Latest data from the Samoa Bureau of Statistics reveals a drop of 2.9 per cent in the number of total international arrivals for Samoa recorded for November compared to the previous month of October. 

The total number of international arrivals recorded for October was 18,989 while a total of 18,443 was recorded for November. 

The recent data also shows that the majority of those who visited and traveled to Samoa in November traveled by air totaling 93.4 per cent of the total number of international arrivals. 

It also revealed a 4.0 per cent decrease in the number of visitors from 13,383 in October to 12,855 in November. 

However, the data for the last two months continues to show that visitors continue to make up the largest component of all arrivals. 

Other international arrivals included returning residents, temporary residents, and those who transited through Samoa. 

The latest statistics also show that New Zealand remains the leading country in visitor arrivals by country of usual residents accounting for 43.9 per cent of total visitors (5,644). Australia followed next with a distant 27.0 per cent share. 

"The majority of visitors (5019) entered our shores for holiday and vacation while 4,225 entered our shores to visit friends and relatives," the report stated.

"Those who were here on business or conference recorded 1,218 visitors while sports reported 103 visitors."

The reports for the last two months (October and November) also depict that Air New Zealand remains the top choice for people who visited and traveled to Samoa. 

It shows that Air New Zealand had the highest share of passengers to Samoa with a total of 7,390 in October and 7,380 in November. 

Fiji Airways followed behind with a 19.9 per cent share which is equivalent to 3,663 passengers. 

On the other hand, Qantas brought in 10.0 per cent (1,846 passengers) of total arrivals while Virgin Australia and Samoa Airways recorded shares of 9.9 and 8.1 per cent respectively. 

Of the total number of international visitors to Samoa, the majority of them stayed in the country for 15 to 30 days. 

The data also highlighted that the majority of visitors reported staying in private accommodations or with relatives in Samoa. However, a total of 4,670 stayed in hotels and motels during their visit to Samoa. 

The sourced documents for the reports were compiled from data collected by the Immigration Office by collecting arrival and departure card forms. 

These forms are completed by all incoming and outgoing travelers at the two local points of entry at Faleolo International Airport, Matautu International Wharf, and Fagali'i Airport.