Describing palusami as delicious is an understatement. 

For Tony and Anna from Auckland, New Zealand, palusami is the reason they would return to Samoa. 

Palusami is now their favourite island dish, perhaps the only one they will ever like.

It is their first time in Samoa and they love the island vibe, most especially the food.

They leave today for their homeland, but they will be back and this time they will bring their kids.

The Dear Tourist team found the couple enjoying their last day alongside the pool at the Taumeasina Island Resort, feeling relaxed and at peace with the cool sea breeze.

“We have loved it here, it has been so good. It is just so natural and beautiful. We have just  been relaxing and it has been a wonderful time. I love the food and the people.

“There have been a lot of people in New Zealand who talk about Samoa. And we also have one person who has been here in Samoa and they really loved it.

“There is no special occasion and we just wanted a holiday. It is also a good time for a holiday especially in time for school holidays,” said Tony.

The couple has also come to learn the simplicity of life in the islands, away from the luxurious city life. 

“We have been driving around and we have been to To Sua Ocean Trench, the south-east of the island. We have seen the beautiful beaches and around the rock fall.

“So we saw most of the sites. It was lovely. Then we also went to Savaii. It was a long ride. We had to catch the ferry.

“We also then went to see the turtles. It was a bit like swimming in a dirty pond. But the turtles were gorgeous. It took me a while to get into the pond. 

“I know my kids would still get in there because they would love it. It has been lovely,” said Anna.

They also tried out Legends Café and Roko’s Restaurant for more island taste. 

“We have definitely enjoyed the food. The taro leaves with the coconut cream, the palusami. We just love that.

“Palusami is really good. It has been awesome in the past few days. The people here are just so friendly. They are genuinely friendly.”

They are already aware of what they will be doing next time when they come.

“I would definitely like to bring back the kids next time here for a holiday. I like to take the kids to the waterfall and the churches.

“Everywhere we have been has been really good. We have got no complaints. One of the other highlight for us would be taking a break from work and everything that was happening around us back home.”