Culture

Follow the Samoan way.

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Culture Details

The Samoan culture is the oldest in all of Polynesia. Distinct cultural traits have emerged over the past 3000 years that are now called fa'asamoa (fah-ah-SAH-mo-ah). It is important to observe these practices out of respect for the villagers and their ancestors. Here are a few things you can do to be sure you are following the Samoan way: 1. Ask villagers before taking photographs, using the beach, or engaging in other activities, however petty they may seem. Permission is almost always granted. 2. In a Samoan home, sit down on the floor before talking, eating, or drinking. Cross your legs, as it is impolite to have your legs stretched out. 3. Sunday is a day for church and rest. Swimming is not permitted on Sundays. 4. Evenings (around dusk) is prayer time for villagers, called Sa. If you are entering a village during Sa, stop and wait quietly until Sa ends. 5. It is an honor to be asked to share ava, a local drink made from the root of the pepper plant. To show respect, spill a few drops on the ground or mat in front of you, then raise your cup and say "manuia" (mahn-WE-ah) before drinking. 6. Don't eat or drink while walking through a village.

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