Melbourne couple finds relaxation heaven in Samoa

By Elizabeth Ah-Hi 05 August 2017, 12:00AM

Soaking up the sun’s rays was the only thing on Stephanie and Matthew Bell’s agenda for the day yesterday.

The Weekend Observer sat down with them at the Taumeasina Island Resort. 

“This is our first time in Samoa and it’s our third day here - it’s been very relaxing,” Stepanie said. 

“It’s been a beautiful stay so far. We were looking at Luxury escapes and we saw the property (Taumeasina Island Resort) come up on there, we had a look into it and we thought this sounded like it suited all our needs. 

“It looked beautiful and it had some really great reviews.”

Matthew seemed relieved to be in Samoa and added, “We just wanted to get away from the cold really. We are from Melbourne and we heard it was two degrees there this morning. “

When they did manage to tear themselves away from the pool, the couple went around town to check it out. 

“We went into Apia one morning and it was pretty chilled. We checked out the markets. We really like it, it’s really nice. We are heading out to the other side of the island next week at Lalomanu beach.”

Matthew ponders on the idea that perhaps he may have been a Samoan in his former life. 

“I love this kind of weather and just how relaxed everything is and kind of laid back,” he said. 

“It suits me well. It’s incredibly laid back, exactly what I expected from an island kind of life. I’ve been to Seychelles before and it was very similar in how everything worked and all the people and especially the markets.” 

Matthew is slowly working up the courage to try some of the local delicacies, he tells Dear Tourist.

“I tried the palusami and I enjoyed it. That was nice with the taro leaves and coconut cream. I’m working myself up to trying out the oka or any raw seafood. I haven’t eaten anything raw before.” 

Asked to describe Samoa in one word and Stephanie says without missing a beat, “Relaxed. 

“The weather and the people have been really lovely. Everyone’s really friendly and willing to have a chat. The whole general vibe of the place has been really nice.” 

By Elizabeth Ah-Hi 05 August 2017, 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.

>