Discover the Beauty and Culture of Samoa: A Travel Guide
The island paradise of Samoa sits halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, and is blessed with 10 glorious islands that vary in terrain and character. Adventurers can lose themselves in settings that range from rainforests and lush valleys to volcanic mountain peaks and miles of idyllic beaches.
Snorkellers and scuba divers will be enticed by crystal-clear azure waters teeming with aquatic life and pristine coral reefs, while adventurers can explore fertile valleys where banyan trees tower over the rainforest canopy and cascading waterfalls.
Samoa is in many ways isolated from the busy, populated world outside its borders. Amid the beautiful scenery of the islands, Samoans live with their ancient traditions and culture largely intact despite the influx of more modern influences. Family, religion and hospitality are values central to Samoan identity, as is the laid-back approach to life and legendary warm hospitality.
Upolu is the main island and home to the fun and vibrant capital Apia, serving as an ideal gateway to the surrounding archipelago. Interestingly, Upolu was where the character of Robinson Crusoe was shipwrecked and this is commemorated in the Vailima botanical gardens and museum.
Other highlights on Upolu include the famous Malua Turtle feeding site; Lalomanu Beach, which adjoins a protected pristine lagoon perfect for snorkelling; and many splendid waterfalls all over the island. A visit to the Marketi Fou at Fugalei provides a wonderful insight into everyday life in Samoa, where visitors can sample local delicacies while watching a game of Samoan checkers.
Savai’i is the other large island and it offers the unparalleled raw beauty of volcanic craters and natural blowholes, towering waterfalls and mysterious archaeological sites. On the other hand, Manono Island is a slice of old Samoa with just a handful of fishing villages and little in the way of vehicles and electricity to disturb the peaceful way of life.
A holiday in Samoa presents a dilemma of whether to proactively explore the islands’ many attractions and activities or to simply embrace the easy-going lifestyle by relaxing on heavenly beaches. Either way, a good time is guaranteed.
Key Facts
- Language:
- Samoan and English are the official languages. English is widely spoken in cities and tourist areas but is far less common outside of major centres.
- Passport/Visa:
All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay in Samoa. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
- Currency:
The local currency is the Samoan tala (WST), which is divided into 100 sene. Visitors should declare amounts over WST 20,000 when they arrive and depart; this covers all forms of currency, not only cash. There are foreign exchange bureaus and ATMs in the major centres, and credit cards can be used at most resorts and large shops. Not many small businesses accept credit cards.
- Electricity:
- Electrical current is 220 to 240 volts, 50Hz. Power-points are designed for plugs with three flat pins as commonly used in Australia and New Zealand.
Health Notes when travelling to Samoa
The most significant health risk in Samoa is over-exposure to the sun, so hats, layers and sunscreen are advised. Medical care in Samoa is limited but generally adequate for routine health problems. Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended but visitors should note that most doctors will expect payment in cash upfront regardless of insurance coverage.
Safety Notes when travelling to Samoa
The level of serious crime is low, but incidents of petty theft are fairly common. Visitors should not leave their belongings unattended, and should use hotel safes for passports and valuables.
Customs in Samoa
Samoan men traditionally undergo tattooing as a rite of passage and the resultant patterns and images can be seen on many faces and upper bodies around the islands. Religion is integral to many (around 98 percent of the population is Christian), with a lot of value given to Sunday church services and observing the Sabbath. Homosexual acts are illegal in Samoa.
Duty Free in Samoa
Passengers over the age of 21 are entitled to import 200 cigarettes or 250g of other tobacco products; 2.25 litres of alcohol; and other goods up to the value of WST 500.
Doing Business in Samoa
For business meetings, a shirt and smart trousers are appropriate for men and a blouse with smart trousers or a long skirt are the norm for women. Foreigners should dress modestly if there is any doubt as to what is appropriate. Punctuality is important, though visitors should keep in mind that meetings may not start at the designated time.
A gift is usually expected during meetings, and the presentation is formal and often done publicly. According to custom, the person accepting a gift should bow their head slightly and place the gift above their head with both hands for a moment.
Samoans tend to be very polite in business settings, meaning they may say what they think their foreign counterpart wants to hear, regardless of whether it is entirely true. This is because they want to avoid spoiling relations.
Communication in Samoa
The international access code for Samoa is +685. Visitors will find WiFi in hotels and can purchase local prepaid SIM cards for unlocked phones.
Tipping in Samoa
Tipping is not practiced or expected in Samoa, though tips for good service will be appreciated.
Passport/Visa Note
All visitors must have a passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay in Samoa. It is highly recommended that travellers’ passports have at least six months’ validity remaining after the intended date of departure from their travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.
Entry Requirements
- Entry requirements for Americans:
US passports must be valid for at the time of entry. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian passports must be valid for a minimum for six months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum of 60 days.
- Entry requirements for UK nationals:
UK passports must be valid for a minimum for six months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum of 60 days.
- Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian passports must be valid for a minimum for six months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 90 days.
- Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish assports must be valid for a minimum for six months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days.
- Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand passports must be valid for a minimum for six months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days.
- Entry requirements for South Africans:
South African passports must be valid for a minimum for six months beyond the period of intended stay. A visa is required and can be obtained on arrival for a maximum stay 60 days.
Tourist Offices
Samoa Tourist Office, Apia, Samoa: +685 63500 or [email protected].
Samoa Embassies
- In the United States:
Embassy of Samoa, Washington D.C. United States: (212) 599 6196.
- In the United Kingdom:
Samoan Consulate, London, United Kingdom: +44 1303 260 541.
- In Australia:
Samoan High Commission, Canberra, Australia: (+61) 2 6273 3033.
- In New Zealand:
Samoa High Commission, Wellington, New Zealand: (04) 472 0953.
- In South Africa:
Samoa Embassy, Pretoria, South Africa: +27 12 431 4000.
Foreign Embassies in Samoa
- American Embassy
U.S Embassy, Apia, Samoa: +685 21436.
- Canadian Embassy
High Commission of Canada, Wellington, New Zealand (also responsible for Samoa): +64 4 473 9577
- British Embassy
British High Commission, Wellington, New Zealand (also responsible for Samoa): +64 (0)4 924 2888.
- Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Apia, Samoa: +685 23411.
- New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand High Commission, Apia, Samoa: +685 21711.
Public Holidays Around the World
Planning your year? Knowing public holidays in different countries can help you plan trips, schedule events, or understand global schedules. Below, find a comprehensive list of public holidays sorted by country.
