This small South Pacific country (made up of 10 islands) packs plenty of visual drama with its seriously gorgeous beaches and awesome waterfalls and natural-rock pools. The bulk of the Samoa’s 180,000 residents live on Upolu, which contains the capital Apia, a sleepy South Seas kind of town. Samoans still adhere to a traditional lifestyle where both family and religion play important roles and where rugby is a consuming passion.
- Go Caving Both of Samoa’s islands are excellent for spelunking, though beware that the caves can get wet and dark.
- Pay Homage to Treasure Island Robert Louis Stevenson’s one-time residence has been beautifully restored and turned into a museum.
- Eat as the Samoans Do Samoans love to eat; some favorite dishes include fire-roasted coconut cream and taro leaves, breadfruit, and cooked green bananas.
- Play Kilikiti The Samoan version of cricket employs the same bat and ball, but with different and often varying rules.
- Laze in the Sand Samoa’s beaches offer breathtaking views; ask the locals which are best for water sports.
