Over 80% of accommodation providers have either partially or fully reopened with several undergoing maintenance and renovations at the same time.

Saletoga Sands Resort and Spa, located on Upolu’s south coast, was among the first to receive international guests when borders reopened on 1 August. Owner and general manager, Gavin Brightwell says while it’s been a slow start, he expects occupancy to be 70% this month and for the rest of the year.

Taumeasina Island Resort general manager, Tuiataga Nathan Bucknall says it was a busy first month and that they are expecting more guests heading into the festive season.

‘Beginning of August, we were predicting to close the month with 30% occupancy and by the end of the month we actually closed with 60% which is promising’.

Frederick Hunt, manager of Le Uaina Beach Resort along Upolu’s north eastern coastline, says the property has been busy since Covid-19 restrictions lifted, hosting mostly locals, conferences and family events such as weddings and birthdays.

‘Now that we’ve finally opened our borders, we’ve been fortunate to see international visitors in addition to our domestic market. Bookings are picking up and we’re expecting a full house in the beginning of 2023.’ 

(Source: Samoa Tourism Authority newsletter)