Tourism operators must be seen and not just heard

The annual Seychelles Ball is the event in the islands of the Seychelles staged for the public and private sector players to meet informally to strengthen their existing cooperation and in so doing consolidate the industry that remains the pillar of the Seychelles economy.

St.Ange said this year that tourism is not just sitting in one’s office but it is also about networking. “Tourism operators must be seen and not just heard” he said. Hotels, large and small were represented at the 2104 edition of the Seychelles Ball as were representatives of some airlines and Government Ministries but the island’s Minister responsible for Tourism and Culture said when talking to the gathered press that this annual event staged by the Seychelles Tourism Board is for the tourism trade and with the tourism trade.

“When things go wrong the tourism trade are heard. When they have a problem we see them. But the question is if that is all. The annual Seychelles Ball remains a place where the public and private sector can and should meet. Airlines should meet the Civil Aviation Body, Hotel Managers and their HR people should meet the Employment Body, Hotel GM and Hotel Owners should catch up on questions of Security with Home Affairs, occupancy with the Tourism Board, operating cost with the People from Finance etc. Informal Discussions can resolve many issues and many an idea can be floated for the good of the industry and in so doing the country. But this cannot happen if everyone is not together” Minister St.Ange said.

The Minister thanked Sherin Naiken, the CEO of the Tourism Board for staging the event and he thanked all those who were present saying that they were an example to many and for the country.

Minister St.Ange personally toured table by table and met everyone who had made the effort to be at the 2014 Seychelles Ball.