APIA, WESTERN SAMOA

(Not American Samoa)

We were greeted by this large group of Native dancers.

Apia, Samoa is the capital and only city of Samoa. It is located on the coast of Upolu, Samoa's second-largest island.   Population is 34,960 in 2021.

We visited the impeccably maintained grounds and villa of the famous Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson (1850-1895), who lived in Samoa for the remaining four years of his life.   While “Villa Vailima” has had a few makeovers over the years, the home has been filled with replicas to represent what this classic colonial home would have looked like. There are also a few original trinkets, books and personal belongings to admire.

This striking cathedral looming over the Apia Harbour is undoubtedly one of the most awe-inspiring in Samoa, from the outside and within.  The Immaculate Conception Cathedral boasts an ornate timber ceiling and vibrant stained-glass windows. The original church was constructed in 1884. 

While in town, we visited a local market where many goods were displayed in these rustic baskets

Standing in plain sight at Apia’s main roundabout on Beach Road, the Apia Clock Tower which commemorates the Samoan soldiers that died during World War I.

The Baha'i House of Worship is located 8 kilometers away from Apia, Samoa. It was built in 1984 and is 30 meters high.   It is the mother church of the Pacific Islands and one of the seven prayer halls in the world.   All Bahá'í Houses of Worship must have nine faces and a central dome. This house of worship is open to adherents of all religions. There are no sermons, ceremonies or priests there.