A Moana-themed closing ceremony fittingly brought the curtains down on the Samoa Tourism Exchange (S.T.E) 2017.

The three-day event ended with a blast as both buyers and sellers were shown a good time courtesy of the team at the Samoa Tourism Authority (S.T.A). 

The Minister of Tourism, Salaā Fata Pinati, spoke about the importance of the annual Tourism exchange for Samoa.

 “The S.T.E continues to be one of the most important events on the tourism calendar,” he said. 

“It is an opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen our travel industry partnerships and alliances and it also gives us an opportunity to wow the world with what we have to offer.

“I do hope that you will carry a memorable memory of us here in Samoa with you.”

He reminded “our friends” they are always welcome to come to Samoa anytime.  

“Samoa is your home away from home. You are always welcome here.”

Initiated in 2008, the S.T.E provided a platform where trade and media representatives from around the world meet with local operators for product updates, selling tips and experience properties for themselves. 

The event has since grown to become a major tourism exchange in the South Pacific and is coordinated by the Samoa Tourism Authority on behalf of the Government with the support of the industry.  

S.T.E brings together Samoa's suppliers of tourism products and services ('Sellers') and Travel Product and Contracting Managers from across a number of source markets ('Buyers'), in a business-to-business setting.

Buyers from across New Zealand, Australia, the USA, UK/Europe, China, South Korea, Japan and American Samoa will be at STE 2016.

At the end, the best costume for female went to Rosanne Keresoma from New Zealand. For best male costume, Joe Dolphire of Australia won the best costume. 

Both received prizes of free accomodation at Taumeasina Island Resort for three nights.