Yearbook 2009
Samoa. According to countryaah, Prime Minister Tuila’epa Sailele Malielegaoi, at the beginning of the year, warned in a letter to government officials about corruption, specifically mentioning foreign investors who are buying benefits and depriving the country of huge profits. See ABBREVIATIONFINDER for abbreviation WSM which stands for the nation of Samoa.
The battle over the planned transition to left traffic continued during the year. However, the government’s line triumphed and in September the shift took place. During the transition, the population was given two days off for traffic to be reduced, and alcohol consumption was also banned for three days.
In September, Samoa suffered a natural disaster that killed nearly 150 people and caused major damage to agriculture and infrastructure. Entire villages were eradicated and thousands of people became homeless. An earthquake in the sea off the island caused several tsunamis. One of the river waves was close to three meters high and over a hundred meters wide, and poured far into the island. The government advertised disaster conditions and received aid broadcasts from the outside world.
Attractions
Trips
There are no regular ferry services to the smaller islands, so they are not easily accessible. Some hotels and eco-villages organize excursions to the smaller islands and villages.
Shopping
Overview
Siapo (tapa) fabrics made from mulberry bark, mats, baskets, hardwood kava drinking bowls, shell jewelry and postage stamps. Shop opening hours: Mon-Fri 08.00-12.00 and 13.30-16.30, Sat 08.00-12.30. Some shops do not have a lunch break.
Nightlife
Introduction
There are nightclubs. Some cinemas show English and Chinese films (with English subtitles).
Culinary
Overview
There are hotel restaurants. Various Chinese dishes are offered in some restaurants, while there are some fast food outlets in Apia. Samoan feasts traditionally feature dishes such as seafood, suckling pig, chicken, breadfruit and exotic fruits. Drinks: Kava is the national drink. The local beer is also recommended. On Sundays, only hotel guests and their companions are served spirits.
Accommodation
Hotels
Hotels in Samoa offer high standards at moderate prices. Some hotels also offer full board. There are also a few hotels in the rural regions, including on the south coast of Upolu and on Savai’i.
Culture
Religion
34.8% Congregational, 19.6% Catholic, 15% Methodist and other, predominantly Christian, denominations.
Social Rules of Conduct
Manners: The social system of the “extended family” is connected to the overriding political system. Clothing: Casual clothing is usually appropriate, ties are rarely expected. Women should wear dresses in more remote resorts and hotels. Swimwear belongs on the beach. Tips are not expected, but small gifts are gladly accepted.
Climate
Best travel time
Warm tropical climate; between May and September the trade wind blows. There are hardly any temperature differences, only at night it is cooler. Most precipitation falls from December to April.
Country data
Phone prefix
+685
Area (sq km)
2831
Population
198,414
Population density (per square km)
70
Population statistics year
2019
Main emergency number
999