Samoa

The island paradise of Western Samoa is an independent Pacific state situated half way between New Zealand and Hawaii. It is composed of 10 islands, surprisingly varied in their terrain and character from rainforest to volcanic mountain peaks, from lush valleys to miles of perfect sandy beaches, and immediately off-shore - crystal-clear azure water teeming with aquatic life and pristine coral. Samoa is effortlessly a place apart from the busy, populated world outside its borders. Amidst the vibrant nature and 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 welcome extended to visitors. A holiday in Samoa presents a dilemma of whether to explore the many attractions around the islands, or just relax and do nothing on the perfect beaches. Upolu is the main island and home to the capital Apia, which is a fun and vibrant city, and the ideal gateway to Samoa's other islands. Upolu was where Robinson Crusoe lived and his time here is commemorated in the eponymous botanical gardens and museum. Other highlights on Upolu include Lalomanu Beach which adjoins a protected pristine lagoon that is perfect for snorkeling; the famous Malua Turtle feeding site; and numerous splendid waterfalls. Of the other islands, Savai'i offers unparalleled raw beauty, volcanic craters, towering waterfalls, mysterious archaeological sites and incredible natural blowholes. Manono Island, on the other hand, is a slice of old Samoa with just four fishing villages and no vehicles or electricity to disturb the peaceful way of life. Samoa is that rarest of holiday destinations: a place that exceeds one's wildest expectations, rewards one's laziest day or busiest excursion, and leaves visitors recharged, relaxed and ready for more.

Climate

The weather is ideal with fairly constant 30 degrees C temperatures year round. The rainy season runs from December to March although this is no reason to postpone a visit.

Money

The unit of currency is the Tala (ST$), made of 100 Sene. Major credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, shops, rental car agencies and travel agents. The best currencies to carry are Australian, New Zealand or US dollars, which can be exchanged at all banks. Most ATMs accept the full range of international credit cards and travellers cheques and cash can be exchanged in banks and currency exchange bureaux in Apia and at the airport.

Passport Visa

All visitors to Samoa must hold an onward or return ticket as well as valid documentation for their onward journey. It is highly recommended that passports have at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Entry Requirements

• A visa is required and will be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. United States citizens must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.
• A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. British nationals must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.
• A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. Canadians must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.
• A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. Australians must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.
• A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. South Africans must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.
• A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. Irish nationals must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.
• A visa is required and can be issued on arrival for a maximum of 60 days. New Zealand nationals must have a passport valid for at least 6 months after date of departure. Passport exemptions include children under 16 years, if accompanied by a parent and the name of the child is included in the passport of that parent. All visitors must hold return/onward tickets, and all documents required for next destination as well as sufficient funds for the duration of their stay in Samoa.

Health

The most significant health risk is over-exposure to the sun. There are mosquitoes but no malaria.

Embassy Consulates

• Samoan Embassy, 800 Second Ave, New York, NY Tel: +1 (212) 599-6196
• Honorary Consulate of Samoa, 18 Northumberland Avenue, London Tel: +44 (171) 930 6733
• Samoan Embassy, 13 Culgoa Circuit O'Malley ACT Tel: +61 262 865 505
• Samoan Embassy, 283 Karangahape Rd Auckland Tel: +64 9303 1012

Foreign Embassies

• United States Consulate Tel: +685 21631
• British Consul Tel: +685 21895
• Australian High Commission Tel: +685 23 411
• New Zealand High Commission Tel: +685 21404/21711