The Enchanting Pola Valley 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
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• How are you?Ua e lelei?
  [Oo-ah eh leh-leh-ee]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. Oe?
  [Leh-leh-ee. Oh-eh?]
• Do you speak English?O loo latou le fa'ailoa i le mea faigofie?
  [Oh loh lah-toh leh fah-ai-loh-ah ee leh meh-ah fah-ee-goh-fee-eh?]
• I don't understandE le mafai ona ou te le malamalama
  [Eh leh mah-fai oh-nah oh-oo teh leh mah-lah-mah-lah-mah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseO le a ou te fia vaai i le fa'ailoa, fa'amalie
  [Oh leh ah oh teh fee-ah vah-ah-ee ee leh fah-ah-ee-loh-ah, fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• I don't eat meatE le oua ou te ai le kuki
  [Eh leh oh-oo-ah oh teh eye leh koo-kee]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseO le a ou te tu'uina, fa'amalie
  [Oh leh ah oh teh too-oo-ee-nah, fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]

• Help!Tutusa
  [Too-too-sah]
• Go away!Alu iai!
  [Ah-loo ee-ah-ee]
• Call the Police!Vala'au le Fa'amasinoga!
  [Vah-lah-ah-oo leh Fah-ah-mah-see-noh-gah]
• Call a doctor!Vala'au se foma'i!
  [Vah-lah-ah-oo seh foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa ou ta'oto
  [Oo-ah oh-oo tah-oh-toh]
• I'm illUa ou ola
  [Oo-ah oh-oo oh-lah]

• I'd like to buy...O le a ou te fa'atau...
  [Oh leh ah oh teh fah-ah-tah-oo]
• I'm just lookingO le a ou te vaai
  [Oh leh ah oh teh vah-ah-ee]
• How much is it?E fia le tau?
  [Eh fee-ah leh tah-oo]
• That's too expensiveO le lelei tele
  [Oh leh leh-leh-ee teh-leh]
• Can you lower the price?Faaauauina le tau?
  [Fah-ah-ah-oo-ah-ee-nah leh tah-oo]

• What time is it?O le a le taimi?
  [Oh leh ah leh tah-ee-mee]
• It's one o'clockUa le tasi
  [Oo-ah leh tah-see]
• Half past (10)I le itula
  [Ee leh ee-too-lah]
• MorningAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• AfternoonAsoao
  [Ah-soh-ah-oh]
• EveningAfu
  [Ah-foo]
• YesterdayAnanafi
  [Ah-nah-nah-fee]
• TodayAso
  [Ah-soh]
• TomorrowAso ua
  [Ah-soh oo-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 tuatusi?
  [Oh leh ah leh too-ah-too-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Faaauauina oe e fa'atasi ia te a'u (i le mapa)?
  [Fah-ah-ah-oo-ah-ee-nah oh-eh eh fah-ah-tah-see ee-ah teh ah-oo (ee leh mah-pah)]
• When's the next (bus)?Le a le taimi o le isi fa'ailo?
  [Leh ah leh tah-ee-mee oh leh e-see fah-ai-loh]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (i le ....)
  [Tee-keh-tee (ee leh ....)]

Pola Valley in American Samoa has been inhabited by Polynesians for over a thousand years. The earliest settlers were attracted by its fertile lands and abundant marine resources. The valley is rich in traditional Samoan culture, including fa'a Samoa, the Samoan way of life, which emphasizes community, family, and respect for elders. Ancient stone structures and petroglyphs in the valley provide a glimpse into the lives of these early inhabitants.

The first recorded European contact with Pola Valley occurred in the 18th century when explorers and traders began to visit the Samoan islands. The introduction of European goods and ideas had a profound impact on the valley's inhabitants. Missionaries arrived in the 19th century, leading to the widespread adoption of Christianity. This period also saw significant changes in local governance and social structures, influenced by European customs and political systems.

In 1900, the chiefs of Tutuila, the island on which Pola Valley is located, signed the Treaty of Cession, ceding the island to the United States. This marked the beginning of American administration in the region. The U.S. Navy governed American Samoa until 1951, bringing infrastructure development and modern education to Pola Valley. The valley's strategic importance was highlighted during World War II, when it served as a base for American military operations in the Pacific.

After World War II, Pola Valley experienced significant economic and social changes. The establishment of modern amenities and the influx of American culture influenced the traditional way of life. However, there has also been a strong movement to preserve and revive Samoan culture and traditions. Festivals, traditional dances, and crafts are actively promoted in the valley, ensuring that the rich cultural heritage is passed on to future generations.

Pola Valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with lush green landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. The valley is home to diverse flora and fauna, making it a popular destination for ecotourism. Efforts have been made to protect the natural environment through sustainable tourism practices. Visitors can explore the valley's unique ecosystems while learning about the importance of conservation and the traditional Samoan relationship with the land.

Today, Pola Valley is a vibrant community that blends traditional Samoan culture with modern influences. The valley hosts community events, markets, and cultural festivals that attract both locals and tourists. Education and healthcare facilities have improved, contributing to a higher quality of life for residents. The people of Pola Valley continue to uphold their cultural values while embracing the opportunities brought by globalization and modern development.

To reach Pola Valley in American Samoa, you will need to fly into Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) on the island of Tutuila. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Pola Valley, which is approximately a 45-minute drive northwest of the airport. Alternatively, you can use local buses, which are quite affordable but may not run frequently.

Transportation options within Pola Valley are somewhat limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the area at your own pace. Taxis are available, but can be expensive for long distances. Local buses, also known as 'aiga buses,' provide an affordable option but their schedules can be irregular. Walking is feasible for shorter distances and allows you to take in the natural beauty of the valley.

The official currency in American Samoa is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available, but it's a good idea to withdraw enough funds before heading to more remote areas like Pola Valley.

Pola Valley is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any place, it is important to stay vigilant. Avoid wandering alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Petty theft can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities in Pago Pago, and smaller clinics in villages near Pola Valley. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Avoid overly revealing attire, especially in villages. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, particularly in religious settings. Cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and courteous to drivers and other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Talofa' (hello). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.

To experience Pola Valley like a local, visit the village markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with the residents; they are often warm and welcoming and may share intriguing stories about the area's history and culture. Don’t miss exploring the lush hiking trails and taking part in local festivals if your visit coincides with one.