Abstract
This chapter critically identifies the challenges facing tourism development in Samoa, including the impact of COVID-19, or KOVITI-19, as is known locally. Accordingly, the susceptibility of Samoa to external shocks that reflect its small island status and location are acknowledged. The discussion interprets sustainable development as the pathway that leads to an improved quality of life for all, where tourism can both engage visitors and empower local communities. In order to illustrate some of the challenges and complexities around sustainable tourism development in Samoa, the work draws reference to the island of Apolima as an example of a peripheral setting in which tourism development must fit with priorities concerning the social and infrastructural needs of the island. The chapter also presents a case study which considers the significance of transportation networks, involving the potential of Samoa's local buses to provide opportunities for tourists to experience fa'a Samoa ('Samoan way of life').