The American Samoa, an unincorporated territory of the U.S.A, consists of a group of islands located in the South Pacific. The islands are roughly halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. The tropical destination offers beautiful beaches and reefs, impressive mountains, and charming villages. It’s a terrific places to go if you’re looking for a quiet and relaxing vacation spot, and it is not typically overrun with tourists. To travel to the American Samoa, you’ll need a valid passport and a return ticket. If you’d like to plan a trip there, you’ll want to know when the best time is to visit and what to expect while you’re there. Here are a few tips for planning your vacation to the American Samoa.
- When to Go. The American Samoa is a tropical region, and you’ll get the best weather if you visit during the area’s dry season, between the months of May and October. The wet season, which occurs between November and April, may be less comfortable, if not because of the rain (which occurs mostly at night) then because of the increased levels of humidity in the area. The American Samoa’s busiest time is around December and January, because this is often the time when Samoan expats living in the states or in Australia and New Zealand return home for the holidays. If you intend to visit around this time of year, be sure to make your travel arrangements well ahead of time.
- What to Bring. When traveling to the American Samoa, it’s a good idea to pack light. The airplanes that travel between the islands are quite small, and passengers are limited to 50 lbs worth of luggage. Hawaiian Airlines has the same 50 lb limitation for Pago Pago passengers. Shorts and T-shirts are acceptable wear nearly anywhere, and modest swimwear is expected at the beach. You’ll want to have comfortable walking shoes, and hikers planning on mountain climbing should bring sturdy hiking boots and necessary gear. Those wishing to snorkel should also pack their snorkeling gear.
- Money. The American dollar is the currency in use in the American Samoa. Visitors should bring cash or traveler’s checks and should not plan on being able to use credit cards. ATM machines are available in Pago Pago, but may be sparse in other places. Tipping is not typically done in American Samoa, and is generally not encouraged. The only time tipping may be considered acceptable is for extraordinary service at fine dining establishments.
Residents of the American Samoa tend to be traditional and conservative. It is considered respectful to ask villagers for permission before taking pictures or using the beach. Some activities that are fine on other days may not be permitted on Sundays, as it is observed as a day for church and for rest. Villagers observe a prayer time, known as Sa, around twilight each evening, and if you are entering a village during Sa, it is respectful to stop and wait quietly until the ritual ends. It is important to remember to be respectful of local customs during your stay.
