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About Samoa ...
Independent
Samoa, until recently known as Western Samoa, has two main islands
- Upolu and Savaii. About 4500km east of Australia, Samoa is in the
heart of Polynesia. |
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History & Culture Originally settled by people
over 3000 years ago by people from Fiji and Tonga, the islands have
several archeological sites, including the remnants of a pyramid
on Savaii, now overgrown.
European contact started in the 1700s, and by
the early 19th century whalers, escaped convicts and missionaries
had settled on the islands. An 1899 treaty made Germany the colonial
power in the western islands of Samoa (the eastern islands went
to the USA), but Samoans resisted the increasingly oppressive regime. |
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New Zealand took over control during WWI, but the
Samoans still sought independence, and in 1962 Western Samoa finally
became self governing under a new constitution.
English is widely spoken and many Samoans live, or
have lived, in New Zealand. In Samoa itself, the majority of people
work in agriculture and "fa Samoa" - the Samoan way -
is still the basis of social and community life. Samoans are devoutly
Christian and observe a quiet period of prayer called "sa"
at about 6.30 every evening as well as a day of rest on Sunday. |
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Visitor Information Visas:
A 30-day tourist holiday visa is granted on arrival.
Health:
Samoa is generally a healthy holiday destination with no malaria and low
risk of tropical diseases (there have been some occurrences of dengue
fever). Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A and B vaccinations are
advised as a precaution. Over exposure to the sun and infection
from coral cuts are the two main hazards for surfers - booties and
helmets are recommended. For very serious injuries evacuation to
New Zealand or Hawaii may be necessary. It is essential
to have adequate travel insurance to cover these possibilities.
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More Information:
* Lonely
Planet guide to Samoa
* Australian
Government travel advisories - Samoa
* Samoa
Visitors Bureau |
Import Restrictions:
Holiday visitors can bring a litre of spirits and 200 cigarettes. Quarantine
regulations prohibit any meat or plant products.
Dress
& Etiquette:
In towns and villages, both men and women should wear a shirt and
shorts or a skirt of at least knee length. Remove shoes when entering
a private house. Remember that Samoans observe a day of rest and
prayer on Sunday, so be sure not to create any disturbance. Remain
quiet and respectful during any family or community prayers. |
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