Tourists find Samoa ideal for Christmas shopping

By Nefertiti Matatia 08 December 2017, 12:00AM

Hark the herald angel sings, the season of lights, Christmas trees and gifts.

What does this have to do with tourism?

Well believe it or not, Lindsey Black and her partner Ben Kirley say Samoa is one of the best places to shop for Christmas gifts.

After witnessing how tapa and Samoan jewelleries were made, Lindsey decided to buy gifts from Samoa to give to their relatives who are in Scotland for Christmas.

“We went to the Samoa Tourism Authority and we were able to watch how they painted the tapa and made the handicrafts,” Lindsey said.

“Which was really interesting and that is why we have decided to do our Christmas shopping here in Samoa to give for our families who are back home.”

She added things in Samoa were really unique which was why she did not only buy things for their family, but also some souvenirs for themselves. 

It is the time to not only celebrate the birth of our Saviour and be reunited with families, but also to go for a break.

“This was a good short break coming here to Samoa for only five days before we head back home for Christmas. We were able to enjoy this other different side of the world. Here in Samoa you find people wearing lavalava but back home you find our people wearing kilts.”

Out of all the other small Pacific Island nations, they chose the island of the navigators, Samoa.

“So we have been living in New Zealand for almost a year now but we are originally from Scotland. We wanted to explore the different islands that were around us and we made the right choice coming to Samoa,” she added.

Lindsey grew up next to the sea and coming to Samoa reminds her of what home felt like waking up to the ocean breeze.

Five days of exploring Samoa and the 28-year-old marvels at the beaches here in Samoa which she says is not the same in Scotland.

“I love the beach. Going beneath the waters and seeing the corals and the tropical fishes which are just so surreal. We would never see that back home.”

She said they had enjoyed their trip very much because the people of Samoa had been very friendly and welcoming from the minute they arrived.

“Everyone here has been so nice and generous. Always smiling and welcoming us with open arms and for that we are very grateful, the people have made this trip easy to get around from one end to another.

“They have also been very patient with trying to teach us the language which is really kind of them and we appreciate it,” said Lindsey.

The couple head back to New Zealand today.

By Nefertiti Matatia 08 December 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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