Planning a trip to Samoa and wondering, “Can I Travel To Samoa Right Now?” Here’s what you need to know about safety, local laws, and travel advisories to help you prepare for your trip. Samoa offers stunning natural beauty, but being aware of potential risks is crucial for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Understanding Criminal Penalties in Samoa
When visiting Samoa, it’s essential to understand that you are subject to Samoan laws. Even unknowingly breaking these laws can lead to serious consequences, including expulsion, arrest, or imprisonment. If you intend to start a business or work in Samoa, ensure you obtain the necessary permits and licenses from local authorities before beginning any work.
Drug-Related Offenses
Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking illegal drugs in Samoa are severe. If convicted, you can expect lengthy jail sentences and substantial fines.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence of alcohol is an arrestable offense in Samoa.
U.S. Law Applicability
Note that some laws are prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local laws. For more information, refer to the U.S. Department of State’s crimes against minors abroad page and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification Procedures
If you are arrested or detained in Samoa, you have the right to request that the police or prison officials immediately notify the U.S. Embassy. Further information can be found on the U.S. Department of State’s webpage regarding arrests.
Behavior Modification Facilities
There is a behavior modification facility operating in Samoa. While this facility might have U.S. citizens as staff, the Samoan government is responsible for ensuring it complies with local safety, health, sanitation, and educational laws. The standards in these facilities may differ from those in the United States. U.S. citizens who want to return to the United States can request assistance from the U.S. Embassy in Apia or the Office of American Citizens Services, Bureau of Consular Affairs.
Safety Precautions in Samoa
Stray Dogs
Stray dogs are common in Apia and many villages.
Avoid approaching or feeding them, as they may become aggressive if they feel threatened or are around food. There have been reports of attacks by multiple dogs. Exercise caution when walking, running, or biking near stray dogs.
Ferry Service Safety
Vessels are sometimes overloaded. The multi-deck automobile ferries occasionally transport passengers on the automobile deck.
To prevent injuries, ride only in the passenger compartment. Riding on the automobile deck during crossings is not recommended.
Blowholes
Samoa is known for its blowholes, lava tubes open to the sea that produce geysers due to wave action.
The footing around these blowholes can be slippery. Maintain a safe distance to avoid being swept in, and never stand between the blowhole opening and the sea.
Financial Transactions in Samoa
Businesses in Apia and resorts may or may not accept major credit cards like Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. Most gas stations and businesses outside of Apia only accept cash. You can withdraw Samoan currency from ATMs at Faleolo Airport, Salelologa, and various locations in Apia. For more information on ATM locations and banking services, visit the ANZ Bank website or the BSP website.
Disaster Preparedness
Samoa is situated in the “Ring of Fire,” an area with high seismic activity, making it prone to earthquakes and tsunamis.
The rainy or monsoon season in the South Pacific lasts from November to April, bringing strong winds, heavy rains, landslides, and service disruptions. For information on tropical cyclone preparedness, check the Crisis and Disaster Preparedness webpages and NOAA’s Hurricane Preparedness Guide. Information about all types of natural disasters is available on the CDC webpages.
Customs Regulations
Samoan customs authorities enforce strict regulations regarding the import and export of items, including firearms, fruits, honey, pets, and other animals. Contact the Samoan Mission to the United Nations at (212) 599-6196 for specific customs requirements or consult the Samoa Ministry of Revenue website.
Additional Information for Specific Travelers
Faith-Based Travelers
[Link to Faith-Based Travelers Information]
International Volunteers
[Link to International Volunteers Information]
LGBTI Travelers
Same-sex sexual relations are illegal in Samoa, punishable by prison terms of up to seven years under the Crimes Ordinance 1961 and the Crimes Act of 2013. Samoa does not recognize same-sex relationships, marriage, or adoption by same-sex couples, and there are no anti-discrimination laws in place. See the LGBTI Travel Information page and section 6 of the Human Rights report for more details.
Travelers with Disabilities
There are no specific laws addressing the rights of people with disabilities in Samoa. While many major hotels, restaurants, and cafes are improving accessibility, expect limited accessibility in rural areas. Travelers with disabilities should confirm available accommodations with their hotel before booking. Some family-based beach accommodations in outer villages are also working to provide accessibility. New multi-story buildings often have ramps and elevators, but older public buildings may not. Navigation in Apia can be difficult for blind individuals or those using wheelchairs due to limited stoplights and sidewalks. Most buses and taxis do not accommodate wheelchairs. See the Travelers with Disabilities page for more information.
Students
Refer to the Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips for relevant information.
Women Travelers
Consult the travel tips for Women Travelers for specific advice.
Conclusion
Before you travel to Samoa, ensure you are well-informed about local laws, potential hazards, and necessary precautions. By staying informed and prepared, you can have a safe and memorable trip. Check the latest travel advisories and guidelines from the U.S. Department of State and other reliable sources to ensure you have the most up-to-date information before your departure. Knowing the answer to “can I travel to Samoa right now” involves more than just entry requirements; it’s about ensuring your safety and respect for local customs.
