Visit Upolu, Samoa

Upolu is Samoa's second largest but most populated island, home to the bustling capital of Apia. The gentle coastal road winds through sleepy little villages and around glorious bays, with tantalising turnings leading you out to sublime beaches or up into the mountainous interior.

In places the island is not protected by the fringing reef, meaning impressive surf rolls in to pound the exposed volcanic shores; in other areas the lagoon is tranquil, crystal clear, and teeming with bright tropical fish.

Exploring Apia

Apia houses the Museum of Samoa, as well as the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum at Villa Vailima and the MADD Gallery. The vibrant Maketi Fou (the town's main market) is alive 24 hours a day, and during the week there are bargains to be found at the flea market.

Scores of colourful buses line the streets behind the markets awaiting passengers for the surrounding settlements, transporting villagers back to the gentle pace and sleepy atmosphere of the rest of the island.