Not too far away from famed Fiji, Samoa is an under-the-radar island in the South Pacific Ocean and is a hidden gem in Polynesia. Named the “Cradle of Polynesia,” the region offers a bounty of natural wonders and scenic spots in its archipelago of 12 islands.

Best Time to Visit

Located in the central South Pacific Ocean, Samoa is almost halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. With a strategic position near the equator, this island of Polynesia ensures tropical humidity and warm temperatures throughout the year. Screaming vacation in all seasons, Samoa is a great choice for both short domestic travel and long-haul international trips. The dry season from May to October is generally more popular to visit here. But if you’re an intrepid traveler who isn’t bothered by some precipitation, then December to March is the time of most rainstorms in Samoa.

Best Things to Do

Samoa offers a wide array of natural wonders and outdoor activities. The main island of Upolu contains many pristine white-sand beaches. Rich in marine life, the clear waters here are ideal for snorkeling. This inland region of Polynesia is rife with lush rainforests, towering peaks, gushing waterfalls, and plunging swimming holes. The first national park of the South Pacific, O le Pupu-Pue National Park offers travelers a scenic hike to ancient Pe’ape’a Cave, among other activities. With different-sized waves, the shores of Savai’i and Upolu are great for pro and novice surfers alike. Take on a cycling challenge on the mountain biking trail winding through forested hillsides and over lava tube caves. Don’t miss the spectacular natural attractions like the Mu Pagoa Waterfall tumbling into the ocean, Alofaaga Blowholes, etc. To take a cultural tour, join Fiafia nights and celebrate the rich heritage of Polynesia with the locals with traditional food, music, and fire dancing.

Best Places to Dine

Food is a big part of the entire culture of Polynesia. A haven for all seafood lovers, Samoan cuisine is rich in flavor, highlighting freshly caught fish and locally grown ingredients. You can consider taking part in an organized culinary tour to eat your way through Samoa while learning about the heritage of traditional dishes like Palusami, cooked in an Umu, or an earthen oven of heated volcanic rocks. Or else, head to the casual seaside joints like Taumeasina Restaurant, Ocean Club Maninoa, etc., to taste delicious samplings of local staples. Apia, on the other hand, offers highly-regarded international restaurants like Paddles Restaurant, Bistro Tatau, and many more. Stop at Nourish Café, a vibrant fusion joint, for enjoying Instagram-worthy sweet treats and bountiful salads.

Remember the future that sci-fi movies interpreted? The one where families are vacationing in space? And we are moving around in a capsule air car – covering up miles of distance in a matter of seconds? And a robot army taking over the world? Well, it looks like the future is not very far. SpaceX is all set to launch four civilians for a three-day voyage to space. Elon Musk’s dream of ordinary people orbiting the cosmos is coming true – bringing him a step closer to establishing a colony on Mars.

A Trip to Space With Zero Astronauts on Board

Can you imagine a rocket is flying to space without any astronauts on board? SpaceX Dragon is all set to leave earth with zero astronauts on board coming Wednesday from Florida. The passengers are entirely dependent on the Dragon’s autonomous capabilities to navigate and return back safely. This trip is called Inspiration4. The trip will witness Jared Issacman – a technology billionaire, and three others orbiting space. This trip will be a testament to Musk’s vision that regular everyday people who are relatively fit can withstand the hardships of spaceflight. The crew’s health will be monitored to understand the impact of spaceflight.

More Than Just a Trip to Space

SpaceX Dragon’s voyage is more than just a trip for four to space. It also doubles as a charitable fundraiser for cancer research. It, at its core, is a promotional event – and will have its own Netflix documentary ahead of the launch. The quest is to make more and more people comfortable with the idea of taking a flight to space. If the flight is successful – it will be followed by similar take-offs over the next two years. Eventually, an era where taking a trip to space will be a routine is not far away. Titanic’s one of the most loved dialogues, Jack: where to miss? Rose: to the stars… will not be a far-fetched dream.