Samoa

Samoa is kind of unique in certain ways from the other islands of the south pacific. For one, Samoa is only made up of a handful of islands while most of the countries of the pacific are made up of hundreds and sometimes even thousands of small volcanic islands. Samoa is located at the very heart of the pacific island chains right in between Tahiti and Fiji. Samoa, like many of the islands of the south pacific, boasts beautiful coral beaches and lush rainforests on the interior of the island. Because of the exotic variances in locations from beach to interior of the island, there is a wide variety of activities that tourist can enjoy during their stay. These include surfing, scuba diving, mountain biking, and tours through the thick vegetation in the rain forest for animal watching. Samoa comes with it a deep pride in its heritage and background and many natives still practice some of their old customs. For instance, many villages still have chiefs and most natives still sleep in open thatched homes. Samoa, some argue, is also one of the origins of the tribal style of tattooing. Many tourists who visit Samoa often leave with an authentic Samoan type tattoo as a souvenir of sorts. Another fun fact about Samoa is that it is the death place of famous author and poet Robert Louis Stevenson. Indeed, one of the most popular tourist spots on the island is his grave site which is located on Mt. Vaea overlooking the sea.