Samoa is said to be the Cradle of Polynesia and is a traditional society with a distinctive Polynesian cultural heritage. Its attraction however extends beyond its natural beauty of unspoilt sandy beaches, waterfalls and rugged forested mountains to its most important treasure of all its people. The poet Rupert Brooke described the Samoans as the loveliest people in the world  and this accolade is expressed by the people who demonstrate their warmth and enthusiasm in many ways from exquisite church singing on Sundays to the exciting kilikiti (cricket); from the famous fia fia (fire) dance, to the colourful buses and from the lively markets to the famed Teuila festival.

Samoans respect the extended family and Matai or family head system and it is within this culture of fa'a Samoa the Samoan way, that the people embrace their culture and share their happiness and friendship in a manner that is very noticeable to the visitor. Traditionally visitors, even strangers are made welcome a national characteristic that ensures visitors are received with open arms.

The long-lasting feeling of Samoa is one of people living in harmony with nature. Travelling around the villages, beaches and countryside of Samoa, the overwhelming impression is that of a smile. For the sunshine people of Samoa a smile costs nothing, but it is priceless.

 welcomes the opportunity to show the beautiful Samoan people to the world and to link its new corporate identity to Samoan society. This 15-stamp definitive set, plus three First Day Covers is available from the Samoa Bureau or its appointed agents worldwide.