Group trips to American Samoa

American Samoa is in the Samoa Time Zone, which is 11 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-11). There is no daylight saving time here. If it is 12pm in the UK, it will be 1am the same day in American Samoa. For the USA, if it's 12pm Eastern Time, it will be 6am the same day in American Samoa. Keep this in mind when planning your calls or activities!

The currency used in American Samoa is the United States Dollar (USD). There is no need to exchange currency if you already have USD with you. If you're coming from the UK or Europe, you should exchange your GBP or EUR to USD before arriving or use ATMs available in American Samoa to withdraw cash. Keep an eye on the daily exchange rates:

• 1 GBP is approximately 1.22 USD
• 1 EUR is approximately 1.05 USD

You can exchange currency at major banks or currency exchange offices.

In American Samoa, you can use cash and credit or debit cards for payments. Major credit cards are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or local markets. There are ATMs available, but they might be limited outside main areas, so plan accordingly. Travelers checks are not commonly used, so it's best to rely on cards and cash.

In American Samoa, tipping isn't as customary as it is in some other places, but it's always appreciated for good service. If you're dining at a restaurant, you might leave a tip of around 10 to 15 percent if you're pleased with the service. For hotel staff or taxi drivers, small tips are also welcome. While tipping is not mandatory, it's a nice gesture to show appreciation for good service.

In American Samoa, Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and cafes, but it can be spotty and not very fast. If you need reliable internet, we suggest you buy a local SIM card or an e-SIM data plan. Look for providers like Bluesky or ASTCA for options. Keep in mind that American Samoa is not part of the Schengen area, so roaming from Europe might not be available. Buying a local SIM will help you stay connected without high roaming fees.

In American Samoa, the official languages are English and Samoan. You will likely hear both languages used in everyday conversation. Here are some useful Samoan expressions you might encounter:

• Hello: Talofa
• Thank you: Fa'afetai
• Goodbye: Tofa
• Yes: Ioe
• No: Leai

Most locals are bilingual, so you should have no trouble getting by with English.

In American Samoa, you'll find Type A and Type B plugs, similar to those used in the United States. The standard voltage is 120 V, and the frequency is 60 Hz. If you're traveling from a country that uses different plug types, we suggest bringing a universal adapter to charge your devices comfortably. Make sure your devices are compatible with the voltage to avoid any issues.

In American Samoa, the main religion is Christianity. Most of the population is affiliated with various Christian denominations, such as Congregationalist, Roman Catholic, Methodist, and others. Religious practices play a significant role in community life on the islands.

There aren't specific dress requirements for visitors. However, it's a good idea to dress modestly when visiting churches or attending religious ceremonies. Important religious holidays include Christmas and Easter, which are widely celebrated with church services and community gatherings.

Packing for American Samoa is all about being ready for a tropical paradise. Here’s what you should pack in your backpack:

• Clothing:
  • Lightweight t-shirts
  • Shorts
  • Swimwear
  • Light rain jacket
  • Sarong or beach cover-up
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable sandals
  • Water shoes
  • Hiking boots or sturdy sneakers
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses
  • Sun hat
  • Waterproof phone case
  • Power bank
  • Camera
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Motion sickness tablets
  • Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen

Be prepared for warm weather and occasional rain, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of American Samoa.

American Samoa has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Here's a breakdown of the weather:

• Wet Season (November to April): High humidity, frequent rainfall, and possible cyclones. Temperatures range around 77°F to 90°F (25°C to 32°C).
• Dry Season (May to October): Less rain, lower humidity, and slightly cooler temperatures. Still warm, roughly the same temperature range as the wet season.

The best time to visit is during the dry season for more pleasant weather and fewer rain interruptions.