The local lavalava, which can be purchased anywhere, is comfortable and suitable. With the International Dateline passing just to the west of Samoa, the sunset of each day is last seen in Samoa. It is 11 hours behind GMT and six hours behind New York. It is advisable to check the source of all drinking water. Tap water should be boiled, but mineral water sourced from mountain springs is usually available, sometimes free, and is safe.
Bottled water is sold at stores and some hotels in the country.
Health Visitors are advised to have typhoid and hepatitis vaccinations if travelling to Samoa and are required to be vaccinated against Yellow Fever if arriving within six days of leaving or transiting an infected area. While there is some tuberculosis and filariasis in the country, if proper sanitation and hygiene are followed, the risks are minimal. Visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid drinking untreated water. Give immediate attention to coral cuts and other skin problems. Medical Facilities Samoa has one national hospital, four district hospitals and 28 health centres, and a number of private doctors and dentists, including the Alama Medical Clinic, Apia Medical Clinic, Dr. John Atherton, Faletoese Clinic, LTP Surgery and Saleufi Medical Clinic.