Samoa is an island kingdom in the Pacific Ocean. It is part of the region of the world known as Polynesia.
It is a group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand. The islands have narrow coastal plains with volcanic, rocky, rugged mountains in the interior.
Samoa is composed largely of two islands, Upolu and Savai'i. These islands are the result of countless volcanic eruptions, leaving easily visible volcanic cones all over both islands. None of the volcanoes are currently active, but small earthquakes often rock the island, reminding people of their presence. The last eruption was in 1911 on Savaii.
The eerie, lifeless lava fields that remain from this event can be visited easily, since the only sealed road on Savai'i goes right through the middle.
Both islands are almost entirely covered by lush vegetation, although almost none of it is the original rainforest that covered the island before humans arrived. Most of the land area is given over to plantations or semi-cultivated forest, providing food and cash crops for the locals. Since Samoa has been inhabited for over three and a half thousand years, the cultivated lands around villages can often seem like deepest, darkest jungle to a foreigner(palangi).
HOW TO REACH
By Plane - There is one international airport, Faleolo (IATA: APW), which is approximately a 1 hour drive from Apia.
Air New Zealand provides 3 to 4 flights per week from Auckland. They also fly a weekly service between Auckland-Tonga-Apia-Los Angeles.
Polynesian Blue, a subsidiary of Virgin Blue, has started flying between Apia and a series of cities in Australia and New Zealand, such as Sydney, Brisbane, Townsville, Melbourne and Auckland.
By Boat - People sail their yachts to Samoa and dock at Apia.
A twice monthly service by the MV Tokelau leaves from Apia Harbour and runs to Tokelau.
Ports and harbors include Apia, Asau, Mulifanua, Salelologa. Container ships and cruise liners dock in Apia Harbour or Salelologa, but many smaller fishing boats and village boats use the smaller docks.
STAY SAFE
Samoa is a safe destination. Crime rates are low and people very helpful and friendly. Pickpocketing and robbery do occur, but with sensible precautions, one should encounter few problems.
Samoans have a different concept of ownership from Westerners and don't really consider stealing to be a sin as long as they don't get caught. Keep your valuables close, especially money, especially if you are doing a home-stay.
Dogs are the biggest threat, roaming the islands freely, often in packs. They are extremely vicious. You will be approached, so avoid walking in remote locations unless you have a pointed object or a quick means of escape. Travel by taxi at night, as they become even more aggressive after dark.
RESPECT
Samoa is quite religious, with most of the population following one of the Christian denominations. This means Sunday is generally respected as a holy day and most shops and businesses are closed. You should not walk through villages on Sundays.
Samoan culture is governed by strict protocols and etiquette. Although allowances are made for foreigners, it is wise to avoid revealing clothing and to comply with village rules which are enforced by the village matai (chiefs), although Apia is quite relaxed in these traditions.
Women going topless is taboo, and they should only wear swimwear at the beach. Shorts should be knee length. Shirts should be worn when not at the beach. A lavalava (sarong) is nearly always acceptable attire.
Other simple things, such as removing shoes before entering a house (or, for that matter, budget accommodation), should be observed.
The main island of Upolu is know as the "modern" island, where most northern coast villages are quite relaxed with the old strict traditions, whilst Savai'i is the more traditional island but has become more relaxed -- but nude bathing is taboo.
