Samoa has two seasons: Rainy/Cyclone season (Nov-Apr) & Dry season (May-Oct). The temperature ranges between the low 20’s to high 30’s (Celsius). NZ winter time is the peak tourist season.

Be mindful of the sun’s severity. Especially for kids running around having fun. Heat stroke is a reality… keep hydrated, and in the shade as much as possible, or try and limit your sun time to early morning / late afternoon.

There are plenty of accommodation options available, it depends on what kind of holiday you’re after & your budget. The main island of Upolu is small enough that you could base yourself at any location and do day trips or just sit by the pool/ocean & relax.

We recommend hiring a car & sight see in your own time. Or you can book day trips via your accommodation or the Samoa Tourism Authority. If renting a car, you’ll need a Temporary Driver’s License. Our road rules are the same as NZ with the exception of free left turns at intersections/red traffic light if safe/clear to do so. Watch out for pedestrians, cattle, dogs, pigs & chickens. The speed limit is 40km in urban areas & 60km on the open road. Drive to the conditions & watch out for pot holes. When overtaking another vehicle toot your horn 2 times, we don’t really pay attention to indicator lights. Remember you’re on island time, so chill out & enjoy the drive. If you do get in an accident, swap details, take photos of any damage, and IF you feel unsafe or threatened, head to the local police station - unlikely but good to know.

There are plenty of taxi stands in the capital Apia. Fares are regulated but always confirm the fare before commencing your journey & try and pay the exact amount.

If travelling with kids that are still in car seats/booster seats, you may need to bring your own with you. Check with your car rental company.

The ferry to Savaii has regular daily sailings. To book your car on the ferry, go to Samoa Shipping (next door to Paddles Restaurant near the Apia Wharf). Check what time you need to be at Mulifanua Wharf for your sailing. Allow 1&1/2 hours from Apia to Mulifanua Wharf. You’ll need to queue in the car line and let the wharf staff know you’re a confirmed car booking (vs the ones that just turn up). The shipping staff are pros at guiding you into your car slot on the ship… just follow their instructions, and close your wing mirrors once parked. Definitely take supplies for a bumpy ride (just in case) - sick bags, water, tissues/toilet paper. There is a shop on board, but there’s nothing worse than needing supplies and them being out-of-stock.

Day trips around the island - we can arrange day hampers for you

Fishing trips / Snorkeling / Scuba diving

Day spa / Massage / Beauty treatments

National Museum

Robert Louis Stevenson Museum tour followed by a self-guided trek up to the top of Mt Vaea where he is buried. Great views!

Fia fia night (Cultural night of Samoan dancing, food and sometimes a fire dance show) - check with your accommodation

Stay overnight at a beach fale

Play a round of golf at either of our 2 golf courses

A public kid’s playground is located opposite Tanoa Tusitala Hotel in Apia

Take the kids (& some earplugs) to “The Magic Circus of Samoa”. Pay a little extra for the VIP seats - they’re more comfortable

Join the local fitness fanatics for CrossFit / Gym sessions / Fun Runs / Marathons

The Samoa Tourism Authority’s Information Centre is located opposite the Mulivai Cathedral on Beach Road, Apia.

Tipping is not expected but certainly appreciated for good service. The minimum wage in Samoa is currently $3.50 tala. It’s completely up to you how much you tip.

We do have street sellers around Apia. It’s ok to say no if you don’t want to purchase their goods.

Most restaurants accept VISA/MasterCard. Check if they add a credit card surcharge to your transaction. (We don’t add a surcharge)

Travel Insurance is a must these days - check what your insurer will cover regarding Covid-19 / Medi-evac etc. If you do get sick while here, there are private GPs or go straight to the Out-Patients department at the National Hospital. (Take your passport & expect to wait as it’s a first come, first serve basis except for emergencies). The local pharmacies are also helpful if you need medications - they may be able to supply without a prescription. Just ask. We use Maria’s Pharmacy & Niu Pharmacy.

We don’t have Malaria or Rabies on island, but we do occasionally have outbreaks of mosquito borne illnesses like Dengue Fever. Mosquitos love the dawn/dusk periods of the day, so it pays to use insect repellant if outdoors.

Stick to bottled water when out & about. The suppliers are tested & certified regularly. It is generally safe to have ice cubes in your drink too. Check if your accommodation’s tap water is drinkable as more and more places are installing UV filter systems.