What you can expect on your Samoa holiday in 2024.
Have you ever wondered if Samoa is a good place to holiday? Or are you looking for a new destination to explore in 2024? This magical country is actually close to home but honestly feels like a world away. Samoa is somewhat of an undiscovered gem compared to other South Pacific islands and is the perfect spot for a well-deserved holiday! The team at Spacifca Travel are big fans of all things Samoa and would love to help you plan your visit and get the most out of your time there. There are some great holiday packages so you don't have to worry about a thing, but first……let me tell you about my recent visit!
Flights
Flights are included in all of Spacifica Travel’s Samoa holiday packages. Direct flights operate from Brisbane with both Virgin Australia and Qantas currently departing 4 times a week. At the moment, the flights arrive in Samoa early in the morning which I didn’t actually mind. After some dinner on the plane and a little nap, and then I was touching down at Faleolo International Airport on the main island of Upolu in just under 5 hours. The airport is easy to navigate and you will be met with beautiful, kind smiles from the local Samoan people. After a quick exit, I was collected by my driver and on my way to my first hotel. I must admit I was a little hesitant to arrive at a new destination before sunrise, but honestly, there is no need to worry as all the hotels and transfer suppliers meet all flights at the airport and it’s business as usual.
Accommodation
There is such a great variety of accommodation styles in Samoa which your holiday package will include. From traditional Fales right on the beach to five-star luxury resorts and everything in between - there are so many fabulous places to stay. Just let your consultant know what’s on your wish list and the Spacifica team will offer their best recommendation. I was lucky enough to enjoy a traditional experience by staying at Taufua Beach Fales located on Lalomanu Beach; voted one of the world’s most beautiful beaches! The local family shower you in hospitality and sets up the cutest little timber, brightly coloured Fale to be your home for the night. Falling asleep to the sound of the waves just metres away with the ocean breeze gently blowing under one of the starriest skies I’ve ever witnessed was one of the most amazing experiences to date. The Fales had shared bathroom facilities close by and honestly, one night wasn’t enough for me.
Saletoga Sands Resort and Spa was the next stop and this resort-style property is also right on the beach. I stayed in one of the Adults Only Exclusive Villas which was extremely spacious. My favourite thing about this room was the outdoor shower and the high ceilings. The room also had an indoor shower but I enjoyed the luxury of showering under the stars in total privacy every day. It was absolute bliss! The resort has a great selection of day tours for in-house guests and also has scooters and cars for hire. The swim-up bar was busy most days and the pizza oven by the pool was also popular with guests for dinner. The meals at the restaurant were delicious and my few days spent at Saletoga Sands were the best! The staff were so friendly and helpful throughout my entire stay.
My next stop was Savai’i which I discovered is the largest island in Samoa but is less populated. We caught the vehicle ferry from Mulifanua Wharf and travelled for about 1 ¼ hours. They offer Business class which allows guests to sit in air-conditioned comfort but I preferred Standard Class which is undercover seating, outside in the fresh air. The trip was very calm the day I travelled and we saw so many pods of playful dolphins swimming alongside the ferry. Everyone just takes their spot in the vehicle queue and when it’s time to board, the staff guide the vehicles onto the ferry with precision. It seems hectic but it’s actually so organised and managed very well. On arrival in Salelologa Wharf, you can drive off and start your adventure or will be met and transferred to your chosen accommodation.
Savai’i is a beautiful island, again filled with friendly locals, natural beauty at every turn and a relaxed and less busy destination than the main island of Upolu. During my quick visit, I was lucky enough to visit the Alofaaga Blowholes, enjoy a swim at Afu Aau Waterfalls, walked through the Saleaula Lava Fields and snorkelled straight off the beach. I would recommend a 3 or 4-night stay at Savai’i to allow enough time to relax and also see the sights.
Back to Upolu my last stop was Taumeasina Island Resort. The place is next level! Built on it’s own private island connected by one road, the luxury resort is very popular. There are so many rooms to choose from and the restaurant and bar area has live entertainment every night including karaoke, live bands, local dancers and more. The vibe was high here and it was a great place to finish my trip. I treated myself to a massage before heading off to the airport and can honestly say it was amazing and one of the best I’ve had. Highly recommend! Some more recommendations for you:
For luxury:
For families:
In Apia town:
Car hire
Driving around Samoa is very easy and everyone is super chilled. It’s left-hand drive and the local speed limit is around 56km and slower through the villages. If you see wandering animals and small children you just give a little toot to let them know you’re coming. If you like to explore at your own pace then hiring a car is a great option. You can arrange to pick up and drop off at the airport which is nice and easy. Drivers need a temporary driver’s permit which is available from most rental vehicle companies. Samoa really is a great place for a self-drive holiday.
Day Tours
There are so many awesome places to discover and tours that will give you the best insight into local life, culture, history and tradition. To Sua Trench was the highlight for me and is a must-see! A giant swimming hole on the coastal side of Upolu that is roughly 30 metres deep. Access to the water is via a timber ladder and there is also a platform at the bottom with a rope that swimmers can hold onto for a rest as the swimming hole does lead to the ocean so you can feel a slight current. Surrounded by beautiful native gardens this would have to be one of the most tranquil and magical places I have ever visited.
My favourite things about my time in Samoa were:
- Super safe destination and everyone is so friendly
- Time really slows down and lets you truly relax without crowds of people or tourists
- Great destination for families with Mother Nature providing the Kids Club!
- Food and drinks are generally cheaper than Australia
- Locals are so humble and passionate about their families and their country
- The crystal clear water is breathtaking and teeming with marine life
Choosing a new destination for your holiday can sometimes feel daunting but once you arrive in this beautiful country, you will truly wonder why it took you so long! To book your Samoa holiday contact the team at Spacifica Travel on 1800 800 722.
Images thanks to Samoa Tourism & Sean Condon