Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Salelologa is the largest town on Savai'i, Samoa's biggest island, serving as a key transport hub. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1,500 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is about 10 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD is approximately 2.60 WST. ATMs are available but can be limited. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not recommended to drink tap water without purification. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V AC, 50Hz, using type I sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Available from Digicel and Vodafone, with various prepaid plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Common payment types include cash. Visa and Mastercard accepted at some locations. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options available include local guesthouses, Airbnb, and traditional Samoan fale. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited; cash is preferred in most local establishments. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are commonly used for short-term stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Samoa Beach Bungalows offers affordable lodging near the beach. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Staying near the waterfront offers beautiful views and easy access to local attractions. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Coastal accommodations around Salelologa are recommended for a peaceful work environment. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | There are no established coworking spaces in Salelologa; work can be done from cafes or accommodations. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Maluafagau Cafe offers a relaxed environment and WiFi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Local meet-up events are sporadic but can be found through community bulletin boards. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Facebook groups like 'Expats in Samoa' can help connect with others. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxi services are available, but no ride-hailing apps operate in Salelologa. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available at nearby hotels. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Manase Beach, approximately 30 minutes away, is the best beach for relaxation. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Samoa Airways is the primary airline connecting the islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Air New Zealand offers flights to Samoa from various international destinations. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The main road encircling Savai'i connects Salelologa to key locations. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Salelologa's ferry terminal connects to Apia and other parts of Savai'i. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Local buses are available, but passes are not officially recognized. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Local buses operate, but schedules may vary. Taxis are also common for short distances. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | The nearest major hospital is the Savaii Hospital, located in Salelologa. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options; local wellness retreats offer yoga occasionally. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic gym facilities located at several guesthouses. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Many guesthouses provide laundry services for a fee. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | No dedicated food delivery apps; however, local restaurants often offer takeout. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Palusami, a traditional Samoan dish made with taro leaves and coconut cream. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Limited; local markets and some restaurants offer fresh produce. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | In Salelologa, try the local coconut ice cream available at roadside vendors. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets sell fresh produce at reasonable prices. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited access; typical options include local retailers and Samoan goods. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | No grocery delivery services currently available. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Salelologa has a few local bars, but nightlife is quiet. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Beverage options are limited; consider local beers such as Vailima. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | No wine bars; alcohol is primarily available at supermarkets. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Local stalls sell traditional snacks like coconut buns. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Local restaurants generally focus on Samoan cuisine; international options are rare. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Salelologa Market is a vibrant spot for local culture and commerce. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | There are limited museums in the area; cultural experiences mainly occur through local events. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Cultural artifacts can be seen at local community centers. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Various churches around the area reflect the local culture. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Cultural festivals may take place throughout the year, showcasing local dances and crafts. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The town itself serves as a cultural district, rich with Samoan heritage. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Local performances can be found at community centers. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | The Salelologa Market provides a rich cultural experience on Saturdays. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live traditional music performances are occasionally enjoyed at local gatherings. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Limited; murals can occasionally be found around town. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Local families may offer cooking experiences; inquire at guesthouses. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | No formal galleries currently; art can be found at local markets. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Community centers and churches represent local history and architecture. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Samoan customs and traditions are celebrated in community gatherings. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Explore the nearby Savai'i Island's lush landscapes and beaches. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | The Saleaula Lava Fields are a unique natural site to explore. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Coastal roads provide picturesque options for biking and walking. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Visit the Afu Aau Waterfalls for stunning views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Manase Beach is a good spot for birdwatching. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated bonfire areas may be available at some local beaches. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local post office handles parcel delivery services. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited; small local shops may offer minor repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Community centers may have facilities for sports, including table tennis. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Limited availability; local schools may offer basic Samoan lessons. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | There is a small public library available for reading and study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local community centers often host events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | No specific gaming lounges are available in Salelologa. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | There are no casinos in Salelologa. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 10,000 WST per m² for central studios. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 8,000 WST per m² for studios further from central areas. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 12,000 WST per m² for 1-bedroom apartments. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 9,500 WST per m² for 1-bedroom apartments in suburban areas. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. 15,000 WST per m² for 2-bedroom apartments. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. 11,000 WST per m² for 2-bedroom apartments outside the city. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Corporate tax rate is 27%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Dividends are subject to a 15% withholding tax. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Samoa operates a territorial tax system. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 27%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 15%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are regulations governing CFCs. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax is assessed based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Property purchases are subject to a 5% transaction tax. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Samoa offers a tax system favorable for income earned locally and no capital gains tax. |