American Samoa

Hardly a tourist destination that tops many people’s bucket lists, American Samoa is one of the most underrated exotic escapes that exists. Owned by the US, American Samoa is a far-flung destination with a strange name that might make you think of Africa rather than the heart of Polynesia in the South Pacific. The largest of the 7 islands that make up American Samoa is called Tutuila, the capital of which is an untouched fishing village, Pago Pago, where you can set up a homely base before exploring AS’s incredible natural splendour.

The place to start is definitely the National Park of American Samoa. This huge park encompasses much of the island’s unspoiled landscapes. With developed hiking trails well-looked after by the park wardens, a stroll through this amazing piece of nature will belie the fact you’re on a tiny island. A recommended route is the 3-mile Mount Alava path, which takes you up a winding ascent with a reward of stunning views – a sea of green jungle. For beaches there is nothing better than the twin islands of Ofu and Olosega for splendid sands, or the quite stunning Two Dollar Beach outside Pago Pago.