Samoa is planning to reopen to tourists in early 2022 and when it does visitors can expect some pretty glamourous new accommodation.
At the end of September, Samoa began a mass vaccination drive, with the hope of inoculating 99 per cent of the eligible population in just a few months.
It’s working so well that Samoa Tourism CEO Fa’amatuainu Lenata’i Suifua told the ABC the nation could open up to tourism in early 2022. Tourists would need to download the tracer app and prove their vaccination status.
To date, Samoa has not had one locally acquired case of COVID-19, thanks to a quick decision to close the border to the rest of the world.
During the travel hiatus locals quietly used their time to build and renovate the island’s luxury accommodation. And several of these gorgeous resorts and villas are now ready for visitors.
Where is Samoa?
Samoa’s pristine shores are only a short five-hour flight from Sydney.
The beautiful island nation sits in the heart of the South Pacific between New Zealand and Hawaii.
Known as the Treasured Islands of the South Pacific and the true heart of Polynesia, Samoa boasts crystal clear turquoise water, stunning waterholes, lush rainforest trails and pristine reefs that abound with marine life.
This nation really is paradise.
5 new luxury Samoa stays
Taumeasina Island Resort, Upolu
Samoa’s newest four and a half star luxury resort is 45 minutes from the Faleolo International Airport and five minutes from the capital, Apia.
Taumeasina Island Resort sits on a secluded private island and offers exclusive accommodation in the heart of the South Pacific.
Taumeasina has an impressive range of rooms to choose from with newly built luxury units boasting waterfront ocean views overlooking the lagoon and sprawling mountains.
The resort also offers a wide selection of activities to keep you entertained, such as snorkelling, kayaking and two large swimming pools. Engage in the rich Samoan culture with their Fia Fia evening, where you can immerse yourself in dance, song, music, food and a unique fire and knife display guaranteed to leave your jaws dropping.
Saletoga Sands Resort & Spa, Upolu
The four-star luxury resort Saletoga Sands, on the eastern side of Upolu, boasts poolside verandas overlooking the azure blue lagoon and outdoor canopies shaded by palm trees.
The brand new Samoa accommodation includes 15 incredible Exclusive Villas that are newly renovated for when borders reopen for travel.
Escape and relax with spacious beachfront villas and private outdoor showers only a few steps from the sparkling Pacific Ocean.
Treat yourself to a cocktail and some fresh local seafood at the resort’s restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and FiaFia Buffet; with chefs providing local Samoan specialties as well as international cuisines.
Kuki’s by the Harbour Savai’i
Samoa’s newest accommodation destination, Kuki’s by the Harbour, has four self-contained, fully furnished villas. Each one has a large top deck and a lower deck that sits right over the ocean.
This incredible new Samoa resort boasts views of the most spectacular sunrises the country has to offer. You’re bound to be an early bird when they’re right on your doorstep.
Guests can take a refreshing dip in the Afu Aau waterfall which is only a short drive from the resort. Or take a long walk to the Salelologa Wharf where you can enjoy rich sunsets and a glass of wine with your NZ sirloin steak dinner at Kuki’s Harbourside Cafe.
Kuki’s serves up a traditional Samoan breakfast of champions, Palolo, which is a dish you will want to come back for again and again.
Return to Paradise Resort, Lefaga
Awarded the 2021 Traveller’s Choice Award by Tripadvisor, Return to Paradise Resort was named after the 1953 film and is guaranteed to transport you to Hollywood glamour.
Location scouts deemed this resort’s beach the perfect setting for the 50s film, and it is still beautifully preserved 67 years later.
The 60 villa resort, on the main island of Apia, has seven different room categories. The beachfront suites which open onto the pristine white sand, or honeymoon suites for some private luxury and relaxation are the pick of the lot.
Return to Paradise Resort is 100% locally owned so you know the money you spend will go into the local community.
Coral reefs, lagoons and forest canopies surround the resort so it;’s easy to embark on an adventure kayaking, reef fishing or dipping under waterfalls.
For some ‘me-time’, enjoy an afternoon at the Sparadise Day Spa. Or indulge in the freshest locally caught seafood at the Paradise Kitchen, Cabana Cafe or Rock Pool Bar. Wine and dine while sitting back to watch the Return to Paradise movie.
Amoa Resort, Savai’i,
This new resort has a pool and the spectacular ocean on its doorstep. It really is the ultimate destination for those wanting to lounge the days away in the sun.
Nestled in a relaxing seaside village on the big island of Savai’i, Amoa Resort features 15 intimate bungalows and villas.
Guests can choose from three different types of self-contained accommodation. Amoa also has poolside villas and large deluxe bungalows for a bit more privacy.
Guests staying here can expect a culinary adventure. Amoa serves the freshest seafood and sweetest fruit, all locally grown in surrounding areas, helping to support the local farmers.
The resort’s restaurant’s menu has been co-designed by award-winning chef Joe Lam of Scalinis Restaurant Apia. It is an experience guaranteed to tantalise the taste buds. Visitors also have the opportunity to learn from the best of the best, with Amoa’s Samoan cooking classes.
To discover Beautiful Samoa, head to www.samoa.travel/BeautifulAnticipation
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