Asau: The Hidden Gem of Samoa

• HelloTalofa
  [Tah-loh-fah]
• GoodbyeFa
  [Fah]
• YesIoe
  [Ee-oh-eh]
• NoLeai
  [Lei-eye]
• Please/You're welcomeFa'amalie
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• Thank youFa'afetai
  [Fah-ah-feh-tie]
• Excuse me/SorryTulou
  [Too-loh-oo]
• How are you?O a mai oe?
  [Oh-ah-my-oh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. O a oe?
  [Leh-lei. Oh-ah-weh]
• Do you speak English?O lea e faia le fa'asamoa?
  [Oh-leh-ah-eh-fah-ee-ah-leh-fah-ah-sah-mo-ah]
• I don't understandLe mafai ona ou te le mafai ona malamalama
  [Lei-mah-fie-oh-nah-oh-teh-lei-mah-fie-oh-nah-mah-lah-mah-lahmah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseFa'amalie, ou te fia vaega i le menu
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee, oh-oo-teh-fee-ah-vai-gah-ee-leh-meh-noo]
• I don't eat meatO lea ou te le ai nisi
  [Oh-leh-ah-oh-teh-leh-ai-nee-see]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseFa'amalie, ou te fia tu'uina
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee, oh-oo-teh-fee-ah-too-oo-ee-nah]

• Help!Tulou!
  [Too-loh-oo]
• Go away!Alu!
  [Ah-loo]
• Call the Police!Vili leoleo!
  [Vee-lee-leh-oh-leh-oh]
• Call a doctor!Vili foma'i!
  [Vee-lee-foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa ou iloa
  [Oo-ah-oh-oo-ee-loh-ah]
• I'm illOu te mate
  [Oh-oo-teh-mah-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Ou te fia fa'atau...
  [Oh-oo-teh-fee-ah-fah-ah-tow]
• I'm just lookingOu te tatala
  [Oh-oo-teh-tah-tah-lah]
• How much is it?E leai se uiga e leai?
  [Eh-lei-say-oo-ee-ngah-eh-lei]
• That's too expensiveE leai se mea e lelei
  [Eh-lei-say-meh-ah-eh-leh-lei]
• Can you lower the price?O lea ou te fa'atau fa'amalie?
  [Oh-leh-ah-oh-teh-fah-ah-tow-fah-ah-mah-lee]

• What time is it?O i taimi ia?
  [Oh-ee-tie-mee-ee-ah]
• It's one o'clockE tasi i le taimi
  [Eh-tah-see-ee-leh-tie-mee]
• Half past (10)I le avea (10)
  [Ee-leh-ah-veh-ah-ten]
• MorningAo
  [Ah-oh]
• AfternoonAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• EveningIli
  [Ee-lee]
• 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
  [Toe-loo]
• 4Fa
  [Fah]
• 5Lima
  [Lee-mah]
• 6Ono
  [Oh-no]
• 7Fitu
  [Fee-too]
• 8Valu
  [Vah-loo]
• 9Iva
  [Ee-vah]
• 10Sefulu
  [Sey-foo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?O fea le...
  [Oh-feh-ah-leh]
• What's the address?O le fa'ailoa?
  [Oh-leh-fah-ah-ee-loh-ah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?O lea ou te fa'ailoa?
  [Oh-leh-ah-oh-teh-fah-ah-ee-loh-ah]
• When's the next (bus)?O lea lea (autalavou)?
  [Oh-leh-ah-leh-ah-ou-tah-lah-voh-ou]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (i ...)
  [Tee-keh-tee-ee]

Asau, located on the northwest coast of Savai'i, the largest island in Samoa, has a deep-rooted history that dates back to the early Polynesian settlers. These settlers, known for their seafaring skills, arrived in Asau around 1000 BC. They brought with them their rich traditions, oral histories, and intricate tattooing practices, which have been passed down through generations and remain a significant part of Asau's cultural identity.

The arrival of European explorers in the 18th century marked a significant turning point in Asau's history. Dutch explorer Jacob Roggeveen was one of the first Europeans to sight Samoa in 1722, followed by French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville in 1768. These early contacts led to increased European interest in Samoa, including Asau, which subsequently became a point of interest for traders and missionaries.

In the 1830s, Christian missionaries from the London Missionary Society began arriving in Samoa, including Asau. They introduced Christianity, which significantly altered the cultural landscape of the region. Traditional religious practices were gradually replaced by Christian worship, and this period saw the construction of the first churches in Asau. The influence of Christianity is still evident today in the strong religious adherence among the local population.

Asau, like the rest of Samoa, experienced the impacts of colonialism. In 1899, the Tripartite Convention divided Samoa between Germany and the United States, with Asau falling under German control. This period saw the establishment of plantations and the exploitation of natural resources. Following World War I, control of Western Samoa, including Asau, was transferred to New Zealand under a League of Nations mandate, further shaping the region's political and economic landscape.

Western Samoa gained independence from New Zealand in 1962, becoming the first Pacific island nation to do so. This newfound independence brought significant changes to Asau, including infrastructural developments and increased local governance. The construction of roads and the establishment of essential services have transformed Asau into a thriving community. Today, Asau is known for its vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and as a gateway to the pristine natural attractions of Savai'i.

In 1990, Asau, along with much of Samoa, was devastated by Cyclone Ofa, one of the most powerful tropical cyclones to hit the region. The cyclone caused extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and crops. The reconstruction efforts that followed brought the community together and led to the rebuilding of Asau with improved resilience against future natural disasters. This period highlighted the strength and unity of the people of Asau in the face of adversity.

In recent years, Asau has focused on preserving its rich cultural heritage while embracing tourism as a key economic driver. Traditional crafts, dance, and music are celebrated through festivals and community events, attracting visitors from around the world. The establishment of eco-tourism initiatives has helped to showcase Asau's natural beauty and cultural richness, providing sustainable income for the local community while promoting environmental conservation.

Asau is located on the northwest coast of Savai'i Island in Samoa. The nearest international airport is Faleolo International Airport on Upolu Island. From there, you can take a ferry from Mulifanua Wharf to Salelologa Wharf on Savai'i, which takes about 1-2 hours. From Salelologa, Asau is roughly a 2-hour drive, and you can hire a taxi or rent a car for the journey.

Asau is a small town, and many attractions are easily accessible on foot. For longer distances, taxis and rental cars are available. Public buses operate on a regular schedule, connecting Asau with other parts of Savai'i. Bicycles and scooters are also popular and can be rented for exploring the town and nearby areas.

The official currency in Samoa is the Samoan Tala (WST). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and some restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Asau, but it is a good idea to bring sufficient cash with you.

Asau is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel location, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always best.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Asau has a local hospital and police station for medical and security needs. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies in the town offer over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering a fale (traditional Samoan house) or a church. Public Transport: Do be courteous and respectful to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a 'Talofa' (hello). A slight nod 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 Asau like a local, visit the local 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 town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Asau Wharf, where you can see fishermen at work and enjoy beautiful sunset views. For a unique experience, take a boat trip to the nearby islets and enjoy snorkeling in the clear waters.