Pacific

Travel magazine names American Samoa in top five destinations

06:29 am on 10 December 2012

The editor of travel guide Lonely Planet says American Samoa tourism could well receive a boost as more Americans begin to book holidays following the recession.

The magazine has just named American Samoa at number five of the top ten US destinations to visit next year.

Robert Reid says while it is long trek from the mainland the visitor is rewarded by some of the most stunning, untouched beauty of the Pacific.

He says it is one of the least visited places in the world with only 24 thousand visitors a year, meaning travellers have some beaches to themselves.

"Most Americans don't realise they can go into Polynesia with a US passport. And American Samoa is the southernmost territory linked to the US. It's a beautiful beach destination with great mountains and its just like your own personal paradise. More people should know about it, that's why it's there."

Robert Reid says despite hard economic times Americans are looking for different holiday destinations which offer good value.