Samoa Reopened Its Borders to All Tourists

Since the beginning of the epidemic, Samoa has reopened its borders and welcomed visitors from throughout the world on direct flights.

Today’s arrival of travellers from American Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia, and New Zealand in Samoa signifies the end of the country’s border closure.

In honour of the occasion, the Samoa Tourism Authority dressed traditionally to greet travellers as they disembarked, and a string guitar ensemble performed in the terminal’s arrivals area and concourse.

Samoa made “robust preparations” for the reopening, according to the nation’s tourism board, which included “high vaccination rates” (of nearly 93 percent of those eligible aged five and over), “training and upskilling for local employees,” “upgraded travel advice,” and “bolstered testing capabilities.”

Hon. Minister of Tourism Cedric Schuster, a toeolesulusulu, said: “The past two years have been a trying time for the world over, but as Samoa reopens its borders, it is our acknowledgement that our internal protection measures are safe for our people and for the yearning travellers who are wanting to visit family and friends, and who are eager to explore our heritage and natural environment.

“We look forward to hosting all visitors and showcasing our culture and environment, and pray that we continue to be mindful of the necessary travel health advisories for all of our protection.”

Pativaine Petaia-Tevita, Chief executive of Samoa Tourism Authority, said: “We are very excited to welcome back travellers on the first direct flights since our reopening.

“Samoa has been waiting for this moment for a long time and it was wonderful and uplifting to see passengers fill the terminal once again.”