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Ahhh …. finally after the cold, wind and rain (it wasn't all that bad) of Patagonia and New Zealand, we were able to relax on the idyllic beaches of Samoa, as we had a lovely rest bite on the island for 10 days. We were greeted at the airport by a group playing classic South Pacific music, police-MEN wearing skirts and beaming smiles, which pretty much set us up for what to expect.
We spent most of the time sleeping in open huts on perfect white beaches, with the turquoise sea lapping at the shore a mere 10 metres away. A quick swim before breakfast, then sunbathing, snorkeling, swimming in waterfalls, cave pools, drinking from coconuts etc, before seafood for dinner and a beer whilst watching the sunset. As you can imagine, all of you back home were at the front of our minds and it was not a bad place for Jodie to spend her birthday!!
We also got used to the Samoan culture. Firstly, they are one of the friendliest people either of us have met on our travels. Secondly, it is a very religious place, with the whole country shutting down on Sundays so that people can attend church and spend time with their families (there was only one restaurant open in the capital city all evening). Church was a very impressive affair as everyone dresses nearly completely in white and enters into the beautiful singing that accompanies the services. Thirdly, the buses are something to behold. As we approached one, it appeared to be completely full with people hanging out of the door, but our bags were swiftly taken from us and buried at the back somewhere as we were ushered on. There then began a bizarre chess game as the strict hierarchy meant that young people got up for older people, children were placed anywhere and everywhere, and grown men calmly settled down on other random men's laps … all so that I could cling one butt cheek to the edge of a seat and Jodie could sit on me!! This was all done with the least fuss and plenty of chatter and laughter. Next time there are no seats on the 87 in south London, I am going to cross my fingers and head for the lap of the biggest, toughest guy too!!
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