Is Samoa Better Than Fiji?

I once told you about the taxi driver in Nadi who advised us not to bother with Bali—Come to Fiji instead, he said. And most Fijians I’ve met echo the same sentiment: Fiji is better than Bali.

But today was different. Today, while travelling around Samoa, I heard it three times—Samoa is better than Fiji. I nodded politely, feigning interest (my loyalty lies with Bali).

It got me thinking: do all the islands in Oceania feel this way about their neighbours? Is there a secret, unspoken rivalry going on across the Pacific? And more importantly, could I call this “field research” and get a grant to island-hop my way across the map? Because if so, I’m ready to pack my bags.

Anyway, back to the question: Is Samoa better than Fiji? For me, no. I’m partial to Fijian cuisine, the deliciously chaotic sprawl of Nadi, and—above all—the deep, vibrant thread of Indian culture woven into Fijian life.

That’s my take. You might go and come back swearing otherwise.

Related Posts: Gili Is Not the New Bali // Don’t Go to Bali, Come to Fiji Instead.

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