As dawn breaks on the morning of 'the big day', couples can be the first in the world to marry on their chosen date as Samoa is the first country to see the sun rise. These islands have become a popular destination for couples to tie the knot, honeymooners and those looking for a romantic escape.

Many hotels, resorts and tour operators offer wedding and honeymoon packages with in-house wedding coordinators to ensure smooth planning of the big day. They will also be able to assist with the application forms for a marriage license which must be filed fourteen days prior to the wedding with the Justice Department in Apia. Whether it is a traditional, formal service in a church or a more informal location by a cascading waterfall, Samoa's breathtaking scenery will provide a picture perfect backdrop for one of the most memorable days in a person's life.

Samoa's upmarket resorts offer an ideal romantic hideaway – balmy white sandy beaches with unforgettable sunsets, poolside bars, lush tropical gardens to wander through, sumptuous feasts and plenty of activities, or simply relax and enjoy the charm of classic Samoan hospitality.  Samoa's range of resorts, often positioned on idyllic stretches of beachfront, cater to every need. While there are some family-friendly resorts in Samoa, there are also luxurious resorts more suitable for romantic retreats.

Samoa's rich cultural heritage can be explored through the Museum of Samoa, the Robert Louis Stevenson Museum and in the everyday life as you wander through the Apia Fish Market, around Samoa's villages and at the fiafia events at various resorts and hotels. For those that like to live a bit more of an active lifestyle, soft adventure activities range from snorkelling through the coral reefs to the rainforest canopy walkway along a hang bridge on the island of Savaii and the Falease'ela River Walk through Samoa's pristine natural environment. Couples can also embark on their own road-trip, hiring a car and exploring the different islands at their own pace.

The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific and the true heart of Polynesia; Samoa is a paradise waiting to be explored for island hopping adventure, tranquil beach havens or a once in a lifetime trip may well end with falling in love with Samoa itself.

-ENDS- 

For more information please contact:

Samoa Tourism Authority

Tel: +44 208 877 4512

E-mail: samoa@representationplus.co.uk

Visit: www.samoa.travel

Notes to editors:

Beautiful Samoa: Visit Samoa Year 2016

Beautiful Samoa - The Treasured Islands of the South Pacific - are the true heart of Polynesia. Ten islands of stunning wild beauty, Samoa - or Independent Samoa as it is now 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.

Images available upon request.