Developed by Polynesian Xplorer, the Samoan Tourism Authority is excited for the launch of the brand new Samoa Smart Guide app aimed at offering visitors to Samoa an easy and user-friendly way to plan their trip and discover the sites whilst they explore the Treasured Islands of the South Pacific. 

The app aims to be a complete local insider's guide to Samoa with details on where to stay and dine, information on the best sights of Samoa, entertainment, wellness, organic gardens and plantations, the best roadside barbecues and local cuisine, handicrafts and local artists, as well as government and visitor services in Samoa.

With the “Favourites” and “Around Me” options, visitors can easily create and amend their itinerary (another clever feature of the app) and discover hidden sites and attractions through the eyes of the locals. Whether users are looking for action and adventure activities, natural wonders, cultural activities or simply just the best beaches, the app can filter search results through a number of categories including: bays, beaches, churches, galleries, islands, landmarks, museums, reserves & natural parks, rivers & streams and sightseeing & nature.

Some of the top recommended sites include the Taga Blowholes, a natural wonder formed by the sheer pressure of the sea forcing its way up through the lava fields. On days when the conditions are right the water can be propelled up to 30m into the air showcasing the power of nature at its most impressive.

The Afu A'au waterfall is another must-see recommendation. This idyllic lagoon is situated on the island of Savai'i and offers fantastic scenery and cool waters to escape from the Samoan heat. A top picnic spot, with its turquoise waters and lush greenery the waterfall is a real paradise hideaway. For visitors who stay on the main island of Upolu the To Sua Trench is a must-visit as one of the iconic images of the destination. The natural ocean trench is reached by a ladder descending down into the depths and is one of the most-breathtaking experiences in Samoa.

For culture vultures the app has information on activities including the Robert Louis Stevenson museum which is located in the renovated home of the author, built after he visited and fell in love with the destination. In addition to numerous impressive and beautifully constructed churches there is also the Museum of Samoa which contains a striking collection of artefacts and historical images pertaining to Samoa's rich culture and dynamic history.

Samoa is a destination for adventurers and the app can also advise visitors on the best places to get that adventure thrill, be it from hiking up volcanos, kayaking between islands, trekking through the rainforest, taking part in the canopy walk, swimming with turtles or biking around the islands. At the end of the day after all that action it can even recommend the best beaches and spas to kick back, unwind and make the most of the Fa'a Samoa.

The app is available on Google Play and on the iTunes app store and can be downloaded on most iPhones and Android devices:
Android:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.samoa_polynesian_xplorer.guide
iPhone :
https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/samoa-smart-guide/id860781337?mt=8

For more information on activities in Samoa, visit www.samoa.travel.

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For more information please contact:

Samoa Tourism Authority
Cindy Landlust/Anna Wolstenholme
Tel: +44 208 877 4502/511
E-mail: cindy@representationplus.co.uk / anna@representationplus.co.uk 
Visit: www.samoa.travel 

Notes to Editors:
Pictures available on request

Samoa
The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific are the true heart of Polynesia and Samoa is one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise. Ten islands of stunning wild beauty, five only of which are inhabited, Samoa - or The Independent State of Samoa as it is formally known so as to avoid confusion with American Samoa, is paradise waiting to be explored. From powder soft beaches, to warm tropical seas, colourful coral reefs alive with marine life. The rugged, lush interiors reveal endless wildlife, waterfalls and hiking trails. Former home and resting place of Robert Louis Stevenson, also known as 'Tusitala'. Samoa is less than four hours from Auckland and approximately five hours from Sydney and Brisbane on Virgin Samoa flights on www.virginaustralia.com. www.samoa.travel