Tourism Consultant Alain St.Ange Addresses Industry Professionals in London

Alain St.Ange, the tourism consultant from Seychelles, was invited to London to address a group of tourism professionals and politicians on the topics of ‘sustainable tourism’ and the importance of tourism as a key economic sector for the populations at tourism destinations.

On Friday, after a series of introductions by the meeting organizers and their regional offices, Alain St.Ange took to the stage in the presence of several UK politicians. He emphasized the critical need for sustainable tourism as the path forward. Reiterating a familiar phrase, he said, “We have a duty to leave the world better than what it was when we embarked on economic development for our own benefit.” He was frequently asked to respond to questions from the audience about the ‘tents popping up for the homeless in Hyde Park.’

Avoiding entanglement in local UK politics, he remarked: “The State must ensure iconic areas and sites that remain key USPs of London cannot be overtaken by the homeless and their tents. This is London, and we are talking about Hyde Park. Those responsible must find a suitable field for the tent city if needed, but the UK cannot be displaying or encouraging sprawling tent cities over and above the numerous individuals camping by the roadside in between the shops in the city itself.”

St.Ange then steered back to his prepared remarks, a style that continues to secure him speaking

engagements at tourism and aviation events. He stressed that tourism as an industry must benefit the people, with investors and entrepreneurs consolidating their investments. He noted that the UK has navigated well but, like the rest of the world, must now revisit operating strategies. “You should not forget how it was when you were touched by COVID, and you know better than anyone else the need to keep tourism as an industry working,” he stated.

St.Ange highlighted two tourism groups from different parts of the world that have stepped forward to benefit their respective populations and businesses. He mentioned his role as ‘Lead Patron’ of Jamaica-based Countrystyle Community Tourism Network (CCTN) Villages as Businesses and IIPT Caribbean, organizations that support small businesses as the foundation for sustainable development. He also discussed his home country Seychelles, where the Small Hotels & Establishments Association (SSHEA) recently designated him as the ‘Ambassador at Large’. In Seychelles, tourism accommodation establishments with fewer than 25 keys are reserved for Seychellois, ensuring islanders can participate in the tourism industry.

“In both areas I am affiliated with, I see sustainable development virtues where small establishments and businesses are run by locals. At the core of the sustainability principle is the need for everyone in the community to sustain themselves and their dependents. Small hospitality entities owned and managed by residents offer numerous positive elements, including:

• Authentic Cultural Experience – guests receive a genuine experience of the local culture, traditions, and lifestyle, which is often more enriching than what larger, more commercial establishments can offer.
• Economic Benefits for locals – these businesses keep profits within the community, supporting local economies and providing jobs for residents.
• Personalized Service – smaller entities can offer more personalized and attentive service, tailoring experiences to individual guest needs and preferences.”

Alain St.Ange, with his ‘Saint Ange Tourism Consultancy,’ emphasized that tourism remains an industry that can directly benefit the population financially. “Large or small, businesses must be encouraged to work, but they often need the State to guide them through legislation for fair play and for removing operating obstacles,” he said.

A long question and answer session followed.

Alain St.Ange concluded by expressing his delight at securing an invitation to address another event in Oxford, UK, in early October. “These are new forums, and I am delighted to be selected and called upon to address such important gatherings,” he said.

In the evening, Alain St.Ange was hosted for a working dinner by Fred Finn, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as ‘The World’s Most Travelled Man,’ who had just launched his book ‘SONIC BOOM.’ This was an opportunity for St.Ange to present Finn with a biography on his life in tourism, while Finn gifted St.Ange a copy of his book. Fred Finn is well-acquainted with Seychelles, and the two have collaborated in the past.

Categoría:

Turismo 

Organización:

SAINT ANGE CONSULTANCY

Escrito por:

Alain St.Ange

Ubicación:

Seychelles