Tourism kicks off new year with Visit Samoa 2016 campaign

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 09 January 2016, 12:00AM

The tourism sector has kicked off 2016 with the launch of a campaign to attract more visitors to Samoa.

The ‘Visit Samoa 2016’ campaign was launched at the Matautu Marina on Thursday night by the Minister of Tourism and Prime Minister, Tuilaepa Sa’ilele Malielegaoi.

Organised by the Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A), the event was well attended by members of the industry, government officials and guests.

“Tourism’s social impact on the economy of our country is indeed significant,” Tuilaepa said. “This is seen in the sector’s ability to attract investments and contribute to the creation of jobs and foreign exchange.”

The Prime Minister reiterated his belief that tourism could become the mainstay of Samoa’s economy.

 But he emphasised that everyone has a role to play to attract more tourists to Samoa.

In that regard, the Prime Minister announced the introduction of the “Tourism Excellence Award” for 2017. The award will be to honour individuals, groups and companies who take the lead in beautifying Samoa.

Tuilaepa said the award is an initiative to encourage local workers to take pride in what they do, especially in dealing with visitors.

Happy tourists return to their homes to spread the word about Samoa. This encourages their families and friends to come to Samoa to see for themselves.

Tuilaepa also acknowledged the hard work of members of the tourism industry.

The President of Samoa Hotel Association, Adele Kruse, said the campaign is an integral part of efforts to fill the hotels in the country and she congratulated the Prime Minister and S.T.A for the initiative.

By Pai Mulitalo Ale 09 January 2016, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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