Ofu Update

We were on Ofu during the Tsunami. Although the earthquake was scary and watching the Tsunami come ashore was surreal, the island was spared any significant damage (a few palm trees were knocked over, but that's it). Vaoto and Asaga Inn on Ofu were untouched and the homestays on Ta'u also escaped damage. The beaches are still pristine and we snorkeled the reef both before and after the Tsunami and there was no visible damage. The fish, sharks, octopus and breeching humpback whales are all still there. Below is a photo of Ofu beach taken AFTER the Tsunami- it's still paradise. Friends in the islands tell us that visitation to American Samoa is down since the Tsunami and the people there could really use the tourism dollars. Don't cancel your trip!

Ofu AFTER the Tsunami. Still Paradise. http://www.michaelandersongallery.com/photo/islands-in-the-stream/

The coastline next to Shark and Turtle Lodge on Tutuila at night. http://www.michaelandersongallery.com/photo.php?id=157&gallery=samoanislands

I normally keep my praise for this exotic secret under my breath because I don't want to see one of the world's greatest places changed too much from tourism. But if you're here on this page, you already know about it, so have a great trip!

-Mike

http://www.michaelandersongallery.com/photo/islands-in-the-stream/

This image, Sir, is quite simply the most stunning picture from the South Pacific I have ever seen! It has this magical feeling of different elements of nature and as an active snorkeler I really admire the inclusion of those lovely sand dunes. Wonderful.