Thursday 2 June 2011

Samoa, the Pacific's Best Kept Secret!

Have you ever dreamed of getting away from the rat race and live on a South Pacific island? Robert Louis Stevenson lived there! What better place than Samoa which claims to have the most beautiful scenery in the South Pacific.
Photo courtesy of eatcs.blogspot.com
Located about half way between Hawaii and New Zealand, Samoa consists of two relatively large islands, Upolu and Savali, and eight smaller islands. Some are inhabited and others are not but each one is different.
Photo courtesy of tripadvisor.com
Samoa is one of the most politically stable and safe countries in the world. It is also one of the most affordable destinations in the South Pacific.
Photo courtesy of Am Samoa Ofu
Travellers are attracted to the warm crystal blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Upolu, the most populated island, has an interior which has tropical, lush, rugged volcanic mountain ranges with spectacular waterfalls and rushing rivers.
Photo courtesy of travelblog.com
The pristine palm-fringed beaches have protective reefs and totally secluded white sandy beaches. There are no big tourist hotels or over-developed resorts here but a focus on extended family, culture, and tradition. Samoa is everything you would expect of an exotic Polynesian paradise, but the fa’a Samoa (the Samoan way) sets it apart from other Pacific destinations.
Photo courtesy of mjdundee
It remains one of the most vibrant cultures in Polynesia. The whole atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed. One of the first things you need to do when you arrive is to take off your watch as time really doesn’t mean much here. You will be charmed by the humble and happy lifestyle of the Samoan people.
Photo courtesy of brandeis.edu
The capital of Upola is Apia which is located on the north coast. This is a town of old colonial buildings , a harbour , giant pulu trees, and modern architecture. This is the only place on Upolu which contains hotels and restaurants, markets,  banks and cybercafés.
Pacificislandtravel.com
Divers, snorkelers, hikers, surfers, and nature lovers will love Samoa. There are over  800 species of exotic fish and 200 species of coral. You can enjoy swimming and snorkelling among the live coral all within the protection of the pristine lagoon. You can experience the culture, swing in a hammock, relax in the tranquil surroundings while the waves lap around you, or hire a kayak to visit the small islets that surround the bay.
Photo courtesy of travelwithkidsonline.com
If you are looking for a relaxing holiday with plenty to do, then this Samoan paradise is waiting for you.
*****************************
Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations  for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca   or phone 403-477-0643