Pacific Island Nation [Samoa’s To Sua Ocean Trench – Heaven’s Well]🌊

On the morning of May 16, I touched down in Apia, the fourth stop on my Pacific island adventure—Samoa (Independent State of Samoa)! 🇼🇸 This stunning nation consists of 10 islands, with a total land area of 2,934 km² and a population of 226,000. Fun fact: Samoa doesn’t have its own currency—USD is the go-to here! 💵 East vs. West Samoa 🗺️ American Samoa (East) 🇺🇸: A U.S. territory. Independent State of Samoa (West) 🇼🇸: Gained independence in 2002. Samoa was one of the first Pacific island nations to establish diplomatic ties with China (1975) and upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018. 🤝🇨🇳 Arrival & First Impressions ✈️🌅 Landed at Apia Airport at 1 AM—brought a jacket and travel pillow, but the post-typhoon warmth made them unnecessary! ☀️ At 6 AM, hopped on a $5 bus ride (30 km to Apia). Apia is a charming, tidy coastal town 🏡🌊. The nearby islets offer unreal beaches—walking along the shore felt like stepping into a dreamy fairy tale with turquoise waters & powdery white sand! 🏝️💙 ✨ Must-See Attractions ✨ 1. To Sua Ocean Trench – "Heaven’s Well" 🕳️💎 📍 South coast of Upolu Island A 30m-deep volcanic sinkhole surrounded by lush jungle. Crystal-clear emerald waters connected to the ocean via lava tunnels. Swim via a wooden ladder or try cliff jumping! 🤿💦 Divers can explore underwater lava tubes leading to the open sea. Called "Paradise on Earth" for a reason! 🌿✨ 2. Alofaaga Blowholes – Nature’s Fireworks! 🌊🌈💥 📍 Samoan volcanic coastline Waves crash into lava caves, shooting water 20m+ into the sky! Locals toss coconuts 🥥 into the holes—watch them launch like rockets! 🚀 Best at high tide (afternoon)—MASSIVE geyser-like explosions! 💦🔥 🍽️ Foodie Delights 🍍 Umu (Traditional Feast) 🐷🔥: Earth-oven roasted pig + coconut cream taro & breadfruit—smoky, tender perfection! Pani Popo (Coconut Bread) 🥥🍞: Sweet, fluffy buns soaked in coconut milk—only ~1 tala! 😋 Final Thoughts 💭 In this South Pacific paradise, every moment is worth savoring the untouched beauty 🌺🌊 #Samoa #Fiji #IslandParadise #Pacific