With Samoa poised to host the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (C.H.O.G.M.) in October, local hoteliers are diligently preparing for the historic occasion. 

During a recent visit from Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland KC, several venues slated to accommodate leaders and delegations from across the Commonwealth were inspected, garnering praise for their readiness.

Secretary General Scotland commended the preparations, expressing admiration for the dedication and meticulous planning evident across Samoa. 

"The passion, the care, the absolute concentration on what would be best for all of us has been at the forefront of all our colleagues' minds in Samoa," she remarked in a reflection video shared on her official social media accounts, showcasing the hotels she visited during her stay.

One such venue was the renowned Sinalei Resort, where owner Tuatagaloa Joe Annandale confirmed the Secretary General's visit.  The Resort is reported to be where the monarch of Britain and head of the Commonwealth, King Charles would be staying.

Tuatagaloa expressed confidence in their preparations, emphasising their commitment to ensuring a memorable experience for C.H.O.G.M. attendees. 

"Whether the royals stay with us or not, we want to be as prepared as we can to host the leaders and the delegations and show them what we do best as hospitable people," Tuatagaloa said. 

While financial assistance from the government is yet to be received, Tuatagaloa affirmed plans to submit cost estimates for their preparations.

Similarly, the General Manager of Taumeasina Island Resort, Tuiataga Nathan Bucknall, affirmed their readiness to host leaders and delegations for the meeting. 

Tuiataga highlighted the significance of showcasing Samoa to the Commonwealth and the world, expressing excitement about the opportunity.

Regarding the Secretary General's visit, Tuiataga revealed that she had frequently stayed at Taumeasina, further underscoring the resort's suitability for hosting dignitaries. 

He also noted the establishment of an accommodation committee tasked with allocating accommodations for heads of state from various Commonwealth nations during the meeting.

Samoa's hosting of CHOGM is already marked as a historic milestone, being the first-ever Pacific Island nation to host such a meeting. With preparations in full swing, anticipation is high for a successful and memorable event in October.