Tourexpi
Samoa marked a milestone for its tourism sector with
the signing of a partnership between Return to Paradise Resort and Radisson
Hotel Group. The agreement brings the iconic beachfront property into
Radisson’s portfolio under the Radisson Individuals brand, representing the
first collaboration of its kind between an international hotel group and a
resort that remains fully Samoan-owned and operated. The signing was attended
by representatives of the Samoan Government and local leaders, underlining the
national significance of the move.
International reach with a local identity
Under the Radisson Individuals brand, Return to
Paradise Resort will retain its Samoan ownership, cultural identity and
family-run heritage, while gaining access to Radisson Hotel Group’s global
distribution, marketing strength and commercial support. Located on the
renowned Return to Paradise Beach in Lefaga, the resort is seen as a flagship
for authentic Samoan hospitality and a key ambassador for the destination in
the South Pacific.
Resort features and planned upgrades
The beachfront property comprises 117 rooms, including
resort accommodation and two- and three-bedroom self-contained villas, set amid
tropical gardens with sweeping ocean views. Dining venues such as the Paradise
Kitchen restaurant and the Rockpool Bar highlight local ingredients and
Samoan-inspired cuisine. As part of the partnership, the resort will undergo a
refurbishment programme aimed at enhancing guest comfort while preserving its
distinctive Samoan design and character in line with Radisson’s global
standards.
Local ownership at the heart of the partnership
Aiono Hinauri Petana, Board Chairperson of Return to
Paradise Resort Samoa, described the agreement as a new chapter for both the
resort and the country, emphasising the importance of remaining fully
Samoan-owned while working with an international hotel group. General Manager
and Board Member Afamasaga Ramona Su’a Pale highlighted the benefits for
shareholders and staff, noting that the partnership combines local ownership
with Radisson’s worldwide marketing reach, training and operational support.
Government and group perspectives
Welcoming the collaboration, Samoa’s Minister of
Finance Mulipola Anarosa Molio’o said the Government was pleased to see
Radisson Hotel Group supporting a resort that is both iconic and deeply rooted
in Samoan family ownership and management. Danilo Curcuruto, Director of
Development Australasia at Radisson Hotel Group, said the partnership reflects
Radisson Individuals’ ability to work with independent resorts while fully
respecting their identity, heritage and operational control, and expressed
appreciation for the trust placed in the group as Samoa strengthens its
position as a Pacific destination.
Image
Credit: © Radisson Hotel Group
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