The Seychelles Small Hotels & Establishments hold succesful visibility drive.

The Seychelles Small Hotels & Establishments hold succesful visibility drive.

The inaugural gathering and gala dinner of the Seychelles Small Hotels & Establishments Association (SSHEA), representing hospitality establishments with fewer than 25 rooms, took place on Friday, April 12th, at the Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino. This event marked a significant step for the association in preparing its members for representation at Tourism Road Shows and International Tourism Trade Fairs, aiming for enhanced visibility and promotion of their establishments in Seychelles' primary tourism markets.

The event commenced with the launch led by guest of honor, Minister Sylvestre Radegonde, Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism. Following this, former Seychelles Minister of Tourism, Alain St. Ange, delivered an insightful discourse on the Unique Selling Points (USPs) of Seychelles, particularly highlighting the distinctive features of small Seychellois-owned and managed establishments. The evening also featured the premiere of SSHEA's promotional video, showcasing Seychelles' authentic Creole culture and picturesque landscapes, concluding with a traditional Moutia dance around a beach bonfire.

Attendees included members of the Diplomatic Corps, representatives from various corporate organizations,

small tourism establishment proprietors, and SSHEA members from Mahe, Praslin, and La Digue. Mr. Peter Sinon, Founding Chairperson of SSHEA, skillfully served as the Master of Ceremonies.

Minister Sylvestre Radegonde commended SSHEA for its remarkable achievements within its short 8-month existence, gathering over 250 guests for the event. He reaffirmed his support for Seychelles' small establishments, emphasizing the importance of sustainable tourism practices to maintain the destination's allure and pristine environment.

Former Minister Alain St. Ange addressed the misconception of rivalry between large and small hotels, stressing the necessity for all stakeholders to collaborate effectively to promote Seychelles. He highlighted partnerships between SSHEA and larger establishments like Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino as examples of successful cooperation. Moreover, he acknowledged the contributions of sponsors such as Seybrew, ISPC, Takamaka Rum distillery, and local DMCs, Mr. Joe Albert of Creole Holidays and Mr. Alan Mason of Mason's Travel, in supporting SSHEA's initiatives.

St. Ange emphasized the role of every guest in enhancing Seychelles' appeal, ensuring a memorable experience that encourages return visits and positive recommendations to others.

The event provided guests with a celebrity-like experience, including professional photography sessions, a selection of Takamaka Rum cocktails or mocktails, and musical entertainment by Ms. Sandra Esparon. The evening concluded with networking, dancing, and joyful camaraderie, lasting nearly four hours.

Category:
Tourism 
Writer:
Alain St.Ange
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