BusinessTravel Guide
www.africaoutlookmag.com
SEYCHELLES
The luxury outpost of AfricaÂ
S E Y C H E L L E S
SEYCHELLES Made up of dozens of islands scattered in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles experience is summed up by beautiful beaches, amazing aquatic life and luxurious living Writer: Tom Wadlow | Project Manager: Jordan Levey
THE SEYCHELLES – 115 tropical landmasses that to its visitors are the embodiment of paradise. Lying 1,600 kilometres east of Kenya and 1,100 kilometres northeast of Madagascar, the Indian Ocean island republic is one of the world’s smallest countries, with fewer than 100,000 residents. However, it is fair to say Seychelles occupies a much larger presence on the global tourism scene, revered around the world as the home of golden beaches, healthy coral reefs and luxury resorts. The country is split into two major island groups: the Mahé group of around 40 largely mountainous islands and home to capital city Victoria, and an outer group of more than 70 flatter islands. Discovery of Seychelles can be attributed to the great Portuguese explorer Vasco de Gama, who in 1502 made a sighting on his voyage
2
from India to Africa. The first settlers did not arrive until 1770, the French colonising the islands before the British seized control in 1811 following a period of brief post-French Revolution independence.
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
FACTS & FIGURES Capital city: Languages: Area: Population (2017): GDP (2015): Currency: Time zone: Dialling code: Internet TLD: Climate:
Victoria Creole, English, and French 455 km² (Approx. 115 islands) 95,900 US$1.486 billion Seychelles rupee GMT+4 +248 .sc Tropical
Today the country serves as a stunning backdrop for visiting businesspeople and leisure travellers alike, one of relatively few undisturbed tropical wildernesses that is drawing in increasing numbers of tourists every year.
B
U
S
I
N
E
S
S
T
R
A
V
E
L
AFRICA
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
3
Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa
Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa
Glacis, Victoria - Mahe, Seychelles +248-429-9000 reservations.seychelles@hilton.com
La Passe, Silhouette Island, Seychelles +248-429-3949 sezlb.reservations@hilton.com
Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa @hiltonnortholme HiltonNortholme HiltonNortholme • 5 stars luxury boutique resort • 56 private villas in total all facing the ocean • 15 villas with infinity pools, offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean • Adults only resort (children welcome above the age of 13+ years) • Ocean Front Spa and Fitness • 3 Ocean view dining outlets including 1 bar • Beach and watersport activities • Eco friendly resort supporting the Coral Reef Restoration
Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa @hiltonseychelleslabriz HiltonLabriz HiltonLabriz • 5 Stars Eco-Friendly hotel surrounded by a National Park • Located on the private island of Silhouette • Only accessible by boat (30 mns journey) • 111 villas in total • 72 villas located directly on the beach • 17 villas with private infinity pool PADI certified Diving Center • 5 Nature trails, watersports, island tours, spa
DoubleTree by Hilton Allamanda Resort & Spa Anse Forbans Mahe, Victoria, Seychelles +248-438-8800 sezdt.info@hilton.com DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles - Allamanda Resort & Spa @doubletree_allamanda DoubletreeAllam DoubletreeAllam • High end 4 stars contemporary resort • 30 Ocean View with Terrace rooms in total - “Private” beach and watersports activities • Eco friendly resort supporting the Coral Reef Restoration
S E Y C H E L L E S
Seychelles Tourism Board RESPONSIBLE FOR PROMOTING this enviable destination is the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB). Headed up by Chief Executive Officer Sherin Francis and Chairperson Kathleen Mason, the organisation has a network of offices spread in different parts of the world which are helping place the island republic on the map. The STB’s locations include France, the UK, Germany, Italy, South Africa, Abu Dhabi, China, Hong Kong and Spain, as well as representations in the Middle East, India, Brazil, South Korea and Russia. We asked Francis about the Board’s work and vision. Africa Outlook (AfO): Can you firstly talk me through the origins of the Seychelles Tourism Board, how it came about, and its initial vision? Sherin Francis (SF): The Seychelles Tourism Board evolved from the earlier Seychelles Tourism Marketing Authority as the organisation mandated to promote Seychelles
6
also as a result of gaining invaluable experience in reading market trends, managing those same markets and deploying new technologies such as the internet and social media platforms to carry its messages to a wider audience. AfO: How has the Seychelles has developed in recent years as a business travel hub and what are the tourism across all markets and to act as key reasons behind its growing appeal? a focal point to concentrate Seychelles’ SF: As a business travel hub, efforts in this direction. Its initial vision Seychelles offers the best of both was to establish Seychelles as the worlds in terms of providing a premier island holiday destination for backdrop of unparalleled natural the discerning traveller. beauty but also the infrastructure necessary for the business traveller. AfO: Since inception, how has the These, combined with a new Seychelles Tourism Board generation of hotels with excellent developed and progressed in terms of business facilities, have helped to its key objectives and the messages it underline Seychelles’ pedigree as a tries to get across? business hub. SF: The Seychelles Tourism Board has come a long way since those early AfO: Why, in your opinion, should days, both in terms of becoming a someone visit the Seychelles? more streamlined organisation, and SF: Because it is one of the planet’s
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
B
U
S
I
N
E
S
S
T
R
A
V
E
AFRICA
L
lightweight campaigns with which to convince markets of Seychelles’ value as a holiday destination while creating a tourism-friendly environment on the ground, in keeping with our carrying capacity.
very last sanctuaries for amazing flora and fauna and the home of authenticity, harmony and perpetual summer. AfO: Taking a more general industry stance, how would you evaluate the tourism sector now compared to its condition when the Tourism Board began? SF: Seychelles tourism figures show that there has been a year on year rise in visitors for much of the last 12 years and the sector continues to show growth across the various niche markets. These include diving and snorkelling, sailing and cruising, island hopping, spa and wellness, fishing, walks and trails, and golf.
“Seychelles is very sensitive to the sustainability of its operations in all fields...”
AfO: What are the core industry trends dictating the Tourism Board’s investments and initiatives at present? SF: Seychelles is very sensitive to the sustainability of its operations in all fields, especially tourism, because we are one of the destinations most reliant on tourism. This underpins almost everything we do and many government agencies and NGOs drive the sustainability initiative. Finding alternative sources of power is also a concern in parallel to sustainability.
AfO: Finally, looking forward, if we were to speak again in three-five years’ time, what progress and development would you hope and expect to report back? SF: I would hope to be able to confirm that Seychelles has remained faithful to its strong conservation credentials and continues to operate an authentic tourism offering, reflective of the Creole soul and balancing the sometimes-opposing considerations of development and sustainability.
AfO: What is in store for The Seychelles over the course the next year in terms of tourism development? SF: To continue operating tactical,
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
7
S E Y C H E L L E S
The Business End
NOT SURPRISINGLY, THE economy of Seychelles is dependant upon services, especially tourism. The country has enjoyed fairly steady economic growth, its GDP reaching more than $1.48 billion in 2017 and GDP per capita markedly higher than its continental neighbours. Almost 80 percent of this income is generated through the services sector, which in turn provides around three quarters of all jobs. The opening of an international airport on MahĂŠ island in 1971 proved to be an important turning point, with the tourism industry growing rapidly since then. While the prevailing trade winds
10
were part of the reason colonial traders were initially reluctant to establish a permanent presence, they provide ideal conditions for sailing, a major attraction for visitors. Other sectors do contribute significantly to this economic landscape. For instance, production of food, drink, animal feed and paints has propelled the manufacturing industry to a point where it now contributes one sixth of national income. Agriculture contributes a small proportion of GDP and employs only a fraction of the Seychelles workforce, but manages to export the likes of cinnamon bark, vanilla, tea, lime and tuna products.
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
While at Raffles, why not visit Seychelles? Legendary service since 1887 Our reputation travels
SEYCHELLES SINGAPORE PARIS DUBAI ISTANBUL HAINAN JAKARTA PHNOM PENH & SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA MAKATI, PHILLIPINES MAKKAH
raffles.com - Reservations: (Direct) + 249 429 6781 (International) + 800 1 RAFFLES or +1 506 870 6794
S E Y C H E L L E S
Out & About
UNRIVALLED PROVISION OF scuba diving, surfing, windsurfing, fishing, swimming, and sunbathing is what draws thousands of visitors to the Seychelles every year. The waters are warm, clear and full of wildlife, from sea turtles to whale sharks. Divers of all experience levels
12
flock to take in this breath-taking display, with qualified instructors able to speak multiple languages running expeditions from stateof-the-art diving centres. Ecotourism and wildlife spotting are not limited to the ocean, however. Many inland opportunities to explore also exist, including watching sea turtles nest on Bird Island, which also houses some of the world’s best bird sanctuaries. There is an enormous array of day trips and island-hopping tours to choose from, while others prefer to simply relax on the pristine beaches and take in the view of the surrounding Indian Ocean. Away from wildlife and nature you
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
will find a mixture of art galleries and museums spread across the country showcasing a mixture of colonial influences, while the food and drink scene offers some stunning seafood in equally inspiring settings.
S E Y C H E L L E S
Outlook Recommends “Beaches lapped by topaz waters, lush hills, a sublime laid-back tempo; these dreams of a tropical paradise become reality in the Seychelles” – Lonely Planet
HOTELS & RESORTS
RESTAURANTS ON MAHÉ
Hilton Seychelles
La Grande Maison
World-renowned hotel brand Hilton has three properties in the Seychelles. The Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa is based on the east coast of Silhouette and comprises 11 private luxury villas with eight on-site restaurants and bars. It is situated in a marine national park, a perfect base from which to explore the island’s flora and fauna. Another option is the DoubleTree Resort & Spa, located on the south side of Mahé. This is a four-star property and only 20 minutes from the airport. Hilton’s third Seychelles venue is the Northolme Resort & Spa, a luxury retreat also located on Mahé. Guests can choose to stay in one of 56 villas perched high amongst the tropical forest, the presidential suite offering 350 square metres of luxury space.
14
Raffles Seychelles Sitting on the north-eastern tip of Praslin, the second largest granite island, Raffles Seychelles offers 86 luxury villas of varying sizes. The resort is on the doorstep of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallée de Mai, Curieuse Marine National Park, and Anse Lazio, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Eden Seyshima
RESTAURANTS ON LA DIGUE
Le Relax Hotels Le Relax operates six sites in Seychelles: one in Mahé, two in Praslin and three in La Digue. One of the key services, and a crucial part of the Company’s philosophy, is to offer all-encompassing islandhopping packages with unparalleled personalised guest services. Those wishing to experience all three islands through the Le Relax brand are able to take advantage of numerous promotional offers.
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
Chez Jules Le repaire Lanbousier
B
U
S
I
N
E
S
S
T
R
A
V
E
L
AFRICA
Discover Seychelles
ACTIVITIES Blue Safari Seychelles - Alphonse Island Blue Safari operates luxury lodge accommodation and several experiences on the stunning island of Alphonse. Located 400 kilometres southwest of MahĂŠ, it is one of the Outer Islands and home to spectacular sandy beaches and wildlife, including 60-plus Aldabra tortoises. Alphonse may be just a square kilometre in size but provides plenty of activities for visitors. Among those offered by Blue Safari include snorkelling with manta rays, turtle spotting, bird watching, reef exploration, fishing and scuba diving. On the accommodation side, Blue Safari manages 22 beach bungalows and five beach suites with direct access to the beach.
VallĂŠe de Mai Ziblo Boat Charter
+248 252 5866 +248 257 3668 booking@lecharmecarhire.com www.lecharmecarhire.com
Cote Dor, Praslin, Seychelles - Tel: +248 4237766 info@piroguelodge.com - www.piroguelodge.com
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
15
S E Y C H E L L E S
Transport Links
16
the UK and Ireland (6.2 percent) and South Africa (four percent). The airport also serves a domestic route to Praslin, chiefly through carrier Air Seychelles, while a number of private charter flights are available for those looking to arrive, depart or navigate the country by plane. In terms of other modes of transport, ferry services operate between the islands, which in the main
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
PHOTO: PASCAL KOBEH
THE COMPLETION OF its international airport in 1971 opened Seychelles up to the world. In 2016, around 302,000 passengers arrived in the country by air, representing an increase of 10 percent on the previous year and almost a 50 percent jump on the 206,600 arriving in 2012. France and Germany accounted for more than 27 percent of air arrivals in 2016, followed by Italy (7.5 percent),
are covered by a paved road network. On the main islands of Mahé and Praslin, an extensive bus service will provide most of your travel needs, although those looking for a faster way around will often opt for car rental. A typical car rental will cost anywhere between €40 and €60, although apartment and guesthouse owners may have negotiated discounts with vehicle hire companies.
B
U
S
I
N
E
S
S
T
R
A
V
E
L
AFRICA
Landmark Attractions Victoria Market
“No trip to Victoria would be complete without a wander through the covered market. It’s small by African standards, but it’s a bustling, colourful place nonetheless” – Lonely Planet
Baie Ternay Marine National Park
“A paradise for snorkellers and divers, the Baie Ternay marine park is treasured for its astounding vistas, with pristine seashore fringed by calm turquoise shallows and abundant marine life” – Seychelles National Parks Authority
BY DAVID STANLEY FROM NANAIMO, CANADA - HINDU TEMPLE, CC BY 2.0
Tempio Hindu
“The temple was created almost 240 years after the first Hindus arrived in Seychelles, so it was a special occasion for today’s Hindu community when the Kumbabishekam - the reconsecration - of the temple took place on Sunday 20th January 2008” – Savoy Seychelles
Aldabra
“Located in the Indian Ocean, the Aldabra Atoll is an outstanding example of a raised coral atoll. Due to its remoteness and inaccessibility, the atoll has remained largely untouched by humans for the majority of its existence” – UNESCO
WWW.AFRICAOUTLOOKMAG.COM
17
BusinessTravel Guide joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com
+44 (0)1603 959 676
ryan.gray@outlookpublishing.com
+44 (0)1603 959 672
jordan.levey@outlookpublishing.com
+44 (0)1603 959 668
www.africaoutlookmag.com
