Climate and clothing: Climate is mild and equable. Temperature varies between 16 C (61 F) and 34 C (93 F) with a mean temperature of 26 C (80 F). March is the hottest month, July and August the coolest, but humidity is high at all times. Tropical lightweight clothing is advisable all year. Informal dress may be worn on all occasions.

Entry requirements: No visa required for visits up to 30 days; an onward ticket must be presented. For longer visits, application should be made for an entry permit at the nearest New Zealand or British Embassy. In urgent cases, a person may travel to Western Samoa without a visa and request an extended stay from the Chief Immigration Officer.

Health: Western Samoa is free from malaria. Visitors should not drink tapwater. A national hospital is in Apia, and there are district hospitals around the islands of Upolu and Savai'i. Private medical practitioners are available in Apia.

Telecommunications: Domestic and international telephone, telex, and telegraph services are available. Western Samoa is seven standard time zones behind eastern standard time.

Transportation: Regular air service is available between Western Samoa and New Zealand, Tonga, Cook Islands, Fiji and Vanuvatu. A weekly flight goes to Sydney, and there are several flights daily to Pago Pago, as well as ferry service. Within the country, daily air and ferry service is available between Apia, on the island of Upolo, and the larger island of Savai'i. Taxis, buses, and rental cars are also available. All tourist facilities can be reached by car or within walking distance of access roads.

Holidays:

New Year, January 1-2; Good Friday, varies; Easter Monday, varies; ANZAC Independence, June 1-3; Monday after White Sunday, October 13; Arbor Day, November 7; Christmas, December 25; Boxing Day, December 26.

Source: U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Public Affairs, December 1985.