Quite often, when planning a vacation, vacationers think that it would be nice to visit some exotic place. One of the options is American Samoa and its administrative center - Pago Pago. It is located on the largest island of Samoa - Tutuila.
Historical reference
The first settlements appeared here as early as 1000 BC. But the indigenous population felt calm until 1722, when Jacob Roggeven first sailed to the islands. However, for another century, Christian missionaries did not dare to land and establish relations with the locals because of their militancy. But in 1878, the leaders of Samoa allowed the Americans to use Pago Pago as a parking lot for ships.
Until 1951, there was an American naval base, and the island of Tutuila was subordinate to the military. Since 1977, residents can choose their own governor. However, the US president is the highest authority, although Samoans are not entitled to take part in the presidential election.
Device and population
In fact, Pago Pago is not one city, but the combined name of several settlements at once, which lie along the coast of the harbor with the same name. That is why the harbor, the bay, the capital, and the entire region as a whole are so named. In fact, the main villages in the region are three villages: Pago Pago, Fagotogo and Utuli proper. The population in all three settlements in total, according to the 2010 census, did not exceed six thousand people. At the same time, about a third of the inhabitants work at a huge canned tuna factory . The remaining people are involved in tourism. We can say that Fagotogo is considered the center of financial and political life. It is here that the largest number of banks, government and commercial institutions are concentrated.
Two opposites
In general, the capital of American Samoa is a pretty charming place. If we look at the images of Pago Pago, the photos will show an unusual combination of neglect and local flavor, poor, boring buildings and nice houses with interesting architecture. Of course, the abundance of garbage in the streets, the complete mess and the rather dirty harbor are not too happy. However, the authorities are doing everything possible to bring the capital into a divine form, although this, of course, will require a lot of time.
By the way, the harbor, despite all the shortcomings, is a truly amazing place. This volcanic caldera practically “cuts” the island into two parts. At the same time, it is well protected and is an excellent anchorage for ships, as well as one of the largest harbors in the South Pacific.
Where to visit and what to do
Another attraction worth exploring is the Jane Haydon Museum (the wife of Governor John Haydon) in Fagotogo. Here are collected various artifacts of antiquity, ancient national art and crafts, historical books, three moonstones brought from Earth's satellite, a gift from President Richard Nixon.
The public library houses a unique selection of rare books, magazines and black and white photographs illustrating the life of American Samoa.
An interesting and informative visit will be to the nearby villages of Waitog and Aoloau Fou. Their inhabitants make dishes and household items from plants.
Many tourists are attracted by other treasures of Pago Pago. These include mountains and beautiful lagoons. The Alava mountain located in the State Park is interesting for vacationers. The view from this peak is bewitching. Well, lovers of soaking up the sun will find the harbor of Pago Pago lovely. In search of the cleanest beaches, it is better to go to the vicinity of the city. It is worth visiting the Strait of Fagas and watching the migration of dolphins or surfing in the Strait of Poloa. In general, you won’t be bored in Pago Pago, but after visiting there you will see the world from a completely different perspective.