Samoa Breaks New Ground in Hospitality Through Groundbreaking Alliance Between Fully Locally-Owned Resort and Global Radisson Brand Combining Tradition with World-Class Service

Published on December 15, 2025

Samoa is setting a new standard in the tourism industry with a pioneering collaboration between Return to Paradise Resort and the internationally recognized Radisson Hotel Group. This partnership marks the first time a fully Samoan-owned resort has joined forces with a global hotel brand, representing a transformative moment for the nation’s hospitality landscape and signaling Samoa’s commitment to blending cultural heritage with international tourism standards.

The alliance was formalized in a ceremony attended by government representatives and local dignitaries, emphasizing the strategic importance of preserving local identity while expanding the country’s global reach. By joining the Radisson Individuals portfolio, Return to Paradise Resort maintains its Samoan character and family-run essence while benefiting from Radisson’s international distribution, marketing expertise, and operational support, creating a balance between local authenticity and worldwide recognition.

Showcasing Samoa’s Unique Culture While Expanding Reach

Perched on the legendary Return to Paradise Beach in Lefaga, the resort has long stood as a symbol of Samoan hospitality. Fully owned and operated by Samoans, it embodies the warmth, traditions, and cultural vibrancy that travelers expect from a South Pacific destination. Through the partnership with Radisson, the resort gains the opportunity to introduce Samoa’s authentic charm to a broader international audience without compromising its cultural roots or ownership.

The resort features 117 accommodations, including resort-style rooms and self-contained villas with two or three bedrooms. Each unit is set within lush tropical gardens with panoramic views of the coastline, offering guests an immersive experience of Samoa’s natural beauty. Dining options emphasize local ingredients and traditional flavors, with restaurants and bars delivering culinary experiences inspired by Samoan culture while meeting the expectations of contemporary travelers.

Elevating Guest Experience Through Thoughtful Upgrades

As part of the collaboration, Return to Paradise Resort will undergo a comprehensive refurbishment program designed to enhance comfort, modernize amenities, and align with international hospitality standards. The renovation is carefully planned to retain the resort’s authentic Samoan design, ensuring that cultural aesthetics remain central to the guest experience.

Sustainability is a key focus of the upgrades, incorporating eco-friendly practices that minimize environmental impact and reflect global trends in responsible tourism. This approach ensures that the resort continues to support Samoa’s natural environment while offering world-class services to guests.

Strengthening Samoa’s Position as a Global Tourism Destination

Beyond operational benefits, this partnership plays a strategic role in raising Samoa’s profile in the global tourism market. By combining local ownership with international brand recognition, Samoa positions itself as a destination that offers world-class accommodations while preserving the unique cultural experiences that distinguish it from other South Pacific locations.

The collaboration also has significant economic implications. It supports local employment, fosters community-based tourism initiatives, and ensures that revenue continues to circulate within the local economy. The alignment of local ownership with global expertise represents a sustainable development model, allowing tourism to drive long-term economic growth while preserving cultural and environmental integrity.

Setting a New Benchmark for South Pacific Hospitality

This collaboration sets an important precedent for other resorts in the region, demonstrating that partnerships with global brands can coexist with cultural authenticity and local ownership. It provides a roadmap for resorts seeking to expand internationally while retaining the unique traditions and character that make their destinations special.

For travelers, the partnership promises an enriched experience that combines modern luxury with authentic Samoan hospitality. Guests can enjoy upgraded accommodations, refined services, and international amenities while immersing themselves in the island’s cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and vibrant local communities.

By creating this historic alliance, Samoa illustrates how local culture and global hospitality expertise can work together to elevate the visitor experience. The Return to Paradise Resort Radisson Individuals partnership exemplifies the potential of combining heritage with innovation, positioning Samoa as a premier destination in the South Pacific and offering travelers an unforgettable experience that is both authentic and world-class.