Project Description
Much of the land across Samoa is customary land – owned and cared for by the villages and people who live there. Many villages have opened up visitor access to special sites across Samoa as a means of generating income and employment. Many Samoans however have poor English and have not been able to communicate their stories, things to see and do and important information for visitors including respecting cultural protocols and safety. TRC has been working with the Samoan Tourism Authority (STA) over the years to enhance and develop visitor experiences and opportunities for local people. In 2019, in consultation with site custodians, villagers and research experts, TRC developed a Visitor Interpretation Strategy for Samoa. The Strategy presents approved Samoan themes to be shared with visitors, the stories, important messages and best ways to share this. TRC are now working with STA and respective villages to design visitor interpretation signs, with the first round of visitor signage recently rolled out for installation.