This summer Samoa welcomed
its second global hotel brand as the iconic Aggie Grey’s Hotel in the centre of
Samoa’s capital city, Apia, reopened its doors as The Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel and Bungalows.
It follows the opening of the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort last year. We
were lucky enough to visit both properties both properties. The new look of
Aggie Grey’s is a beautiful reincarnation, keeping the traditional style and
atmosphere.
Founded in 1933 by Aggie Grey, it has seen various reincarnations; from burger joint to serve the troops and hostel dormitory for visiting servicemen to the iconic hotel in Apia.
Many people of note walked through its doors including international dignitaries as well as Hollywood sensation Marlon Brando and The South Pacific musical was allegedly inspired by a stay in the hotel by writer and composer Hammerstein and Rodgers.
The 175 rooms, bungalows
and suites have been renovated and refurbished to contemporary standards with a
distinct Samoan ‘voice’ in the design. The property retains its colonial look
enhanced with modern touches, designed to appeal to the modern traveller.
Sonja Hunter, CEO of Samoa Tourism Authority, commented to us “Samoa welcomes
the partnership, especially from a global brand who identifies Samoa’s unique
selling point and respects and preserves its culture and unique identity.”
Hunter continued. “Aggie Grey herself is an icon and a much loved figure in Samoan history, and it is an honour for a brand such as Sheraton to come to partnership with Samoa and the Grey Family. Beautiful Samoa will be an excellent inclusion to the Sheraton client’s travel planner, with our unique culture, pristine natural environment and friendly locals that will make you feel right at home. Samoans are known all over the world for our hospitality. Aggie Grey embodied this and it is wonderful to have the Sheraton recognize and immortalize this.” And we couldn’t agree more.
Hunter continued. “Aggie Grey herself is an icon and a much loved figure in Samoan history, and it is an honour for a brand such as Sheraton to come to partnership with Samoa and the Grey Family. Beautiful Samoa will be an excellent inclusion to the Sheraton client’s travel planner, with our unique culture, pristine natural environment and friendly locals that will make you feel right at home. Samoans are known all over the world for our hospitality. Aggie Grey embodied this and it is wonderful to have the Sheraton recognize and immortalize this.” And we couldn’t agree more.
The hotel is ideally located for a stay in Apia, close to local attractions such as the cultural centre. Here we enjoyed a fabulous free show, cooking and craft demonstrations, including a live tattoo being done! The local markets have lots of local crafts and produce to enjoy, including coconut water or take gifts home. You can also pick up some very good quality black pearl jewellery and local fashion nearby. A short taxi ride from the “must see” Louis Stevenson Museum/ home and grounds, which lead up to his tomb with stunning views overlooking the area.
For more information and bookings please go to The Sheraton Aggie Grey’sHotel & Bungalows or
contact your local travel agent.
Romy
