Seychelles is sharing experiences and exploring new approaches to culture-based tourism at the Seminar on the Integrated Development of Culture and Tourism for African Countries, taking place in Beijing from 29 October to 4 November 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Organised by the Central Academy of Cultural and Tourism Administration, the seminar brings together African representatives to examine China\u2019s experience in connecting cultural heritage, technology and tourism. Principal Secretary for Tourism, Mrs. Sherin Francis, is leading the Seychelles delegation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cFor several years, the Tourism and Culture departments have been developing culture and community-based tourism experiences. These exchanges have been valuable in offering fresh perspectives and practical ideas to support our work,\u201d said PS Francis.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
PS Francis is accompanied by Ms. Janice Bristol, Manager for Product Diversification; Mrs. Petra Savy, Officer for Product Planning and Diversification; and Ms. Francisca Rigodon, Customer Service Manager at the Heritage Foundation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Through expert-led sessions and case studies, the delegation is exploring how policy, digital storytelling and innovation can bring culture and heritage to wider audiences while creating opportunities for local communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Topics include the use of short videos and social media to inspire travel, artificial intelligence and virtual reality to enhance heritage experiences, and the development of cultural intellectual property that supports tourism and local economic activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Examples range from AI-guided museum experiences and the digital revival of the Yin Xu archaeological site to tourism interest generated by the video game Black Myth: Wukong. Sessions have also highlighted how traditional artisans, including Suzhou embroidery artist Yao Huifen, use digital platforms and creative collaborations to reach new audiences, alongside mobile games that introduce traditional Chinese carpentry techniques.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Discussions have addressed the role of influencers in promoting rural culture and intangible heritage, while considering content quality, excessive commercialisation and intellectual property protection in the age of AI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The exchanges offer practical insights for Seychelles as it develops tourism experiences rooted in its culture, heritage and communities. The delegation is expected to present Seychelles\u2019 own experience and case study on the seminar\u2019s final day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cCulture gives tourism its soul, and tourism helps culture reach more people. By using technology wisely and telling authentic stories in a more powerful way, we can create experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities,\u201d PS Francis added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Following the seminar, PS Francis will represent the ministry at three events in Zhejiang Province from 6 to 7 November: the African Wood Carving Art Exhibition in Hangzhou, the 2026 China-Africa Economic, Trade and Cultural Forum, and the 2026 China-Africa Cultural Silk Road Exchange Month in Jinhua.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The visit provides an opportunity to strengthen cooperation between Seychelles and China through knowledge sharing, cultural exchange and the development of culture-based tourism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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