SEYCHELLES NICHE MARKETING

Seychelles swings into golf tourism marketing in China

 

 

Image from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 31, 2013

The mid-ocean islands of the Seychelles has many unique selling points, and one that has not been pushed is golf holidays, yet the Lemuria Resort of Praslin in the Seychelles has one world-class designer golf course that is rated as one of the best.
The Lemuria Golf Course is part of the Constance Resort Group and attached to the Lemuria Resort of Praslin. Constance Resorts is a Mauritius-based company, and they also manage the Ephelia Resort on Mahe and properties in Mauritius.
The Lemuria Golf course is one of the most picturesque and it sits overlooking the spectacular Anse Georgette Beach of Praslin.

James Au [ www.jamesau.com.hk ] of Hong Kong recently published a review in the Golf Traveler where he recounts the exceptional beauty of the Lemuria Golf Course in the Seychelles.

Seychelles has always been known as the idyllic paradise island holiday destination with clean and white sandy beaches, with clean and clear warm turquoise blue seas, and with a year-round weather pattern that has given it the name of the islands with perpetual summer. These islands also pride themselves as leaders in the environment protection having declared over 50% of their total land area as protected national parks.

The islands offer some of the best big game fishing, bone or fly fishing, unrivaled swimming, sailing, island hopping, bird watching, diving and snorkeling, casino, and some of the most breathtaking walks and trails, among other unique attractions.

 

MEDRAFT SPIRIT MAKES 25TH TOUCHDOWN

Israeli charter jet lands in Seychelles for silver flight

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 28, 2013

The first Air Seychelles flight from Hong Kong touched down Tuesday morning at 6:30 am and was followed in the afternoon by the arrival of another special flight by "El Al,” an Israeli Airline jet, chartered by the travel agency Medraft Spirit.

“Our company, Medraft Spirit, [has] operate[d] charters to Seychelles since September 2007; actually this is our "silver" flight being the 25th flight to your lovely shores. We are the only tour operator in Israel dealing with Seychelles on a permanent basis twice a year during our holidays. We have started off with Group Business, and since October 2009 our focus has shifted to FIT clients. The hotels that we feature vary from the 3-stars all the way to the luxurious ends like Fregate, Maia, Denis, and Desroches,” said the General Manager and owner of Medraft Spirit, Mrs. Tali Dative.

This is Mrs. Tali Dative’s 25th visit to the Seychelles. Altogether, there were a total of 270 visitors on the flight, including 50 repeat visitors and included many families. Same as Air Seychelles flight from Hong Kong, the Israeli’s visitors were treated to the traditional music of the “Latroup Nasyonal,” performing some of their Seychelles favorite songs such as “Going back to the Seychelles.”

Also at the airport to welcome the arrivals were the staff of the Seychelles Tourism Board and representatives of Mason’s Travel, headed by the destination management company (DMC), represented by Debra Malbrook. Mason’s Travel is the local ground-handling agent taking care of most accommodation, transfers, and excursions.

The visitors will be staying at several 5-star resorts such as Constance Ephelia, Le Meridien, Barbarons, Kempinski, Hilton resorts, Four Seasons, Maia, and Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay.

Medraft Spirit also operates tours to Mauritius and Maldives, but Seychelles has the highest percentage of visitors.

 

SEYCHELLES TOURISM

Seychelles meets with Macao representatives at ASEAN ceremony

 

 

Seychelles Minister Alain St.Ange - 3rd from right first row/Photo: Seychelles Ministry of Tourism

 

Mar 27, 2013

A Seychelles delegation led by the island's Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, Alain St.Ange, attended the 2nd Inauguration Ceremony of the Macao ASEAN International Chamber of Commerce in Macao. Minister St.Ange, who was accompanied by Elsia Grandcourt, the CEO of the Seychelles Tourism Board; Flavien Joubert, the Principal of the Seychelles Tourism Academy; Christine Vel, the Senior Marketing Executive of the Seychelles Tourism Board; and Dr. Sydney To, the Consul General of the Seychelles in the People's Republic of China were guests of Mrs. Amber Li, the Chairwoman of the organization.

The meeting was the opportunity for the Seychelles Minister to meet not only the Board Members of the Macao Body but also delegates from most of the ASEAN countries who were present for the event.

Minister Alain St.Ange was acknowledged as a special invited guest and introduced accordingly during the Inauguration Ceremony. Minister St.Ange was also called on stage to join with all the delegates in Macao for this event to meet the gathered press.

Also present at the meeting in Macao were Mr. Wang Xindong, the Director General for Economic Affairs Development in the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Macao Special Administration Region, and Mr. Jackson Chang, the President of the Macoa Trade and Investment Promotion Institute.

The Macao meeting was an opportunity for members of the Seychelles delegation to meet the business community of Macao and with the delegates from the ASEAN Block. For the last three years the ASEAN countries have been present at the annual Carnaval International de Victoria, the annual Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands Carnival that is now staged annually in April in Seychelles.

The Seychelles Tourism Board was invited to stage a special promotion event in Macao and this will be supported by the Macao trade body.

 

SEYCHELLES TRAVEL

Air Seychelles celebrates the start of flights to Hong Kong

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 26, 2013

Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, commenced services to Hong Kong.

Air Seychelles’ flight HM86 departed Mahe International Airport at 3:40 pm Seychelles time yesterday and touched down at Hong Kong International Airport at 8:40 am today after a brief transit stop at Abu Dhabi International Airport.

The brightly-colored Air Seychelles’ Airbus A330-200 aircraft was bid a farewell at Mahe International Airport by a traditional Chinese Lion Dance and welcomed on arrival at Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong by water cannon salutes.

Today’s inaugural flight was the first of 3 weekly services between the Seychelles and Hong Kong, operated with equity and codeshare partner, Etihad Airways.

On board today’s flight was a delegation of senior government officials from the Republic of the Seychelles, the People’s Republic of China, and senior executives from both airlines.

Cramer Ball, Air Seychelles Chief Executive Officer, said: “The launch of services to Hong Kong is a momentous occasion for Air Seychelles, capping a remarkable year in which we returned to profitability.

“Through our partnership with Etihad Airways we have been able to transform our business and make improvements that we could not have achieved independently.

“We have responded to demand from our affluent leisure and tourism guests, and introduced a new international in-flight product with fully-flat beds and restaurant-quality food and beverage service. We now offer a business class experience, which is world class, to rival any airline.

“With our special blend of Seychellois hospitality and unique Creole warmth, your holiday begins as soon as you step on board.

“Guests traveling between Hong Kong and the Seychelles will remain on the same aircraft and keep the same seat for both legs of the journey, allowing a seamless journey through Abu Dhabi.

“Our new services offer an attractive new proposition for anyone wishing to visit the Seychelles, which last year won the Island Holiday Destination of the Year in 2012 from the China Travel Industry Awards, and we are confident that demand for our services will grow.

“The new services also offer travelers from Hong Kong and nearby southern China the added benefit of seamless onward connections at Abu Dhabi to more than 20 destinations on Etihad Airways’ Europe, Africa, the GCC, and Middle East network,” Mr. Ball added.

His Excellency Joel Morgan, Seychelles Minister for Home Affairs and Transport and Air Seychelles’ Chairman said: "We are particularly excited about Air Seychelles’ new services as visitor arrivals from China have been doubling each year for the past 3 years, and 2013 is on track to continue the trend.

“We worked hard to make sure the necessary air service agreements were in place to support Air Seychelles' expansion plans and cater for the growing demand from Asia. The agreements include the flexibility for codeshare agreements with other airlines. In the past 2 years, we have modernized our bilaterals with China and Singapore, and concluded new ones with Hong Kong and South Korea. We will add more in 2013.

“Air Seychelles’ new services to Hong Kong will have a substantive economic impact for Seychelles. As one of the world’s leading financial and commercial hubs, we expect to see not only a boost in visitor arrivals from Hong Kong, but also an expansion in trade and commercial activity."

Mr. Ball thanked the Seychelles government and Civil Aviation Authority and the Hong Kong government and its Civil Aviation Authority for their support to enable the commencement of services to Hong Kong.

Air Seychelles flight HM86 operates on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, departing from Seychelles at 3:40 pm, and arriving in Hong Kong the next morning at 9:40 am. On the return, flight HM 087 departs Hong Kong at 6:55 pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, arriving in Seychelles at 6:35 am. All times are local.

The Air Seychelles’ Airbus A330-200 can carry 254 passengers with 18 seats in business class and 236 in economy class.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

PHOTO: Etihad Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer Peter Baumgartner, Air Seychelles’ Chief Executive Officer Cramer Ball, and Abu Dhabi Airports Company Chief Commercial Officer Mohamad Al Balooki, celebrated the launch of Etihad Airways and Air Seychelles codeshare services with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony at Abu Dhabi International Airport prior to the departure of the inaugural flight.

 

RUSSIA TRAVEL

Seychelles targets Russian tourism market

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 25, 2013

The Seychelles Tourism Board, headed by Ms. Bernadette Willemin, the Paris-based Director for Europe, and Ms. Karen Confait, the Account Manager for Russia and its partners, namely 7° South represented by Anna Butler Payette and Valentina Payet, Raffles Praslin Seychelles represented by Viktoriya Khaydukova, and Cousine Island represented by Colleen Mullen and Kirstin Keely, were all present in Moscow to support the islands’ tourism drive to get its fair share of that important market.

The commitment and positive drive of these private sector trade partners have done the Seychelles proud once again as they worked tirelessly alongside the Seychelles Tourism Board in Russia.

Tourism yield is important to the Seychelles economy, and markets such as Russia play an important role. Local tourism companies 7° South, Raffles, and Cousine made the journey to Russia, because they remain committed to work with the Tourism Board on the Russian market, but above all they are showing their commitment in wanting to deal with Russia. Their presence at MITT – Moscow International Travel and Tourism Show - is a fair of growing importance and was the opportunity for these companies to tell Russia and the Russian tourism trade of their determination to work with Russia.

Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, the Tourism Board's European Director, noted that the Seychelles recognizes the true potential that lies in Russia as an important market with unprecedented purchasing power. MITT is the stepping-stone to tap into that potential. “Coming here is not without benefit, as our visitor arrivals numbers from this region would suggest. In the last years we have experienced a surge from this market with limitless possibilities. Already a 3% growth has been recorded in the first 3 months of this year, placing Russia as the 3rd ranking market,” she concluded.

The Seychelles Tourism Board will continue to solidify its foothold in the region ensuring positive growth of the industry and remains determined to showcase the islands’ competitive edge in the face of ever-growing challenges. Consequently, the Seychelles Tourism Board has appointed Access Russia as its representation company in Russia. Access Russia will help ensure that Seychelles remains visible in Russia and its surrounding regions.

MITT was the opportunity for Seychelles to also introduce Ms. Evgenia Russiyanova of Access Russia as their dedicated Account Officer.

In the meantime, the Seychelles Tourism Board continues its geographical footprint further into Russia-CIS through the various activities planned for the year, bringing the destination into greater focus. The next appointment with both the trade and the consumer is the UITT Trade Fair in Kiev from March 27-29, 2013.

 

SEYCHELLES CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY CO-HOSTS NAFISAT EVENT

North and East African countries meet in Seychelles regarding flight safety over Africa

 

 

Image from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 24, 2013

A group of North and Eastern African countries are participating in the 9th NAFISAT (Northern African and Indian Ocean telecommunications via satellite) meeting, which will be held at the Kempinski Seychelles Resort from Monday, March 25 to Tuesday, March 26, 2013.

The Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority will be co-hosting and participating in the event which is for the first time being held in Seychelles.

NAFISAT is a regional VSAT (telecommunication via satellite) network used for the purpose of dissemination of air traffic /flight information between Air Traffic Control Centers in the northern and eastern African states. The network is administered by Air Traffic Navigation Services (ATNS) of South Africa but owned by the member states. The current Chairman of the NAFISAT committee is Mr. Moses Lusambili of Somalia, who will also be present at the meeting.

This seminar which is conducted every year is one where the Committee, similar to a Board of Directors, has a supervisory role to ensure that the administration and management of Communication via Satellite (VSAT) network is working smoothly. Together they analyze finances and decide on cost-recovery fees to be charged to airlines.

At this particular meeting, the representatives will ensure the continuity and sustainability of the current network; agree on cost-recovery charges for the year 2013, and planning of the future network and ownership options.

“It is essential that this critical, via-satellite, telecommunication network continues to operate smoothly to ensure safety and efficiency of flights over Africa. We also need to guarantee continuity of this service by planning for the future well in advance,” says Ms. Lise Morel, the SCAA General Manager of Telecommunication and Information system.

The seminar will be attended by 23 delegates from 14 countries. The participating countries are mainly Egypt, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti, Kenya, Libya, Saudi Arabia, Seychelles, Somalia, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, and Yemen.

SCAA will be represented by Aeronautical Telecommunication Field Engineer Mr. Evans Be strong.

“This network is a superb example of how African states can indeed get together for the benefit of all,” ended Ms. Morel.

You are most welcome to cover this event. For further queries please contact: Miss Lina Laurence, Tel- 4384007/ 2529854, Fax : 4384009, E-mail: llaurence@scaa.sc

 

BEST ACADEMIC STUDENT OF SHANNON COLLEGE OF HOTEL MANAGEMENT OF IRELAND

Best hospitality student meets with Seychelles President

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 21, 2013

Seychelles President James Michel met with Mrs. Rose-May Lavigne, nee Payette, a Seychellois student who is the overall Best Academic Student of Shannon College of Hotel Management of Ireland for 2013, this afternoon at State House.
Also present during the meeting were the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Alain St. Ange; the Secretary General of the Office of the President, Mrs. Lise Bastienne; the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Mrs. Elsia Grandcourt; the Principal of the Seychelles Tourism Academy Mr. Flavien Joubert; and Mrs, Lavigne’s father, Mr. Denis Payette.

The President congratulated Mrs. Lavigne on her outstanding performance at Shannon College. Her course and training were part of a twinning program with the Seychelles Tourism Academy, a program initiated by the President in 2009. The first group of Seychellois students started studying there in 2011.

“You and the other students have done well to make our country happy and proud. You are a shining example of our students’ ability to excel. I hope you will make good use of your knowledge to build the Seychelles Brand and to be a role model for Seychellois tourism managers in the future,” commented President Michel.

Mrs. Lavigne forms part of a group of thirteen Seychellois students from the Seychelles Tourism Academy who graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management on March 7, 2013 in a cohort of about a hundred European students. It is to be noted that this is the first batch of students which have completed their degree tailored by the Shannon College of Hotel Management of Ireland.

During the meeting at State House, the President and Mrs. Lavigne discussed possibilities for her to further her studies, her experience in Ireland, the graduates’ future in the tourism industry, the President’s vision to retain Seychellois professionals in the industry, and programs being envisioned to that end.

Mrs. Lavigne thanked everyone who has supported her and her fellow graduates throughout their studies. She further expressed her gratitude to President Michel and the government of Seychelles for their commitment in initiating the training program, its funding, and their belief in the Seychelles Tourism Academy. She emphasized that it was encouraging to see that they had come back to a strong system of support. “The STA and Shannon College have thought me so much. Being at the College has built up my confidence. I am very happy, and I know I will move up slowly but surely,” said Mrs Lavigne.

Mrs. Lavigne now wishes to acquire more work experience at the Allamanda Hilton Hotel and, subsequently, further her studies at Master’s level, covering topics such as finance, business studies, and marketing which she feels are important to help grow the hotel industry.

Such an accomplishment illustrates the strategy and programs being implemented by the Seychelles Tourism Academy to pave the way for the Seychellois Hospitality Management professionals to take up key positions within the Seychelles tourism industry.

 

DIVING HOLIDAYS

Seychelles and Emirates Holidays plunge into Dive Middle East Exhibition

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 20, 2013

Seychelles moved to continue to increase its visibility campaign in the Middle East through a joint cooperation between the Seychelles Tourism Offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi and Emirates Holidays. The islands put a strong presence at the recent Dubai International Boat Show from March 5-9, 2013 under the Dive Middle East Exhibition pavilion.

This event is held in association with Emirates Diving Association (EDA); the Dive Middle East Exhibition celebrated its 7th edition this year. The 5-day event engaged the island’s delegation in promoting the Seychelles, not only as a holiday destination, but also one where visitors can indulge in diving, sailing, and fishing. A huge number of potential holiday makers visited the Seychelles stand and showed their interest to travel this year. Their enthusiasm was spurred by both what the Seychelles has to offer, as well as the amazing deals by Emirates Holidays. On offer during the show was an AED 5,126 package for a 3-night stay in Seychelles inclusive of the airfare, hotel, and private transfers on breakfast basis, and this special Seychelles package with Emirates Holidays remains valid until April 30, 2013.

A number of high-profile clients from different parts of the world who were seen at the show visited the Seychelles stand to recount their unforgettable experiences in the islands and the beauty of Seychelles.

“The Seychelles Tourism Board Middle East has confirmed that they have witnessed a substantial growth this year with 37% increase from January to Febebruary 2013 compared to the same period last year. With the continuous presence of Seychelles on this targeted event we are optimistic that we will achieve our goal this year to receive 22,500 visitors,” says Ahmed Fathallah, Regional Manager, Seychelles Tourism Office, Middle East.

“The Seychelles Tourism Board’s aim in participating in this event is to continue to increase awareness of the impressive diving, fishing, yachting, and sailing opportunities that the Seychelles can offer. The Middle East remains a lucrative market for Seychelles, and we will continue to increase the visibility of Seychelles to strengthen its position,” says Aliette Esther, Tourism Attache, Seychelles Tourism Board’s, Abu Dhabi Office.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

PHOTO (Group, L to R): Rajinder Adikaritileke, Sr. Sales Executive, Emirates Holidays; Reema Al Abbas, Project Manager, EDA; Milanie Manalo, Sr. Marketing Executive, Seychelles Tourism Board Middle East; Aliette Esther, Seychelles Tourism Board Abu Dhabi Office; and Ibrahim Al Zu’bi, Executive Director, EDA

 

SEYCHELLES TOURISM JOBS

Seychelles Tourism Minister urges recruitment of hospitality graduates for tourism jobs

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 19, 2013

The Seychelles Minister for Tourism & Culture, Mr. Alain St.Ange, has appealed to the General Managers and Human Resource Managers from the islands’ tourism industry to ensure that returning Seychellois Hospitality Management graduates are given a fair recruitment program and a scheme of service that will entice them to stay and to work in the tourism industry.

Minister St.Ange’s appeal to trade partners was made during the General Managers meeting to discuss a localization plan for the returning Seychellois Hospitality Management graduates.

Chairing the meeting, Minister St.Ange said that the thirteen Seychellois returning graduates from the Shannon College of Hotel Management in Ireland are today bonded with high-end properties in Seychelles, and that they are now willing and able to take up their responsibilities.

“On numerous occasions you have voiced out concerns that not enough Seychellois have been trained to take up mid-management positions to grow into and to then take up key positions in the tourism industry. We have taken on board your concerns, and today we are welcoming back a first group of qualified Seychellois to help you place our 'couleur locale' in the front line positions of your properties. On behalf of the government, the Seychelles Tourism Academy has invested immensely to train our young people who had an interest in making tourism their career. They have now completed their studies at an international body, the Shannon College of Hotel Management, and we can safely assure you all that they meet the academic and professional standards set out by yourselves. We have upheld our obligations and our promise, and now it is your turn to give us your commitment that the returning graduates will be given a conducive working environment, a good scheme of service, and a salary package that will ensure they remain in our industry, and that they remain as part of your team as they follow their career path,” the Minister responsible for Tourism said.

Minister St.Ange also said that the country needs to retain its young graduates in the tourism industry, the industry that remains the pillar of the Seychelles economy. "Upon completion of their studies, they need to be helped to find employment in their respective training field. Our private sector trade partners need to lead the way to ensure our Seychellois graduates find employment. My key message to you is let us find a way to give a fair chance to our capable and to our trained Seychellois looking for employment. Let’s be supportive to our returning graduates. The success of our tourism industry is the success of our hotels, large and small, but for you to deliver the level of service expected of a property in one of the most sought-after tourism destinations you need good and qualified staff to work and increase your productivity.”

In his introductory remarks the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture had welcomed the returning Seychellois graduates from the Shannon College of Hotel Management present at the meeting. He commended them for their excellent results saying that they had done the country proud. "The Ministry of Tourism and Culture will be supportive in ensuring that you are taken care of by the trade partners," Minister St.Ange said.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board, Mrs. Elsia Grandcourt, and the Principal of the Tourism Academy also addressed the meeting. General Managers and Human Resource Managers were given opportunities to ask questions to members chairing the meeting which included Principal Secretary of Tourism Mrs. Sherin Naiken, Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board Mrs. Elsia Grandcourt, Principal of the Seychelles Tourism Academy Mr. Flavien Joubert, representatives of the Ministry of Labor and Human Resource Development Mr. Egbert Rosalie, General Manager of the Hotel d’Application Mr. Peter Moncherry, General Manager of the Four Seasons Mr. Alex Portreous, and General Manager of Ephelia Resort Mr. Phillip Guitton.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

PHOTO (L to R): General Manager Hotel d’application Peter Moncherry, Principal Seychelles Tourism Academy Flavien Joubert, Human Resource Development Representative Egbert Rosalie, Principal Secretary of Tourism Sherin Naiken, Minister Alain St.Ange, Chief Executive Seychelles of Tourism Board Elsia Grandcourt, General Manager of Four Seasons Alex Portreous, and General Manager of Ephelia Resort Phillip Guitton at General Managers Meeting at Le Meridien Barbaron Hotel / Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

 

TRAVEL AND TOURISM COMPETITIVENESS REPORT 2013

Seychelles recognized as leaders in the world of tourism

 

 

Mar 18, 2013

On March 14, Frances Cha of CNN gives coverage of anew report, put out earlier this month by the World Economic Forum that has ranked which countries roll out the welcome mat to travelers and which give the cold shoulder.

Frances Cha of CNN says that the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 has ranked 140 countries according to attractiveness and competitiveness in the travel and tourism industries.

The article should be a wakeup call to every destination with a tourism industry.
The first section of the article is entitled “Unwelcoming” where among the extensive analyses, one of the most interesting rankings was how welcome tourists are in each country, under the category "Attitude of population toward foreign visitors" and she lists the world's most unfriendly countries, according to the data collected.

Frances Cha of CNN also looked at the strengths and weaknesses of tourism destinations. Frances writes: “The ‘friendly’ ranking was just one aspect of the report, analyzing each country's competitiveness in travel and tourism. That competitiveness is ‘based on the extent to which they are putting in place the factors and policies to make it attractive to develop the travel and tourism sector.’"

The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013, being referred to by Frances Cha, also touches on excellent tourism infrastructure and facilities, on business travel appeal, on sustainable development of natural resources, and on rich cultural resources. These were all among the key factors for countries landing the highest positions in the rankings. Safety/security, underdeveloped infrastructure, and concerns about sustainable development were among the factors bringing down countries' competitiveness.

Frances Cha of CNN writes that the United States (6th) topped the combined Americas, Singapore (10th) just pushed out Australia and New Zealand to lead the Asia Pacific region, the United Arab Emirates (28th) was the highest performer in the Middle East, and the Seychelles (38th) overtook Mauritius to head Africa.

The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 emphasized the need for continued development in the travel and tourism sector particularly for its role in job creation in a relatively stagnant global economy. The industry currently accounts for one in 11 jobs in the world.

The report used data compiled from the World Economic Forum's Executive Opinion Survey and hard data from private sources and national and international agencies and organizations such as the ICAO [International Civil Aviation Organization], IATA [International Air Transport Association], UNWTO [UN World Tourism Organization], World Bank/International Finance Corporation, IUCN [International Union for Conservation of Nature], WHO [World Health Organization], and UNESCO [UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization].

Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister for Tourism and Culture has said that the high ranking by Seychelles demonstrates the effort in place by the Seychelles government for the islands’ tourism industry. “Tourism remains the pillar of our country’s economy. We cannot afford to mess the good running of this key industry. We have been recognized as leaders in the world of tourism because we are committed to work with our industry players to ensure that our tourism industry continues to be consolidated. We also re-evaluate what we do, how we are perceived, and who we move forward to ensure we remain relevant as the sought-after tourism destination,” Minister Alain St.Ange of the Seychelles said.

 

SEYCHELLES RANKED NUMBER 1 IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA AND INDIAN OCEAN REGION

Seychelles Tourism Minister pleased with Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report rankings

 

 

St. Pierre Island near Praslin / Photo © Gerard Larose, Seychelles Tourism Board

 

Mar 17, 2013

Minister Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, has spoken to the press about his reactions following the findings by the the Travel & Tourism (T&T) Competitiveness Report 2013.

Seychelles has been ranked number 1 in sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean region and number 38 in the world. This report is based on assessment of 140 economies worldwide under the theme, “Reducing Barriers to Economic Growth and Job Creation.” The assessment, which is based on the extent to which these economies are putting in place the factors and policies to make it attractive to develop the travel and tourism sector, validates the move carried out by President James Michel of the Seychelles after he took over the portfolio for tourism in his government to re-launch the island's tourism industry exactly three years ago.

The World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index writes: The Sub-Saharan Africa Table 7 shows the results for the sub-Saharan region which sees the Seychelles entering the rankings for the first time at the top of the region, and 38thoverall. The importance of travel and tourism for the country’s economy is reflected in its top ranking for the prioritization of the industry, with the 2nd highest T&T expenditure-to-GDP ratio in the world and effective marketing and branding campaigns. These efforts are reinforced by a strong national affinity for travel and tourism (5th); good tourism infrastructure, especially in terms of available hotel rooms (6th); and good ground and air transport infrastructures, particularly by regional standards (31st and 27th, respectively). These positive attributes somewhat make up for its relative lack of price competitiveness (120th).

Although the natural environment is now assessed as being in good condition, efforts to develop the industry in a sustainable way could be reinforced, for example by increasing marine and terrestrial protection, which would help to protect the many threatened species in the country (132nd).

Mauritius loses its number one spot in the regional rankings, overtaken by the entry of the Seychelles this year, and is ranked 58th overall.

Minister Alain St.Ange of the Seychelles has said that he was pleased with the report as it showed that his work and that of the team at the Tourism Board was today recognized not just in Seychelles, but also right across the world. "Three years it has taken to be where we are today. From a re-launch instigated by President Michel of the Seychelles when he moved the tourism industry as a portfolio under his very own office and launched his vision as the ‘Seychelles Brand of Tourism.’ Today the findings by the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 shows that the move by the Seychelles authorities has brought about the needed transformation of the island’s tourism industry which has brought it to new heights.”

It was President James Michel of the Seychelles who personally appointed Alain St.Ange, the known local hotel and tourism professional to head Seychelles Tourism as Director of Marketing before promoting him to the position of CEO of the Tourism Board to oversee a total re-launch of Seychelles tourism. In March last year, President James Michel moved to make tourism a standalone ministry of his government when he appointed Alain St.Ange as the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture. Before taking over the portfolio of tourism it was the island's Vice President Joseph Belmont who had been mandated to head the tourism ministry.

"Today I am happy and accept the accolade the findings by the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 on behalf of the Ministry and the Tourism Board as a whole. We know that the inclusive approach in place where our partners are heard, where our staff are listened to, and where a annually time is set aside for a Marketing Meeting is held to pave the way for new approaches to be analyzed, and where new directions are looked at is working. This Marketing Meeting is with all the Tourism Board's overseas offices, the airlines, the industry's private sector association members, and the senior management of the Tourism Board, and it is clearl that this inclusive approach is the right approach that continues to bring dividends as we now see in this latest world report. We have managed to stay relevant as a tourism destination only because we are all working together, and because we remain proactive always," Minister Alain St.Ange said.

"Seychelles has never had the budget to play big advertising blitz, but we have instead been innovative and intelligent in getting to the press by being present at events and wherever opportunities came up. One needs a good message and the dedication and, of course, the ability to meet the press to echo the message. Any event offers these opportunities, but it is the contacts needed to get you in at the right place and at the right time that opens these doors for you. We have done well and always used the opportunities we had to fly the Seychelles flag high," the Seychelles Minister said.

 

STRATEGIC CHANGES IN THE WORLD OF TOURISM

Seychelles Minister to join tourism leaders at World Tourism Forum Think Tank

 

 

Seychelles Minister for Tourism & Culture Alain St.Ange/ Photo: Seychelles Min. of Tourism & Culture

 

Mar 15, 2013

Minister Alain St.Ange from the Seychelles has confirmed that he will be joining the World Tourism Forum “Think Tank” in Lucerne, Switzerland, this coming April. The dimension of the tourism meeting in Lucerne has grown even further since the ICTP (International Coalition of Tourism Partners) and World Tourism Forum Lucerne collaboration talks at the ITB Travel Trade Show last week in Berlin, Germany, with special focus on Green Growth.

The Seychelles Minister St.Ange is a founding member of the ICTP alongside Geoffrey Lipman and Juergen Steinmetz, and the Lucerne tourism meeting will be the opportunity for Mr. Taleb Rifai, the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary General, and tourism ministers to meet as ICTP members also meet side by side.

ICTP President Geoffrey Lipman met with Martin Barth, the General Manager of the Lucerne Forum, to discuss ways in which they could extend their shared interest in the Green Growth transformation of the sector. They discussed the new World Tourism Forum “Think Tank” that Mr. Lipman will chair and met with Minister Marthinus Van Schalkwyk, the Tourism Minister of South Africa, and Dr. Michael Frenzel, the Chairman of TUI Travel PLC.

In Lucerne, Dr. Frenzel is set to deliver a keynote paper on “Hyper-connectivity” and Minister Van Schalkwyk on “Bridging the Silos,” to help explore new directions for the tourism industry.

The Seychelles Minister St.Ange will be joining some 20 leaders from the travel and tourism sector when they meet on April 16 and 17, along with leading young social entrepreneurs to consider strategic changes in the world of tourism.

ABOUT ICTP

The International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP) is a grassroots travel and tourism coalition of global destinations committed to quality service and green growth. ICTP engages communities and their stakeholders to share quality and green opportunities including tools and resources, access to funding, education, and marketing support. ICTP advocates sustainable aviation growth, streamlined travel formalities, fair coherent taxation, and investments for jobs. ICTP supports the UN Millennium Development Goals, the UN World Tourism Organization's Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, and a range of programs that underpin them. ICTP has over 100 destination members, including: Anguilla; Aruba; Australia; Bangladesh; Belgium, Belize; Brazil; Canada; Caribbean; China; Croatia; Cyprus; Ecuador; Egypt; Falkland Islands; (The) Gambia; Georgia; Germany; Ghana; Greece; Grenada; India; Indonesia; Iran; Italy; Jordan; Kenya; Korea (South); La Reunion (French Indian Ocean); Malawi; Malaysia; Mauritius; Mexico; Morocco; (The) Netherlands; Nicaragua; Nigeria; Northern Mariana Islands (USA Pacific Island Territory); Romania; Sultanate of Oman; Pakistan; Palestine; Philippines; Portugal; Rwanda; Seychelles; Sierra Leone; South Africa; Sri Lanka; St. Eustatius (Dutch Caribbean); St. Kitts; St. Lucia; Sudan; Swaziland; Sweden; Tajikistan; Tanzania; Trinidad & Tobago; UAE; Uganda; USA; Yemen; Zambia; and Zimbabwe.

 

SEYCHELLES FORGES RELATIONSHIP WITH ITALIAN TOWN OF CIVITAVECCHIA

Future cultural and tourism exchanges between Seychelles and Italy

 

 

Photo from Seychelles Ministry of Tourism and Culture

 

Mar 12, 2013

The Principal Secretary for Tourism, Sherin Naiken, has met with the Mayor of the Italian town, Civitavecchia in Rome, at a special dinner hosted for the visiting Italian delegation.

Leading a high-level delegation, Mr. Tidei Pietro, Mayor of the Italian town, Civitavecchia in Rome, said that the town of Civitavecchia, spearheaded by Dorothy Furneau, the Seychelles Tourism Ambassador based in Italy, has forged a good working “relationship with Seychelles” which he said he hopes will continue to grow and be “translated into future cultural and tourism exchanges between Seychelles and the Italian town of Civitavecchia.”

All the main sponsors of “Miss Seychelles... Another World” are from the town of Civitavecchia. This was made possible through the close working partnership between Dorothy Furneau, the Seychelles Tourism Ambassador in Italy, the town of Civitavecchia, and the Seychelles Tourism Board.

In the final preparation for the Miss World Beauty Pageant 2012, “Miss Seychelles... Another World” Sherlyn Furneau headed to Italy where she was hosted by the town of Civitavecchia. She was even personally invited to a gala dinner hosted by Mr. Tidei Pietro, the town Mayor.

Mr. Tidei Pietro said that it’s thanks to Dorothy Furneau that the working partnership between the town of Civitavecchia and Seychelles stands on firm ground. Dorothy Furneau said she “will continue to be used as the bridge linking Seychelles with the Italian town of Civitavecchia.”

The town Mayor of Civitavecchia has underlined future plans for the town of Civitavecchia and Victoria. A twinning agreement between both towns has been envisaged. During their Seychelles visit, the Italian delegation was hosted to a dinner at La Plaine St.Andre by the Seychelles Tourism Board.

In the presence Mrs. Raymonde Onezime, the Special Advisor to the Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture; the Financial Controller to Seychelles Tourism Board, Mr. Jean Francois Adeline, who was representing the Chief Executive Officer of Seychelles Tourism Board, Elsia Grandcourt; 2012 “Miss Seychelles… Another World” Sherlyn Furneau; the Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mrs. Sherin Naiken welcomed the Italian delegation to Seychelles, outlining that their visit would help to spread the name of Seychelles around Italy. “You are true friends, and we in Seychelles need our true friends around the world, and we value them.”

“The Seychelles Tourism Board and the Ministry of Tourism and Culture are grateful for the support given to Seychelles by the Italian town of Civitavecchia. I know that the town of Civitavecchia has been a true partner in hosting “Miss Seychelles... Another World” Sherlyn Furneau’s tour in Italy. Thank you for all your support, and we hope that this partnership will grow from strength to strength,” said Ms. Naiken.

Mrs. Dorothy Furneau, who was present at the event, “thanked Carlo Romano” a member of the Italian delegation for having been one of Sherlyn Furneau’s main sponsors and that of the JJ Spirit Foundation.”

The Italian delegation from the town of Civitavecchia arrived in Seychelles on March 4. They paid a courtesy call on President James Michel at State House and undertook a series of official visits on the islands. They left Seychelles feeling satisfied with their visit.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP).

PHOTO (L to R): “Miss Seychelles…Another World” Sherlyn Furneau; Principal Secretary for Tourism, Sherin Naiken; Mayor of Civitavecchia, Tidei Pietro; Special Advisor to the Minister for Tourism and Culture, Raymonde Onezime; & Tourism Ambassador based in Italy, Dorothy Furneau at La Plaine St. Andre.

 

DEVELOPING THE TRAVEL AND TOURISM SECTOR

The Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 – Seychelles President's moves vindicated

 

 

BY ETN STAFF WRITER | MAR 11, 2013

The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2013 has ranked Seychelles Number One in African Travel and Tourism Competitiveness and Number 38 in the world. This report assesses 140 economies worldwide under the theme “Reducing Barriers to Economic Growth and Job Creation.” The assessment is on the extent to which these economies are putting in place the factors and policies to make it attractive to develop the travel and tourism sector.

The World Economic Forum’s Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index writes: The Sub-Saharan Africa Table 7 shows the results for the sub-Saharan region which sees the Seychelles entering the rankings for the first time at the top of the region, and 38th overall. The importance of travel and tourism [T&T] for the country’s economy is reflected in its top ranking for the prioritization of the industry, with the 2nd highest T&T expenditure-to-GDP ratio in the world and effective marketing and branding campaigns. These efforts are reinforced by a strong national affinity for travel and tourism (5th); good tourism infrastructure, especially in terms of available hotel rooms (6th); and good ground and air transport infrastructures, particularly by regional standards (31st and 27th, respectively). These positive attributes somewhat make up for its relative lack of price competitiveness (120th).

Although the natural environment is now assessed as being in good condition, efforts to develop the industry in a sustainable way could be reinforced, for example by increasing marine and terrestrial protection, which would help to protect the many threatened species in the country (132nd). Mauritius loses its number one spot in the regional rankings, overtaken by the entry of the Seychelles this year, and is ranked 58th overall.

The Mauritius “Le Mauricien Newspaper” of March 7 on its part carried this latest world report with a title, “Tourism, Mauritius loses its place as the No.1 in the Indian Ocean.” Le Mauricien writes: The Seychelles were recognized for their efforts in “Marketing and Branding Campaigns” when compared to Mauritius which dropped 5 places to 58th for 2012/2013 on the world stage.

The newspaper states that Mauritius has lost to the Seychelles its place as the No. 1 in tourism of the region Indian Ocean and Sub Saharan. On the world ranking by the World Economic Forum, Mauritius is now ranked 58th whereas the Seychelles is seen at the comfortable position of 38th, which is 20 places ahead of Mauritius.
The Mauritius newspaper in its assessment of the report just published states that Mauritius dropped 5 places when compared to the 2011 World Ranking when 2 years ago the Seychelles was not even rated in this hit-parade of world tourism. This world report is based on different specific parameters from travel and tourism expenditure, to GDP ratio, to marketing & branding campaigns, without forgetting the category on security of visitors and applicable rates.

“Mauritius loses its number one spot in the regional rankings, overtaken by the entry of the Seychelles this year, and is ranked 58th overall. However, the country has seen its price competitiveness decline significantly (ranked 75th, down from 18th in the last assessment) — primarily the result of increasing hotel and fuel prices and high ticket taxes and airport charges. Additionally, in terms of challenges, the country’s environmental sustainability has received a weakened assessment, of particular concern given the importance of the natural environment for the country’s leisure tourism,” the World Economic Forum brings out in its assessment.

“Seychelles has benefitted during the last couple of years from efforts approved by the authorities. The importance of travel and tourism for the country’s economy is reflected in its top ranking for the prioritization of the industry, with the 2nd highest tourism and travel expenditure–to-GDP ratio in the world and effective marketing and branding campaigns. These efforts are reinforced by a strong national affinity for travel and tourism (5th); good tourism infrastructure, especially in terms of available hotel rooms (6th); and good ground and air transport infrastructures, particularly by regional standards (31st and 27th, respectively),” says the World Economic Forum.

The 2013 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) reveals that Switzerland tops the overall rankings in The Global Competitiveness Report for the fourth consecutive year. Singapore remains in second position with Finland in third position overtaking Sweden 4th). These and other Northern and Western European countries dominate the top 10 with the Netherlands, Germany, and United Kingdom respectively ranked 5th, 6th, and 8th. The United States (7th), Hong Kong (9th), and Japan (10th) complete the top 10. The report emphasizes persisting competitiveness divides across and within regions, as short-termism and political deadlock continue to hold back the economic performance of many countries and regions. Looking forward, productivity improvements and private sector investment will be key to improving global economies at a time of heightened uncertainty about the global economic outlook.

The report explores how, on one hand, the travel and tourism industry has the potential to boost economic resilience and job creation but, on the other, a number of factors continue to hinder its development.

This report has been welcomed by Seychelles where many are saying that the transformation of the island’s tourism industry started when President James Michel personally took over the tourism portfolio in his government and appointed Alain St.Ange, the local hotel and tourism professional to head Seychelles Tourism as Director of Marketing before promoting him to the position of CEO of the Tourism Board. This is the period when a total re-launch of Seychelles tourism was effected, and it was during this period that President James Michel of the Seychelles launched his “Seychelles Brand of Tourism” to get more Seychellois islanders involved in their island’s tourism industry. President Michel also moved Seychelles marketing away from just sun, sea, and sand to be more events based with culture as the base to help consolidate the island’s tourism industry.

It was in March last year that President James Michel of the Seychelles moved to make tourism a stand-alone Ministry of his government when he appointed Alain St.Ange as the Seychelles Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture. Since then Seychelles has been noticed as never before. Minister Alain St.Ange has taken a leadership role and is recognized as being one of the main drivers of the Indian Ocean Vanilla Islands Regional Organization. Minister St.Ange was elected the first President of the organization. He is also a founding member of the ICTP (International Coalition of Tourism Partners) along with Geoffrey Lipman and Juergen Steinmetz. This world tourism body was created to rally not only countries but to also bring together serious tourism professionals and companies who believe in the long-term vision of green and sustainable tourism.

It was also under the leadership of Minister St.Ange that Seychelles hosted Routes Africa and launched the annual Carnaval International de Victoria. This successful carnival has since been called by the world press as the unique “Carnival of Carnivals” and remains the only carnival where all the best and most popular carnivals parade side by side and alongside cultural troupes from the Community of Nations. This equatorial Vanilla Islands carnival was this year co-hosted by Seychelles, La Reunion, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe.

Seychelles is also this year a candidate for a seat on the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Executive Committee. This election is set for August at the UNWTO General Assembly in Zambia/Zimbabwe.

From Seychelles it was revealed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF), through Mrs. Carol Baker, the Head of its Mission, had hailed Seychelles as “outperforming” many similar island destinations with year-to-date visitor arrival figures indicating an increase of over 20% for the first two months of 2013. In 2012, Seychelles saw an increase of 7% in visitor arrival numbers when the figures in Mauritius stagnated.

 

AIRPORT FIRE BRIGADE TO THE RESCUE

Praslin hotel fire is out

 

 

Laurier Hotel cottage / Image via laurier-seychelles.com

 

BY DR. WOLFGANG H. THOME, ETN UGANDA | MAR 09, 2013

(eTN) - Information was received from the Seychellois island of Praslin, that an accidental fire, caused reportedly by a neighbor of the Laurier Hotel who carelessly burned rubbish in his back yard, seriously damaged 6 of the hotel’s cottages. As luck in this misfortune had it, the nearby Praslin airport fire brigade rushed to the scene to assist the staff of the hotel and their colleagues from the nearby Paradise Sun Hotel to put the fire out before it could cause greater damage to the hotel or spread to other resorts close by.

Fire fighting is one of the elements regularly trained among hotel staff across the Seychelles islands and has born fruits in past fires on the main island of Mahe, where such preparedness as well as an almost instant reaction from the fire brigade helped to limit damage to resorts when fires broke out. The Thursday afternoon blaze was brought under control within the hour according to the source but the hotel will need to assess the damage first before rebuilding and reopening the affected cottages.

No one was injured in the fire and no property of guests was lost or damaged according to the information obtained since the first report was received yesterday.

 

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

Seychelles President’s message for Women's Day

 

 

Image via seychellesprestige.com

 

Mar 08, 2013

The Seychellois nation is proud to join the rest of the world to commemorate International Women's Day. It is a time to recognize the contribution of our courageous women in the building of our modern and progressive society in which no one feels at a disadvantage because of their gender. This day is a tribute to the extraordinary role of women in the family, the community, the economy, and society at large. We mark their economic, political, and social achievements. On this day we reflect on the changes still to be made to continue empowering our women, defending their rights, and protecting their dignity.

I take this opportunity to praise all the women and men in the government and civil society who are working for women's empowerment and gender equality. Seychelles is progressing well towards our goal of gender equality. There has been a marked increase in women's leadership and participation in decision-making in various sectors. We now have, for example, three female cabinet ministers, a female judge, a female secretary general, nine female principal secretaries, and sixteen female CEOs in the public sector. Young women made up the majority of the students who graduated from the University of Seychelles last year.

Women are the main contributors in education in our country. They are predominant in health and welfare. Women are the majority in the workforces in a number of economic enterprises. More girls are acquiring new skills that will allow them in the future to assume an even bigger role in nation-building. Opening more economic opportunities to women will significantly raise economic growth and reduce poverty. When we guarantee equal rights and opportunities to all, we are promoting the healthy functioning of individuals, our families, and our nation. Indeed, we are preparing for the better future.

The local theme, Mainstreaming the Gender Agenda in Social Renaissance, suggests that we focus on the achievements of women, while remaining tenacious and vigilant for further sustainable change. Significant progress that has been made, but we can do more.

We can do more to eliminate violence, in all its forms, against women and girls in our country. It is a sad reality that some of them have to face daily in their lives. As our social renaissance movement gains momentum, I urge all individuals, groups, and communities to join hands in a determined effort to help rid our country of all forms of abuse and social ills.

"A promise is a promise: time for action to end violence against women," we are reminded by the United Nations on International Women's Day this year.

I commend the Ministry of Social Affairs, Community Development and Sport for organizing a national conference to debate the social ills affecting women. The purpose of the conference is to continue raising awareness of the various issues in society affecting women today. It is an opportunity to highlight the activities the government and non-government agencies are involved in that can positively impact the problematic areas in society.

The practice of gender equality, the culture of respect and appreciation, should begin at home. In order to have gender equality nationwide we need greater balance of responsibilities between men and women, boys and girls. It is vital that caring responsibilities for children, the elderly, and the sick are better balanced between the genders. As men, we must protect and also empower the women in our lives, appreciate their hard work, contribution, strength, and achievements that have supported us immensely in our lives and endeavors.

I wish all the girls and women of Seychelles the very best on this special day. Happy International Women's Day!