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Tatiana Motel -Tanugamanono
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About
#1 of 6 motels in Apia
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Value
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Located on the outskirts of Apia City within a 3 minutes walking distance to TTM Samoa National Hospital; Oceania University of Medicine and is also close to the National University of Samoa; Ministry of Education, RLS Museum and SPREP. Most popular location for families, medical students, conference/meeting participants, church, sports and school groups & those who like to be near town, not 'in' town in a peaceful, quality & relaxing environment at affordable unbeatable prices.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Paid internet
Children Activities (Kid / Family Friendly)
Non-smoking hotel
Laundry service
Room features
Refrigerator
Room types
Non-smoking rooms
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HOTEL STYLE
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Family
Location
Apia, Upolu Samoa
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Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
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Detailed Reviews
This is a basic hotel about a 25 minute walk or 5 minute taxi ride (5 Tala - or about $2.30 US ) from downtown Apia on the Cross Island road. 5 minutes walk from the hospital and close to the National University of Samoa and Fangalii Airport (if you are coming in from Pago.)
Rooms were air conditioned and clean and bright Bedding and towels were changed twice weekly or on request, a continental breakfast is included and there's tea and coffee and toast available 24/7. Laundry service is available at 10 Tala ($4 US) for a good sized bag) -- a bargain :-) Water is heated by solar energy so showers are cool to cold in the morning -- but good and hot from noon onwards.
This is not a luxury hotel but a great place for travelers who, like me, are on a tight budget and prefer to experience the local culture rather than the artificial westernized atmosphere of the resorts.
The most important component of the hotel is the family that runs it. Athene, the young, energetic, perpetually cheerful and helpful manager. Afoa and Brenda -- her parents -- who are the owners of the three Tatiana Hotels and the RSA club (Tatiana is Brenda's middle name) -- when you stay are Tatiana's you become a part of an extended family that consists of Athene, Afoa and Brenda and a the current group of medical students from around the world doing a Residency at the hospital. This extended family is amazingly close knit and welcoming -- it was a delight to stay there.
Athene is a wonder when it comes to booking those trips to the Beach Fales, -- she can certainly find the best prices :-) -- or for car rentals or a restaurant suggestion or reservation -- she is an amazing resource.
If you are a medical student looking for along term affordable accommodation, or a budget traveler looking for a clean bed and a warm welcome at a great price, Tatiana's is the place for you. I'd go back in a heartbeat!!!
Thanks Athene, Afoa and Brenda.
Rooms were air conditioned and clean and bright Bedding and towels were changed twice weekly or on request, a continental breakfast is included and there's tea and coffee and toast available 24/7. Laundry service is available at 10 Tala ($4 US) for a good sized bag) -- a bargain :-) Water is heated by solar energy so showers are cool to cold in the morning -- but good and hot from noon onwards.
This is not a luxury hotel but a great place for travelers who, like me, are on a tight budget and prefer to experience the local culture rather than the artificial westernized atmosphere of the resorts.
The most important component of the hotel is the family that runs it. Athene, the young, energetic, perpetually cheerful and helpful manager. Afoa and Brenda -- her parents -- who are the owners of the three Tatiana Hotels and the RSA club (Tatiana is Brenda's middle name) -- when you stay are Tatiana's you become a part of an extended family that consists of Athene, Afoa and Brenda and a the current group of medical students from around the world doing a Residency at the hospital. This extended family is amazingly close knit and welcoming -- it was a delight to stay there.
Athene is a wonder when it comes to booking those trips to the Beach Fales, -- she can certainly find the best prices :-) -- or for car rentals or a restaurant suggestion or reservation -- she is an amazing resource.
If you are a medical student looking for along term affordable accommodation, or a budget traveler looking for a clean bed and a warm welcome at a great price, Tatiana's is the place for you. I'd go back in a heartbeat!!!
Thanks Athene, Afoa and Brenda.
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Date of stay: July 2011Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Cleanliness
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
If you stay anywhere in Samoa you have to stay at the Tatiana motel. We stayed there for 6 weeks and were so sad to leave.The place is lovely, clean,huge communal area with flatscreen TV, comfortable beds and rooms, hot and cold water, A/C the works. But the best part is the people, the family, Athene, Papa and Brenda are the loveliest, encompassing everything that is great about the people of Samoa. Athene organised every detail of any excursion, recommending resturautns, deals at clubs and anything else we could imagine. Thank you so much and you would be a fool to stay anywhere else!
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Date of stay: August 2011Trip type: Travelled on business
Value
Rooms
Location
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Room Tip: Ask for the rooms away from the road- they have better air con and the water is warm. Be wary...
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I stayed at Tatiana's for 3 amazing weeks. The room was large and well furnished with my own shower and sink, air con, fan, comfy bed and was always spotlessly clean. The communal area was nice and airy with toast, cereal and fruit always on offer. There is an extensive supply of books to borrow and access to the internet (that you have to pay for but is the same price anywhere in samoa). We also made use of the pool which is owned by a friend of Sandra's and is a short walk up the road - a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
The best bit though was the family that own Tatiana: Sandra and mama and papa could not have been more welcoming, helpful or generally lovely. As someone that was travelling on my own I genuinely felt at home as soon as I arrived and nothing was too much bother. They gave us a tour around Apia in the car so we knew where the main things were. Sandra used to work in the tourist information and so guests basically have a personal tour advisor on hand! She had great recommendations and would book trips, cars and restaurants at the last minute (often getting us cheaper deals than friends that were staying at Lynn's or The Outrigger).
Sandra is also great fun on a night out...!
I had been told by friends that I must stay in Tatiana's and having been here myself I could not recommend Tatiana's more strongly! Especially for elective medical students as it is where the majority of medics seem to stay so there is a great social atmosphere and lots of people and up doing trips together. It is very near the hospital. For the money you pay I think it is the best accommodation of its kind as it really is too hot not to have air con and I think the social side of things is great and makes it impossible not to make friends.
Thanks very much for having me to stay!
The best bit though was the family that own Tatiana: Sandra and mama and papa could not have been more welcoming, helpful or generally lovely. As someone that was travelling on my own I genuinely felt at home as soon as I arrived and nothing was too much bother. They gave us a tour around Apia in the car so we knew where the main things were. Sandra used to work in the tourist information and so guests basically have a personal tour advisor on hand! She had great recommendations and would book trips, cars and restaurants at the last minute (often getting us cheaper deals than friends that were staying at Lynn's or The Outrigger).
Sandra is also great fun on a night out...!
I had been told by friends that I must stay in Tatiana's and having been here myself I could not recommend Tatiana's more strongly! Especially for elective medical students as it is where the majority of medics seem to stay so there is a great social atmosphere and lots of people and up doing trips together. It is very near the hospital. For the money you pay I think it is the best accommodation of its kind as it really is too hot not to have air con and I think the social side of things is great and makes it impossible not to make friends.
Thanks very much for having me to stay!
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Date of stay: January 2013Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I spend, 6 days in Tatiana and I cannot believe how poor the owner handle situations.
The staffs were great n very helpful, but the way they were treated is not fair. Anyway, the owner needs to put what his preaching online into practice.
Even thou my kids enjoy the swimming pool but it was unfortune that the owner's son took over the Tv room, and my kids had no choice but swimming. I have to say that the customer service needs improvement as well as the rooms itself. The main Tatiana is more a backpackers place, the price is very expensive to the kind of rooms and service u get. The owner, need to wake up and do something, cos if no one doesn't say anything, then u have been fooled n walked all over. You have to know how to spend your money when you go to islands..
The staffs were great n very helpful, but the way they were treated is not fair. Anyway, the owner needs to put what his preaching online into practice.
Even thou my kids enjoy the swimming pool but it was unfortune that the owner's son took over the Tv room, and my kids had no choice but swimming. I have to say that the customer service needs improvement as well as the rooms itself. The main Tatiana is more a backpackers place, the price is very expensive to the kind of rooms and service u get. The owner, need to wake up and do something, cos if no one doesn't say anything, then u have been fooled n walked all over. You have to know how to spend your money when you go to islands..
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Date of stay: December 2015Trip type: Travelled with family
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
My boyfriend and I spent 9 days in Samoa in July, and stayed 5or 6 nights at Tatiana motel. I have to say that we didn't plan anything before flying, just booked a few nights before leaving and that was all. I was also a bit dubious when I read about how it was a headquarter for medical students but it was absolutely fine. They were all friendly and gave us some advice on where to go, and not loud as I expected.
We had a large double room for ourselves, comfy queen size bed, A/C, fan, tv, fridge and a large bathroom. All of it very clean. Plus the price is very competitive compared to other hotels.
It's not a resort-type of hotel but they have got the most important thing: the loveliest people ever! The manager Athene and her family were fantastic. Athene arranged pretty much everything for us, from hiring a car, arranging accomodation (at a great price) on Savaii Island, advice on where to eat.... And she did this with a big smile on her face (and her new-born son in her arms!). You really feel welcome and part of the family. Having breakfast with everyone in the common area is a great way to get to know people (Athene, her family and the other guests), ask about what to do/see, or just chat!
So if you're wondering where to stay , definitely opt for Tatiana motel Tanugamanono branch. You'll love the place, the people and you will want to stay longer!
Thank you again Athene!!!
We had a large double room for ourselves, comfy queen size bed, A/C, fan, tv, fridge and a large bathroom. All of it very clean. Plus the price is very competitive compared to other hotels.
It's not a resort-type of hotel but they have got the most important thing: the loveliest people ever! The manager Athene and her family were fantastic. Athene arranged pretty much everything for us, from hiring a car, arranging accomodation (at a great price) on Savaii Island, advice on where to eat.... And she did this with a big smile on her face (and her new-born son in her arms!). You really feel welcome and part of the family. Having breakfast with everyone in the common area is a great way to get to know people (Athene, her family and the other guests), ask about what to do/see, or just chat!
So if you're wondering where to stay , definitely opt for Tatiana motel Tanugamanono branch. You'll love the place, the people and you will want to stay longer!
Thank you again Athene!!!
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Date of stay: July 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I had no idea what to expect when I booked my accommodation at Tatiana Tanugamanono as I travelled alone as a med student to Apia for my medical elective.. All my apprehensions were resolved when I see so many other med students from all around the world around the communal dining area. I subsequently made so many good friends with people from all around the world!
Another factor that makes this palce a wonderful place to stay in are the management team and workers. You want to travel somewhere they'll organize it for you withohut extra charge. I definitely enjoyed my stay at Tatiana and I will definitely return again in the future when I visit Apia.
Another factor that makes this palce a wonderful place to stay in are the management team and workers. You want to travel somewhere they'll organize it for you withohut extra charge. I definitely enjoyed my stay at Tatiana and I will definitely return again in the future when I visit Apia.
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Date of stay: July 2011Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Cleanliness
Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
If you want to stay in a family environment where the owners and staff honestly care about your welfare and happiness - you will not do better than this hotel. It is not a 'resort-type' hotel with swimming pool and bar. We stayed for almost 3 weeks in a superior room (about $50 per night) which was spotless and cleaned whenever we asked. The room had fan and air conditioning, fridge, TV, a large comfortable queen size bed, and large, separate bathroom. The remainder of the guests were mainly medical students and doctors of all ages from around the world and we had a 93 year old gentleman from NZ. The owners (Afoa and Brenda) and their family (daughters,sons and grandchildren) all live on site and make sure your every wish is catered for - you become part of their extended family. Athene ( Afoa's and Brenda's daughter) will arrange everything for you at special rates (car hire, excursions, taxis) - you name it, Athene will fix it - always with a willingness and special smile. The grandchildren who are often present in the very large lounge/kitchen area add to the charm and are well behaved. Most of the guests meet up for breakfast (complimentary) in the breakfast/lounge area and the food and drink are available all day if you need a break at any time( they make sure that you do not go hungry or thirsty at any time) We (my wife and I, both 'mature' in age) were amazed at the amount of trouble the staff went to in order to make every guest's stay a memorable event. The centre of town is only 5 minutes away by taxi ( cost $2 US or Australian) and in a quiet area. It is close to several very good restaurants and a supermarket is 4 minutes away by foot. The hotel has overnight security guards at the entrance to prevent any unwanted guests so you feel secure. Your laundry items are cleaned for you (and pressed if desired) for a very small fee - there are no hidden rip-offs- just a very honest and sincere wish for you to have a memorable holiday. Wireless Internet is availble here (one of the few places in Samoa) but is quite expensive ( about $18 for 5 hours regardless of amount downloaded - you get on and off as required until the 5 hours is up). The charge is the ISP cost - the hotel does not load the charge- Athene will sell you the token. Tours and excursions will generally pick you up from the Tatiana and return you - Athene will arrange all. If you need a quick swim - a taxi to one of the resorts or swimming holes only takes 10 minutes - otherwise Athene can arrange day/half day excursions to the beach and one of the family often drives the 12 seater bus (free of charge) to the beautiful beaches which are further away. Snorkelling is about 10 minutes by taxi.
In summation - a wonderful stay and a very emotional time when we had to say goodbye - but we will keep in touch and hope to get back there one day. Afoa and Brenda also provide accommodation at their backpackers hotel in town and at their luxury apartments on the hill.
In summation - a wonderful stay and a very emotional time when we had to say goodbye - but we will keep in touch and hope to get back there one day. Afoa and Brenda also provide accommodation at their backpackers hotel in town and at their luxury apartments on the hill.
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Date of stay: June 2011Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I stayed at Tatiana's for the 7 weeks of my medical elective. As a solo female traveller I had initially had some reservations about how safe I would feel, but the lovely family at Tatiana made me feel welcome and safe instantly. I'd like to say a special thankyou to Athene. She went above and beyond on a regular basis. What a star!
Tatiana is THE place for med students to stay in Samoa! There was an amazing community feel, and with at least 20 med students staying at any one time you always have someone to go sightseeing or partying with!
The motel is only a couple of minutes walk from the national hospital (perfect for med students), and still close to the centre of Apia. There is a kitchen where you can cook meals, breakfast is provided, there is a gym across the road and cheap wireless internet in your room. Tatiana made an excellent base from which to explore the islands, and always felt like home when returning from a sightseeing trip.
I would thoroughly reccommend Tatiana and would definitely stay there again.
Tatiana is THE place for med students to stay in Samoa! There was an amazing community feel, and with at least 20 med students staying at any one time you always have someone to go sightseeing or partying with!
The motel is only a couple of minutes walk from the national hospital (perfect for med students), and still close to the centre of Apia. There is a kitchen where you can cook meals, breakfast is provided, there is a gym across the road and cheap wireless internet in your room. Tatiana made an excellent base from which to explore the islands, and always felt like home when returning from a sightseeing trip.
I would thoroughly reccommend Tatiana and would definitely stay there again.
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Date of stay: September 2010Trip type: Travelled on business
Value
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I spent 4 weeks of my medical elective staying in tatiana's motel last year and I honestly could not rate it high enough. Right from the moment we were picked up from the airport (complimentary! ) until the moment we left we were made to feel completely at home.
I stayed in a two bed room which was clean and comfortable. The air con was also great - we would have been lost without it! The tropical breakfasts in the morning were delicious and we were always supplied with freshly picked fruit. Furhermore, the staff there were fantastic, always willing to help with anything.
The family that own and help out wih the motel were so welcoming. They went far above and beyond what we expected of them. They advised us about the best places to visit, gave us good car rental deals, entertained us with BBQs and Chad even took some of the boys golfing!
All in all I had a fantastic experience in Samoa and I would highly recommend tatiana's to medical students looking to make the most of their electives!
I stayed in a two bed room which was clean and comfortable. The air con was also great - we would have been lost without it! The tropical breakfasts in the morning were delicious and we were always supplied with freshly picked fruit. Furhermore, the staff there were fantastic, always willing to help with anything.
The family that own and help out wih the motel were so welcoming. They went far above and beyond what we expected of them. They advised us about the best places to visit, gave us good car rental deals, entertained us with BBQs and Chad even took some of the boys golfing!
All in all I had a fantastic experience in Samoa and I would highly recommend tatiana's to medical students looking to make the most of their electives!
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Date of stay: December 2014Trip type: Travelled with friends
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Outside the Tatiana, their sign reads 'your home in paradise', and that was exactly it. I stayed at the Tatiana for 8 weeks between July-September for my medical elective, and it was the most wonderful place I ever stayed. Papa, Brenda, Athene and Sandra made the motel the friendliest place I'd ever been to. They literally treat you like one of the family and help you with anything and everything you ask - renting cars, recommending places to go, booking weekend accommodations etc. And the kids are adorable too!
Service was great - the room was cleaned often, and everyone working is very helpful and so nice. Breakfast was continental and plentiful every morning and kitchen facilities are available too. Laundry can be done for you at a reasonable cost and they also provide water. Also they have a great facility where you do not have to pay for nights you don't stay there if it is at least two nights you're away.
Tatiana is ideal for medical students - it's five minutes away from the hospital and is filled with students from all corners of the earth. I made some great friends in my time there and I would definitely recommend Tatiana to all visitors.
Service was great - the room was cleaned often, and everyone working is very helpful and so nice. Breakfast was continental and plentiful every morning and kitchen facilities are available too. Laundry can be done for you at a reasonable cost and they also provide water. Also they have a great facility where you do not have to pay for nights you don't stay there if it is at least two nights you're away.
Tatiana is ideal for medical students - it's five minutes away from the hospital and is filled with students from all corners of the earth. I made some great friends in my time there and I would definitely recommend Tatiana to all visitors.
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Date of stay: July 2012Trip type: Travelled with friends
Value
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Service
Sleep Quality
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
"Ask for the rooms away from the road- they have better air con and the water is warm. Be wary though these rooms are always in demand so you may have to start out front and work your way in."Read full review
ALSO KNOWN AS
tatiana hotel apia, tatiana hotel tanugamanono
LOCATION
SamoaUpoluApia
NUMBER OF ROOMS
20
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Frequently Asked Questions about Tatiana Motel -Tanugamanono
What are some of the property amenities at Tatiana Motel -Tanugamanono?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free parking, kids activities, and laundry service.
Is parking available at Tatiana Motel -Tanugamanono?
Yes, free parking is available to guests.