Seychelles enthrals Indian travel market with successful three-city roadshow

Seychelles has made a powerful impression on the Indian travel market following a successful three-city roadshow that showcased the stunning scenic beauty, diverse activities, and unique Creole culture. Held from August 5 to 9, 2024, the roadshow covered Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai, offering Seychelles tourism partners a dedicated platform to highlight the destination's many attractions to the Indian travel trade.

Bringing together 10 key tourism partners from Seychelles to strengthen ties with the Indian travel industry and explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration, the roadshow was a big success. The delegation included representatives from Tourism Seychelles, Air Seychelles, leading Destination Management Companies (DMCs) like Luxury Travel, 7° South, Creole Travel Services, Tirant Tours, and Holiday Seychelles, as well as hotel partner Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort and Casino. Over 200 top industry professionals attended the roadshow, participating in productive discussions and networking sessions.

A significant highlight of the roadshow was the involvement of the Seychelles Hospitality and Tourism Association (SHTA) and the Seychelles Small Hotels & Establishments Association (SSHEA). Their participation emphasised the comprehensive nature of Seychelles' tourism offerings, which cater to a wide spectrum of travellers, from luxury seekers to those looking for budget-friendly options.

Daphne Bonne, representing the Seychelles Small Hotels & Establishments Association, expressed her satisfaction with the roadshow’s outcomes, “The association is thankful for the opportunity to participate in this highly productive road show, marking our first involvement. We were proud to showcase various properties through our presentations to the partners and had excellent exchanges with potential collaborators. The turnout was outstanding, and the interest in our offerings was substantial.” Bonne also noted the growing interest among Indian travel partners in smaller properties, a shift from the traditional preference for larger establishments. “This allows us to ensure that clients coming through these Indian partners from around the world can also consider Seychelles as a preferred destination. As an association, we made sure to provide our members with direct contacts. After three days of intensive working sessions and discussions, we are proud to have contributed to the Seychelles tourism industry through our participation,” she added.

During the destination presentation, the Seychelles tourism team showcased the 115-island archipelago as a pristine travel destination, showing crystal-clear waters, lush forests, and vibrant coral reefs. The brand offers Indian travellers a unique opportunity to experience the unspoiled beauty of the Indian Ocean, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an exclusive and rejuvenating getaway.

Bernadette Willemin, Director General Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, highlighted the importance of the Indian market for Seychelles. “India is a key market for us, and we are excited to showcase Seychelles' unique charm to the Indian travel trade. Our islands offer everything one needs in a quintessential vacation destination: stunning blue waters surrounding lush greens, diverse cultural and adventure activities, and exclusivity, making them an ideal getaway for those seeking a memorable time with their loved ones,” she said.

The roadshow effectively highlighted Seychelles' diverse tourism offerings, from luxurious resorts to adventurous activities like snorkelling, diving, fishing, and hiking. Attendees learned about the opportunities to interact with tortoises on Curieuse Island, explore local markets in Victoria on Mahé, and discover the endemic flora and fauna in Praslin.