Everything You Need to Know About Travelling to Samoa in 2019

Samoa is one of the lesser known South Pacific countries to Australian tourists; most people have heard of Samoa, but they have no idea what it’s all about! We are going to answer some common questions and provide our tips for anyone who wants to travel to Samoa in 2019!

1: Location – Where should I visit?

Samoa is made up of two main islands, Upolu (home to the International Airport & capital Apia) and Savaii (the larger, but less touristy island). The two islands are both exceptionally beautiful, and both have a lot to offer visitors, but each island suits a different type of experience. You can combine both islands of course; but if you are short on time, you don’t need to visit both to have an amazing Samoa experience.

Even though it is larger in size, Savaii is less developed than Upolu. If you are all about simple, comfortable accommodation, stunning sunsets and a really authentic island experience (or want a quiet place to sit by the water and read your book), then I highly recommend a few nights on Savaii. However if you are all about the resort life – then perhaps a day trip is a better option for you.

Upolu is more developed, with lots of beautiful accommodation options to suit a range of travellers. The island also has an array of stunning natural attractions to visit. Even though it’s more advanced, it is definitely still able to offer a genuine insight into Samoan way of life. Whether you want a boutique property, something with a ‘brand name’ or a larger resort with all the facilities – Upolu has what you are looking for!

2: Duration – How long should I stay?

If you don’t know much about Samoa, this is a tough one! How long is the ultimate amount of time to stay? The island of Upolu is actually a lot bigger than it looks, so if you want to do a few different sites and attractions a 7 night stay is advisable. However if you are limited on time and looking to “flop & drop”, a 5 night stay will be perfect!

For anyone wanting to stay on both Upolu and Savaii, 7 nights is going to allow enough time to see some sites and also have the chance to relax.  Everything is quite spread out and you have to use a ferry to get between the islands. The ferry alone takes a few hours, so if you do decide to split your stay, try to do at least 2 nights in Savaii to make sure you aren’t too rushed! Alternatively there is the option to do a Savaii day trip, so you don’t have to miss out just because you aren’t staying a night.

3: Resort – Where should I stay?

Of course this question is very dependent on what type of trip you want and what type of traveller you are! Here are some suggestions and the type of traveller or holiday experience they suit!

Family: There are lots of great family friendly options in Samoa! A few favourites are Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa on the south coast of Upolu. The resort has nice large rooms and plenty of space to explore. It’s also close to natural attractions and has a great price point for families. Another popular choice is Taumeasina Island Resort; this property is close to town and has a children’s playground, multiple dining options as well as up to 3-bedrooms to cater to all different sized family groups. Another great option is the Sheraton Samoa Beach Resort, it has a complimentary kids club, a lovely beach and pool area plus the option of interconnecting rooms to allow families the option of space and privacy!

Couples: Sinalei Reef Resort (Children 12+ only) is the perfect resort for couples to get away. With a lush rainforest pool, a restaurant & bar over the water, pristine beach and snorkelling right in front of the resort, you won’t ever want to leave! If you are celebrating a special occasion, why not upgrade to the Beachfront Villa or book one of the resort’s beautiful private dining experiences to really take the trip to the next level. While the food is amazing, the property is also located walking distance to a few local beach bars, so you won’t feel like you are confined to just the eating at the resort. Another beautiful option is Le Lagoto in Savaii, home to the most magic sunsets you can imagine, the perfect backdrop to enjoy dinner on the deck with the one you love.
Luxury: For anyone chasing a little bit of luxury, you can’t look past Seabreeze Resort Samoa; this stunning boutique property is ideal for a romantic escape, a honeymoon or intimate retreat. The restaurant offers amazing dining options overlooking the stunning azure ocean. For the ultimate experience, the Honeymoon Point house has a private rock pool, outdoor shower and uninterrupted ocean views. Another few options for a luxury stay is to book an Overwater Villa at Coconuts Beach Resort & Spa or the picturesque Island Villas at Aga Reef Resort; these stunning rooms will truly make your stay unforgettable.

Group: If you are travelling with extended family or a group of friends, then Return to Paradise Resort & Spa is perfect for you! The property has a large range of room types and 2 or 3 bedroom villas with lots of space to accommodation everyone. There are a large range of activities that can be arranged from the resort and a stunning rock bar for sunset cocktails and canapes as the sun sets over the ocean. There is also a beautiful chapel for guests who want to tie the knot in paradise.

Unique: If you want a truly unique experience, there is the option of staying in a traditional fale. There are a range of options from the very traditional set up at Taufua Beach Fales, to a more westernised version at Litia Sini Beach Resort. Wake up on some on the most stunning beaches in the country while experiencing this authentic fale accommodation. This style of accommodation can be combined with a few nights at a resort, to allow you time to appreciate both styles of vacay.

4: Samoan Food – What are the must-try dishes?

 There are plenty of island dishes that you should try during your time is Samoa. Seafood is very fresh and readily available, try “Oka” the local version of the South Pacific favourite raw fish. Another really popular and versatile food is taro, both the yam and the leaves are used in Samoan dished.  If you want to know more about food in Samoa, click here for our recent blog all about food!
 

5: Activities – What should I do while I am away?

Samoa is a nature lover’s paradise with waterfalls, beaches, lush rainforest, lava and plenty of amazing swimming spots! In Upolu “must see spots” include To Sua Ocean Trench, one of the four waterfalls, Papaseea sliding rocks, the coastal walk which takes you to lava fields and Piula Cave pool! There are plenty of amazing snorkelling, fishing and surfing spots on the island as well. For anyone heading to Savaii, you must go to Alofaaga Blowholes, Afu Aau Waterfalls, the Lava tubes and the Canopy walk. If you are in Savaii overnight, it is definitely worth eating dinner on the sunset side of the island. It’s a truly amazing way to spend the night!
If you want to experience the local culture and get an understanding of Samoan history, make sure you head to the Old Apia Market, Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, and a Sunday church service and enjoy a Fiafia night!
 

Samoa Holidays:

If you would like more information about Samoa in general click here or get in touch with our team of specialist travel consultants on 1800 800 722. If you are looking for ideas on what to book, check out our package deals. As they say in Samoa Fa’afetai (Pronounced - Fa Feh Thai, meaning - Thank you).