Seychelles has recorded 62 per cent increase in tourist arrivals from India during January-July2016 compared to the same period last year. This surge is attributed to the India tourist office’s increasing focus on educating and hand holding the trade to promote the destination, increase in Air Seychelles’ daily flights from four to five times a week, efforts from the hotels and DMCs to tap the India market and increasing efforts to reach out to the customer through association with Bollywood and other avenues.
Sherin Naiken, CEO, Seychelles Tourism Board, said: “We are thrilled with the way India market has responded to our efforts. We have seen a phenomenal increase in arrivals since we opened office three years ago. However, this is not the time to bask in the current successes and relax. As we enter the pre-honeymoon and festival season, we will double our efforts to reach out to both travel trade and consumers. We are fortunate to have supportive partners like Air Seychelles, the DMCs and the hotels who walk with us hand-in-hand in going the extra mile to support the Indian travel trade. As a result, owing to its diversity, we have been able to position Seychelles as a destination which is meant for all – families, couples, small groups, celebrations and MICE.”
New hotels have also opened in the Seychelles in the past one year. Carana Beach Hotel, the 40 chalet four star property in North Mahe, opened its doors to guests in April 2016. It is the only resort in its category to feature in-villa plunge-in pools. Dubai-based H Hotel and Resort Management Company opened its five star resort, The H, on the Beau Vallon Beach on Mahe island. The Six Senses Zil Payson is set to open in September 2016. This is in addition to the opening of a few small establishments including self catering chalets and guesthouses.
Four Seasons will open its second resort in Seychelles in 2017 on Desroches, one of the remotest islands in the world belonging to the Amirantes group in the outer islands of Seychelles.
Seychelles has become increasingly popular among Indians with visa on arrival and gratis and direct flights from Mumbai and connectivity from other cities with airlines including Etihad, Emirates, Ethiopian airlines, Sri Lankan airlines and Kenya airways.
