DESTINATION FEATURE | Mauritius
Mauritius
is open for business The current use of technology to host business meetings, workshops and virtual expos and events is a temporary measure, until the current stringent lockdowns and travel bans due to the Covid-19 pandemic, are lifted.
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his is the view of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA), as countries around the world grapple with the outbreak, spread and impact of the virus on their citizens, and the severe impact it has had on the global travel and tourism industry. Despite the challenges to the tourism industry worldwide globally as a result of the rapid spread of the coronavirus, the MTPA would like to reassure the MICE industry that Mauritius is still very much open for business. This is evident as airlines, incentive houses, PCOs and groups agents continue to promote Mauritius as the idyllic Indian Ocean destination to cater for all your MICE needs. Infection rates of Covid-19 have remained low in Mauritius and the country has in place stringent safety, health and hygiene measures to protect the public. At the time of writing, Mauritius had recorded 332 infections in total, and has announced no new infections for the past 14 days. “We are encouraged by the statistics, as well as our government’s huge efforts to curb the infection rate and put in place effective health and safety measures,” said Arvind Bundhun, director of MTPA. Mauritius is a vibrant, friendly and 18 Business Events Africa May 2020
beautiful country to visit. Not only does it have some of the best luxury resorts and beaches on the planet, it is also a unique melting pot of cultures that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. The variety of adventure, sports and other lifestyle activities also make it an ideal destination for those who want the unique MICE experience for their guests. The MICE industry is an important cog in the MTPA’s tourism strategy, realising great economic benefits from this segment to the country’s GDP. “We know that the skies will open up again. Those travellers who have come to know and love Mauritius – and those who plan to visit for the first time – will get the opportunity to visit and experience the island’s amazing warmth and hospitality. “Mauritius and South Africa have long enjoyed a magical relationship and we are confident this will continue as soon as it is safe to travel again,” Mr Bundhun added.
Plan to meet in Mauritius Why not plan your next MICE trip to Mauritius? The paradise island offers an array of luxurious venues, staffed by professional and dedicated support teams, to deliver a unique, world-class event, with a touch of island-style colour and flair.
Mauritius is fast becoming one of Africa’s tourism and meetings jewels offering scenic beauty, hidden treasures to explore and an exotic melting-pot of cuisines and cultures. Just a short flight from South Africa’s three major cities, it is also visafree for South African passport holders.
MICE market Mauritius offers the MICE buyer the total infrastructure to cater for a variety of groups and sizes, all year round. While the MICE market trend is uncertain post-Covid-19, there has been talk of a focus on smaller, regular incentive groups rather than larger events. Whatever the MICE industry trends hold going forward, as a MICE-friendly destination, Mauritius holds all the key ingredients to delight and deliver. The quality and variety of accommodation, the attention to detail in service delivery, stateof-the-art conferencing venues, professional and friendly staff, and the additional activities on offer, all guarantee a unique experience.
Health and safety Currently the health and safety of all its citizens and residents on the island remain www.businesseventsafrica.com
