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Here's some travel advice to keep you informed and safe when it comes
to travel to Samoa...
Local Conditions
Some roads are in poor condition and there are additional safety risks when driving at night because of insufficient street lighting.
Tidal changes can cause powerful currents in the many coastal lagoons that surround the islands and several fatal swimming accidents are recorded each year. Consult local residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas.
Stray and sometimes vicious dogs are common in Samoa and there have been reports of attacks in suburban areas and on beaches outside hotel boundaries.
Samoa is located in a seismic zone and is subject to earthquakes. Samoa is also affected by tropical storms or typhoons between November and April which may disrupt air services, water and power supplies. Travellers should monitor the typhoon and storm information available from the USA Navy Joint Typhoon Warning Center and the USA National Weather Service Forecast Office and plan accordingly. In the event of a natural disaster, travellers should follow the advice of local authorities.
Local Law and Customs
Travellers are reminded that when overseas, they are subject to local laws. Local
laws and legal processes can be very different from those at home. A violation
of local laws may result in a jail sentence, served in a local prison. Consular
assistance cannot override local law, even where local laws may appear harsh or
unjust by your standards.
Penalties for possession and use of cannabis, include prison sentences.
Homosexual acts are illegal.
Consistent with local custom and sensitivities, travellers should dress and behave conservatively outside tourist resorts.
Entry and Exit Requirements
Visa conditions are subject to change. For up-to-date visa information, travellers should contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Samoa, well in advance of travel.
Health Issues
Hospital and medical facilities are limited and evacuation may be required in cases of serious illness or accident. Up-front cash payments are often required for medical services. Initial medical evacuation would normally be to New Zealand. If medical travel to New Zealand or Australia is required, flights to these destinations are often heavily booked and seat availability may be an issue.
Visitors to Samoa who pursue scuba diving activities should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber on the island. Serious cases of decompression sickness are evacuated to the nearest treatment centre in Auckland, New Zealand. All registered dive companies carry basic treatment equipment to meet PADI standards.
Source: Australian Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade
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