Samoa
Talofa! Where in the world is Samoa!?
Samoa is a picturesque group of 10 island located in the South Pacific. Each vastly different from the next. A place where the sand particles sparkle like gems, cascading waterfalls that drop into rivers, streams curve through the valley floors making their way out into the glorious blue sea.
Culture and People
This isle of paradise is about half way between New Zealand and Hawaii, exceptional experiences await you with open arms. The Nations people are a tad different to the other Polynesians of the south pacific, they are graceful and hospitable also but with love and care. Rupert brook of the 1800’ds described them as “the loveliest people in the world, moving and dancing like gods and goddesses”. Christian of course is the main religion here, and respect for the elders is great among the community. Sunday is rest day as well as attending church. Samoan is the official language and English is common. The Samoan Culture welcomes dancing, harmonious singing and bountiful food only natural in its creation.
Apia is the countries capital city and is located on Upolu Island and is home to Samoa’s international airport and main accommodation facilities . Savai’I is the second main island and is about 75 minutes by boat from Upolu. Quite untouched Savai’I is and you can still see tribal communities living as they did 100’s of years ago, a step back in time.
The Samoan Tala (WST) is the nations currency, $1 AUD will get you about $1.70 WST
As you may know, the South Pacific isn’t really a shoppers destination, although you may find some great local handicrafts and sarongs around. If your looking for some knick knacks to take home for the family, Apia hosts 3 shopping markets, one flea market for souvenirs, a fresh produce market and a fish market. Wooden carvings, baskets and mats are good buys and you’ll be contributing to the community as they are hand made.
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Coffee |
$2.00 WST (AUD$1.15) |
The Weather & Climate
Pack your bathers, light weight cottons and flip flops as the sun, gentle breeze and surf gives you the utmost island feel. From April – September the temperature averages 28 degrees. December to march is the hot season and see's light rains throughout the afternoon. The tropical waters are always warm, and its always a good time for a swim.
Volcanic mountains covered in rainforest, lush green fertile valleys and beyond beautiful beaches are only just a few of the perks of Samoa. The coral reefs surrounding the islands are protecting the bays from the proud Pacific Ocean currents. Colourful marine life is abundant and makes for perfect diving and snorkel trips. The surfers can find some gnarly spots to hang ten!
What to do in Paradise
Catch your dinner with deep sea fishing! there are plenty of charters that take tourist out to some of the best spots. Ladies, you can pamper yourself before the special day at some of the worlds best day spas. Palolo Deep Marine Reserve is great for the marine life and is only 5 minutes from Apia town. Unwind on the beach where you can enjoy some great kayaking and water sports, or dine in the many restaurants where a gourmet Mecca can be found. Samoa is a place where you can do as much or as little as you please. It's sheer beauty so pure it will leave you breathless.
What you need to know
Every international departure from Australia will require you to have a current Australian passport with a minimum of 6 months validity remaining from your return date into Australia. If you are traveling on a foreign passport, a visa may be required. You will need to contact Wedding Destinations to check your status.
Duty free will allow you to take 1 lite of spirits and 200 cigarettes.
ANZ and Westpac banks can be found, although limited ATM’s on Apia. Most moderate resorts will have eftpos machines, but its always prudent to carry a small amount of the local currency in case of desperate times.
Polynesian Blue, Air New Zealand and Air Pacific can get you to Samoa. Flights from the east coast take about 8 hours depending on the connection through Auckland, where most airlines go via. Samoa Air is the countries domestic carrier and operates flights from the two main islands.
Electricity wont be a problem as Samoa uses the same power point plugs as Australia, although your better to leave the technology at home and escape into paradise.
You will literally step back in time as Samoa is 22 hours behind Australian EST!
Why Wedding Destinations love Samoa!
The beauty of the land, the warm and open people, gorgeous beaches and rich island cuisine will leave your head above the clouds. You’ll be in shock when its time to leave as you realise there’s such things as work! The rush of freedom and knowing that a place like Samoa still exists is enthralling. The Samoan pride is unsurpassed when it comes to her features, tradition and faith have kept the culture alive. Feel the gentle sun on your skin and hear the gentle waves lapping at her many shores. Can you smell the frangiapani wafting along the beach? You will be asking yourself why you didn’t come here sooner!
Honeymoons
Plan the rest of your life together whilst sipping cocktails on the beach. Discuss how your children grow up over a sumptuous Samoan dinner and argue over who gets which side of the bed!
Your honeymoon is the most important holiday of your lifetime, why not be pampered? Wedding Destinations have compiled some amazing resorts in Samoa to their Luxury Resort Pages. Just click the link and know that your dream is within reach.