APIA, SAMOA

Frangipane, botanic gardens

Our lobster lunch at Aggie Greys

Tsunami

For anyone reading this blog who might have been a little concerned about our welfare during the tragic events of the last few days in Japan, especially with regard to the first tsunami, the ship was ‘hit’ around 0500.  P&O Southampton were monitoring the situation, but we were north east of New Zealand, closer to the tsunami, but were advised our position in the ocean was the safest anywhere.

Our next stop, Western Samoa, was also hit by the tsunami but thankfully with no loss of life.

Our arrival into Apia, capital of Samoa, located on the northern coast of Upolu island, was very damp, with tremendous squalls and dark grey skies.  As were had a tour booked, it didn’t look promising but our rain dances must have worked because by the time we got off the ship at 0845 the skies were clearing, mosquitoes were out in force and the sun shone.

It was a pleasant tour that ended with a visit to private botanic gardens, which were absolutely beautiful.  Our arrival was greeted with a selection of tropical fruits and the choice of coconut ‘juice’ still in its original container!  It was very refreshing but there was such a lot of it!

Following the tour we wanted a walk and made our way to Aggie Greys, a very famous hotel which seems to be frequented by ‘celebrities’ and royals.  We looked at their lunch menu and decided to stay for a local beer and a lunch of lobster, and very good it was too.

The ship sailed at 1700 for our next port of call, Christmas Island – which is not to be confused with the Christmas Island in the Indian Ocean.  More of that in my next blog.

P.S. Because we had March 12 x 2, we are now GMT -10!