American Samoa🇦🇸
American Samoa is a U.S. territory located in the South Pacific Ocean. This collection of five volcanic islands and two coral atolls is located halfway between Hawaii and New Zealand. Unlike many Pacific nations, American Samoa has a robust relationship with the United States, which provides significant funding and security. Known for its lush landscapes, traditional Polynesian culture, and vibrant marine life, American Samoa is a tropical paradise. Notable attractions include the National Park of American Samoa, the Rainmaker Mountain, and Pago Pago, a harbor town nestled between steep, verdant mountains. The most recommended activities include diving, hiking, and exploring the historical sites like StarKist tuna cannery, one of the islands' largest employers.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid disrespecting local customs and traditions. American Samoa has a strong Polynesian culture with significant social customs that visitors must respect.
- Avoid traveling without mosquito repellent, particularly in rainy season when mosquito-borne diseases are more prevalent.
- Avoid trekking alone in remote areas or without a guide due to risks from the rugged terrain.
- Avoid risky behaviors that could lead to needing medical assistance. Serious medical issues may require costly medical evacs to Hawaii or U.S. mainland.
- Avoid walking alone at night, especially in less populous areas.
- Avoid risky outdoor activities during cyclone season (November-April).
- Avoid swimming in waters without clear safety information as rip currents may be present.
- Avoid drinking tap water in rural areas without prior boiling or treating.
- Avoid disregarding local driving customs. Take care when driving due to irregular road conditions and local driving habits.
- Avoid disregarding sacred areas and sites, these should be treated with respect.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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American Samoa has a relatively low crime rate, especially violent crimes. Most reported crimes are property crimes like theft and burglary. Pago Pago, the territory's capital and largest city, has slightly higher crime rates, but it's still generally safe. Visitors are advised to take standard precautionary measures like not leaving valuables unattended.
Terrorism 💣
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There's no history of terrorist attacks in American Samoa till the end of 2021, making it quite safe in consideration of terrorist threats. It benefits from the security assurances of the U.S., and its remote location also mitigates the terrorism risk.
War ⚔️
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American Samoa is relatively isolated and has a secure relationship with the U.S., leading to a low risk of war or armed conflict. There are no current or historical incidences of war.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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The primary natural hazards faced by American Samoa are cyclones, floods, earthquakes and tsunamis. In 2009, a severe earthquake resulted in a tsunami, causing widespread damage and loss of life. As an island territory, it also faces the long-term risk of rising sea levels due to climate change.
Medical Care 🏥
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Medical care is limited in American Samoa, though there are adequate health facilities for routine treatment. For serious medical conditions, evacuation to Hawaii or mainland U.S. might be necessary. The Lyndon B. Johnson Tropical Medical Center in Pago Pago is the primary healthcare facility.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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Tap water is generally considered safe to drink in American Samoa, though quality may vary in rural areas. Visitors are advised to drink bottled water for reliability.
Disease Burden 🤒
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The most common diseases in American Samoa are non-communicable like diabetes and heart disease. Dengue fever, a mosquito-borne illness, has been reported occasionally. Given its tropical location, it's advisable to have protection against mosquitoes.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption is not a significant issue in American Samoa compared to other countries. However, there are occasional incidences of corruption, mostly tied to misuse of public funds. No significant incidents occurred till the end of 2021.
Safety for Women ♀️
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American Samoa is generally safe for women. Instances of harassment and violence against women are comparatively low. However, standard precautions should be taken, especially when travelling alone or at night.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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In American Samoa, homosexuality is legal but same-sex marriage isn't recognized. The society is known to be quite accepting, largely due to the presence of the culturally significant 'fa'afafine' — individuals who identify as a third-gender in Samoan culture. However, there are no specific laws protecting against discrimination based on sexuality.
Censorship 📺
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Freedom of speech and press are generally respected in American Samoa, and there's typically open and free private discussion. Internet access is unrestricted. Most broadcasting services are based in mainland U.S, hence follow the U.S regulations.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Public transportation is limited and inconsistent in American Samoa. The primary mode of public transport is a system of colorful buses. There are no rail networks, and only one airport, Pago Pago International Airport. Roads can be uneven and poorly lit, which combined with local driving habits, can lead to traffic accidents.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
American Samoa is generally safe with low risks of crime and terrorism. The biggest concern is natural disasters, particularly cyclones and earthquakes. Visitors should respect local customs, stay updated on local weather reports, and make necessary health and safety preparations.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
As a territory of the U.S., there are no foreign embassies in American Samoa. For consular help, one would typically contact the U.S. Department of State or the consulate of their respective country in the U.S.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Routine vaccines such as measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio, and a yearly flu shot are recommended. Travelers should also get Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccines as you can get these diseases through contaminated food or water.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Sharks, sea snakes, centipedes, and jellyfish are some of the potentially harmful sea creatures. Mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue fever, are of concern. Precautions against mosquito bites are recommended.
🛂 Visa Requirements
As it is a U.S. territory, American Samoa largely follows U.S. Visa policy. However, it maintains its own entry requirements. All visitors need a return ticket or onward journey ticket.
💲 Currency
The official currency is the U.S. dollar ($). ATMs are spread throughout the main island.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are widely accepted in American Samoa, especially in tourist areas and bigger towns.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Given the size and economic structure of American Samoa, opportunities for work and travel are limited. Most jobs are in public service or the tuna canning industry.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
American Samoa is more affordable compared to mainland U.S., but more expensive than many South Pacific islands. Costs are higher for goods due to the need for importation.