Ta'u Island: The Untouched Gem 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?O ai oe?
  [Oh-ai-oh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. Oe a?
  [Leh-leh-ee. Oh-eh-ah]
• Do you speak English?Ou te lelei ona fa'ailoa i le Igoa?
  [Oh-teh-leh-leh-ee-oh-nah-fah-ai-loh-ah-ee-leh-ee-go-ah]
• I don't understandE le mafai ona ou te maua
  [Eh-leh-mah-fai-oh-nah-oh-teh-mah-oo-ah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseFa'amalie, ou te fia vaega i le fa'amaona
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh-oh-teh-fee-ah-vah-eh-gah-ee-leh-fah-ah-mah-oh-nah]
• I don't eat meatE le auai au i lau pisupo
  [Eh-leh-ah-oo-ah-ee-lau-pee-soo-poh]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseFa'amalie, ou te fia totogi
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh-oh-teh-fee-ah-toh-toh-gee]

• Help!Fesoasoani!
  [Feh-so-ah-soh-ah-nee]
• Go away!Alu!
  [Ah-loo]
• Call the Police!Fesoasoani i le Ofisa Fa'aleoleo!
  [Feh-so-ah-soh-ah-nee-ee-leh-oh-fee-sah-fah-ah-leh-oh-leh-oh]
• Call a doctor!Fesoasoani i le foma'i!
  [Feh-so-ah-soh-ah-nee-ee-leh-foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa ou su'e
  [Oo-ah-oh-oo-soo-eh]
• I'm illUa ou mate
  [Oo-ah-oh-oo-mah-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Ou te fia fa'atau...
  [Oh-teh-fee-ah-fah-ah-tau]
• I'm just lookingOu te iai
  [Oh-teh-ee-eye]
• How much is it?E fia fa'afeso'ota'i?
  [Eh-fee-ah-fah-ah-feh-soh-oh-tah-ee]
• That's too expensiveO lelei le totogi
  [Oh-leh-leh-ee-leh-toh-toh-gee]
• Can you lower the price?Ou te mafai ona fa'asa'i le totogi?
  [Oh-teh-mah-fai-oh-nah-fah-ah-sah-ee-leh-toh-toh-gee]

• What time is it?O le a le taimi?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-tie-mee]
• It's one o'clockUa le tasi
  [Oo-ah-leh-tah-see]
• Half past (10)I le itula
  [Ee-leh-ee-too-lah]
• MorningAo
  [Ah-oh]
• AfternoonAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• EveningIli
  [Ee-lee]
• YesterdayAnanafi
  [Ah-nah-nah-fee]
• TodayLenei
  [Leh-neh-ee]
• TomorrowAso
  [Ah-soh]
• 1Tasi
  [Tah-see]
• 2Lua
  [Loo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [Toh-loo]
• 4Fa
  [Fah]
• 5Lima
  [Lee-mah]
• 6Ono
  [Oh-no]
• 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)?Ou te mafai ona fa'ailoa ia te a'u (i le mapa)?
  [Oh-teh-mah-fai-oh-nah-fah-ai-loh-ah-ee-ah-teh-ah-oo-ee-leh-mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?O le a le taimi o le tele (autapuna)?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-tie-mee-oh-leh-teh-leh-ah-oo-teh-poo-nah]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (i le ....)
  [Tee-keh-tee-ee-leh]

The earliest known inhabitants of Ta'u Island were the Polynesians, who arrived around 1000 AD. These settlers were expert navigators and brought with them rich traditions, including oral history, intricate tattooing practices, and a communal way of life. Evidence of their early presence can be found in the ancient star mounds and stone platforms that dot the island.

Ta'u Island holds a special place in Samoan mythology. According to legend, it was here that the god Tagaloa created the first human beings. The island is also associated with the stories of the demigod Māui, who is said to have fished up the islands from the depths of the ocean. These tales are still told today and are a vital part of the island's cultural heritage.

The arrival of European explorers in the 18th century marked the beginning of significant changes for Ta'u Island. Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen was among the first Europeans to sight the island in 1722. Later, French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville visited in 1768, followed by the famous British explorer Captain James Cook in 1773. These encounters brought new goods and ideas but also led to conflicts and diseases that affected the local population.

In 1900, Ta'u Island, along with the rest of the Manu'a Islands, became part of American Samoa following an agreement between the U.S. and Germany. This transition brought new governance and infrastructure to the island. The U.S. Navy established a presence, and changes in education, healthcare, and trade followed. Despite these changes, the people of Ta'u have maintained their cultural identity and traditions.

Fa'a Samoa, or 'The Samoan Way,' is the traditional lifestyle that governs daily life on Ta'u Island. This cultural framework emphasizes respect for elders, communal living, and the importance of family and village. Traditional ceremonies, such as the 'ava (kava) ceremony, play a crucial role in social and political gatherings. The island's residents continue to practice these customs, ensuring that their cultural heritage remains vibrant.

Ta'u Island is not only rich in cultural history but also in natural beauty. The island is home to the National Park of American Samoa, which protects its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and unique biodiversity. The park is a sanctuary for many native species, including the Samoan flying fox and various bird species. Efforts to preserve the island's natural environment are ongoing, reflecting the deep connection between the people and their land.

Ta'u Island is part of the Manu'a group of islands in American Samoa. The easiest way to get to Ta'u Island is by taking a domestic flight from Pago Pago International Airport (PPG) on Tutuila Island to Fitiuta Airport (FTI) on Ta'u Island. Flights are operated by Samoa Airways and typically run a few times a week. Another option is to take a boat from Tutuila, but this can be less predictable and takes significantly longer.

Transportation options on Ta'u Island are limited. The island is small, and many visitors find that walking is the best way to get around. There are a few local taxis available, but it is recommended to arrange transportation in advance. Renting a vehicle is not common on Ta'u Island, so plan accordingly. If you are staying at a local guesthouse or hotel, they may offer transportation services.

The official currency of American Samoa is the US Dollar (USD). Credit cards may not be widely accepted on Ta'u Island, so it is advisable to carry sufficient cash. There are no ATMs on Ta'u Island, so make sure to withdraw cash before leaving Tutuila Island. Some local businesses may accept mobile payment options, but this is not guaranteed.

Ta'u Island is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and the local community is welcoming. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being cautious when walking alone at night. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There is a small medical clinic on Ta'u Island that can handle minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, evacuation to Tutuila Island or even off-island may be necessary. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For minor health concerns, bring a basic first-aid kit and any necessary medications with you.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering any religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient as transportation options are limited. Don't expect frequent or scheduled public transport services. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a slight nod. A formal handshake is also acceptable. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food and drink offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Ta'u Island like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Samoan goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the National Park of American Samoa, which covers a significant portion of Ta'u Island and offers beautiful hiking trails and stunning views. For a truly local experience, consider participating in a traditional 'ava ceremony if you get the chance.