Samoa

Quick Facts

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Capital

Apia

Population

179,000

Government

Constitutional monarchy under native chief

Religions

Christianity (Protestant, Catholic)

Languages

Samoan, English

Calling Code

+685

Nationality

Samoan

Introduction

Samoa

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The two Samoan brothers (independent and American) are twins, though not identical.
Independent Samoa (or Western Samoa as it was known as until 1997) differs from its eastern namesake in that it is a little less developed and a little less modern. It is therefore slightly less offensive to anthropologists and, we think, much more appealing to tourists. It also benefits from better beaches and more accessible swimming and snorkelling areas. Though deforestation's having its impact, inland Samoa is at times almost as attractive as aquatic Samoa.

That said, the similarities between the two nations far outweigh the differences. Many traditions are the same; both Samoas are keen to present their traditional culture to the adoring tourists who visit. So if you don't like Samoan dance and music styles, tough luck.

Islands

Samoa is made up of two primary islands and eight small islets.

The two large islands are

• Upolu, home to the bulk of the population and the capital Apia
• Savai'i

Towns

• Apia
• Asau
• Mulifanua
• Lotopa

Getting there

Plane

Most travellers arrive at Faleolo Airport, about 30 km from the capital Apia. The national airine is Polynesian Airlines, with flights from Apia to Tonga, Niue and American Samoa. Also, Polynesian Blue serves Samoa, mainly to and from Auckland and Sydney.
There are many flights with Pacific Blue and Air New Zealand from Australia (mainly Sydney) and New Zealand (mainly Auckland).