Samoa

I was in Samoa for eight days, so I can't report on the Samoan psychology, but I can mention some of my impressions and experiences as a keen observer. Samoa could best be described as proudly traditional rather than underdeveloped. Most Samoans live in modest fales (fah lays), a gazebo-like structure with thatched roof and adjustable thatch "blinds" to block wind, sun, or rain, in small villages. Each village still retains a chief. Church and family are highly regarded - everything is shut down on Sunday and it is common for four generations to live in the same fale. Fishing is carried out in cut-out logs or in six-man teams at low tide with nets and spears. Native fare mainly consists of coconut, papaya, breadfruit, banana, mango, pineapple, rice, chicken, fish, and root vegetables. There is no tourist market versus local market - Samoans get their goods from the same solitary market I roamed. There is very little western culture present - there are a good number of cell phones, but very limited internet and thankfully, there is no apparent interest in what is going on with Hollywood celebrities. Most Samoans had only heard of California, Alaska, and maybe New York. Meaning, I was from New York in their minds. The beachside resort scene has not spoiled Samoa, yet. There is only one massive resort on the main island - the rest of the accomodation is what you see in my pictures. They seem a happy and genuine people. However, the taxi drivers will try to scam you and charge you as much as they can get away with. On the other hand, after having only talked to two seperate women for ten minutes they had given me their contact information for a free place to stay my next visit to Samoa and I don't doubt that I could take them up on their offer. I felt they welcomed tourists' presence as long as it was in moderation - refreshingly, they don't seem eager for our lifestyle - they seem secure and content with their own. Which is probably why they are so willing to talk and share about themselves and their family: they are proud.