In a strategic effort to enhance visibility and expand its footprint in the Balkan region, Tourism Seychelles successfully completed a three-city roadshow this week, visiting Belgrade, Zagreb, and Ljubljana. This initiative was designed to showcase the diverse offerings of Seychelles as a top-tier travel destination to potential travellers and key trade partners in the region.
The Tourism Seychelles team was led by Mrs. Lena Hoareau, Manager for Russia and CIS, and accompanied by Marie-Julie Stephen from the PR and Communications Unit. They were joined by prominent partners from Seychelles' Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and hotels, including 7° South, represented by Dorina Verlaque; Creole Travel Services, represented by Normandy Sabadao and Beverley Morel; Welcome Travel, represented by Damien Hoareau; and Luxe Voyage, represented by Hans Poloo.
Hotel partners included Constance Group, represented by Miriam Nakhutsrishvili; Savoy Seychelles Resort and Spa, represented by Alyina Corba; and Berjaya Hotels and Resorts, represented by Wendy Tan — all of whom highlighted their exceptional hospitality offerings throughout the events.
The roadshow kicked off on Monday, 7th April, in Belgrade, followed by a successful event in Zagreb on Wednesday, 9th April, and concluded in Ljubljana on Thursday, 10th April. The events attracted a range of trade professionals, including travel agents, tour operators, and industry influencers.
In Belgrade, Turkish Airlines and Air Serbia also brought their support to the workshop by highlighting air connectivity options for travellers from this market. In Zagreb, the Seychelles Honorary Consul for Croatia, Ms Sonja Udovicic, was in attendance, hosting several diplomatic colleagues at the event, all eager to learn more about the destination and its offerings.
Throughout the roadshow, the Tourism Seychelles team and its partners delivered engaging presentations, showcasing the islands’ stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and unique cultural experiences. The presentations underscored Seychelles as a top destination for both relaxation and adventure. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage in one-on-one meetings with the partners, exploring potential business opportunities and collaborations.
“We are thrilled to witness the growing interest in Seychelles from the Balkan region,” said Mrs. Lena Hoareau, Manager for the region. “This roadshow has proven to be an invaluable platform for connecting with key players in the travel industry, and we are excited about the future opportunities it has created. We look forward to further solidifying relationships with our partners and continuing to expand Seychelles’ presence as a leading tourism destination.”
Whilst Mrs Hoareau appreciated the continuous growth from all three markets, she placed particular emphasis on Serbia, which remains one of the focus markets from that region. She noted that although Serbia does not produce large numbers compared to the more developed markets from Central and Eastern Europe, it remains a high ‘yield market’ with high spenders. She added that Tourism Seychelles should continue to grow such markets because they bring great benefits for the country and return on investment.
To round off the event, participants received beautiful souvenirs provided by the Tourism Seychelles team. Some lucky attendees also won exciting prizes, including 5- and 7-day trips to Seychelles, complete with unforgettable experiences offered by the partners present. Tourism Seychelles also gifted airline tickets, adding even more value to the exceptional offerings.
With the successful conclusion of this roadshow, Tourism Seychelles is committed to further engaging with the Balkan region to enhance its visibility and attract even more visitors to the islands in the years to come.
