|
|
|
Return to Paradise
 |
|
| [Note Guidelines] Photographer's Note |
The Samoas are situated at the heart of Polynesia, an archipelago of 13 volcanic islands, but two political states. The Independent State of Samoa, known simply as Samoa, comprises 8 islands and the USA territory of American Samoa is 5 islands, where Pago Pago is the main centre and port. Independent Samoa's population of about 168,000 lives principally on the island of Upolu, with 35,000 residing in Apia. Savai'i, the largest of all the Samoan Islands, is home to 45,000 people. The other inhabited islands are Manono and Apolima, which lie in the 18km strait between the two bigger islands.
Samoa was the first Pacific Island nation to gain independence in 1962. The Head of State, currently His Highness Malietoa Tanumafili, holds office for life and is chosen from one of the four Samoan royal families.
The matai system stems from ancient Polynesian culture. A village comprises a group of extended families, aiga. Each family is led by a matai who represents the family on the fono, or village council. There are over 362 villages in Samoa and 18,000 matais. Matais can be male or female and are elected by family members, or inherit this office. The village council comprised of all matais in the village is headed by the highest chief or ali'i. Each village also has an orator chief - tulafale who conducts ceremonial and oratory duties and is seen carrying a fue - sennit mop, when on offical business.
If you wish to visit this beach you have to pay your contribution to the locals through the chief of village next to the beach where the Hollywood movie
'The return to Paradise' with Gary Cooper was produced in 1953 and the locals are still proud to be part of the history. |
chrisJ has marked this note useful
Only registered TrekLens members may rate photo notes. |
|
|
| Discussions |
| None | | You must be logged in to start a discussion. |
|
- chrisJ
![Gold Star Critiquer/Gold Star Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 4260 W: 414 N: 6792]](http://i1.treklens.com/misc/g-g-g.gif)
(42596) - [2007-09-25 0:39]
-
HI Thomas
It looks similar to Nias Island in Indonesia, at least before the 2004 Tsunami. Wonderful contrast & good repetition of the coconut palms. Tfs!
-
- AndroK
![Gold Star Critiquer/Silver Workshop Editor [C: 1509 W: 23 N: 0]](http://i1.treklens.com/misc/g-s-n.gif)
(11866) - [2007-09-25 0:40]
-
Hi
I want return in paradiso :-) Excellent shot with nice composition and colors...
I like the colour saturation and the composition .Great quietness mood!Good shot!
Regards,
chiping
![Gold Star Critiquer/Silver Workshop Editor/Gold Note Writer [C: 684 W: 28 N: 169]](http://i1.treklens.com/misc/g-s-g.gif)
(3448)