Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands Destination Planner 2017 | Page 161

Samoa
South Pacific Islands / SAMOA

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Samoa
Samoa ; with its lush rainforest clothing volcanic peaks , sparkling white beaches , stunning waterfalls and warm , welcoming locals , is truely a visitor ’ s paradise .
Samoa is not one but 10 islands , two large ones and eight islets , each offering amazingly distinct environments for visitors to explore . This Pacific paradise has avoided the negative impacts of rampant tourism that have tarnished some destinations . Samoa remains unspoilt and therefore there are endless kilometres of deserted beaches , enough to ensure you can find your own slice of heaven .
Just as the countryside and beaches have remained largely untouched by time , the same is true of the Samoan way of life . The country boasts a Pacific culture stretching back 3000 years and it ’ s based on a traditional life centered on family and respect for elders . Communities are headed by chiefs , known as matai , and Samoans are predominantly Christians – there are more churches here than in the whole of Rome . No visit to this destination is complete without spending at least one night in one of Samoa ’ s open beachfront fales . Just imagine being lulled to sleep listening to the waves lapping on a spectacular beach while you are fanned by a sultry tropical breeze .
Savai ’ i
Savai ’ i the largest of the Samoan islands and indeed the largest Pacific island outside of Hawaii and New Zealand .
Savai ’ i is the cultural experience you have yearned for . Here you can live like a local while at the same time savouring the island ’ s stunning natural attractions . Get high on a rainforest canopy boardwalk or immerse yourself in the joys of swimming with green turtles . And if you ’ re a keen diver then take the opportunity to go scuba diving .
Samoa boasts more than 200 types of coral and what better way to spend your time than swimming lazily through the delightfully tepid turquoise waters . Savai ’ i is an island of incredible contrasts – follow the lava tube trail , or blow away the cobwebs by taking an invigorating hike around the easily accessible volcanic crater on the Tafua Peninsula . Cool off afterwards by relaxing in the shade of a palm tree on a nearby white sand beach .
Packages and accommodation options are available on request .
6 Day Discover Samoa
On its own private white sand beach , this resort is in Siumu , within the vicinity of Togitogina Waterfall . Regional attractions also include Baha ’ i House of Worship and Papaseea Sliding Rocks . Pamper yourself with a visit to Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa ’ s full-service spa , practice your swing on the golf course , or catch some rays on the private white sand beach . Guest rooms have refrigerators , wireless Internet access ( surcharge ), and air conditioning ; rooms also include premium bedding and safes .
Accommodation : Sinalei Reef Resort & Spa . Set in 33 acres of lush tropical landscaped gardens on the South side of Upolu , the main island of Samoa – a 30 minute drive from the capital of Apia and 45 minutes from Faleolo International Airport . Its coastline location is famous for its picture-postcard scenery : clear , turquoise water , with shady coconut palms fringing stretches of white sand . Sinalei offers two dining options – the Laumosooi Fale Restaurant and the magnificent casual Ava I Toga Restaurant on the pier for romantic dining under the stars . Wednesday is the famed Fiafia Night featuring Sinalei ’ s own staff and the famous knife dancing show which is endemic to the district of Siumu . A traditional Buffet Dinner is all part of the experience .
Package includes : 5 nights of accommodation , return airport transfers , use of non-motorised watersports equipment and activities including snorkeling gear and kayaks and tennis courts .
Pricing from . $ 1099 Pricing is per person , double occupancy
Upolu
Blessed with rugged peaks , a lush tropical interior and countless waterfalls , Upolu is Samoa ’ s second largest island and home to its colourful capital , Apia . This city oozes a colonial charm reminiscent of the writings of Somerset Maugham . Take a stroll through the city ’ s bustling Maketi Fou market , which boasts some of the South Pacific ’ s finest produce . Here you can enjoy a refreshing drink of coconut milk , or stock up on tropical fruit . If you ’ re looking for handicrafts , head for the flea market to pick up exotic presents for those at home .
Upolu has scores of dazzling white beaches and most are undeveloped , making it easy to find your own secluded cove . But take time , too , to venture inland to enjoy the verdant rainforest that echoes to the sound of tropical birds and is threaded by rivers and spectacular cascading waterfalls .
To make the most of the magnificent natural attractions Upolu has to offer , hire a car . It ’ s the easiest way to get around the island and you ’ ll be travelling in airconditioned comfort .
Packages and accommodation options are available on request .
From prices for accommodation are ‘ per room ’ and sightseeing are ‘ per person ’. www . andersonvacations . ca