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Guide
Pago Pago, Samoa πΌπΈ
#1678
,
Nomad Score:
46%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Pago Pago is the capital of American Samoa, located on the island of Tutuila. It serves as a significant harbor and has a rich Polynesian culture. |
π₯ Population | approximately 11,500 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | average download speed of 20 Mbps. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD is the official currency. ATMs are available, and major credit cards are accepted at some places. |
π° Tap Water | Not consistently drinkable; it's advisable to drink bottled water. |
π Power | 120V, 60Hz, πΊπΈ Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include BlueSky and AST Telecom, offering prepaid SIM card options. |
π³ Banking for Expats | HSBC and ANZ provide services, with international banks' presence catering to expats. |
π Accommodation | Options include local guesthouses, hotels, and Airbnb. Prices vary significantly. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Limited cashless options; cash is often preferred. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local rental agencies can provide short-term lodging options. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostels such as Busy Bee and local guesthouses offer budget options. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The waterfront area near the harbor is popular for its views and accessibility. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Aga Reef Resort provides a quiet environment suitable for remote work. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | There are currently no dedicated coworking spaces in Pago Pago. |
β Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Bean provides a comfy atmosphere with Wi-Fi for remote work. |
πΌ Networking Events | Local community events are typically organized through social media or local expat groups. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Meetups can often be found on platforms like Facebook or through the American Samoa Chamber of Commerce. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | N/A; local taxis are available, but apps like Lyft are not present. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Limited; local rental agencies might offer bikes, but availability varies. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Pelehulehu Beach, approximately 25 minutes away, is a favored spot. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Hawaiian Airlines provides regional connections. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | Hawaiian Airlines and Samoa Airways connect to international destinations. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Main road access via the costal road that encircles Tutuila Island. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Public transport is minimal; buses operate but schedules are not consistent. |
π Public Transport Passes | Bus fares range from $1 to $3 per ride; no advanced pass systems available. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses and taxis are the primary means to travel around the island. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | LBJ Tropical Medical Center is the main hospital, providing a range of services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Yoga classes are limited; check local community boards. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | There are few small gyms available; most communities have outdoor exercise areas. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Self-service laundromats are scarce; local services can handle laundry at reasonable prices. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Local eateries offer limited delivery; 'Bite Me' is a common service. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | palusami (taro leaves in coconut cream) and fresh fish are local delicacies. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited availability; consider local markets for fresh produce. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | Tapaau Bakery is known for its traditional local sweets. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Pago Pago Marketplace offers local goods at reasonable prices. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon can deliver, but shipping can take longer due to distance. |
π Grocery Delivery | Most groceries need to be purchased in-store; few stores offer delivery. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | The Manu'a Bar is popular among locals for entertainment. |
π» Local Brewery | Samoan brews are available at local bars; however, American brands dominate. |
π· Wine Bars | Limited wine bars; supermarkets offer a basic selection. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street vendors offer various local snacks; be cautious about food safety. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Pizza and Chinese food are available in several restaurants. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The National Park of American Samoa and the iconic Mount Alava are must-visit spots. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Fagatogo Market and local cultural exhibits display Samoan heritage. |
π° Historical Sites | The remains of WWII coastal defenses around the harbor are significant. |
π Religious Sites | The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is a main religious attraction. |
π Annual Events | Samoan Independence Day is celebrated in July with cultural events. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | Aga and Fagatogo are known for their cultural significance. |
π Theater Venues | Local community theaters occasionally host performances; check local listings. |
ποΈ Local Markets | The Fagatogo Market operates on Saturdays and offers fresh produce and crafts. |
πΌ Music Scene | Local music events feature traditional Samoan music and dance; artisanal showcases are common. |
π¨ Street Art | Community murals can be found in various neighborhoods, showcasing local culture. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Occasional cooking classes focus on traditional Samoan cuisine; inquire locally. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | Local galleries display Samoan artwork; inquire in cultural districts. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Several colonial structures offer insight into the region's history. |
π΄ Local Heritage | Tapa cloth making and traditional tattooing are significant cultural practices. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | The National Park of American Samoa offers diverse hiking trails and scenic beaches. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | The park is home to tropical rainforests and marine habitats. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Limited, primarily along coastal roads; local residents enjoy walking paths in urban areas. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | The viewpoint at Rainmaker Mountain provides stunning panoramas. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | The national park is ideal for birdwatching with endemic species present. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Many beaches allow bonfires; check local regulations before starting. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | Postal service operates, but delays are common. Private courier services are available. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | Few local repair shops exist; travel to the main city may be needed for services. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Community centers might have tables; availability is limited. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Local language centers offer Samoan language classes; availability varies. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | The American Samoa Community College has limited library services. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Community centers often host events and activities for locals and expats. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Limited options; gaming occurs more at home or social gatherings. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos are present in American Samoa. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $100,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $72,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,700 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $162,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $132,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,900 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $232,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $192,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | No corporate tax; companies are not taxed on income. |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% for companies incorporated in American Samoa. |
π¦ Tax System | Tax base is solely derived from local income; no individual income tax. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 0%; there are no personal income taxes. |
π§Ύ VAT | No value-added tax is applied in American Samoa. |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC rules apply. |
π Property Tax | Property tax is minimal; local assessments determine rates. |
π Property Transaction Tax | No real estate transfer taxes are imposed. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | 0% tax on worldwide income for residents, making it appealing for digital nomads. |