Samoa Statistics

Geography-Population

Capital:  Apia

Area:  2,831 sq km

Climate:  tropical; rainy season (November to April), dry season (May to October)

Population:  193,161 (July 2011 est.)

Languages:  Samoan (Polynesian) (official), English

Government-Economy

Government type: parliamentary democracy

National holiday: Independence Day Celebration, 1 June (1962); note - 1 January 1962 is the date of independence from the New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship; it is observed in June

Independence Day: 1 January 1962 (from New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship)

Currency : Tala (SAT)

GDP: $1.002 billion (2010 est.)

GDP - per capita (PPP): $5,200 (2010 est.)

Information for Foreign Students in Samoa

Obtaining a Visa

Since visa requirements are different according to the departure country, we highly advise travelers to contact the embassy or to go on its website.

Housing

Link for hostels:http://www.samoa.travel/accommodation.aspx

Health

Health insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers. All health services available to locals are accessible to foreigners usually at minimal cost to the traveller. Emergency medical facilities are available at Moto'otua Hospital, in Apia. Private medical and dental treatment is also available.

Money

Cash machines can be easily found in and around Apia and on Savai'i. Credit cards: American Express, Cirrus, MasterCard and Visa are accepted on a limited basis. ATMs are located in and around Apia and on Savai'i.

Transportation

Traffic drives on the left. Drivers should be alert, especially at night, to the hazard of roaming pigs, dogs and people. Public transport covers most of the islands. There are no timetables; policeat the New Market Bus Stand in Apia have information on bus departures.
Taxis are cheap and readily available in Apia. They are not metered and prices should be negotiated in advance. There is a minimum charge of $2. Longer trips are at a higher rate but are government regulated.

Keeping in touch

Internet and e-mail services are available in Apia and other locations around the islands. Broadband Internet cafes are available in Apia and Savai'i. For mobile phones, Samoa has its own analogue mobile phone system operated byTelecom Samoa. Visitors with analogue phones can be assigned a new number for the duration of their stay and calls will be charged to their credit card.
It is possible to rent cars, bicycles and motor scooters. They are available from several agencies. Deposit and insurance are usually required.