Tafuna: 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-tah-ee]
• Excuse me/SorryFa'amalie
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• How are you?O a mai oe?
  [Oh-ah-my-oh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. Pe a oe?
  [Leh-leh-ee. Peh-ah-oh-eh]
• Do you speak English?O lea le fa'ailoga a le gagana i le inglese?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-fah-eye-low-gah-ah-leh-gah-gah-nah-ee-leh-ingleh-seh]
• I don't understandE le mafai ona ou te le mafai ona malamalama
  [Eh-leh-mah-fai-oh-nah-oh-teh-leh-mah-fai-oh-nah-mah-lah-mah-lah-mah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseO lo'u fia va'ai i le menu, fa'amalie
  [Oh-loh-oo-fee-ah-vah-ah-ee-ee-leh-meh-noo-fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• I don't eat meatE le auai i le 'ai pisupo
  [Eh-leh-ah-oo-eye-ee-leh-ai-pee-soo-poh]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseO lo'u fia totogi, fa'amalie
  [Oh-loh-oo-fee-ah-toh-toh-gee-fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]

• Help!Tulouna!
  [Too-loo-nah]
• Go away!Alu
  [Ah-loo]
• Call the Police!Vili mai le Ofisa Fa'aleoleo!
  [Vee-lee-my-leh-oh-fee-sah-fah-ah-leh-oh-leh-oh-leh-oh]
• Call a doctor!Vili mai se foma'i!
  [Vee-lee-my-seh-foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa tasi le ala
  [Oo-ah-tah-see-leh-ah-lah]
• I'm illO'u e mafai ona ou te maliu
  [Oh-oo-eh-mah-fai-oh-nah-oh-teh-mah-lee-oo]

• I'd like to buy...O lo'u fia fa'amalu...
  [Oh-loh-oo-fee-ah-fah-ah-mah-loo]
• I'm just lookingO le ou va'ai i le mea
  [Oh-leh-oh-oo-vah-ah-ee-ee-leh-meh-ah]
• How much is it?E fia se isi?
  [Eh-fee-ah-seh-ee-see]
• That's too expensiveO lelei tele
  [Oh-leh-leh-ee-teh-leh]
• Can you lower the price?Fia fa'atatau le totogi?
  [Fee-ah-fah-ah-tah-tah-oo-leh-toh-toh-gee]

• What time is it?O le a le taimi?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-tie-mee]
• It's one o'clockO se tasi
  [Oh-seh-tah-see]
• Half past (10)I le atu (10)
  [Ee-leh-ah-too-ten]
• MorningTaeao
  [Tah-eh-ah-oh]
• AfternoonAoauli
  [Ah-oh-ah-oo-lee]
• EveningAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• YesterdayAnanafi
  [Ah-nah-nah-fee]
• TodayAso nei
  [Ah-soh-neh-ee]
• TomorrowAso taeao
  [Ah-soh-tah-eh-ah-oh]
• 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]
• 10Sei
  [Say]

• Where's a/the...?O fea le...
  [Oh-feh-ah-leh]
• What's the address?O le a le tuatusi?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-tuah-too-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Fia fa'ailoa mai au (i le mapa)?
  [Fee-ah-fah-eye-low-ah-my-ow-ee-leh-mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?O le a le aunoa (ta'avale)?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-ah-oo-noh-ah-tah-ah-vah-leh]
• A ticket (to ....)O se pepa (i le ....)
  [Oh-seh-peh-pah-ee-leh]

Tafuna, located on the island of Tutuila in American Samoa, has a rich history that dates back to ancient Polynesian navigators. The region's fertile land and proximity to the ocean made it an ideal settlement site for early Samoans, who established thriving communities and developed a complex society.

The arrival of European explorers in the 18th century marked a significant turning point for Tafuna and the rest of American Samoa. Dutch navigator Jacob Roggeveen was one of the first Europeans to make contact in 1722, followed by French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville in 1768. These encounters would eventually lead to increased European interest and influence in the region.

In the early 19th century, Christian missionaries from the London Missionary Society began arriving in Tafuna. They played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and religious landscape, introducing Christianity and Western education to the local Samoan population. Their influence is still evident today in the numerous churches and schools throughout Tafuna.

American Samoa, including Tafuna, came under the administration of the United States in 1900 following the signing of the Treaty of Cession. This period brought significant changes, including the establishment of a naval station in Pago Pago, improved infrastructure, and the introduction of American governance structures. Tafuna benefited from these developments, becoming a key administrative and residential area.

During World War II, Tafuna and the broader American Samoa region played a strategic role in the Pacific theater. The construction of Tafuna Airfield (now Pago Pago International Airport) was a critical development, facilitating the movement of troops and supplies. The military presence brought economic growth and modern amenities to Tafuna, leaving a lasting impact on the local community.

Following World War II, Tafuna continued to modernize, transitioning from a predominantly agricultural society to a more diverse economy. The development of infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, contributed to the region's growth. Today, Tafuna is a bustling hub with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas, reflecting its dynamic history and cultural heritage.

In recent decades, there has been a strong movement towards cultural preservation and revival in Tafuna. Efforts to maintain traditional Samoan customs, language, and arts have gained momentum, supported by both local leaders and the community. Festivals, cultural centers, and educational programs play a crucial role in keeping the rich heritage of Tafuna alive for future generations.

Tafuna is located on the island of Tutuila in American Samoa. The primary gateway to Tafuna is Pago Pago International Airport (PPG), which is located in Tafuna itself. The airport has direct flights from Honolulu, Hawaii, making it accessible for international travelers. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach your accommodation in Tafuna.

Tafuna is a relatively small area, and many places can be reached on foot. For longer distances, taxis and rental cars are available. The local bus service, known as 'aiga buses', is a colorful and affordable way to get around, though schedules can be irregular. Renting a car is recommended if you plan to explore the island more extensively.

The official currency in American Samoa is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, particularly in local markets or smaller establishments. ATMs are available, but it's wise to have some cash on hand.

Tafuna is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The local police and medical facilities are available in Tafuna. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Tafuna where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos in churches or during cultural ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Talofa!' (hello). A handshake is also a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tafuna like a local, visit the local markets such as the Fagatogo Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Samoan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend a local 'fiafia' night, featuring traditional Samoan dance and music. For a unique experience, explore the nearby National Park of American Samoa, which offers stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife.