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Guide to Apia, Western Samoa
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Click to go to Flight Prices for Apia
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ApiaIn the South Pacific Ocean northeast of Australia, sit numerous miniscule islands that, despite their sizes, are getting more and more attention as time progresses. Several of these morsels of Earth constitute Samoa, a group of large and small landmasses where lie a bounty of beautiful forest, secluded beaches, and fascinating cultures, some native to the area, some colonial in origin. When stepping off the plane and traveling into the capital, Apia, you don't immediately get the sense that you're in a place far different than what you're used to, but there's something peculiar, yet charming about Samoa that cannot be described in few (or even many) words; something that must be experience first hand. Everything is much more calm and serene on Samoa's islands than you first expect. Even the capital is a concoction of openness in every meaning of the term. There's little vehicular traffic anywhere you go that you'll wonder how you ever came to rely so much on internal combustion engines; Most restaurants offer service with an entirely different approach to the typical diner setting (the idea of running on a system of reservations is all but shunned); And you'll have so much space on the sands to call your own that you'll realize rest and enjoyment really is possible in a coastal city. Take a tour of Apia on a bicycle cruiser. Watch the sunrise on one end of Samoa and be on its western end in time to see the sun go down. Take your time in Samoa in your own hands and make it unforgettable. Book your flight to Apia today!
When to go:
Most travelers like to keep dry whilst touring sites and chances are that you fall into that boat, so in order to get the most of what you want, you'll have to set your sights on Apia in the winter or spring (the European summer is Samoa's winter, and so forth). Because you're fairly close to the Equator in Apia, temperatures rarely shift enough for one to notice. This of course creates less hassle and more enjoyment for you, the visitor. If you're an adventure-seeking soul you can book your flight to Apia in the midst of the Samoan winter to scope out and even partake in the Polynesian Dive Fest. You'll also get a chance to witness a natural phenomenon known as the "rising of the Palolo," an occurrence only visible around the coral reefs off Savai'i, the largest island of Samoa.
Getting there and around:
Faleolo Airport, a long distance from the capital, is the only international gateway for travelers trying to reach Samoa. There are towns nearer to the Airport than the capital, but nowhere other than Apia will you find as great a selection of hotels, eateries, and cultural activities, so we suggest bearing down for a lengthy bus or taxi ride rather than taking an easy way out. Rental cars are available at the airport if you feel you can find your way about the island solely with the guide of a color-coded map. Yes, Apia is a very easy place to traverse, even without the aid of road signs or landmarks, but you may grow weary from walking your way about, and when you do, taxis are the next best method to take.
Attractions:
Backed by gorgeous hills and valleys, Apia is the perfect destination for those who are tired of thinking. Spend your days around points overlooking the city and a camera and coffee (or whatever indigenous beverage you may prefer) are all you'll need to satisfy your desire for simplicity.
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