A strong delegation was in La Reunion recently as part of STB’s continuous effort to seek out other potential markets for Seychelles. La Reunion and Seychelles have a lot in common; it is an emerging market which is doing very well and with more support can do even better. The visit follows initial promotional activities held last year to coincide with Air Austral’s launching of its second flight to Seychelles. This time around the focus was on the consumer; to show a different aspect of the destination and to get the Reunionais public to associate with the cultural similarities that bond the two countries.

The delegation headed by Minister Vincent Meriton; Minister for Community Development, Youth, Sports and Culture, included; STB’s officials, hotel operators and DMCs; SHTA was represented by its CEO; Ms Jenifer Sinon.

A ‘Seychelles day’ was organized on Sunday 11th April at Barrachois in St Denis to promote the cultural links between the two countries. Entertainment during this event was provided by Joenise Juliette and L’Echo band whilst trade representatives present distributed brochures and other materials to people that came.

A press conference organized for Monday morning was well attended and provided the forum to update the press and the trade on progress made since the last promotional visit in 2009. In the evening Seychelles hosted a cocktail for the tourism trade in La Reunion as a sign of appreciation for their efforts and support in promoting Seychelles.