Samoa

Samoa has been called the eco-tourism capital of the South Pacific for its unspoiled nature and vibrant traditional culture. A majority of Samoans still live in small seaside villages of beehive-shaped houses. Many village families have created small beach resorts where visitors sleep on mats in thatched shelters near the water's edge. Meals of local produce are served and local activities include hiking, bicycling, snorkeling, and surfing. High impact consumer tourism based on air-conditioning, imported food, and motorized activities does exist but it's the exception rather than the rule in Samoa. Visitors to the main islands of Upolu and ...

Samoa has been called the eco-tourism capital of the South Pacific for its unspoiled nature and vibrant traditional culture. A majority of Samoans still live in small seaside villages of beehive-shaped houses. Many village families have created small beach resorts where visitors sleep on mats in thatched shelters near the water's edge. Meals of local produce are served and local activities include hiking, bicycling, snorkeling, and surfing. High impact consumer tourism based on air-conditioning, imported food, and motorized activities does exist but it's the exception rather than the rule in Samoa. Visitors to the main islands of Upolu and Savaii can get around by bus, car, or organized tour, with rental bicycles available for local transport in most areas. In the capital, Apia, there's an excellent choice of restaurants and bars. Attendance at an island night of authentic Polynesian song, dance, and food is almost obligatory. The fire dancing is always spectacular and local delicacies like palusami (young taro leaves baked in coconut cream) and oka (marinated raw fish) will excite the jaded palate.

About the Expert

David Stanley is the author of the Moon guidebooks Fiji, Tahiti, and South Pacific. He has been writing about the Pacific since 1979.