Archives: Destinations

American Samoa is located in the Pacific Ocean, halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand, with the geographic coordinates of 14° 16′ S, 170° 42′ W; a five-hour direct flight from Honolulu, Hawaii and only 35 minutes by air from Apia, Samoa. American Samoa is the only US territory south of the equator and is composed of seven land masses: five volcanic islands and two coral atolls. From west to east, American Samoa’s islands are Tutuila, Aunu’u, Ofu, Olosega, and Ta’u. The two atolls are Rose Atoll and Swains Island.

THE CAPITAL AND MAJOR CENTRES

The capital Pago Pago, pronounced ‘pango pango’, sits on a beautiful harbour that can be seen from Mount Alava. Fagatogo Village is the Town Area, home to the Court House, Parliament House, and a few Government Agency offices. Utulei Village nearby, is home to the Executive Office Building (EOB) which houses the majority of the Government offices as well as the Governor’s Office. The Governor’s Mansion, an old colonial structure still used today, is also found in Utulei. Tafuna is where the airport is located, as well as a majority of businesses and major shopping centers such as Cost-U-Less and The PX for military service members and vets.

Tafuna stands as the most populous and dynamic village in the region. As the principal area for both residential and industrial development in American Samoa, Tafuna offers an abundance of opportunities for businesses, investors, and residents alike. Known for its significant availability of freehold land, it remains one of the few places on the islands where individuals can own land with full rights—an attractive proposition for those seeking long-term investments.

The Pago Pago International Airport is located nearby, connecting American Samoa to the global economy, while public utilities serve to support the growing needs of the community. The village is also the site of light industrial activity, positioning it as a key area for business development and innovation.

THE PEOPLE & CULTURE

Samoans have lived here for more than 3000 years and are of Polynesian extraction. Most speak Samoan and English.

American Samoa’s islands make up the eastern part of the Samoan Archipelago. Archaeologists state early Polynesians travelled from South East Asia into the Pacific, populating the islands of the western Pacific from Papua New Guinea to Tonga and Samoa. It was from Tonga and Samoa, sometime later, that they migrated east and populated the Cook Islands, Niue, Tahiti and Rapanui (Easter Island) before heading north to Hawaii and south to Aotearoa (New Zealand) on the last legs of the great Polynesian migration.

Today Samoans are regarded as the largest full blooded Polynesian race left in the world. The people of American Samoa are known for their strong sense of community, deep-rooted traditions, and warm hospitality. As a proud Polynesian society, Samoans uphold the fa’a Samoa (the Samoan way), a cultural framework that emphasizes respect, family, and service. Elders are highly respected, and communal living remains a cornerstone of daily life, with extended families often living together and supporting one another. The siva Samoa (traditional dance), tatatau (traditional tattooing), and fiafia (celebratory feasts) showcase the vibrancy of Samoan culture, while the importance of the church plays a central role in social gatherings. Despite modern influences, American Samoans continue to preserve their customs and language, blending tradition with contemporary life in a way that reflects both resilience and pride in their heritage.

HISTORY

Human history in American Samoa dates back about 3,000 years, making the Samoan culture the oldest in Polynesia. Archaeological evidence dating to that time has been found at eastern Tutuila Island and on Ofu Island. With the exception of Ta’u, the Samoan islands were under Tongan conquest from 1200 to 1400 CE.

The first European contact came in 1722 and 1768 when Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen and French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville traded with islanders in the Manu’a island group. Subsequent outside visitors included other European explorers, Christian missionaries, and whaling ships. From the 1850s on, a steadily increasing number of European and American traders operated on Tutuila, while Manu’a remained relatively isolated.

By the 1880s, Britain and Germany had laid claim to the islands. In March 1889, German, English, and American warships stood ready to go to war over possession of the islands, but the impending battle never took place because of a hurricane. In 1899 (though not effective until February 16, 1900), Germany, England, and the United States signed a tripartite agreement that granted control of Upolu and Savai’i to Germany and control of Tutuila, Aunu’u, and Manu’a to the United States.

That year, the US Department of the Navy assumed administration of ‘Tutuila Station’. The matais, or chiefs, of Tutuila and Aunu’u ceded these islands to the US on April 17, 1900. The king and matai of Manu’a did not sign a deed of cession for Ta’u, Ofu, Olosega, and Rose Atoll to the US until 1904. Several years later, the Navy began to refer to the region as ‘American Samoa’.

Although American Samoa remained largely insulated from World War I, during World War II, the American Samoa Defense Group was the largest defence group in the Pacific and experienced Japanese scout overflights and submarine fire. In 1951, per Executive Order 10264, administration of American Samoa transferred from the Department of the Navy to the Department of the Interior. The Secretary of the Interior enabled American Samoans to draft a constitution, under which the government of American Samoa now functions.

NATURE

The Territory of American Samoa has a total land area of 76 square miles made up of five volcanic islands (Tutuila, Aunu’u, Ofu, Olosega and Ta’u) and two atolls (Rose and Swains Island). Including the marine waters and 200-mile exclusive economic zone, the Territory’s total area is 117,500 square miles. With steep volcanic mountains, the tallest peak Mount Lata at 3170 feet is on Ta’u Island while Mount Matafao, at 2142 feet, is the tallest on Tutuila Island.

American Samoa is a tropical paradise and the climate averages 82°-83° Fahrenheit all year round and the ocean waters that surround the islands average 82°-86° Fahrenheit. With 90 percent of its islands covered in untouched tropical rainforest, the flora and fauna are unique.

NATIONAL PARK OF AMERICAN SAMOA

The National Park of American Samoa is a unique destination located on three tropical islands—Tutuila, Ta’u, and Ofu—in the South Pacific. As the only US national park south of the equator, it offers a rare blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore lush rainforests, pristine coral reefs, and volcanic landscapes, while also experiencing the traditional Samoan way of life, known as fa’asamoa. The park is a paradise for hikers, snorkelers, and cultural enthusiasts alike. A unique fact about the American Samoa National Park is that it is not federally owned, it is leased.

NATIONAL MARINE SANCTUARIES

The National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa is a vast and ecologically rich protected area that covers approximately 13,581 square miles, making it the largest of all US marine sanctuaries.

The sanctuary protects diverse marine ecosystems, including some of the world’s oldest and largest coral heads, deep-water reefs, and hydrothermal vent communities.

THE SIGHTS

Mt Alava and Afono Pass provide stunning views of the harbour. Visit Tutuila’s National Park to enjoy world-class diving areas as well as tropical rainforests, and historic sites. National historic building, the Jean P. Haydon Museum of American Samoa (named after the wife of 1969 – 1971 Governor John Morse Haydon, formerly the United States Navy Commissary during WWII), was officially dedicated by famous anthropologist Margaret Mead, author of the controversial book, Coming of Age in Samoa. Blunts Point Battery, also known as the Matautu Ridge Gun Site, is a historic coastal defense site located near Pago Pago, on Matautu Ridge. This World War II-era battery, featuring two 6-inch naval guns, was established as part of fortifications built following the attack on Pearl Harbor to protect the islands. The battery was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987. The guns were first tested on August 28, 1941, when they fired 16 rounds at a floating target in the harbor. As the war progressed, American Samoa’s importance grew as a supply and training base, prompting further fortification, although it was never attacked. Today, the Blunts Point Battery is accessible via a moderately challenging hiking trail, with the guns and surrounding structures offering a glimpse into the military history of the Pacific.

WHERE TO STAY

American Samoa offers affordable accommodation and services – from boutique lodges, apartments or a hotel suite – all 100 percent locally owned and operated. Several Airbnbs are located around the island and all information can be found at www.americansamoa.travel.

IMMIGRATION

American Samoa has its own Immigration Laws for all foreign visitors entering the Territory. US Passport holders can travel freely to and from the Territory. To qualify for the entry under the Entry Permit Waiver Program, a foreign traveller must provide: A Non Expired Machine Readable Passport valid for at least 6 months after planned departure from American Samoa; Confirmed roundtrip ticket to point of origin or onward passage; Payment of US$40 processing fee and apply and pay online at www.legalaffairs.as.gov for an “OK to Board” before travelling. Travellers entering American Samoa to board fishing vessels or other commercial vessels are NOT eligible for the EPWP. Travellers and crew arriving on cruise ships visiting for one day (less than 24 hours) do not need an entry permit as a TRANSIT PERMIT is automatically issued. For any EPWP questions contact the Office of the Attorney General, Phone +1 (684) 633-4163 or +1 (684) 633-4164 or Email okboard@la.as.gov.

Travelers with passports not covered under the EPWP must apply for a permit to enter the country. To make the process smoother, some local travel agents offer permit assistance services.

VISAS AND HEALTH

Visas are not required for stays of less than 30 days if you have an onward ticket. No vaccination certificates required. An OK Board may be required depending on the passport you carry.

CURRENCY

The United States Dollar is the currency of American Samoa. Major foreign currencies can be exchanged at local bank branches or Western Union Foreign Money Exchange. American Samoa has one bank on the island – Territorial Bank of American Samoa.

GETTING AROUND

Taxis and rental cars are available. A fleet of ‘aiga’ local family buses run unscheduled services. Bus stops are found throughout the main island of Tutuila, but you can catch a bus simply by waving it down.

HOW TO GET HERE

Three airlines fly to American Samoa from Hawaii, USA and Samoa. Hawaiian Airlines offer 3 flights a week from Honolulu to Pago Pago, while both Samoa Airways and Talofa Airways operate daily services from Apia, Samoa.

NEW PROJECTS

Maloata Beachfront Renovations:
Located on the beach in the village of Maloata, two beachfront Airbnb houses are undergoing renovation, one of which re-opened in mid-2025. These properties are designed to offer a blend of comfort and natural surroundings.

Accommodations will be comfortable, with an outer deck providing views of the ocean.

In addition to the accommodations, these properties offer experiences rooted in local culture and nature. Guests can explore the streams of Maloata or participate in a greenhouse tour led by Peter Gurr, who oversees Island Flowers by Liana. This tour includes a look at over 40,000 orchids and anthuriums. Cultural activities, such as weaving workshops and traditional cooking demonstrations, are also available, providing insight into the island’s heritage. Nearby is a prehistoric village site listed on the US National Register of Historic Places which includes a variety of stone features, with excavation evidence of human occupation dating back to 550 CE.

Docking facilities are available for boats and yachts, with a built-in ramp for easy access. These beachfront houses serve as a base for experiencing the life and environment of American Samoa.

ANNUAL FESTIVALS & ACTIVITIES

FLAG DAY – April 17
Flag Day in American Samoa is celebrated every year on April 17 to commemorate the day American Samoa became a U.S. territory in 1900. This important holiday is marked by a week of vibrant festivities that showcase the territory’s rich culture and strong community spirit.

Celebrations start with the ’Ava Ceremony, which is one of the most important and sacred cultural rituals in Samoan culture. It is a formal ceremony used to mark significant occasions such as the installation of a chief (matai), welcoming of important guests, or opening of major events.

At the heart of the ceremony is the preparation and serving of ’ava—a traditional drink made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant, which has calming, mildly sedative effects. The drink is mixed and served in a large wooden bowl called a tanoa, and carefully distributed by a designated tautua’ava (ava server) to each honored guest in a ceremonial order, reflecting rank and status.

The ceremony includes formal speeches, chants, and blessings, and is deeply rooted in respect, protocol, and communal values. It is a powerful expression of Samoan identity, social structure, and hospitality.

Other Flag day activities include traditional fiafia performances featuring Samoan dance, music, and singing, as well as the fautasi (traditional longboat) races that bring villages together in friendly competition on the water. There are also flag-raising ceremonies, church services, cultural exhibitions, sports tournaments – like the Annual I’a Lapoa Fishing Tournament, and parades. Government leaders, dignitaries, and visiting guests often attend, highlighting the significance of this day in American Samoa’s history.

Flag Day is not just a public holiday—it’s a proud celebration of heritage, unity, and the enduring relationship between American Samoa and the United States.

MANU’A FLAG DAY – JULY 16

Manu’a Flag Day is a treasured celebration held each year on July 16 in the Manu’a Islands of American Samoa, commemorating the day in 1904 when the islands officially became part of the U.S. territory. The Manu’a group consists of three small islands—Ta’ū, Ofu, and Olosega—each rich in cultural heritage and tradition.

This special day honors the proud history and deep-rooted customs of the Manu’a people. The celebration typically begins with a church service, featuring heartfelt performances by youth groups from various Manu’a villages. Government agencies also take part by organizing a variety of community activities, primarily on the island of Ta’ū.

Manu’a Flag Day is not only a time of cultural pride, but also a homecoming for many. People originally from Manu’a who now live in Tutuila or abroad often return to reconnect with their roots and join in the festivities. Among the most anticipated events is the lively cricket tournament, a favorite tradition that brings the community together in friendly competition and joyful celebration.

MOSO’OI MONTH – OCTOBER

The Moso’oi Festival of Arts & Humanities is an annual celebration that honors and showcases the rich cultural and artistic traditions of American Samoa. Named after the fragrant moso’oi flower, which symbolizes resilience and marks the arrival of the prized palolo (local delicacy known in English as eunicid worm) during the month of October, the festival is deeply rooted in Samoan heritage and pride.

Spanning the entire month, the Moso’oi Festival features a variety of events that reflect the vibrant spirit of the Samoan people. These include traditional fa’afiafiaga performances, storytelling, poetry, art displays, and fashion shows that celebrate both contemporary creativity and cultural expression. Community members of all ages are encouraged to participate, making the festival a unifying experience across generations.

A highlight of the celebration is the High School Siva competition, where students perform traditional dances, promoting cultural pride and learning among youth. The festival also concludes with the Mr. & Ms. Moso’oi Scholarship Pageant, which emphasizes cultural knowledge, talent, and the importance of education.

More than just a series of events, the Moso’oi Festival serves as a living platform for preserving the Samoan way of life. It fosters a deeper understanding of Samoan identity through language, tradition, and the arts, ensuring that the cultural legacy of American Samoa remains vibrant and strong for future generations.

 

Nestled on the golden sands of Utungake Island within the stunning Vava’u archipelago, Tongan Beach Resort is a quintessential South Pacific escape, offering a blend of tranquillity and adventurous spirit.

This boutique Resort perfectly captures the essence of a Tongan holiday, where the pace of life slows to match the gentle lapping of the turquoise waters.

The Resort features 18 guest rooms, offered in four different room types, most just metres from the water’s edge and boasting private and covered balconies with views of the beach, ocean and islands beyond. The accommodations balance comfort with a true island feel, offering modern amenities such as air-conditioning and ceiling fans alongside the option of a natural sea breeze. Most rooms feature semi-outdoor showers, all have hot and cold water, a compact fridge, tea and coffee making facilities and in room safes.

STUNNING ENVIRONMENT

At the heart of the experience is the stunning natural environment. Guests have immediate access to a safe swimming area, a private beach, 13 metre swimming pool and a jetty that serves as the departure point for various water activities, most notably the life changing opportunity to swim with humpback whales (during season). Located centrally within the Resort is Dive Tonga, a PADI certified dive centre offering a range of dive experiences, training and certification courses.

Other activities include snorkelling amongst vibrant fish life in the crystal clear waters, day sailing excursions, fishing trips and kayaking around the picturesque outer harbour. The resort provides non-motorised equipment such as kayaks, stand up paddle boards and snorkelling gear for in-house guests to use free of charge. Dining is a delightful affair, the Resort’s fully licensed restaurant Aqua Beach Bar and Restaurant is centrally located and built on the edge of the beach. Watch the stunning South Pacific sunsets while you indulge in a wide range of tropical cocktails or choose from an extensive range of international beers and wines. Enjoy a mix of international and locally inspired cuisine, featuring fresh, locally caught fish and lobster. Most dietary preferences can be catered for.

The friendly and attentive Tongan staff, renowned for their warm hospitality, contribute significantly to the Resort’s welcoming atmosphere, making guests feel more like family.

Though secluded, Tongan Beach Resort is conveniently linked to the mainland and offers transport services to the nearby town of Neiafu for shopping and exploring additional dining options. For those seeking a genuine retreat rather than a large, impersonal luxury complex, Tongan Beach Resort delivers an authentic, relaxing, and memorable slice of paradise. It is a place to unwind, connect with nature, and experience the unique charm of the Kingdom of Tonga – The Friendly Islands.

Gateway to Tonga’s wonders and perfectly positioned on Nuku’alofa’s oceanfront overlooking the stunning Monu Reef, Tanoa International Dateline Hotel is where island charm meets modern comfort.

Here, the rhythm of Tonga’s vibrant capital unfolds right at your doorstep — explore, indulge, and unwind at your own pace. Located just 40 minutes from Fua’amotu International Airport, this urban retreat sits at the crossroads of culture and convenience — with the Royal Palace, the Port, and the heart of the CBD only moments away.

From sunrise breakfasts at Tu’i Malila Restaurant to leisurely lunches by the pool at Fresh Bar & Grill, every meal celebrates the flavours of Tonga. As the day winds down, tropical cocktails and ocean breezes await at Taulanga’u Bar, the perfect way to toast to island life.

Whether you’re in Tonga for business, sport, or celebration, the hotel’s contemporary facilities and event spaces are designed to make every occasion unforgettable. Stay active at the fitness centre, relax by the pool, or simply soak in the panoramic ocean views that define this island paradise.

Step beyond the hotel and discover the true spirit of Tonga — from swimming with whales and exploring pristine beaches to diving, hiking, and discovering Nuku’alofa’s local gems.

At Tanoa International Dateline Hotel, you’ll find the best of both worlds — the energy of the city and the tranquillity of the sea, all wrapped in genuine Tongan hospitality.

Nestled on a verdant hillside just under two kilometres from Honiara’s city centre, Honiara Hotel stands as one of the Solomon Islands’ most iconic and enduring properties.

Built in 1968 by Mr. Chan Wing and his family — who chose the site for its auspicious feng shui — the hotel has remained under the same family’s care for more than five decades. Today, it is overseen by his son, Sir Thomas “Tommy” Chan, making it the longest-serving hotel in the Solomon Islands to remain under continuous family ownership.

Over its 57-year history, Honiara Hotel has grown from a modest establishment into a landmark known for its warmth, character, and genuine Pacific hospitality. It has hosted many significant events and distinguished guests over the years, including being part of the royal program during the 2012 Diamond Jubilee tour, when Prince William and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, visited Honiara and were welcomed by vibrant cultural performances and community celebrations.

BEST VIEWS

The hotel now offers 83 rooms, thoughtfully positioned across the hillside to capture some of the best views in the city. Many rooms overlook lush gardens, the rooftops of Honiara, or the shimmering Iron Bottom Sound, providing guests with a tranquil retreat after a day of exploration or business in the capital.

Honiara Hotel’s facilities are designed to complement its natural setting. Guests can enjoy dining at the hotel’s restaurants — including the beloved Club Havanah, renowned for its French-inspired cuisine — or relax by the open-air pool with a refreshing drink from the poolside bar.

The grounds feature unique, custom-built artworks that celebrate the Solomon Islands’ thriving marine life, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, adding a distinctive artistic charm to the property.

PEACEFUL & SECLUDED

For wellbeing and leisure, the hotel offers a gym, massage spa services, multiple pools, and ample outdoor spaces to enjoy the tropical atmosphere. Its elevated position means the property includes stairways and covered walkways that wind through gardens and terraces — creating a peaceful, secluded environment — yet the hotel remains conveniently within walking distance of Honiara’s central business district.

More than just a place to stay, Honiara Hotel is a living family legacy. It is a destination where history, culture, warm service, and scenic beauty come together, offering every guest a memorable and authentically Solomon Islands experience.

Discover Samoa with Tanoa Tusitala Hotel. Tucked away in six hectares of lush tropical gardens, just moments from Apia’s city centre, Tanoa Tusitala Hotel is a true island sanctuary.

Blending contemporary comfort with Samoan heritage, this 4-star retreat invites you to unwind, explore, and experience the spirit of Samoa in style.

Each of the 95 spacious, air-conditioned rooms offers a private balcony or self-contained patio – your own little haven to relax and recharge. Modern amenities meet island charm, ensuring every stay feels effortless and refreshing.

From energising mornings in the fitness centre to lazy afternoons by the pool or savouring local flavours that celebrate the island’s rich heritage, everything you need is right here.

Planning an event? The versatile venues are perfect for conferences, celebrations, and special gatherings, all delivered with the warmth of Samoan hospitality.

Step beyond the hotel and discover the beauty of the island. Join one of the hand-picked tours, from the pristine shores of Lalomanu to the natural wonders of Savai’i and let the magic of Samoa unfold before you.

At Tanoa Tusitala Hotel, every stay is more than just a visit.

Located on the cool hills of Tanumapua on the Island of Upolu and only 15 minutes from Apia, the Orator Hotel is also a convenient 5 minutes from the 18-hole Faleata Golf Course and Toanaimato Sports complex as well as 35 minutes from Faleolo International Airport.

Offering 28 standalone villa-style accommodation, by blending the exotic and natural beauty of the surrounds, the design of the Orator Hotel means guests can experience Samoa in the one place. Of historical interest, the hotel is built on land where the first cocoa, coffee, nutmeg and macadamia trees were planted by the Germans for Samoa.

A fully licensed restaurant offers à la carte menus and a buffet. Guests enjoy the 3-cascade swimming pool and relax at the bar with a game at the pool table.

POPULAR CHOICE

The hotel is also a popular choice for landmark social occasions as it offers a variety of venues for that special event. The variety of functions that are catered for include weddings, family reunions, sports groups and school groups.

Orator Hotel works with tour operators, rental companies and airport transfer services to ensure that guests can easily travel around and explore all that Samoa has to offer as well as learn more about its history and culture.

 

Located in Falelatai on Upolu Island, Survivor Samoa Beach Resort sits on a private beachfront, giving guests direct access to a relatively secluded stretch of spectacular ocean setting with a pristine beach and the opportunity to experience a quieter, off-the-beaten-track, nature-focused stay.

Covering a large swathe of property – around 240 acres of lush forest, the resort showcases a vista of dramatic coastal terrain offering a natural, serene ambience in which guests find it easy to relax.

There’s a peaceful, laid-back vibe at Survivor Samoa Beach Resort, making it ideal for romantic getaways and nature lovers.

Survivor USA crew filmed several episodes of the popular series on or near this site, so it draws on the popularity of the show. And as Survivor Samoa Beach Resort is owned by the Haleck Family, based in American Samoa, it includes the Tradewinds Hotel in Pago Pago – making it a sister property.

LOVELY VIEWS

The accommodation includes 40 rooms plus two villas which all have private bathrooms, double, queen or king rooms, air conditioning, and balconies or patios. All rooms feature lovely ocean or pool views. Take a refreshing swim in the outdoor pool which is conveniently open from 8 am to 8 pm.

Survivor Samoa Beach Resort offers a mix of comfort as well as adventure. Guests are spoilt for choice for activities which include snorkeling, diving, and hiking in the tropical forest around the resort, and fascinating cultural tours are available that reveal the vibrant Samoan heritage.

DIVERSE MENU

Survivor Samoa Beach Resort has its own restaurant and bar, perched right near the ocean. Offering a diverse menu featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, the restaurant offers guests the rich flavors of Samoan cuisine as well as international dishes, while the bar provides the perfect spot to unwind with a tropical cocktail and view the spectacular sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

MANY AMENITIES

All rooms and public areas have free Wi-Fi and there’s free parking available on site, including wheelchair-accessible parking and paths. An airport shuttle provides further guest convenience and there’s a 24-hour front desk / reception to answer all guest queries or needs. For business and social events, a meeting room is available.

With exceptional service, unparalleled views, and a location steeped in Survivor history, Survivor Samoa Beach Resort is the ultimate destination for relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable memories.

Come and discover the true essence of Samoa at this untouched paradise where beach marries rainforest, and lovingly appointed villas nestle amongst lush tropical surrounds.

POSTCARD PERFECT

Just 20 minutes from Apia, and 45 minutes from the airport, the resort is situated in the South Coast of the island of Upolu. Arriving at Sinale Reef Resort & Spa, you are welcomed by abundant tropical gardens, and the smiles of the resort’s staff who greet you like a life-long friend.

The resort offers 29 Villa hideaways with garden views, ocean views or beachside settings. Those looking for a perfect romantic retreat come during high season when the resort accepts guests over 12 years of age, while during the family-friendly months of November to April, children under the age of 12 are welcomed. Elegant European décor and individual pieces of Samoan fine art combine to spoil you with an atmosphere of modern-rustic luxury and raw untouched beauty. Sanctuary mattresses, crisp cotton linen and a welcome cocktail upon arrival are only some of the niceties that await your stay at Sinale.

BEACHFRONT RELAXATION

Guests at Sinale typically do a lot or a little. With world-class surfing and fishing on the resort’s doorstep, watersports aplenty, tennis and a short golf course on the property, doing a lot is easy.

For those who prefer to relax, the Sinale Spa offers treatments anchored in traditional, medicinal plants used by Samoans for thousands of years.

Sinale offers two dining options, the Laumoso’oi Fale Restaurant and the magnificent overwater Ava I Toga Restaurant for romantic dining under the stars and sumptuous fares and ocean-to-plate Pacific Rim cuisine. Wednesday is the Fiafia Night featuring a famed knife dancing performance with a traditional Samoan dinner.

Perhaps more than any other Polynesian culture, the Samoan people try to observe traditional ways in their everyday lives. A visit to the local village will give a real insight into this nation’s rich culture and natural beauty.

Overlooking the vast blue Pacific Ocean with its crimson sunsets, the resort offers breathtaking settings to celebrate your wedding, honeymoon or special occasion. Romance is intrinsic to the spirit of the resort, and couples celebrating their special day will leave Sinale with memories that will be treasured forever.

Embrace nature’s beauty and be absorbed by the peace and tranquillity that is the real magic of Sinale Reef resort & Spa.

Nestled on a sheltered white sandy point, Nusa Island Retreat offers safe swimming and amazing views across the blues of Kavieng Harbour.

AQUATIC PLAYGROUND

Kavieng and its surrounds is an aquatic playground, above and below the surface. From the Pacific to the Bismarck, or north to New Hanover – the options are endless.

As Kavieng is located just a couple of degrees south of the equator, during the northern hemisphere monsoon, the north coast and the string of islands leading to the west enjoy uninterrupted North Pacific Ocean swells, ideal for surfing.

Kavieng boasts a great range of fishing – from estuarine mangrove systems to reefs and blue water fishing.

The area is also highly regarded for its diving diversity. From encounters with big pelagic to drifting along plunging coral encrusted walls, exploring WWII wrecks or muck diving, guests can do it all. Those suitably experienced also have the option to dive or snorkel the freshwater sinkholes and caves which are located on the mainland.

MYRIAD ACTIVITIES

Anywhere around the Retreat is suitable for swimming plus there’s a range of single and double ocean kayaks available for a choice of short, localised day trips to extended overnight paddles. There’s also traditional style canoeing or calm water paddle boarding using a stand-up paddleboard (SUP).

Cycling is popular for viewing the coastal scenery and indulging in the local village culture. Short town and local area trips can be easily arranged.

Both Nusa Lik and Nusa Lavu (or Big Nusa, the neighbouring island) offer fantastic guided or self-guided walking trails. Nusa Lavu has rock-pools, a blowhole and several WWII relics that can be explored within an easy one-two-hour stroll. Nusa Lik is home to the Artisan Trail where guests are welcome to visit the villages and view art, handcrafted shell jewellery and handicrafts which are created on the island.

Nearby, the Bouliminski Highway is a well-maintained, over 200 km bitumen coastal road that makes for comfortable travelling and sightseeing. Check out the giant eels or swim in crystal clear rivers. Day tours and overnight guest house stays can be arranged.

Nusa is an ideal choice in which to do as much – or as little – as you like!

The Islands of Papua New Guinea are divided into four groups. East and West New Britain, the largest of PNG’s outer islands, has two main centres: Rabaul in the east and Kimbe in the west.

Rabaul is the site of some of PNG’s most active volcanoes, Tavurvur and Vulcan. The last big eruption in 1994 completely covered the peaceful town and harbour in ash and forced the residents who remained to move the town to nearby Kokopo. The town has recovered and visitors are assured of a range of quality accommodations and services.

Diving is still a big attraction here, even though the eruption hit many dive sites in the harbour quite hard. Ironically, the source of the town’s demise has now become one of its biggest attractions. Trips to the volcanic observatory and helicopter tours of the crater are not to be missed.

There are a number of hotels operational in Rabaul Township and at Kokopo, a number of lodges, guesthouses and hotels are now open and provide excellent accommodation. A highlight of a visit to East New Britain is a visit to Palmalmal in the Pomio District, the Duke of York Islands and the Baining.

Like its neighbour in the east, West New Britain is surrounded by a turquoise sea, dotted with reef-fringed atolls and adorned with magnificent rainforests, which plunge into white sandy beaches. The fertile volcanic soil in this region is suitable for growing just about anything and lush plantations stretch from the mountains to the sea.

The major attractions here are diving in Kimbe Bay, and game fishing in Baia, accessible from land or via live-aboards. A chain of volcanoes shields the bay from open ocean conditions, creating a pocket of calm on the north coast of the island. The landscape of extinct to active volcanoes (Mount Ulawun is currently active) creates a dramatic backdrop and steaming thermal springs, waterfalls, boiling volcanic pools and mud holes can be found within.

New Ireland is an island paradise of sandy white beaches, towering mountains and clear springs and rivers that branch into the interior of the island – creating lagoons, estuaries and coral-canyons. A sealed highway links Kavieng – the main township in the north, to Namatanai in the south. It is one of the best scenic drives in the country.

The Malangan culture in the northern and central part of the island is unique within the Pacific and its people are particularly well known for their potent spiritual beliefs featured in their unique mask carvings, and shark calling. Diving and surfing in this region is fantastic and there are several resorts offering accommodation and diving and surfing experiences. The abundance of local seafood translates into gourmet feasts for visitors featuring coconut crabs, crayfish and a variety of reef fish. There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in Kavieng and small guest lodges are located on the islands in the harbour.

The Admiralty Islands is a distant island group known collectively as Manus, and is found to the northwest of the mainland which can be reached by air or by coastal cargo ship and there are two main hotels in Lorengau and several lodges. Manus Island has vast tracts of forests – home to the rare Superb Pita and the Papustyla Pulcherrima (Green Snail) in the central range and a magical coastline. The dancing by the locals is seductive and majestic, depicting a life of openness and joy. This island group is hailed as having exceptional diving and is occasionally visited by expeditionary cruises.

The Autonomous Region of Bougainville includes Buka and the Atoll Islands in the north, and Bougainville Island in the south. Formerly the province of North Solomons, it will become an independent country soon.

Boating enthusiasts find this a marine wonderland with untouched reefs to explore with an everlasting supply of reef fish and shellfish. Buka Island is accessible by boat and plane from Port Moresby and Rabaul and has a variety of accommodation varying in price and quality. Walking through village tracks and plantation roads is the best way to discover the magnificent flora and fauna.

Whilst there are few hotels on mainland Bougainville, there are numerous guest-houses in Buka and South Bougainville.