No doubt that tourism in recent years has become a leading foreign exchange earner for Samoa. Statistics indicate that tourist earnings stood at ST$139.8million in 2001 continued to rise to ST$207.8million in…
No doubt that tourism in recent years has become a leading foreign exchange earner for Samoa. Statistics indicate that tourist earnings stood at ST$139.8million in 2001 continued to rise to ST$207.8million in 2005. With the increased number of flight services by Poly Blue since it started its operation in Samoa, the figures in terms of arrivals and tourist dollars for 2006 will pass the 2005 statistics.
The multiplier effects of this industry are of enormous contributions to Samoa, and having a sustainable tourism approach to the industry will make an engine of economic growth.
Maluaofinao Shinn Ete, Manager Human Resource & Development of the Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) says “Samoa`s tourism is very unique in comparison to the rest of the Pacific region. Almost 100 percent of operations are owned and run by our local people which means that the tourist dollar stays here in Samoa. Interestingly, our beach fale concept suits the budget traveling tourists and is becoming very large in the travel market.”
“Beach fale operations also suit members of our rural community as they are not costly to operate and manage. What is needed is improved standards of these beach fales to make sure that comfortability, hygiene and safety issues are addressed,” added Ete.
The presence of up-market Resorts and Hotels which include Aggie Greys Hotel, Aggie Greys Resort and Spa, Sinalei, Coonut Beach Resort, Insel Fehmarn and the newly refurbished Le Lagoto Resort in Savaii to name a few, will provide a leading hand in luring in big spenders in the travel market.
“The Samoa Tourism Authority will continue its marketing activities and will provide educational workshops and trainings to the local industry and the public so that tourism continues to assist the economic growth of Samoa” concluded Ete.
