Culture lures American tourists

By Nefertiti Matatia 04 April 2018, 12:00AM

Samoa’s culture attracted two New Zealand university students from the United States to the islands.

With a background in anthropology and environment, Jasmine Olins and Brette Lennon were mesmerized by the bond and the value Samoans place on their culture.

They are originally from America and will be in New Zealand until June. 

They both agreed that they had to come and see and feel what Samoa is like after hearing so much about it.

They arrived on Friday and will leave on Thursday for New Zealand and for them; it’s been so far, so good.

“We have a friend who has a friend that is studying here in Samoa which is the reason we came. He said he really liked it here and we wanted to come too,” Jasmine told the Dear Tourist team.

“Since it was close by New Zealand and it was an easy trip to come here for a mid-semester break before school starts again.”

They shared their experience of the cultural performances at the Samoa Tourism Authority Fale.

“The traditional dance here is way different from New Zealand. The Maori’s are more aggressive in the way they perform,” Brette shared.

“Watching the performances indicates how strong the culture is and its value in this country.”

“The dances and performances are a big part of the culture and we really enjoyed that. It was cool that kids were trying to teach us how to dance.”

“Just by watching, there were young kids who were giving instructions about the culture here and it seems like they were taught at a young age.”

They also commented on the difference between New Zealand and Samoa.

“The people here are so friendly, and it’s not that the people in New Zealand aren’t friendly, but it is way different kind of atmosphere we get here.”

“Seeing the children and their different kind of happiness showcases their independence.” 

Samoa for them was a perfect place for relaxation. They enjoyed the good food, the hot sun and especially the ocean.

“In America the water is very cold and salty, for New Zealand the water is cold too. But here in Samoa, the sea is so much warmer. It is the perfect temperature.

“You can go snorkeling for hours without realising that you are getting sunburnt.”

“We will come back again, it is a good place to visit, have a holiday and experience a different culture.”

By Nefertiti Matatia 04 April 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

Upgrade to Premium

Subscribe to
Samoa Observer Online

Enjoy unlimited access to all our articles on any device + free trial to e-Edition. You can cancel anytime.

>