Airlines
Polynesian Blue, Air New Zealand, Air Pacific and Polynesian Airlines operate international flights from New Zealand, Australia, United States of America, Fiji and American Samoa into Samoa.
Airports
The main entry point into Samoa is Falelolo International Airport, 35 km from Apia on the island of Upolu. Polynesian Airlines operates daily flights between Apia and Pago Pago out of Fagalii Airport, which is located about 5km from the Central Business District.
Upon arrival currency exchanges are open for all international flight arrivals and departures for converting your currency.
Duty free allowances are one litre of alcohol, wine or spirits and 200 cigarettes per person. Airport shuttles are provided to the major hotels which can be booked prior to arrival or organised when you arrive after clearing Customs. One way fares start from ST$12 per person.
Taxis are also available and a ride to Apia will cost you about ST$50 and it’s recommended you confirm the price with the driver before you depart. If your flight is arriving during the day, then you can catch a local bus into Apia from the main gate of the airport. There are no set timetables and the fare will cost you about ST$5 one way.
Alcohol
Vailima is Samoa's local brew and can be found almost everywhere. Originally set up by the Germans, Vailima now produces one of the finest lagers in the south pacific and it can be purchased almost anywhere on the islands throughout the week though on Sundays alcohol is strictly prohibited for sale except for in hotels and restaurants.
Bars & Nightclubs
There are many bars and nightclubs to provide a good night out though there is a 10pm curfew on loud music and doors close at 12pm.
Banks
ANZ and Westpac are the two international banks found in Samoa. Both have branches at the international airport, in Apia and at Salelologa on Savaii.
ATMs are located in and around Apia and one on the island of Savaii. Travellers can use credit cards in the machines but you are required to have a PIN number to withdraw cash.
Climate
Samoa's climate is tropical all year round, with two distinct seasons – the dry season running from May to October and the wet season from November to April.
Average daily temperature is 29 degrees Celsius and ocean temperature in the in the low 20’s.
Currency
The Samoa decimal currency is the Tala (dollar) and Sene (cent): 100 Sene = ST$1 (Tala). All major foreign currencies are exchangeable in Samoa.
Samoa Tala can also be purchased outside the country from a few selected banks, however you will need to check with your bank if you can order some before you depart.
Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Diners & JCB) are widely accepted in the major hotels, restaurants and stores. Travellers’ cheques are also widely accepted at major banks and hotels.
Eftpos machines are found throughout Upolu and Savaii in major hotels, resorts and supermarkets and accept the following cards – Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Amex, JCB & Plus Cards and Access International Debit Card.
Departure Tax
Departure tax of ST$40 applies to all travellers over the age of 12 years who depart from Faleolo International Airport.
Doctors
There are many medical clinics in Apia should you require a doctor. The Tupua Tamasese Meaole II National Hospital and Medcen (private hospital) are also located in Apia along with two private dentists and four pharmacies for your prescription needs.
Dress
Light summer clothing is appropriate all year round and packing a light sweater for the cooler evenings is recommended. As Samoa has a strong cultural structure and Christian faith, tourists are asked not to wear bathing suits in Apia or in villages.
Nude and topless (for women) swimming or sunbathing is prohibited and when leaving the beach to venture into the villages, guests are asked to wear a lavalava (sarong) pants or shorts and t-shirt.
If attending church on Sunday, women are asked to wear a dress or blouse and skirt and men trousers and shirt.
Entry requirements
Visitors to Samoa are not required to obtain an entry permit for stays of less than 60 days, however you must have a return or onward ticket and your passport must be valid for six months of more at the time of entry into the country.
If your visit is for more then 60 days then you must apply for a permit to enter the country from the nearest Samoa Consulate General, High Commission or Embassy to you in New Zealand, Australia, United States of America and Belgium.
The following foreign diplomatic offices are represented in Samoa – Australia, Chile, China, France, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, South Korea, Spain, United Kingdom, United States of America and Sweden.
Internet cafes
Staying connected with family and friends via the internet is easy with eight broadband internet cafes to be found around Apia and one on the island of Savaii. Major hotels and resorts also offer internet terminals for guests in their business centres. WiFi is also available at dozens of locations.
Mobile Phones
There are two main telecommunications providers in Samoa, Digicel and Bluesky SamoaTel. Both providers offer coverage to mostdeveloped areas with over 95% geographical coverage. Prepaid SIM cards are available at the airport and in town from SAT$10.
Post Office
The main Samoa Post branch is located in the Central Business District, across from the main branch of the ANZ Bank.
Religion
Samoa is a Christian nation and the main denominations are – Congregational, Anglican, Catholic, Methodist, Assembly of God, Seven Days Adventist, Bahai, Latter Day Saints and Jehovah’s Witness. Visitors are welcome to attend church, check with your hotel reception for service times.
Tipping
Tipping is not practiced or expected in Samoa. However, if a guest wishes to leave a gift for good service then you are welcome to do so directly with the employee or the hotel reception.