Samoa is located in the South Pacific about half way between Hawaii and New Zealand. It is made up of ten islands overall but the vast majority of the land mass is divided between the two islands of Savaii and Upolu. The capital and only major town is Apia located on the north side of Upolu. The two main islands have volcanic origins and are very mountainous and have only narrow coastal plains. The two islands are covered in lush vegetation much of it is cultivated forest or plantations of one type or another. The population of Samoa is estimated at just below 200,000.
The history of Samoa can be traced back to around 1500 BC, the original inhabitants had close ties with the Fijians and Tongans which exist to this day. European settlers began to arrive in the late 18th century and converted many of the indegenous population to Christianity. The islands passed through the hands of various western nations until they became the first of the pacific island nations to gain independance in 1962.
Map of Samoa
Map of Samoa.
Samoa is a great destination for those seeking a tropical island holiday, it is beautiful, warm all year round and is very laid back and friendly. Samoa also has some of the best surf breaks in the pacific which can be enjoyed without crowds. The islands have beautiful white beaches with sparkling blue water and are often fringed by coral. The volcanic islands also offer numerous opportunities to explore cascading waterfalls, lush rainforest valleys and rugged mountains. The Samoan people are friendly, gentle and warm and enjoy talking and laughing. Life moves at a more gentle pace in Samoa, and Samoa is now home to many visitors who came for a holiday but never left.
