Banking & Currency
The decimal currency of Samoa is based on the Tala (dollar) and Sene (cent). All major foreign currencies are exchangeable in Samoa for Tala. AUD$1.00 = ST$1.80 (subject to fluctuations). Most credit cards are widely accepted in shops and hotels. ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) are located in and around Apia with one on the island of Savai’i, and there are approximately 250 EFTPOS outlets throughout Samoa which accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Amex, JCB etc.

Climate
Samoa experiences a warm, tropical climate and has two seasons, the dry season (May to October) and the wet season (November to April). The average maximum temperature is 29 degrees celsius and the relative humidity remains high for much of the year.

Dining Out
Apia has a wide variety of snack bars, cafes and restaurants offering Chinese, Seafood, Italian, European, Pizza and traditional Samoan fare.

Dress
Light summer clothing is appropriate all year round, with a light sweater for cooler evenings. Visitors are requested not to wear bathing suits in Apia or in the villages. No nude or topless (for women) swimming or sunbathing. Women are recommended to wear a lavalava (sarong) or dress, rather than shorts or trousers, if attending church.

Electricity
240 volts / AC 50 cycles. Power points can accept 3-pin angled plugs as used in Australia.

Entry Requirements
Australian passport holders do not require a visa for stays of less than 30 days, however, passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended period of stay. A return or onward ticket is also required.

Health
No vaccinations are required to enter Samoa unless you are arriving (or transiting) within 6 days of visiting an area infected with Yellow Fever. However, we recommend you discuss your health needs with your doctor prior to the commencement of any travel.

Language
The national language is Samoan, however, English is widely spoken.

Religion & Church
The main religious denominations are Congregational, Anglican, Catholic, Methodist, Assembly of God, Seven Day Adventist, Bahai, Latter Day Saints and Jehovah’s Witness. In Samoa, Sundays are dedicated to God with families attending church in the mornings followed by a family to’onai (lunch) and resting for the remainder of the day. Visitors are welcome to attend services.

Shopping
The Flea Market in Apia offers a wide range of handicrafts, sarongs, clothes, and more.

Transportation
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. Taxis are plentiful and provide a very affordable service. For the adventurous, local buses are a fun and inexpensive way to see Samoa. If renting a car, a temporary driver’s licence must be obtained from the Police Department on presentation of your own valid licence. ST$20 fee applies.

Tipping
Tipping is not encouraged or expected in Samoa. However, a contribution to school fees is an acceptable gift.

Time
Samoa is 3 hours ahead of Australia (AEST).

Water
It is recommended to drink bottled water in Samoa. Some hotels supply this free of charge.