Samoa has welcomed its second global hotel brand as Aggie Grey’s Hotel in the centre of country’s capital city, Apia, reopens its doors as The Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Hotel & Bungalows.

It follows the opening of the Sheraton Samoa Aggie Grey’s Resort last year.

Founded in 1933 by Aggie Grey, it has seen various reincarnations; from burger joint to serve the troops to a hostel dormitory for visiting servicemen.

Many people of note walked through its doors including international dignitaries as well as Hollywood sensation Marlon Brando.

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, chief executive, Samoa Tourism Authority, said: “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.

“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 immortalise this.”