Falealupo: The Hidden Gem of Samoa

• HelloTalofa
  [Tah-loh-fah]
• GoodbyeTofa
  [Taw-fah]
• YesIoe
  [Ee-oh-eh]
• NoLeai
  [Lay-aye]
• 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-eye-oh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. Pe a oe?
  [Lay-lay. Pay-ah-oh-eh]
• Do you speak English?Ou te lelei ona faia le fa'ainglisi?
  [Oh-oo-teh-lay-lay-oh-nah-fah-ee-ah-lay-fah-ah-een-glee-see]
• I don't understandE le mafai ona ou malamalama
  [Ay-lay-mah-fie-oh-nah-oh-mah-lah-mah-lah-mah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseOu te fia vaega le tusi fia'ono, fa'amalie
  [Oh-teh-fee-ah-vai-eh-gah-lay-too-see-fee-ah-oh-no-fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• I don't eat meatE le auai i le kikila
  [Ay-lay-ow-ah-ee-ee-lay-key-key-lah]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseOu te fia totogi, fa'amalie
  [Oh-teh-fee-ah-toe-toe-gee-fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]

• Help!Tulou!
  [Too-low]
• Go away!Alu i tua!
  [Ah-loo-ee-too-ah]
• Call the Police!Fa'afesootai i le Fa'amasinoga!
  [Fah-ah-fey-soh-oh-tie-ee-lay-fah-ah-mah-see-noh-ngah]
• Call a doctor!Fa'afesootai i le foma'i!
  [Fah-ah-fey-soh-oh-tie-ee-lay-foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostUa ou taumafai
  [Oo-ah-oh-tow-mah-fie]
• I'm illUa ou oso iai
  [Oo-ah-oh-oh-soh-ee-eye]

• I'd like to buy...Ou te fia fa'atau...
  [Oh-teh-fee-ah-fah-ah-tow]
• I'm just lookingOu te vaai
  [Oh-teh-vah-eye]
• How much is it?E fia ai?
  [Ay-fee-ah-eye]
• That's too expensiveO lelei le tau
  [Oh-lay-lay-lay-tow]
• Can you lower the price?Ou te fia fa'atagata le tau?
  [Oh-teh-fee-ah-fah-ah-tah-gah-tah-lay-tow]

• What time is it?O le a le taimi?
  [Oh-lay-ah-lay-tie-mee]
• It's one o'clockUa le tasi
  [Oo-ah-lay-tah-see]
• Half past (10)I le aniva (tefulu)
  [Ee-lay-ah-nee-vah-tay-foo-loo]
• MorningTaeao
  [Tie-ah-oh]
• AfternoonAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• EveningIliili
  [Ee-lee-ee-lee]
• YesterdayAnanafi
  [Ah-nah-nah-fee]
• TodayLenei
  [Lay-nay-ee]
• TomorrowTaeao
  [Tie-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]
• 10Sefulu
  [Say-foo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?O fea le...?
  [Oh-feh-ah-lay]
• What's the address?O le a le tuatusi?
  [Oh-lay-ah-lay-too-ah-too-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou te fesoasoani mai ia te a'u (i le mapa)?
  [Oh-teh-fey-soh-ah-soh-ah-nee-my-ee-ah-teh-ah-oo-ee-lee-mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Aso a e te sau ai le taimi o le taeao?
  [Ah-soh-ah-eh-teh-sow-ah-ee-lay-tie-mee-oh-lay-tie-ah-oh]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (i le ....)
  [Tee-kay-tee-ee-lay]

Falealupo is one of the oldest villages in Samoa, with a history that dates back centuries. It has long been a place of significant cultural and spiritual importance for the Samoan people. The village is often associated with legends and myths, particularly those concerning the Samoan gods and goddesses. According to local tradition, Falealupo is considered the gateway to Pulotu, the underworld in Samoan mythology.

In the early 19th century, European explorers and missionaries began to arrive in Samoa. Falealupo was among the villages that experienced the influence of these newcomers. The London Missionary Society played a significant role in introducing Christianity to Falealupo, transforming the spiritual landscape of the village. Churches were established, and traditional beliefs began to blend with Christian teachings.

In February 1990, Cyclone Ofa struck Samoa, causing widespread devastation. Falealupo was heavily impacted, with many homes and structures destroyed. The cyclone also damaged the natural environment, including the lush tropical forests that surround the village. The community's resilience was tested, but they managed to rebuild and recover over time, continuing to preserve their traditions and way of life.

Constructed in the 1990s, the Falealupo Canopy Walkway is a major attraction for visitors to the village. This suspended bridge, which extends through the treetops of the rainforest, was built to promote eco-tourism and to provide a new source of income for the local community. It offers a unique perspective of the natural beauty and biodiversity of the area, while also emphasizing the importance of conservation.

Falealupo continues to be a stronghold of Samoan culture and tradition. The village elders play a crucial role in preserving the oral histories and customs of their ancestors. However, like many indigenous communities, Falealupo faces modern challenges such as climate change, economic pressures, and the influence of globalization. Despite these challenges, the people of Falealupo remain dedicated to maintaining their cultural heritage and way of life.

Falealupo is located on the northwest tip of Savai'i, the largest island in Samoa. To get there, you first need to fly into Faleolo International Airport near Apia on the island of Upolu. From Apia, you can take a ferry from Mulifanua Wharf to Salelologa Wharf on Savai'i. The ferry ride takes approximately 90 minutes. Once on Savai'i, you can hire a taxi or rent a car for the 60-kilometer drive to Falealupo, which usually takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

Transportation options in Falealupo and Savai'i include taxis, rental cars, and local buses. Taxis are convenient but can be expensive for long distances. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Local buses are an economical option but can be less reliable in terms of schedule. Make sure to check the bus routes and times in advance.

The official currency in Samoa is the Samoan Tala (WST). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and more remote areas like Falealupo. ATMs are available in larger towns such as Salelologa, but may not be present in smaller villages. It is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Falealupo.

Falealupo is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. The locals are generally friendly and helpful.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities available in Salelologa, the main town on Savai'i. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. It is also a good idea to have a basic first-aid kit while traveling in remote areas.

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 a village church. 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 handshake. A slight bow 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 Falealupo like a local, visit the Falealupo Canopy Walkway for stunning views of the rainforest. Spend time at the Falealupo Beach and engage with the local community. Participate in cultural activities and traditional ceremonies if invited. Don’t miss the chance to see the Falealupo Rainforest Preserve, which offers a unique glimpse into Samoa’s natural beauty. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history.