Samoa brings that feeling of home

By Aruna Lolani 06 September 2017, 12:00AM

Samoa offers a different feel.

That’s according to Nila Lualhati who says Samoa feels more like home. Nila is originally from the Philippines. Her, her husband, and their three children live in Australia and they are in Samoa for the first time.

“This is my first time in Samoa and it’s a lot of fun,” said Nila.

“I love everything because it’s the same as the Philippines, especially the weather and the people.”

She said the weather has been friendly -- despite the odd period of extreme heat.

“I mean yesterday, it was raining and the rain just comes and goes and that’s exactly how it is back home in the Philippines.”

When you want to know a place, observe the people, she said.

“I love watching the Samoan people and their demeanour,” she said.

“The people are friendly, businesses offer good customer service and also great accommodation. The food is okay, too.”

Nila is even more excited to be here for the Teuila Festival.

“I’m looking forward to some of the entertainment, especially the cultural dances.”

She has already done the rounds at the beaches and waterfalls.

“We went to the Lalomanu and visited some of the waterfalls around the island, and I get now why so many people talk about the Samoan waters,” she said. 

“It’s just so beautiful and I would recommend Samoa to other people because it’s definitely a place not to miss out on. There is a lot to see and explore.”

One of the benefits is that it is cheap.

 “I mean, even when I buy some Samoan items for souvenirs, they are cheap and they are cheaper than some of the things in Sydney, but the cost of living in the Philippines is way cheaper,” Nila said, laughing. Nila is here for the same reason that most tourists are in Samoa -- to witness Samoan people showcase their culture and traditions through different entertainment and activities.

“I always hear stories about Samoa and their festivals and in the Philippines, they sort of have this as well, but we call it Fiesta, so obviously, it’s in our nature to love these sorts of things.

“I mean, I’m not sure if we will be visiting again because we will be going to the Philippines and will be there for quite a while, but we’re now here in Samoa and it feels great.

“Now my focus for this week is just enjoying the Teuila Festival and making sure not to miss out on anything fun while I’m here.”

By Aruna Lolani 06 September 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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