£1 WST 3.69
Today
4:52 pm
+13h from you
Weather in Samoa
Samoa
28°
Thunderstorm
Wed
23
28
Thu
23
28
Fri
23
28
Sat
23
27
Sun
23
29
SPF level in Samoa
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around Samoa
Tipping in Samoa
Tipping is not customary in Samoa, and service charges are generally not added to bills. While not expected, small tips for exceptional service are appreciated.
Restaurant
Not customary. 5-10% for exceptional service.
Bar/Café
Not customary. Rounding up is appreciated.
Taxi
Not customary. Rounding up is appreciated for good service.
Hotel Porter
WST 2-5 per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
WST 5-10 per day
Tour Guide
WST 10-20 for a good tour.
Safety in Samoa
Tips for British travellers
Samoa is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Dress modestly in towns and villages, as swimwear is only acceptable at beaches or near water.
Do not leave your belongings unattended and use hotel safes for valuables and passports.
It is illegal to drink alcohol in public, except at licensed bars or restaurants.
Be aware of powerful currents when swimming in ocean lagoons and always take local advice.
When driving, watch for children and animals on roads near villages and avoid driving at night.
Bonus tips:
Many UK mobile phones do not work, so you may need to buy and register a local SIM card.
Keep your distance from stray dogs, which are common and can become aggressive.
Driving in Samoa
A UK driving license is accepted for a short tourist visit. An International Driving Permit is recommended.
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
80 km/h
Urban speed limit
40 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.08%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
911
Save 911 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Samoa
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type I
UK adapter needed?
Yes
Samoa operates on 230V at 50Hz. The primary plug type is Type I. Visitors from the UK will need a plug adapter.
Cards & payments
Limited
Visa
Medium
Mastercard
Medium
American Express
Low
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
ATMs in Samoa
Limited
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are primarily located in Apia and larger towns. It's advisable to withdraw sufficient cash upon arrival, especially if traveling to more remote areas. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled.
Mobile & roaming
Roaming charges can be very high in Samoa. Check with your UK mobile provider for specific rates and consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable rates. EU roaming regulations no longer apply post-Brexit.
Local SIM data package
10 GB for 50 WST (~£14)
Network coverage
4G, 3G, 2G
Local carriers
Digicel Samoa, BlueSky Samoa
WiFi & internet
Limited
Average speed
10 Mbps
Wi-Fi is available in some hotels, cafes, and restaurants primarily in Apia, but coverage can be limited and speeds may vary. Consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan for more reliable internet access.
Health & vaccinations in Samoa
Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency evacuation. Check that your policy covers all the activities you plan to do in Samoa. You should seek medical advice from your GP prior to travelling.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
Medical facilities in Samoa are limited, particularly outside of Apia. Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation. There are risks of mosquito-borne diseases such as Dengue Fever and Zika Virus. Consider consulting your GP or a travel clinic for vaccinations and advice. Tap water is generally not safe to drink; bottled water is recommended.
Calling Samoa
Country code
+685
To call Samoa from the UK, dial 00 685 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Apia from the UK, you would dial 00 685 21701.
To call Samoa, you'll need the country code 685. When calling from abroad, first dial your country's exit code, then 685, and finally the local number. Mobile coverage can be limited in some areas.
UK Embassy in Samoa
British High Commission Apia
c/-Level 2, SNPF Plaza, Beach Road, Apia, Samoa
Airport in Samoa
Frequently asked questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.