Page 24 - Explore Spring Summer 2019

ISLAND TIME

Getting to Samoa is relatively simple and cost-effective: it's a comfortable
three hours and fifty minutes by air from Auckland. On arrival, the warm
tropical breeze caresses your skin as you make your way into the new
airport facility at Faleolo where you are greeted by the melodious sounds of
a string band.
Four-star Taumeasina Island Resort, on the north coast of Upolu, was our
resort of choice for our family trip to Samoa, and after clearing Customs
and Immigration we were met by one of their drivers who transferred us in
a comfortable, air-conditioned van on the 45-minute coastal journey to the
resort, our senses heightened as we took in our surroundings. The welcome
at the resort was warm and inviting, the smiles genuine and the ambience
immediately relaxing.
After a refreshing drink of fruit juice at check-in, we were shown to the two-
bedroom villa that would be our home away from home during our stay. The
resort offers 105 hotel rooms and two and three-bedroom self-contained
villas with picturesque views of the ocean or the lush mountainside of
Samoa. Our villa was kitted out with a good-sized kitchen, a modern
bathroom, a lounge and a private patio where we spent much time relaxing
and enjoying the beautiful lagoon views. Once our bags had been delivered
by the friendly porters it wasn't long before we kicked off our shoes,
swapped our clothes for swimsuits and headed down to the pool for a swim.
The welcome at the resort was warm

and inviting, the smiles genuine and the
ambience immediately relaxing.

We were spoilt for choice. There is a big lap pool extending out from the
resort lobby and adjacent to it is the resort pool which is surrounded by
a deck that provides shade with sun loungers and pool umbrellas. The
kids soon spotted the activities desk and eyed up the list of fun things to
do during our stay. Whether it be kayaking, beach volleyball, pool games,
weaving or snorkelling, there was something for everyone. Beyond the pool
area is a lovely beach and lagoon that offered hours of fun for our family.
Snorkelling is a highlight here and we were pleased to see that life jackets
were offered for use on the kayaks and catamarans.
Very early into our week-long stay we realised how much the charming and
unaffected demeanour of the resort staff was an integral and rewarding part
of our holiday experience. The pace may be a little slower than you are used
to back home, but that’s what makes it so special. Service with a smile is a
given and nothing is too much bother. Dining at Taumeasina Island Resort is
a taste sensation and there are options aplenty.
A full buffet breakfast is included in your room rate and there is a great
assortment of hot and cold dishes to fuel up your day, along with an egg
station cooking exactly to your liking. There is also a selection of à la carte
menu options and themed buffet dinners, plus kids’ meals and snack menus.
Most dietary requirements are also catered for. For a good dose of Samoan
culture, be sure to experience the Saturday night Fia Fia dinner and show
which culminates in a spectacular display of fire-dancing on the beach.
This is definitely a photo-op not to be missed!