Cheap Flights to Apia

Cheap Flights to Apia, Samoa (APWW)

Why visit Apia?

Nestled in the heartland of Polynesia, Apia is the capital of Samoa, and has remained fairly untouched by the sweeping hand of tourism. Still a little undiscovered, Samoa has all the trappings of paradise with none of the typical hawkers and flashy resorts that have moved in on many of its Oceanic neighbours. Having retained its traditional soul, visiting Samoa, and the isle of Upolu, will feel like a privileged look into the idyll. Throw your cares away and walk into a true island escape.

Things to do in Apia

The main attractions for anyone visiting Samoa’s island of Upolu are primarily natural ones. Visit Tafa Tafa Beach and lay on its pristine sand, hike to the Papapapaitai Falls—the tallest in Samoa, splash around in the glassy pools of the Papaseea Sliding Rocks, and dive beneath the water in the Palolo Deep Marine Reserve, a series of island experiences you won’t soon forget.

For inner city attractions, head to the lively fish market on Sunday mornings, or go on the Vailima Brewery Tour if you fancy a tipple. You can also stroll along the sea wall on a sunny day, and don’t forget to add the fascinating Museum of Samoa to your itinerary, it will help you learn about the Samoan people and their country.

Cultural attractions include the unusual (and very cute) Robert Louis Stevenson Museum, where the celebrated Scottish author of Treasure Island and Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, once lived. If you take the time to walk to where the author is buried, in the Mount Vaea National Reserve, you will be treated to spectacular views of the city, and you can even dip in the plunge pool that Stevenson himself used to cool off in. Other highlights include the Samoa Cultural Village, where visitors can participate in interactive workshops that teach visitors about life in a traditional community.

Best time to visit Apia

· The best time to book a holiday to Apia is in the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this season you can relax in temperatures of about 29°C, and swim in warm waters that average in the low 20s.

· The wet season in Apia is between November and April, and best steered clear of, unless you love the rain.

Best time to book

· Try to book your flights about 17 weeks before you plan on leaving, as that will give you a chance at some of the most competitive prices.

Expect to pay

· Samoan Tala (WST).

· In Apia, you can purchase a regular cup of coffee for about 7.50WST ($4).

Arriving in Apia by plane

· It is likely that when you fly into Apia you will be directed to Faleolo International Airport (APW). Virgin Australia flies into this airport, as does Fiji Airways and Air New Zealand.

· APW is 40km from Apia, but there are links into the downtown area. You will find currency exchange, car rental and bathroom facilities all within the terminal.

· There are direct routes that depart from Brisbane (BNE) and Sydney (SYD) to APW.

Visa requirements

· Australian travellers are advised to contact their nearest Consulate or Embassy of Vanuatu for the latest information, but generally you will find that if you hold an Australian passport you will be issued a visitor stay of up to 30 days (provided there is at least 6 months validity left on your passport).

Transportation to city centre

· Taxis will cost you about 2000-4000WST ($25-50). If you’d like to arrange an airport transfer to set your mind at ease, this can be done with the Skyscanner search tool.

· There are also car rental desks available to passengers if you are planning to drive for the duration of your holiday, and online search engines where you can reserve the car you want in advance.

Where to stay in Port Vila

· Many hotels cluster alongside the harbour to make the most of the sea views, but you can book anywhere in town and be close to all of the attractions of the city, so look for, and book, a hotel that you like, or something within your price range.

Useful tips before you go

· If you pass through villages on a Sunday, please be quiet and respectful.

· Generally nude and topless sunbathing is frowned upon in Samoa.

Please note that the information provided above is accurate as of May 2016