September 4, 2006
Savai’i, referred to by Samoans as “Salafai,” is the largest and highest island in Samoa and the largest shield volcano in the South Pacific. Even though it is home to almost a quarter of the country’s population, the signs of modernity are few compared to other islands like Upolu. There is one ferry terminal acting as main entry point to the island and most of the villages are connected by one tar sealed road that serves as a thoroughfare for the local buses. Fa’a Samoa, “the Samoan way,” has maintained a strong presence on the island. Like everywhere else on Samoa, the key ingredient to cooking on Savai’i is the coconut. It can be eaten and drank raw or used in cooking. The shells can be used for ava cups and together with the husks can make good fuel for fire.
