American Samoa - Travel guide

Lying on the Pacific Ocean, the American Samoa consists of several islands that make this America’s unincorporated territory. The people living in American Samoa are regarded as nationals of US but not citizens of America. Nevertheless, they are allowed free travel between mainland US and American Samoa. What this means that the nationals of American Samoa do not require visas and green cards to live and work in America. However, American Samoa has some rather distinguishing cultural norms from those of America especially those touching on displaying religion in public and property ownership. 

While the major city in American Samoa in Pago Pago, the constitutional seat of the government is Fagatogo with the office of the governor being in Utulei village. The main island in American Samoa is Tutuila. Another region here is Ofu which boasts to possibly have the loveliest beaches in Sothern Pacific thanks to its dramatically sparkling sandy and white beaches which contain many crabs, just for your information. Other regions in American Samoa that you might consider visiting include the Swains Island, Rose Island, Olosega and Tau and Pago Pago which the national capital city. 

The first stop over for most visitors to American Samoa is the Fagatele Bay National Marine Sanctuary which houses a broad range of tropical fishes such as the damsel fish, parrot fish and the butterfly fish alongside numerous sea creatures including crabs, octopus, sharks and lobster. The American Samoa National Park is also worthy a visit even though it doesn’t have much to offer as such. 

Natives in American Samoa talk the Samoan language but most people are English speakers as well and most of them are in fact bilingual. A key attraction to be found here is the flower pot or Fatu ma Futi which stands tall in the mini island and houses many fruit bats and exoticbirds. The Toaga Beach is definitely a must visit but remember to carry along your snorkel in order to explore the areas pristine coral reefs that beautifully fringe on the shores. You can access the beach from the Tisa’s Barefoot Bar and Grill but don’t expect to find showers here. There are many locally operated kiosks and shops where you can buy a wide range of things especially the traditional wooden weapons and some handmade clothes. 

There are many eating places in American Samoa especially in Tutuila that is home to many fine restaurants and fast food joins. Most of these restaurants provide a wide range or cuisines ranging from American and Japanese cuisines to Chinese, Polynesian and Italian cuisines. All the islands in American Samoa provide hotel style sleeping facilities apart from Olosega. During your visit to American Samoa, it is advisable that you are very careful as there are many stray dogs here that could attack you. Also, during your visit, it is advisable that you carry along your medications as you might not find supplies here. Crime rate in American Samoa are low but when swimming at the beaches, you should stay safe from rip tides that can easily sweep you away.