Meet the indigenous Polynesian people and indulge in their culture in Apia. You can enjoy the music of native bands, watch the fire knife dance, and discover Fa'a Sadamo, or "the Samoan Way." Relax on beaches, go snorkeling, and enjoy the nightlife of Apia in various bars and nightclubs. Traditional Samoan houses and buildings from the 19th century stand alongside colonial churches and buildings, providing you a contrast of both the new and the old in Apia.
This guide can help you discover some of the best things to do while in Apia, as well as precautions to keep in mind to help you stay safe. It will also provide valuable information about purchasing Apia travel insurance to protect your finances.
Apia Travel Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Your trip to Apia not only involves monetary expenses, but also your time and energy. In the event of a cancellation, you cannot recover the lost time and effort, but you can get a refund for your financial expenses. Trip cancellation insurance can provide you with a way to be reimbursed if your trip has to be canceled.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Apia?
Samoa is prone to earthquakes, tsunamis, and cyclones, so your tickets could get canceled due to extreme weather conditions. A personal emergency or illness might mandate the cancellation of your trip as well.
In such a scenario, you may discover that the money you've already spent on airline tickets, hotel reservations, tour guides, etc. is nonrefundable, or will charge you fees if you cancel. When you have no choice but to cancel your trip, Apia insurance can allow you to get refunded for your prepaid travel expenses. This way, you don't have to pay for a trip you never got to enjoy taking.
What can be covered under trip cancellation insurance for Apia?
- Trip cancellation due to a reason covered by the policy
- Flight delay
- Trip interruption
- Repatriation of remains
- Cancellation of your trip for any reason, with certain plans
Select a travel insurance plan with the benefits and level of coverage that best suit your needs. Examine the policy wording of a plan carefully before purchasing it. This way you'll have a thorough understanding of what can be covered and what cannot.
Things to Do for Travelers in Apia
Samoa Cultural Village
You can experience Samoa's culture and traditions at the Samoa Cultural Village by participating in their workshops on weaving, woodworking, and siapo cloth making. Although you can visit the village on any weekday, the interactive sessions held on Tuesdays and Thursdays are the best way to discover the culture.
Palusami
Have an organic meal made by locally sourced produce at Palusami. The meals combine exquisite Samoan flavors with international favorites, resulting in fusion dishes like coconut beef stroganoff. Try the Niu (coconut) cocktails; they are served in shells.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral
Visit this breathtakingly beautiful cathedral and view its ornate timber-crafted ceilings, dazzling stained-glass windows, and vast interior. You can join the service, but make sure to view the statues in the exterior gardens before you leave.
Papapapaitai Falls
A 30-minute drive from central Apia, Papapapaitai Falls is a must-visit because of its spectacular view. Reconnect with nature at these 100-meter-high falls cascading into a deep gorge surrounded by lush rainforest.
Maketi Fou
Make sure to get some souvenirs from Maketi Fou, open 24/7, and abuzz with local merchants. You can find siapo, woodcarvings, coconut shell jewelry, lava-lava, and T-shirts. Make sure to grab a cool, refreshing coconut drink.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Apia
Crime
Pickpockets can target tourists in any popular area, and Apia is no exception. Do not flash your money, cards or wear extravagant jewelry, and be especially careful when handling money around ATMs.
Road safety
Traffic in Apia's Central Business District can be very dense, so keep that in mind while traveling. There are also many unlicensed drivers on the roads, so be extra careful. Driving outside of the city center of Apia can be challenging due to poor maintenance of roads, potholes, and occasional floods.
Roaming dogs
Many households in Apia have dogs, and they aren't always restrained. It can be common to see dogs walking unattended along the streets at all hours. Though most are surely friendly, it's best not to take a chance. Don't approach or touch unfamiliar animals.
Natural disasters
Samoa is located in a region known as the Ring of Fire, where seismic and volcanic activity can be possible. The region can also be affected by cyclones. Keep an eye on weather and earthquake reports before traveling, and keep your passport in a safe, waterproof location in case you need to leave quickly.
Health risks
Visiting Apia can increase your risk of contracting diseases like typhoid, hepatitis, filariasis, and tuberculosis. To reduce your risk, speak to your doctor to make sure you have all appropriate vaccinations and boosters, drink only bottled water, avoid ice cubes, and do not consume raw or undercooked food.
Before You Travel to Apia - Do This
- Carry mosquito repellent. Not only are mosquitoes an annoyance, they can also carry disease.
- Bring enough of any prescription drugs you must take to last the entirety of your trip. You most likely will not be able to refill your prescription in Apia.
- Protect your budget from the financial pitfalls of illnesses and mishaps with travel insurance.