Discover ten experiences in paradise
![Explore warm, friendly, breathtaking Samoa](https://twisht.com/resources/uploads/blogs/2020/09/WbfdeXarv6ZqDmHcgoREJ1K39j80Fz5U_blog_image_lg.jpg)
Samoa, officially the Independent State of Samoa and until 1997 known as Western Samoa, is a Polynesian island country consisting of two main islands, Savai'i and Upolu, two smaller inhabited islands, Manono and Apolima, as well as several small uninhabited islands including the Aleipata Islands. Discover ten experiences in paradise:
1. CULTURE
Discover Samoa’s age-old culture and traditions in a fun and interactive way at the Samoa Cultural Village. Cultural tours give you a first hand experience in weaving, umu, siapo, tatau, woodwork and siva.
2. CHILL ON THE BEACH
Samoa has numerous postcard-perfect beaches - chill at Aganoa Black Sand or Lalomanu Beach (photo above), to name just two.
3. FISHING
Take a fishing charter and catch anything from a yellow fin tuna or a marlin to masimasi and dolphin fish.
4. HIKING
There are plenty of stunning trails in Samoa: the Falease’ela River Walk, Lake Lanotoo National Park, Cape Mulinu’u & Peapea Cave.
5. HISTORY
The author of Treasure Island, Robert Louis Stevenson, spent his final years in Samoa. Visit the mansion where he used to live and/or hike to his grave. The National Museum of Samoa is also well worth a visit.
6. LAVA FIELDS
The Saleaula Lava Field was created in 1905 when the nearby Mount Matavanu erupted. A second eruption poured yet more lava onto the field, covering an area of over 100 square kilometres. Five villages were buried, although thankfully the lava was slow-moving so there were few fatalities.
7. MARKETS
Experience the Apia flea markets for handicrafts and the fish & produce markets.
8. SNORKEL & SCUBA
There is an abundance of fish and turtles in the crystal clear waters around Samoa. Snorkel at Lalomanu Beach or Namua and Fanuatapu Island or dive at The Rock, Apolima Island or the Juno shipwreck.
9. SURF
November to April is perfect for surfing, although Samoa is not ideal for beginners.
10. WATERFALLS
Samoa has hundreds of stunning waterfalls: Togitogiga, Fuipisia, Afu Aau & Mu Pagoa falls, Papase’ea Sliding Rocks, Sua Ocean Trench & Piula Cave Pool.
SLEEP AT RETURN TO PARADISE RESORT & SPA
Return to Paradise Resort is Samoa’s most renowned beachfront accommodation. Located on the island’s most iconic and beautiful beach. Return to Paradise Beach was named after the 1953 film starring Gary Cooper and Roberta Haynes. Samoans have regarded this beach as particularly special and it is nothing short of a spectacular beauty. It caught the attention of Hollywood location scouts who determined it to be the perfect setting for their film.
SLEEP AT TAUMEASINA ISLAND RESORT
Taumeasina Island Resort is the only island resort in Samoa connected to the mainland by a causeway. Their Samoa accommodation options are modern, luxurious, and showcase both the natural beauty of Samoa and the traditional values of the Samoan people. Taumeasina Island Resort brings unparalleled security and hospitality to all guests and they pride themselves on providing authentic and inspiring Samoan experiences during your stay.
PLAY AT TAI'S NATIVE EXPERIENCE
Get wowed through every minute of your day with Chief Tai and his trusted associates as you explore the beauty that is Samoa. Combine visits to Namua Island and Easter Upolu. Listen to Chief Tai's in-depth commentary on the history and culture of Samoa while visiting highlights such as Lalomanu Beach, Sopoaga Falls, Vavau Beach, and To Sua Ocean Trench. Jump in the turquoise water to swim and snorkel among the turtles and other marine life, with snorkel gear provided.
HOW TO GET THERE: Samoa is a 3 ½ hour flight from New Zealand, 5 hours from Australia & 5 hours from North America.
BEST TIME TO VISIT: The dry season runs between the months of June and October.
VISA: All nationalities traveling to Samoa can enter visa free. All visitors must hold a passport valid for 6 months. All visitors must have a return or onward ticket, copy of a bank statement, no record of deportation from other countries, no health problems that would pose a risk to Samoa, no history of criminal charges (Visit the Samoa Immigration website for Samoa's most current visa information).
LANGUAGE: Samoan and English are the official languages.
CURRENCY: Samoa's national currency is the Tala (dollar) and Sene (cent).
HOW TO GET AROUND: Getting around in Samoa is quite straightforward either by renting a vehicle, by public transport (bus and taxi) or when traveling between islands by ferry.
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