On 1 April 2014, the two-day Samoa Tourism Exchange (STE) will bring tourism stakeholders and buyers together to discuss important topics and tools relating to tourism development, sales and marketing. The exhibition will provide a networking opportunity for buyers, to access multiple suppliers, whilst expanding their industry and market knowledge. The exchange will be opened by the Honourable Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi and a showcase of Samoa's customs and entertainment to experience the true Fa'a Samoa.

The key national tourism event captures a global market as influential travel trade and media representatives from New Zealand, Australia, USA, UK, Europe, China, South Korea and American Samoa, with an interest in Samoa tourism products will attend. Key features of the event include the buyer/seller exhibition, product inspections and tours and activities around two of Samoa's largest islands: Upolu and Savaii. 

An addition to the event for 2014, is the introduction of themed product inspections which will cater to the needs of travel trade representatives and suppliers. 'Romance' will explore properties and venues for the weddings and honeymoon market, 'The Great Samoan Road Trip' will cater for the adventure market, featuring beach fales and backpacker/dorm-style accommodation, while the 'Mainstream' theme will identify a broader range of products and activities suitable for couples and families. 

Not only will the event be a fantastic opportunity for members of the travel trade and media to come together and expand their knowledge of the destination, home and resting place of Robert Louis Stevenson, but it will also allow participants to discover the islands' paradise beaches, volcanic mountains, rainforests and blow holes and witness first-hand what makes Samoa such an idyllic and popular destination.

To book your place on the exchange, visit www.samoatourismexchange.ws 

For more information on events in Samoa, visit www.samoa.travel

-Ends-

For more information please contact:
Samoa Tourism Authority
Cindy Landlust/Anna Wolstenholme
Tel: +44 208 877 4502/511
E-mail: cindy@representationplus.co.uk/anna@representationplus.co.uk
www.representationplus.co.uk 

Notes to editors:
Schedule:
1 April: Official Opening and Welcome Fiafia
2 - 3 April: STE Exhibition
Pre-1 April/Post-3 April: Site Inspections
Website : www.samoatourismexchange.ws 

SamoaThe Treasured Islands of the South Pacific are the true heart of Polynesia and Samoa is one of the first places in the world to see the sunrise. Ten islands of stunning wild beauty, five only of which are inhabited, Samoa - or The Independent State of Samoa as it is formally known so as to avoid confusion with American Samoa, is paradise waiting to be explored. From powder soft beaches, to warm tropical seas, colourful coral reefs alive with marine life. The rugged, lush interiors reveal endless wildlife, waterfalls and hiking trails. Former home and resting place of Robert Louis Stevenson, also known as 'Tusitala'. Samoa is less than four hours from Auckland and approximately five hours from Sydney and Brisbane on Virgin Samoa flights on www.virginaustralia.com

Annual traditional events include the world renowned Teuila Festival, 31 August 2014.