin and the welcoming word ‘Talofa.’ You will then notice the endless blue skies, crystal clear waters, and the uncrowded beaches – this is why Samoa is known as a modern-day paradise.

In Samoa, life moves at a slower pace, and the Samoan way is one of generosity and kindness. Sundays are sacred here, and the Samoans generally attend a church service. Listen as their melodious singing echoes from the churches across the land. Furthermore, every visitor should experience a Fiafia, which in Samoan means celebration. This traditional form of entertainment incorporates song, dance and spectacular fire dancers twirling batons of fire on strings around their bodies, while traditional foods are served in a feast style.

Do & See

Each of the islands offer a totally different experience – from dense rainforests to soaring cliffs and tranquil lagoons. The fishing is excellent, snorkelling and diving superb, hiking amazing and, for those that simply want to lie and do nothing, there’s deserted beaches and peaceful lodgings to let time pass you by. Samoa is also blessed with an abundance of beautiful waterfalls. On the island of Upolu you will find some of the most spectacular near the southern coast.

Dining

Food plays an important role in the Samoan culture, with many festivities based on huge feasts. Traditional foods include Taro, pork, chicken, breadfruit and fresh fruit. The traditional way of cooking is in an earth oven called Uma, where the food is wrapped in banana leaves. No oils are used in this method of cooking, making it extremely healthy as well as flavoursome.

Delicacies on the Samoan menu include palusami (young Taro leaves baked in coconut cream) and oka, (raw fish in coconut cream), both are must-try dishes on any holiday to Samoa.

The ocean provides bountiful feasts of crayfish, snapper, masimasi, octopus, and tuna to name just a few, but along with traditional dishes, there is a wide range of Western cuisines available, too.

Cafes

The lines between the Western understanding of a "cafe" vs. "restaurant" are blurred in Samoa, and many local establishments may well easily fit into both categories. There are, however, a few places leaning more towards serving lighter foods and offering a selection of coffee varieties.