Leone: The Heartbeat of American Samoa

• HelloTalofa
  [Tah-loh-fah]
• GoodbyeFa
  [Fah]
• YesIoe
  [Ee-oh-eh]
• NoLeai
  [Leh-ai]
• Please/You're welcomeFa'amalie
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• Thank youFa'afetai
  [Fah-ah-feh-tie]
• Excuse me/SorryFa'amalie atu
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh ah-too]
• How are you?O ai oe?
  [Oh eye oh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. O a ou te?
  [Leh-leh-ee. Oh ah oh-oo teh]
• Do you speak English?E te lelei ona tusia i le fa'ailoa ma le fa'ainga o le gafa
  [Eh teh leh-leh oh-nah too-see-ah ee leh fah-ah-ee-loh-ah mah leh fah-ah-een-gah oh leh gah-fah]
• I don't understandAe le aoe
  [Ah-eh leh ah-oh-eh]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseOu te fia va'aia le itu upu, fa'amalie atu
  [Oh-oo teh fee-ah vah-ah-ee-ah leh ee-too oo-poo, fah-ah-mah-lee ah-too]
• I don't eat meatAe le oua 'ai aiga
  [Ah-eh leh oh-oo-ah eye eye-ngah]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseOu te fia totogi, fa'amalie atu
  [Oh-oo teh fee-ah toh-toh-gee, fah-ah-mah-lee ah-too]

• Help!Tulou!
  [Too-loh-oo]
• Go away!A'e i le itu
  [Ah-eh ee leh ee-too]
• Call the Police!Fa'afesoota'i leoleo!
  [Fah-ah-feh-soh-oh-tah-ee leh-oh-leh-oh]
• Call a doctor!Fa'afeso'i foma'i!
  [Fah-ah-feh-soh-ee foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa ou taula'i
  [Oo-ah oh-oo tow-lah-ee]
• I'm illUa ou mafati
  [Oo-ah oh-oo mah-fah-tee]

• I'd like to buy...Ou te fia fa'atau...
  [Oh-oo teh fee-ah fah-ah-tah-oo...]
• I'm just lookingOu te va'ai fa'apea
  [Oh-oo teh vah-ah-ee fah-ah-peh-ah]
• How much is it?E fia le tupe?
  [Eh fee-ah leh too-peh]
• That's too expensiveO lea e lelei
  [Oh leh-ah eh leh-leh-ee]
• Can you lower the price?E mafai ona fa'atatau le tupe?
  [Eh mah-fah-ee oh-nah fah-ah-tah-too leh too-peh]

• What time is it?O le a le taimi?
  [Oh leh ah leh tah-ee-mee]
• It's one o'clockO le tasi
  [Oh leh tah-see]
• Half past (10)I le itula
  [Ee leh ee-too-lah]
• MorningTaeao
  [Tah-eh-ah-oh]
• AfternoonAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• EveningTotonu
  [Toh-toh-noo]
• YesterdayAnanafi
  [Ah-nah-nah-fee]
• TodayAso nei
  [Ah-soh neh-ee]
• TomorrowAso o le a
  [Ah-soh oh leh ah]
• 1Tasi
  [Tah-see]
• 2Lua
  [Loo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [Toh-loo]
• 4Fa
  [Fah]
• 5Lima
  [Lee-mah]
• 6Ono
  [Oh-noh]
• 7Fitu
  [Fee-too]
• 8Valu
  [Vah-loo]
• 9Iva
  [Ee-vah]
• 10Sefulu
  [Seh-foo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?O fea le...
  [Oh feh-ah leh]
• What's the address?O le a le tusi tupe?
  [Oh leh ah leh too-see too-peh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?E mafai ona fa'ailoa ia te a'u (i le mapa)?
  [Eh mah-fah-ee oh-nah fah-ah-ee-loh-ah ee-ah teh ah-oo (ee leh mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?O le a le taimi mo le aso nei?
  [Oh leh ah leh tah-ee-mee moh leh ah-so neh-ee]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (i le ....)
  [Tee-keh-tee (ee leh)]

Leone, a village located on the island of Tutuila in American Samoa, has been inhabited for over a thousand years. The indigenous people, known as Samoans, have a rich cultural heritage characterized by their traditional social structure known as the 'fa'a Samoa'. This system emphasizes respect for family, community, and the environment. The early settlers of Leone built impressive stone platforms called 'tia'ave' and intricate star mounds known as 'tia'ula', which were used for ceremonial purposes and social gatherings.

In 1832, the London Missionary Society sent John Williams to Samoa, including Leone. Williams' arrival marked the beginning of significant cultural changes as he introduced Christianity to the islanders. The local chiefs and people of Leone embraced the new religion, leading to the establishment of the first Christian church in the village. This period saw the construction of churches and schools, which played a crucial role in shaping the village's social and educational landscape.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were transformative for Leone and the rest of American Samoa. In 1899, the Tripartite Convention was signed, dividing the Samoan Islands between Germany and the United States. Leone became part of American Samoa. The U.S. Navy took administrative control in 1900, leading to infrastructural developments such as roads, medical facilities, and a more organized educational system. The influence of American governance introduced new political and social dynamics to the village.

During World War II, American Samoa, including Leone, played a strategic role in the Pacific theater. The island became a critical supply and transit point for Allied forces. The presence of military bases brought economic opportunities and infrastructural improvements but also led to cultural exchanges and shifts. The war period saw the construction of military installations, airstrips, and roads that significantly altered the physical and social landscape of Leone.

After World War II, Leone, like the rest of American Samoa, experienced a period of modernization. The introduction of modern amenities, improved healthcare, and expanded educational opportunities contributed to significant social advancements. Despite these changes, the village has managed to preserve its traditional Samoan culture. Cultural practices, language, and community events remain integral to daily life in Leone, reflecting a blend of modernity and tradition.

In December 1991, Cyclone Val struck American Samoa, causing widespread devastation in Leone. The powerful storm damaged homes, infrastructure, and natural landscapes. In the aftermath of the cyclone, the community demonstrated remarkable resilience and solidarity. Reconstruction efforts were swift, with assistance from both local and international sources. This period highlighted the strength and unity of Leone's residents, reinforcing their commitment to rebuilding and preserving their village.

Leone is located on the island of Tutuila in American Samoa. The main entry point to American Samoa is Pago Pago International Airport (PPG), which is approximately 14 kilometers from Leone. Flights to Pago Pago are available from Honolulu, Hawaii. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Leone. The drive from the airport to Leone takes about 20-30 minutes.

In Leone, transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and the local bus service known as 'aiga buses.' Aiga buses are colorful and provide an affordable way to travel around the island, though they may not adhere to strict schedules. Taxis are available and can be convenient for shorter trips. Renting a car is recommended if you wish to explore the island at your own pace.

The official currency of American Samoa is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit cards are accepted in some establishments, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and local markets. ATMs are available in Pago Pago and other larger villages, so plan to withdraw cash before heading to more remote areas.

Leone is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The Leone Health Clinic provides basic medical services, but for more serious health issues, you may need to visit the LBJ Tropical Medical Center in Faga'alu. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in larger villages where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially in villages and when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and remove your hat. Public Transport: Do be respectful and polite. Avoid eating or drinking on aiga buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Talofa!' (Hello). A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Leone like a local, visit the Leone market where you can buy fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional Samoan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the village's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Leone Healing Garden, which showcases traditional Samoan medicinal plants. For a unique experience, attend a local church service to witness the strong sense of community and beautiful hymn singing.