Couple escapes freezing winter in warm and friendly Samoa

By Anina Kazaz 25 May 2018, 12:00AM

Samoa’s weather is why Paul and his wife, Jaisha Trebilcock, came to the islands. 

For the couple, it’s a good relaxing getaway from their busy schedules back at their home in Christchurch, New Zealand. For one thing, it is a nice break from the freezing weather of New Zealand at the moment.

They have heard about Samoa through Samoan friends they have back at home, and their experience has been indescribable. 

“We have been fortunate of the offer because we would not have the opportunity to do a trip like this. We would have loved to come even without winning a free trip,” Paul said.

This is their first time to Samoa and in the Pacific region. 

“First impression was that the variety of trees and palm trees is incredible, the blue sky and the beautiful water,” Paul said.

“It excites me the drive from the airport to the resort. Just the different colours, the different houses with no walls, the amazing scenery and everything are so unique. It is beautiful.”

Renting a car has been a good choice for them because they got to visit some of the best attraction sites on Upolu. 

“I was pretty much just hanging around and reading books, just relaxing. It is an amazing place to relax. We had a look at the turtles as well. The highlight I would say are the swimming pools, especially to have a swim in the afternoon it is very nice,” he explained.

Paul and his wife also commended the Samoan culture. 

“When we drove around in the rental car, every single person who passed us waved and the kids were running beside the car,” Paul said.

“I guess in New Zealand, community wise, it is quite self-contained, while here it is a real community feeling, really helpful and happy.

“We walked through Apia speaking to a couple of random people. We just shared where we are from and how we are enjoying it and they asked us if there is anything that we needed. It has been very nice. We felt absolutely safe and I am happy we came on this trip.”

On Samoa’s tourism sector, Paul explained: “Maybe just more on advertising about Samoa as a tourist destination.

“The fiafia night was really good. I was in Auckland with Samoans so it has not been completely new to me, but it is amazing to see it in Samoa. I would like to see more advertising on the relaxed culture here.

“One thing that we missed a bit is the lack of publicity for mosquitos and diseases. We did not know what to expect. 

“I guess a bit more information on the zones that are prone to diseases would be helpful.

“I loved it here. I think the resort here is set up really well, I can’t compare to others, but locals are coming over as well. It does not make you feel disconnected to the island.

“I totally recommend going out and having a drive around,” Paul said.

After their experience in Samoa, Paul mentioned they are considering Vanuatu as their next stop.

By Anina Kazaz 25 May 2018, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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