Fagamalo: Samoa's Coastal Jewel

• HelloTalofa
  [Tah-loh-fah]
• GoodbyeFa
  [Fah]
• YesIoe
  [Ee-oh-eh]
• NoLeai
  [Leh-eye]
• Please/You're welcomeFa'amalie atu
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh ah-too]
• Thank youFa'afetai
  [Fah-ah-feh-tie]
• Excuse me/SorryFa'amalie lava
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee lah-vah]
• How are you?O a mai oe?
  [Oh ah my oh-eh?]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. O a oe?
  [Leh-leh. Oh ah oh-eh?]
• Do you speak English?O lea ou te fai le fa'ainglisi?
  [Oh leh-ah oh teh fai leh fah-ah-een-glee-see?]
• I don't understandLeai
  [Leh-eye]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseFa'amalie i le tauina o le menu
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee ee leh tah-oo-ee-nah oh leh men-oo]
• I don't eat meatLeai ou te aloa ia le kuki
  [Leh-eye oh teh ah-loh-ah ee-ah leh koo-kee]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseFa'amalie ia te ou tu'uina
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee ee-ah teh oh-too-oo-ee-nah]

• Help!Fesoasoani!
  [Feh-soh-ah-so-ah-nee]
• Go away!Alu atu!
  [Ah-loo ah-too]
• Call the Police!Faafoi leoleo!
  [Fah-ah-foh-ee leh-oh-leh-oh]
• Call a doctor!Faafoi foma'i!
  [Fah-ah-foh-ee foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa ou te iloa
  [Oo-ah oh teh ee-loh-ah]
• I'm illOu te mate
  [Oh teh mah-teh]

• I'd like to buy...Ou te fa'atau...
  [Oh teh fah-ah-tah-oo]
• I'm just lookingOu te va'ai
  [Oh teh vah-ah-ee]
• How much is it?E leai se fuai
  [Eh leh-eye seh foo-eye]
• That's too expensiveE leai se tulaga
  [Eh leh-eye seh too-lah-ngah]
• Can you lower the price?Mafai ona fa'ataga le totogi?
  [Mah-fah-ee oh-nah fah-ah-tah-ngah leh toh-toh-gee]

• What time is it?O le a le taimi?
  [Oh leh ah leh tah-ee-me?]
• It's one o'clockUa le tasi
  [Oo-ah leh tah-see]
• Half past (10)Itumalo (esefulu)
  [Ee-too-mah-loh (eh-seh-foo-loo)]
• MorningTaeao
  [Tah-eh-ah-oh]
• AfternoonAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• EveningAso
  [Ah-soh]
• YesterdayNa
  [Nah]
• TodayI le taeao
  [Ee-leh tah-eh-ah-oh]
• TomorrowAso ma le afiafi
  [Ah-soh mah leh ah-fee-ah-fee]
• 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]
• 10Esefulu
  [Eh-seh-foo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?O fea le...?
  [Oh feh-ah leh]
• What's the address?O le tusi tupe?
  [Oh leh too-see too-peh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mafai ona fa'ailoa ia te (i le mapa)?
  [Mah-fah-ee oh-nah fah-ah-ee-loh-ah ee-ah teh (ee leh mah-pah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Ua e le taimi o le afeiga fua?
  [Oo-ah eh leh tah-ee-me oh leh ah-feh-ee-ngah foo-ah?]
• A ticket (to ....)Fa'atoka (i le...)
  [Fah-ah-toh-kah (ee leh)]

Fagamalo, a village located on the northern coast of Savai'i, one of the main islands of Samoa, has a rich history rooted in traditional Samoan culture. Established centuries ago, its name translates to 'the village of the brave,' reflecting the courage and resilience of its founding ancestors. The village's location by the sea has always been strategic, providing both sustenance and protection to its inhabitants.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Samoa became a focal point for European colonial powers, including Germany and later New Zealand under a League of Nations mandate. Fagamalo, like many other Samoan villages, experienced significant changes during this period. German colonial rule introduced new governance systems and economic activities, such as copra production, which became a major industry in the area.

The early to mid-20th century was marked by Samoa's struggle for independence. The Mau movement, a non-violent resistance group, played a crucial role in advocating for Samoan self-governance. Fagamalo was a part of this larger national movement, with many of its residents participating in protests and demonstrations. The village's involvement in the Mau movement is a testament to its enduring spirit of resistance and desire for self-determination.

In 1990, Cyclone Ofa struck Samoa, causing widespread devastation. Fagamalo was significantly affected, with many homes and community structures destroyed. The aftermath of the cyclone saw a tremendous community effort to rebuild. This period highlighted the resilience and solidarity of the Fagamalo people as they worked together to restore their village and support each other through the recovery process.

Fagamalo is a village deeply rooted in Samoan cultural traditions. The village is known for its beautiful fale (traditional Samoan houses), and its residents continue to practice age-old customs, including the fa'a Samoa (the Samoan way of life). Ceremonies such as the ava (kava) ceremony, weddings, and funerals are conducted with great respect for tradition. Fagamalo's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage is evident in its daily life and community events.

Today, Fagamalo is a vibrant community that balances tradition with modernity. Tourism has become an important aspect of the local economy, with visitors drawn to its pristine beaches and rich cultural experiences. The village has developed various eco-tourism initiatives, promoting sustainable practices while offering tourists an authentic taste of Samoan culture. Fagamalo continues to be a living example of how communities can thrive while honoring their historical roots.

Fagamalo is located on the island of Savai'i in Samoa. The nearest international airport is Faleolo International Airport on the island of Upolu. From there, you can take a ferry from Mulifanua Wharf to Salelologa Wharf on Savai'i. The ferry ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. From Salelologa, you can hire a taxi or rent a car to reach Fagamalo, which is about an hour's drive away.

Fagamalo is a small village, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips, taxis are available and can be arranged through your accommodation. Public buses also operate on Savai'i, but they can be infrequent and less reliable. Renting a car is a convenient option if you plan to explore other parts of the island at your own pace.

The official currency in Samoa is the Samoan Tala (WST). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Salelologa and other larger villages, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before traveling to Fagamalo.

Fagamalo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. 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 it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Salelologa, about an hour's drive from Fagamalo. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in larger villages where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting villages and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before entering churches. Public Transport: Do be respectful and greet the driver when boarding. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'Talofa'. 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 Fagamalo like a local, visit the village markets 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 village's history and culture. Try to attend a Sunday church service to experience the local religious practices and beautiful singing. For a unique experience, participate in a traditional 'ava (kava) ceremony.