Mulifanua, Samoa 🇼🇸
#2099
-13.846299, -172.048623
Nomad Score:
55%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Mulifanua is a coastal village located on the island of Upolu in Samoa, known for its vibrant culture and access to the beautiful beaches. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1,500 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 10-30 Mbps, with options for fiber in select areas. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Samoan Tala (WST); 1 USD ≈ 2.65 WST. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, with Type I plugs. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Providers include Digicel and Vodafone; prepaid SIM cards available. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Major banks include ANZ and Westpac; online banking options are available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include beachfront bungalows, hotels, and guesthouses starting from around $50 per night. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Not widely cashless; cash preferred for most transactions. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are available for short-term stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Hostels and guesthouses like 'Samoa Beach Bungalows' offer affordable rates starting from $35 per night. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Currently, there are limited coworking options; freelancers often work from cafes. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The 'Mulifanua Cafe' offers free Wi-Fi and a relaxed working atmosphere. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Networking opportunities are limited; local community events can be found on Facebook. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Expat meetups are occasionally organized via social media groups. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis and 'Samoa Taxi Service' are the primary options; ride-sharing is not common. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Scooter rentals available at 'Samoa Rentals' starting from $20 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Mulifanua Beach is a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Samoa offers domestic flights to other islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Virgin Australia and Air New Zealand provide international flights. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Access to the main coastal road that connects the island's key locations. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | No train services; local buses operate between major towns. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Local buses offer pay-per-ride options; no monthly passes. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Inter-island ferries and flights are available to other islands in Samoa. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | The 'Samoa National Hospital' is located a short drive away in Apia. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options; look for classes at local community centers. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic gym facilities are available at larger hotels. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services available at local guesthouses. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Delivery services are rare; most dining options are dine-in. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Sample traditional 'Oka' (raw fish salad) at local eateries. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited, mainly at health-conscious cafes like 'Gluten-Free Cafe'. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Try 'Manuia Bakery' for local sweets and pastries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets offer fresh produce and traditional goods. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited online shopping; local markets are preferred. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery services are not widely available. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Limited nightlife; some bars open in Apia. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Samoa Brewery produces local beers; visit for tours. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited wine options; mostly available in Apia. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Street food is available at local markets; try 'Taro Chips'. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Restaurants offering international options can be found in Apia. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Mulifanua Wharf is a key historical site and transport hub. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Visit local cultural centers for exhibitions and performances. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Local churches and landmarks reflect Samoa's rich history. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Visit 'Mulifanua Catholic Church' known for its architecture. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Local festivals happen throughout the year, check community boards. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The entire village offers a glimpse into rural Samoan life. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Limited formal theater; community performances are held sporadically. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Mulifanua market offers crafts, produce, and local foods on weekends. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local music is prevalent during festivities; listen for traditional 'Fa'ato'aga'. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Limited street art observed; local art displayed in community events. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Look for traditional cooking classes offered in local homes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Artisans sell works in local markets rather than dedicated galleries. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Traditional Samoan fale (houses) can be seen throughout the village. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Mulifanua reflects Samoan heritage through its culture and traditions. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore the nearby beaches and waterfalls, including 'Papaseea Sliding Rock'. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | O Le Pupu-Puloto National Park is a short drive away. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Scenic coastal paths offer opportunities for cycling and walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Head to 'Falefa Falls' for stunning views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching is excellent in natural reserves around Upolu. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Beach areas allow small bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local post office handles parcel deliveries, with limited international options. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Basic electronic repair available in Apia; limited options in Mulifanua. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local community centers may have recreational facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Samoan language classes can be found sporadically in community centers. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Limited public libraries; local cafes are popular study spots. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Community gatherings and events held at the local village fale. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited gaming options; mostly found in Apia. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos are available in Mulifanua; entertainment is community-focused. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. WST 1,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = WST 60,000). |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. WST 1,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = WST 40,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. WST 1,800 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = WST 108,000). |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. WST 1,200 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = WST 72,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. WST 2,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = WST 160,000). |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. WST 1,600 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = WST 128,000). |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 27% standard corporate tax rate. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | No withholding tax on dividends. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Progressive tax system based on worldwide income for residents. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Max personal income tax rate is 27%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard Value Added Tax rate is 15%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No stringent CFC rules. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is based on local government assessments. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | A 5% tax applies to property transactions. |