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Apia is the Capital of the Independent
State of Samoa. Located on the North Coast of the Island of
Upolu, Apia is not only the political and governmental
centre of the country, but the main financial and
commercial centre as well.
Originally Apia
was only a small village at the lagoon opposite to an
opening in the reef around the island (due to two major
rivers). Trade ships found a safe harbor here. Already in
colonial times Apia
became the main port and the only town on the island.
In fact the
traditional villages still exist - more than 50 of them are
located in the town area. Every one of them still has it's
own fono (council of chiefs) and decides village matters
independently. There is no unified town administration for
Apia and her 35,000 people.
Apia is the
main shopping place in Samoa (in fact you could even say it
is the only one). Banks, Postal Services, Government Offices
and all major stores and markets are conveniently located in
a very small Central Business District which can easily be
explored by foot. Hotels, Cafés (again the only ones) and
famous hotels provide relaxation. And in the evening
there is at least some nightlife (only until midnight
though). |
