Talofa Lava!

The traditional warm greeting from Samoa that instantly sparks memories of smiling faces, warm turquoise waters, the scent of fresh tropical flowers, fantastic lobster and a true sense of belonging. On her recent trip Victoria McEwan fell in love with Samoa’s timeless beauty….

On arrival at Faleolo Airport we were absorbed into the “family” feeling that this place has and were welcomed by their genuine smiles. Willingly we relaxed into the lifestyle as we began to understand and appreciate the true meaning of “island time.”

Samoan people enjoy life at an easy & gentle pace and possess a genuine interest in visitors to their country. Blessed with natural beauty, the unspoilt islands are dominated by rugged mountain ranges, fringed with coral reefs and blue lagoons, picture postcard beaches, rainforests, lava fields and blow holes. These natural wonders are all easily accessible.

Driving in Samoa is slow but easy, we had great fun in our jeep which we hired to venture at our leisure along sealed roads and through local villages. It was interesting to see the way the Samoans live, simplistic in open sided fales where they sleep on woven mats on the floor.

Apia, the Capital, is vibrant by day and night where villagers’ sell their wares at the marketplace. Offering an array of restaurants bars and nightlife activities we were certainly well entertained. Not to be missed is the traditional Samoan Fiafia night - we had the opportunity to sample Polynesian cuisine prepared the traditional way in an “Umu” (similar the Maori “Hangi”).

Samoa charmed me and I can’t wait to go back