LOOKING BACK AT 2024!
The American Samoa Visitors Bureau (ASVB) takes immense pride in its work to showcase the natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality of our beloved islands. The past year has been transformative, filled with significant achievements and promising opportunities. Here’s a glimpse into the strides we’ve made to promote American Samoa as a premier destination for travelers around the world.
Welcoming the World to Our Shores
In 2024, we hosted 19 cruise ships, welcoming over 46,000 visitors to the heart of the Pacific. These efforts not only boosted local businesses but also strengthened our island’s reputation as a must-visit location for international travelers. The maiden voyages of the Disney Wonder and Seabourn Pursuit to Pago Pago Harbor were milestones that demonstrated our growing appeal and ability to host world-class tourism experiences.
Empowering Our Community
Our commitment extends beyond tourism numbers—we aim to enrich the lives of our local community. Through initiatives like the Moso’oi Triple 3 Expo and the Around the Island Tour, we created opportunities for small businesses, highlighted lesser-known villages, and fostered community pride. Projects like the Heritage Trail restoration and QR-coded village signs blend tradition with technology, preserving our culture while enhancing accessibility for visitors.
Expanding Our Global Reach
ASVB’s participation in international forums like the Seatrade Global conference and the Pacific Tourism Sustainable Leadership Summit positioned American Samoa on the global stage. Collaborations with neighboring Samoa through the “Two Samoa” brand further solidified our regional partnerships, promoting joint travel packages and shared cultural experiences.
Innovating Tourism Marketing
Our marketing efforts have seen remarkable success. Digital outreach expanded significantly, with Instagram engagement growing by 46% and Facebook reaching over 1.2 million people in just one quarter. We’re also preparing to launch a redesigned website featuring interactive tools, ensuring a seamless experience for potential visitors.
Training for the Future
Investing in our workforce is vital for a sustainable tourism industry. From media and photography workshops to youth internships, our training programs are preparing local talent to lead the future of tourism in American Samoa.
Looking Ahead
As we celebrate these accomplishments, we remain steadfast in our mission to create a vibrant and sustainable tourism sector. Future goals include promoting eco-tourism, advocating for increased flight routes, and developing unique travel packages that blend adventure with cultural immersion.
For tourists and citizens abroad yearning to reconnect with our island home, we extend an open invitation to experience the spirit of American Samoa. Together, let’s continue to Explore, Experience, and Enjoy!
— American Samoa Visitors Bureau
