According to legend, Samoa is known as the “Cradle of Polynesia” because Savai’i island is said to be Hawaiki, the Polynesian homeland. Samoan culture is undoubtedly central to Polynesian life, and its styles of music, dance, and visual art have gained renown throughout the Pacific islands and the world. Samoans also tend to be much bigger than the average person.

Travelling info

All visitors traveling to Samoa are required to have a valid passport. Entry requirements in Samoa are very lax. Everyone is entitled to visit Samoa without the requirement of a visa. Depending on visitors nationality they are entitled to a visa-free stay ranging from 30 to 90 days. Visitors who wish to drive in Samoa are required to have both their national driving permit and an international driving permit. IDP holders must beware that it cannot be used alone and must always be complemented by the original driving permit.

Travelling hazards

Urban roads in Apia and the main roads circumnavigating and crossing the island are all generally kept in fair condition though bumps and potholes are common. Side streets tend to be gravel or dirt and their condition varies considerably, particularly during the rainy season when ruts and bumps develop. Roads outside Apia are often narrow, winding, relatively steep, with narrow or no shoulders, and poorly lighted. Pedestrians, as well as vehicles and livestock, regularly travel these roads. Due to poor and deteriorating road conditions, night driving on unlit rural roads can be dangerous and should be avoided if possible. Roads in Samoa often traverse small streams. You should exercise extreme caution when fording these streams, which can become swollen and dangerous with little warning. Vehicles should never enter a stream if the roadbed is not visible or if the water’s depth is more than the vehicle’s clearance. Taxis are widely available and used by Samoans and visitors alike. However, some are unlicensed, so you should use care in choosing a taxi and driver. Buses are slow, crowded, uncomfortable, undependable, and rarely used by visitors. You can use rental cars, but be aware that limited roadside assistance is available. Most major roads are tar sealed, but secondary roads are predominantly dirt and gravel and may be rough or overgrown with vegetation. A four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended for travel on these roads. You should be aware that vehicle safety regulations are rarely enforced, and traffic violations occur routinely. In September 2009, Samoa switched from driving on the right side of the road to driving on the left side. Some vehicles in Samoa remain left-hand drive, including rental vehicles and public transportation. Drivers should familiarize themselves with operating requirements and local traffic laws before operating a vehicle in Samoa.

Environmental hazards

Just like most Pacific islands, Samoa has very few animals at all with only land mammals being bats. There is more danger lurking in waters surrounding Samoa than there are on land. There are several reports of shark attacks in Samoa. Although rare such incidents cannot be ruled out. Those enjoying water activities should also watch out for various venomous creatures in the water. Stonefish, venomous sea cones and sea snakes can be found around Samoa.
Samoa suffers from several natural hazards. The islands are exposed to tsunamis, cyclones, and earthquakes. All of these can be devastating and carry severe aftermath.

Health hazards

There is no risk of yellow fever in Samoa. The government of Samoa requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. There are other vaccinations which are recommended. These are the routine vaccines aka MMR vaccines, hepatitis A and B and typhoid vaccines. There is a risk of contracting Zika virus from mosquito bites. Unfortunately, there is no approved vaccination against Zika virus. Visitors are strongly advised to use mosquito repellents and to install mosquito nets in the windows of their accommodation if such are not already there. Over the past couple of decades, Samoa′s health standards have improved dramatically, and now Samoans enjoy a relatively good health status. Overall Samoa has a well rounded and easily accessible healthcare service. Both private and public health services deliver modern quality services and are able to take care of emergency situations meaning that emergency airlift abroad is not necessary
In case of an emergency dial 911.

Crime

Although Samoa has a low level of crime, you should remain aware of your surroundings, lock your doors at night, and not leave your belongings unattended. Incidents of petty theft and robberies are common. Some incidents have involved residential break-ins. While rare, violent assaults, including sexual assaults, have occurred in Samoa. No specific groups have been targeted, and there have been no reported racially motivated or hate crimes against tourists. Police in Apia generally responds quickly to incidents. However, since there is a very limited police presence elsewhere in Samoa, police response outside of Apia is not as quick or reliable as it is in Apia. There is no risk of terrorism in Samoa. Possession of narcotics is illegal and a criminal offense.

Summary

Samoa is an incredible destination. The people of Samoa are welcoming and host numerous festivals where tourists can experience the incredible Samoan culture as well as try the finest local food. The islands number various activities as well as many incredible resorts. Remember that planning your trip with Travset.com will give you the quickest information about nearest emergency services and will also help you purchase indispensable travel insurance for the trip of your lifetime. Please feel free to comment and share the experiences of your travels with Travset.com.

Sources

(Visa)
https://www.worldtravelguide.net/guides/oceania/samoa/passport-visa/
(Vaccinations)
https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/samoa