Manase: A Tropical Haven in Samoa

• HelloTalofa
  [Tah-loh-fah]
• GoodbyeFa
  [Fah]
• YesIoe
  [Ee-oh-eh]
• NoLeai
  [Leh-eye]
• Please/You're welcomeFa'amalie
  [Fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• Thank youFa'afetai
  [Fah-ah-feh-tie]
• Excuse me/SorryTulou
  [Too-loh]
• How are you?O a mai oe?
  [Oh-ah-mah-ee-oh-eh]
• Fine. And you?Lelei. O a oe?
  [Leh-leh-ee. Oh-ah-eh]
• Do you speak English?E te lelei ona taofi fa'ainglisi?
  [Eh teh-leh-ley-ee oh-nah tah-oh-fee fah-ah-eeng-lee-see]
• I don't understandE le mafai ona malamalama
  [Eh leh mah-fah-ee oh-nah mah-lah-mah-lah-mah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseE fia vaega atu i le menu, fa'amalie
  [Eh fee-ah vah-eh-gah ah-too ee leh meh-noo, fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]
• I don't eat meatE le auai i le kuka pisupo
  [Eh leh ah-oo-eye ee leh koo-kah pee-soo-poh]
• Cheers!Manuia!
  [Mah-noo-ee-ah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseE fia soli, fa'amalie
  [Eh fee-ah soh-lee, fah-ah-mah-lee-eh]

• Help!Tulou!
  [Too-loh]
• Go away!Alu iai!
  [Ah-loo ee-eye]
• Call the Police!Fa'afeso leoleo!
  [Fah-ah-feh-soh leh-oh-leh-oh]
• Call a doctor!Fa'afeso foma'i!
  [Fah-ah-feh-soh foh-mah-ee]
• I'm lostO le a ou te leai
  [Oh-leh-ah-oh teh leh-eye]
• I'm illO le a ou te mate
  [Oh-leh-ah-oh teh mah-teh]

• I'd like to buy...E fia ia...
  [Eh fee-ah ee-ah]
• I'm just lookingO le a ou tatala
  [Oh-leh-ah-oh too-tah-lah]
• How much is it?O le a e fai atu?
  [Oh-leh-ah-eh fai ah-too]
• That's too expensiveO le fa'amoemoe
  [Oh-leh fah-ah-moh-eh-moh-eh]
• Can you lower the price?E mafai ona fa'atulaga le tau?
  [Eh mah-fah-ee oh-nah fah-ah-too-lah-gah leh tao]

• What time is it?O le a e le taimi?
  [Oh-leh-ah-eh leh tah-ee-mee]
• It's one o'clockE le tasi
  [Leh tah-see]
• Half past (10)I le itula
  [Ee leh ee-too-lah]
• MorningTaeao
  [Tah-eh-ah-oh]
• AfternoonAfiafi
  [Ah-fee-ah-fee]
• EveningIli
  [Ee-lee]
• YesterdayAnanafi
  [Ah-nah-nah-fee]
• TodayAso nei
  [Ah-soh neh-ee]
• TomorrowAso o le a
  [Ah-soh oh leh-ah]
• 1Tasi
  [Tah-see]
• 2Lua
  [Loo-ah]
• 3Tolu
  [Tow-loo]
• 4Fa
  [Fah]
• 5Lima
  [Lee-mah]
• 6Ono
  [Oh-noh]
• 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 tusi tuatusi?
  [Oh leh too-see too-ah-too-see]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Mafai ona fa'ailoa mai ia (i le mapa)?
  [Mah-fah-ee oh-nah fah-eye-loh-ah mah-ee ee-ah ee leh mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?O le a e le fa'avae (autalavou)?
  [Oh-leh-ah-eh leh fah-ah-vah-eh (ow-tah-lah-vow)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiketi (i le ....)
  [Tee-keh-tee (ee leh)]

Manase, located on the north coast of Savai'i, is steeped in history dating back to the early Polynesian settlers. These early inhabitants were master navigators who utilized the stars and ocean currents to traverse the vast Pacific Ocean. They established the village and cultivated the land, which became a fertile ground for taro, bananas, and other staple crops.

In the early 19th century, Christian missionaries arrived in Manase, bringing with them new religious beliefs and practices. The London Missionary Society played a significant role in converting the local population to Christianity. This era saw the construction of churches and schools, which became central to village life and education.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Samoa came under colonial rule, first by Germany and later by New Zealand. Manase, like other parts of Samoa, experienced changes in governance and infrastructure. The influence of colonial powers is still evident in some of the village's administrative structures and older buildings.

Manase played a role in the Mau movement, a non-violent resistance campaign against colonial rule. The movement, which began in the 1920s, sought Samoan independence and self-governance. Many villagers from Manase participated in demonstrations and supported the cause, which eventually led to Samoa gaining independence in 1962.

Manase is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. The fa'a Samoa, or Samoan way of life, is deeply ingrained in the village's social structure. This includes the matai system of chiefly titles, traditional ceremonies, and communal living. The village's fale (traditional houses) and fiafia nights, featuring songs, dances, and storytelling, are key aspects of its cultural identity.

In recent decades, Manase has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience Samoa's natural beauty and warm hospitality. The village is known for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs. Eco-tourism initiatives and small family-run beach fales provide visitors with an authentic Samoan experience while promoting sustainable tourism practices.

Manase is located on the northern coast of Savai'i, the largest island in Samoa. The nearest international gateway is Faleolo International Airport on the island of Upolu. From there, you can take a taxi or shuttle to the Mulifanua Wharf, which is about an hour's drive. Regular ferries operate between Mulifanua Wharf and Salelologa Wharf on Savai'i, a journey that takes about 1-1.5 hours. Once at Salelologa Wharf, you can take a taxi or a bus to Manase, which is approximately a 45-minute drive.

Transportation options in Manase are limited but sufficient for a small village. Local buses run infrequently but can take you to nearby villages and towns. Taxis are available and are a convenient way to get around, though it’s best to agree on a fare beforehand as meters are not commonly used. For more flexibility, consider renting a car or scooter from Salelologa, although driving in Samoa may require an international driving permit. Bicycles are also available for rent and are a popular way to explore the scenic coastal roads.

The official currency in Samoa is the Samoan Tala (WST). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. There are a few ATMs in Salelologa, but they may not always be reliable, so it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to Manase. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in larger towns.

Manase is generally a safe and peaceful destination. However, as with 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 public places. Petty theft can occur, so it is best to secure your valuables. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Manase, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always a good practice.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is located in Tuasivi, about a 30-minute drive from Manase. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Salelologa where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your accommodation handy.

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 offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A respectful nod of the head is also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Manase like a local, participate in a traditional 'ava ceremony, which is a significant cultural ritual. Visit the local markets in Salelologa to buy fresh produce and traditional Samoan crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share their stories and culture. Don't miss the opportunity to attend a fiafia night, featuring traditional dance, music, and food. For a unique experience, take an early morning stroll along the beach to watch the sunrise.