Samoa is an independent island country in the Polynesian Islands consisting of two main and several smaller islands. The history of the island can be traced back to 3,500 years ago, when the first inhabitants started settling here.
Over the centuries, the Samoans have developed a deep-rooted cultural identity, and they are very proud of their language.
Samoa has been under the rule of various countries like Germany and New Zealand, and yet the indigenous Samoans have remained fiercely protective of their identity and the communal living practices they follow. Traveling to Samoa offers a diverse range of experiences, but before you leave, be sure to buy travel medical insurance to protect yourself against any unforeseen accidents, injuries, or illnesses.
Samoa Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
Medical insurance acts as a financial backup in case of health emergencies. If you are traveling to another country, travel medical insurance can meet your treatment costs in foreign land.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Samoa?
Travel medical insurance is not compulsory if you plan a trip to Samoa.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Samoa?
While buying travel medical insurance is not mandatory before traveling to Samoa, you should still do so.
Medical facilities in Samoa are not as advanced as in Europe or the U.S., and those with serious illnesses often have to be evacuated for adequate care. A Samoa travel medical insurance plan could help you meet the costs, provided that it covers emergency medical evacuation.
Things to Do for Travelers In Samoa
Here are some of the best things to try out in this amazing island country:
- Driving to Lalomanu Beach: The drive to Lalomanu Beach will take you through lush, tropical greenery. It is one of the top spots for snorkeling in the country. The beach is full of turtles, and a swim in the clear waters will get you up close and personal with several colorful fish. You can also take a ten-minute boat ride to the nearby Namua Island for a picnic.
- Visiting Palolo Deep Marine Reserve: Located in Apia, this is a perfect spot for those who want to indulge in some sea adventure. You can swim underwater to see coral and (if you are lucky) some reef sharks. Diving gear is available at the reserve. It can be a very educational trip for kids, as they will get to know about some really rare varieties of marine life.
- Hike to Peapea Caves: If you want to rough it out through tropical forests, then a hike to the Peapea Caves will give you all the excitement you want. However, the caves can only be visited between April and November. The caves are located in the O le Pupu-Pue National Park, and you will come across many rare species of birds, trees, and orchids during your hike.
- Taking Photos of Lava Fields: If you want to experience something really rare, then head for the lava fields on Savai’i. These fields attract scores of photographers each year. Mt. Matavanu, one of the highest points in the island country, smokes frequently, which gives photographers some great shots of this natural phenomenon.
- Touring Flea Markets for Knickknacks: If you love indigenous goods, then Samoa is one of the best places to get some. Most of the items sold here—like sarongs, straw hats, wooden jewelry, carved stone figurines of ancient mythical creatures, and so much more—are handmade by the locals. The farmer’s market brings in fresh produce from the nearby farmlands. Do not miss out on the fresh catches from the sea and the sumptuous seafood dishes that they become.
Travel Risks for International Travelers In Samoa
Samoa is a safe country to travel to, and the people are friendly and warm. Nevertheless, there are some things you should be sure to watch out for.
- Natural disasters: Since Samoa consists of islands, it is vulnerable to natural hazards like cyclones. The country is mostly at the ocean’s mercy, and cyclones and tsunamis of various magnitudes occur from time to time. Try to avoid the monsoon season while visiting Samoa, because the rains make it worse.
- Diseases: Samoa harbors some illnesses typically found in tropical countries, as well as in the Pacific island countries. Make sure you have taken vaccines for illnesses like yellow fever, typhoid, chickenpox, measles, hepatitis A and B, meningitis, and pneumonia. Your travel medical insurance should also cover the cost of treatment of these illnesses should you contract them during your stay.
- Accidents: Freak accidents could occur any time. You could injure yourself during a hike or sustain injuries while rock climbing. You could also be bitten by some sea creatures during a dive or insects during a hike. While these are very unlikely to happen, it would be prudent to safeguard yourself against such unforeseen incidents beforehand.
- Hitchhiking scams: Because the tourist population in Samoa is steadily on the rise, some antisocial elements take it as an opportunity to rob unsuspecting travelers. They pose as travelers themselves and request to hitchhike. Once in the car, they often overpower the tourists and rob them of cash and belongings like cameras and watches. Never allow hitchhikers in your vehicle or tag along with them.
- Trip Cancellation: If your tour operator cancels your trip and you have already paid for it, then you can lose money. Sudden cancellations in hotel bookings can happen in case of an emergency. You should also have travel insurance to protect you against the loss of valuables during such incidents. Make sure not to travel at night—or if you have to, travel only with a group of people you know.
Before You Travel to Samoa…
Before traveling to Samoa, do the following:
- Immunize yourself against diseases like yellow fever, dengue, hepatitis A and B, cholera, and measles.
- Make sure you carry mosquito repellent sprays. Sleep under a mosquito net, and get yourself checked if you find yourself feverish or begin having tremors.
- Try to stay updated with the local news, and do not rely too much on public transport when traveling long distances, as they are the first ones to shut down during major unrest. A car rental would be better suited for these needs.
- Check the weather conditions before you travel to stay informed about impending natural disasters like hurricanes, cyclones or tsunamis.