Samoa Cultural Village, Apia

This is a must see attraction if you are interested in seeing the historical Samoan way of life. The centre is located in central Apia across the street from the beautiful church and behind the welcome centre. Established about 5 years ago the grounds are still being developed as they suffered some storm damage. Although open all day the two hour guided tour and performances are only given on alternate days and when cruise ships are visiting. Arrive by 10 am for the performance that begins at 10:30. Although advertised as free after seeing the show you will feel compelled to leave a significant donation. When you arrive you will be welcomed by lovely ladies and invited to sit down and enjoy some music. You will then be shown how to weave some leaves to make a simple bowl which you will use later to enjoy some local food. The show is hosted by a tribal chief. He will take you to several stations where he will describe local traditions and you will witness how traditional life is lived. The first station you visit is the cooking shelter where you see the men preparing the dishes. You see various foods prepared including taro, breadfruit and fish and how they are cooked over heated rocks covered with leaves. Next you visit the carving shelter to see craftsmen making all the items needed for daily living. Next comes the tattooing station where we learn the ritual of full body tattooing for men and lower body tattooing for women and the significance of these tattoos. You then return to the main reception are to learn how they make traditional wraps and prints out of finely prepared leaves. By now the meal is cooked and you will sample the traditional foods in the little bowls you had the opportunity to make. Finally there was a full 30 minutes of Samoan dancing. This was a cultural experience we will never forget.

A well established and expert led cultural event. The cultural event includes a traditional Kava welcome, discussion on local Samoan protocols, a hands on Umu set up, demonstration on how to husk and scrape a coconut, sit in to see the application of traditional tattooing, visit to see tapas made from bark and finally a wholesome dinner from the Umu. Overall an excellent experience by professional guides. Would highly recommend