Does anyone know about Samoa, about what it's like there?

Question

What's it like there, how high is the crime, whats the offical language, anything interesting?

I could look it up but sometimes people give interesting answers. Thanks.

Answer 1

Hello,
I spent a semester abroad in Samoa a few years ago. I loved it, so my answers may be a little biased.
In general, Samoa is hot, economically dependent on remittances (money sent from family members who have moved abroad) and development aid, and home to some of the most friendly and welcoming people on Earth. Petty crime rates are moderately high (mostly minor theft, bar fights, things like that), but serious crime rates are relatively low. Suicide rates tend to be quite high, due to many factors including strict religious pressure, difficult economic circumstances, etc). The official languages are English and Samoan. Most people speak English well, especially in more tourist-oriented areas. In rural areas, English is more limited.
Hm, anything interesting.... Vailima, the beer brewed in Samoa, is delicious! As is palusami, a yummy concoction of coconut cream, onion and other goodies. Oh, and German buns, which are sort of like doughnuts with caramelized coconut inside... Mmm, writing about this is making me want to go back!
I found the Samoans to be incredibly welcoming and hospitable people. I lived with several different host families, and each did their utmost to teach me about the fa'aSamoa, or Samoan way, and make me feel comfortable.
I would definitely recommend a trip to Samoa. It can be expensive to get there, but it's quite affordable once you are in-country. The School for International Training offers the college study abroad program that I went with, and for which I am the alumni mentor. Check it out!
http://www.sit.edu/studyabroad/index.html

Answer 2

1. Samoa used to be called Western Samoa, and was a German colony up to the First World War. It has two official languages Samoan and English. You can look the rest up ...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samoa

2. American Samoa is a different place ...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Samoa