The first impression of Samoa for any visitor is usually the traditional Samoan fale that are found everywhere across the island.

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A close second -- if not first -- impression are the country's many beautiful churches, each seemingly more impressive and ornate than the next.

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Sunrise off the coast of our home for the week, the Vaiala Beach Cottages.

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The Samoan parliament building in downtown Apia, sporting modern roof decor evocative of the curves of traditional fale.

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Colorful buses frequently ply up and down Apia's streets.

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Palolo Deep Nature Reserve, a prime snorkeling spot located within a short walk from anywhere in town.

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Some of the underwater attractions at Palolo Deep.

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A drive around the island is a great way to take in the many waterfalls.

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The lush interior of the island, here covered with red ginger, taro fields, and coconut palms.

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Traditional Samoan meal, even more impressive when one realizes that everything, including the plate, is made of natural ingredients. No silverware is needed as you eat with your hands, and there is no litter left over to pollute the environment!

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A couple shots of lovely Lalomanu Beach with Nuutele Island offshore,
a locale that is understandably the most common one featured on Samoan tourism brochures.

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The channel between Upolu & Savaii -- in the shadow of Apolima and Manono Islands -- is a great place for scuba diving .