Western Samoa and Sinalei

Holiday in Paradise
Looking for a polynesian paradise at affordable prices? Try Western Samoa, the most traditional of the polynesian nations.

Paradise still exists
Ignore the cynics! Paradise does still exist! On the Polynesian Islands of tiny Western Samoa you will find the beauty, wonder, and hospitality made legendary by 19th century artists. And now you can enjoy it all in 20th century rustic comfort.
Contact Donna for first-hand information on a wonderful new resort called Sinalei Reef Resort in unspoiled Western Samoa. We are the first in the USA to offer this opportunity to discover what many have called the last true vestige of Polynesia.

If it's good enough for Robert Louis Stevenson...
This is where Robert Louis Stevenson finally settled and built his dream house. It is easy to see why. The beauty of Western Samoa is legendary, the climate and flora tropical and lush. And now there is a brand new resort, Sinalei, on the spectacular south coast. My husband and I journeyed there in September 1996 and found a wonderful place combining much that is synonymous with Samoa and its architecture, furnishing and landscaping, with all the modern conveniences.

Enjoy Traditional Samoan Architecture

The resort incorporates many of the methods of tradional Samoan architecture into its design, including the domes that cover the open-walled lobby, restaurant, and pool-side bar. Each domed roof is reminiscent of an inverted basket, crafted in an intricately woven and knotted manner named afa. We asked one of our waiters about the construction of these domes and it turned out that the one of the masters of the craft and creators of the domes is his father! In fact, we discovered it was not unusual for multiple family members, all from the local village of Siu'mu, to be employed at the resort. We found such mutual support is very Samoan. They have achieved a wonderful balance between individual pride and community cooperation.

Relax In Comfort

Our fale, or individual villa, was set in a beautiful landscape of bougainvillea, scented frangipani and exotic orchids. (The Manager is an orchids collector, and has incorporated them into the landscaping.) From the reclining wooden chairs on our verandah we overlooked this tropical garden. The entire resort consists of only 20 such units, with some overlooking the sea instead of the gardens. All have air-conditioning, a mini-kitchen (refrigerator, tea and coffee making facilities) and well-designed furniture. The surprise, though, is the bathroom--a tiled, open-air delight. The experience of showering under the stars was one I never will forget!

Enjoy Each Meal

Like everything else at Sinalei, dining was a time to pamper all the senses. We would sit under the domed ceiling, overlooking the spectacular lagoon, serenaded by a guitar trio and enjoy world-class cuisine. Fresh caught fish was always featured, of course. One night there was yellowfin-stuffed salmon wrapped in taro leaves, baked in a dill sauce. Another night there was a large fillet baked in pastry with a vegetable stuffing. Each night the chef would prepare a different special, so there was no need to worry about duplication. The standard menu also included meat as well as several chicken dishes such as a delicious honey-glazed offering.

Be As Active As You Like

Besides swimming and snorkeling and walks through the local village there are wonderful parks to explore with waterfalls and caves. One day we arranged to have a tour of the island with Sinalei's driver, Albert, something I strongly recommend. Supplied with sandwiches, fruit, drinks and homemade apple cake from the kitchen, we spent a wonderful day exploring Samoa's spectacular coastline. For those so inclined, there is also deep-sea fishing and scuba-diving. Future plans for the resort include a 9 hole golf course and tennis courts. Sinalei also offers unique, romantic Samoan-style wedding and honeymoon packages.

What truly makes this place special, though, are the people. Their genuine concern was evident in dozens of little ways. I feel very fortunate to have experienced a bit of fa'a Samoa -- the way of the Samoan people, and I don't think anyone who ventures to this South Pacific island will be disappointed....

More about Samoa and Sinalei...

Samoa Part 2 | Home | Trip Reports

Contact Donna for all your travel destinations! E-mail Donna Zabel, dz@dreammaker.org or call (330) 686-2367