Samoa Tourism Authority (STA) has drawn the winner of its Tropical Getaway campaign as it continues its marketing blitz to woo more tourists from abroad.

A ceremony for the drawing of the Tropical Getaway Campaign prize winner was held at the STA Fale in Apia on Monday with members of the media invited to witness the draw. 

STA official Tutuila Taafua said that during the campaign in October this year, they've noticed more enthusiasm from travellers to purchase return tickets to visit Samoa.

He said the STA received over 60 entries during the campaign, with the lucky winner drawn from an ava bowl by the Sales and Marketing Manager for the Taumeasina Island Resort, Cecilia Nasau.

Ms. Nasau said the lucky winner of the draw on Monday was Ms. Lexene Jane Treadwell, whom STA staff said they will now contact via email to advise of her prize. 

Tofilau Poinsettia Taefu, who also works for the tourism authority, said the campaign was designed to entice travellers from around the world to visit and experience Samoa.

She said only travellers who purchased return tickets to Samoa during October 2023 were eligible to go into the draw for the grand prize. 

"By doing so, you also get the chance to win the ultimate prize, the lucky winner of our draw will be treated to a magnificent adventure including a free return air ticket to Samoa and a delighted five-night stay at the beautiful Taumeasina Island Resort," said Tofilau.

"Your participation in this campaign has been truly appreciated and today [Monday] one of you will be awarded the winner."

Tofilau thanked everyone who participated in and supported the STA-run campaign.

A woman called Lexene Compain, who based on her Facebook page profile lives in Auckland, posted on the STA Facebook following the announcement of the winner and said it was her who won the prize.

"Wow. This is an amazing prize I have won. I am so thrilled and excited. In two weeks time, I'll visit Samoa for the first time and now I have another amazing holiday to look forward to. Thank you," read her post on the STA Facebook page.