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Visitors to Samoa continue to increase —U.S. and Am Sam lead growth

joyetter@samoanews.com

Apia, SAMOA — Samoa is seeing an increase of visitors, this is according to Samoa Tourism Authorities (STA) statistics where year-to-date numbers stand at 65,274 (compared to 58,559 in 2015). “In June alone, 12,773 visitor arrivals were recorded, representing growth of 10% versus the same period last year.”

Figures released for the quarter show more than 35,000 visitors clearing customs and entering Samoa — an increase of 11% from 2015. The STA statement further says that for the (April–June) Quarter, 38% of total visitors were leisure travelers, while 30% and 10% were Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) and Business travelers. “All purposes of travel recorded solid double digit increases from 2015 with Leisure up 11%, VFR at 15% and Business at 14% higher.”

STA Chief Executive Officer, Sonja Hunter, says that the figures indicate growing confidence among travelers.

“Our promotional efforts are paying off, especially in source markets such as the USA where we are getting healthy arrival figures from. Our activities out in the market as well as on social media are capturing the attention of a new breed of travelers that is looking for a tropical getaway with a difference. The increase of visitors to our islands shows that Samoa is a place that has something to offer all kinds of travelers,” says Hunter.

She further pointed out that the top source markets recorded healthy arrival figures with New Zealand leading the pack with numbers, and American Samoa and the USA recording the highest growth percentages (during the quarter). “New Zealand: 15,095 visitors (3% growth); Australia: 7,152 visitors (10% growth); American Samoa: 3,646 visitors (19% growth) and USA: 3,038 visitors (14% increase).

“We are confident that these numbers will hold, if not increase in the coming months as we continue to work closely with our partners to ensure that we are able to exceed the expectations of visitors and provide them the paradise experience they have come for,” Hunter said.