The days of hopping a cargo ship and working a passage around the Polynesian Islands are fast becoming a thing of the past although you might just snag one if you hang around the shipping services for long enough. Getting Around Getting around Independent Samoa is uncomplicated but time-consuming. You can normally hopscotch around the islands by bus as long as you remember that a Samoan timetable is a vague idea that may or may not be acted upon depending on the level of interest shown by the driver. Patience is required. Ferries and boats will get you from one island to another but, curiously enough for a race of people surrounded by water, Samoans are indifferent sailors and crossings can often be unpleasant experiences.
Cars are a possibility on most islands but petrol can only be obtained in major towns.
If you're feeling incredibly fit you might one want to cycle around the islands but you will have to contend with the heat and the rugged terrain. Lonely Planet Publications Pty. Ltd. All rights reserved.