Christmas is just around the corner. Samoa Observer journalist Tautua Vaa and photojournalist Junior S Ami spoke to people about how they planned to spend their Christmas. 

Tavita Mikaele, 41, Luatuanuu, 

“It will be business as usual for me. I will be spending my time working on my plantation. As a farmer, there is always work to be done, even as Christmas approaches. While it may not be anything out of the ordinary, it is part of my daily routine. I am grateful for the opportunity to work and for the consistency it provides.”

Muagututia Ieti, 67 

“At the moment, my main focus is running my stall here at the market. This festive season, my advice to everyone is to praise God and thank Him for all that He has done. I also pray that He continues to give us the strength to work hard for our families and for our communities.”

Tupai Sale, Niusuatia, Safata, 69

“I am looking forward to the bestowal of a matai title within my family. Relatives from New Zealand and Australia will be travelling home to attend the ceremony. This is what I am preparing for during the festive season, and it holds great significance for our family.”

Hana Meititi, 15, Lefaga

“My family has been planning to travel somewhere this Christmas, and that is what I am most looking forward to. It will be a chance for us to spend quality time together.

Faatau Elisara, 34

“I do not have any special plans, but I am grateful to be able to spend the day with my family. Family is what matters most to me.”

Gaumalila Ese Malaeulu, Leauvaa

“This Christmas, what matters most to me is my children and being able to share moments of happiness with them, especially now that my husband is no longer with us. I pray that the Lord continues to bless us with strength and peace. Above all, I hope for happiness for my family.”

Leilani, 25, Leauvaa

“This Christmas will be a busy one, with the usual family commitments, including a matai title bestowal. I will also see whether our church organises an outing. We will take things as they come.”

Jimbo Fidler(Tourist)

“I do not have any specific plans for Christmas; however, there will be several events organised on the cruise, which I am looking forward to. I have been travelling with my family on the cruise for more than a year, and we are interested in seeing how Christmas will be celebrated on board.”