Samoa Travel Information

Samoa is a tropical paradise, rich in culture and history, offering a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Here are the top 10 things to do in Samoa with more information:

1. Visit the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum

The museum is dedicated to the famous Scottish author who lived in Samoa for the last years of his life. The museum is located in the village of Vailima, near Apia, and features artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia related to Stevenson and his life in Samoa.

2. Explore the Village of Manono

Manono is a small island located just off the coast of Upolu, one of Samoa's main islands. The island is famous for its pristine beaches and traditional Samoan villages, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Samoan culture and way of life.

3. Swim at the To Sua Ocean Trench

To Sua Ocean Trench is a stunning natural swimming hole located in the southern coast of Upolu. The trench is surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and features crystal clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

4. Visit the Papase'ea Sliding Rocks

The Papase'ea Sliding Rocks are located near Apia, and are a popular spot for families and adventure seekers. The rocks feature natural water slides and pools, offering a unique and thrilling experience.

5. Hike the Tafua Crater Rainforest

The Tafua Crater Rainforest is a protected nature reserve, located on the southern coast of Upolu. The reserve features a lush tropical rainforest, with hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning views of the ocean.

6. Learn about Samoan Culture at the Sa Moana Show

The Sa Moana Show is a cultural dance performance, showcasing the traditional dances and music of Samoa. The show takes place in Apia and is a must-see for anyone interested in Samoan culture.

7. Visit the Mulivai Catholic Cathedral

The Mulivai Catholic Cathedral is located in Apia, and is one of the largest and most impressive churches in the Pacific. The cathedral features stunning stained glass windows and a rich history, making it a popular destination for visitors.

8. Enjoy a Beach Day at Lalomanu Beach

Lalomanu Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand and turquoise waters, located on the southeast coast of Upolu. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

9. Explore the Togitogiga Waterfall Park

The Togitogiga Waterfall Park is a protected nature reserve, located on the southeastern coast of Upolu. The park features a series of stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, surrounded by lush vegetation and stunning views of the ocean.

10. Visit the Pulemelei Mound, the largest ancient structure in Polynesia.

The Pulemelei Mound is a large ancient structure, located on the island of Savai'i. The mound is believed to be the largest ancient structure in Polynesia and is a must-visit destination for history and culture buffs.

Climate

Samoa has a tropical climate with high temperatures and high humidity all year round. The best time to visit Samoa is from May to October when it is drier and temperatures are a little cooler.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Samoa is from May to October, during the dry season, when temperatures are a little cooler and there is less humidity. During this time, you can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as exploring the beaches, trekking in the mountains and participating in cultural events.

Weather

Samoa is a tropical country and therefore, the weather is warm and humid all year round, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C. There is a rainy season between November and April, when heavy rains can be expected. It is best to pack lightweight clothing and bring a raincoat or umbrella.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Samoa offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, including hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and homestays.

Hotels and Resorts

There are several international standard hotels and resorts in Samoa, including several on the main island of Upolu and others on the smaller islands. These offer luxury amenities, swimming pools, restaurants, and activities for guests.

Guesthouses and Homestays

For a more traditional and authentic experience, visitors can stay in a guesthouse or homestay. These are locally owned and operated, and offer a unique insight into Samoan culture and hospitality.

Budget Accommodation

Budget-conscious travelers can find a range of budget accommodations in Samoa, including backpacker hostels and budget hotels. These offer basic amenities at a more affordable price.

Camping

Camping is also an option for visitors who want to spend time in the great outdoors. There are several campgrounds around the country where visitors can pitch a tent and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.

Samoa offers a variety of transportation options to suit different needs and budgets, including taxis, buses, rental cars, and bicycles.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Samoa, and are a convenient way to get around. Taxis are metered, and fares can be negotiated with the driver.

Buses

Buses are also a popular form of transportation in Samoa. They are a budget-friendly option, and are a good way to see the sights and experience local life.

Rental Cars

Rental cars are a convenient way to get around Samoa, especially if you plan to travel around the islands and visit remote areas. There are several car rental companies in Samoa, and a valid driver’s license is required.

Bicycles

Bicycles can also be rented in Samoa, and are a great way to explore the islands at a leisurely pace. Bicycle rental shops can be found in major towns and cities.

Ferries and Boats

Ferries and boats are also an option for visitors who want to explore the islands of Samoa. There are several inter-island ferry services that connect the main island of Upolu with the smaller islands. These offer a scenic and unique way to travel.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.