Photo: Bernadette Willemin, Director General of Destinations Marketing, Tourism Seychelles
Seychelles, renowned globally for its pristine beaches and exotic islands, is making a bold pitch to the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) industry at this year’s IBTM World in Barcelona, Spain. The island paradise is highlighting its diverse offerings, extending far beyond its scenic vistas, to position itself as a premier destination for MICE events.
Bernadette Willemin, Director General of Destinations Marketing at Tourism Seychelles, spoke with VoyagesAfriq about the country’s MICE potential. “Seychelles is at IBTM because, for us, it is a good platform to showcase to the world the MICE offer which the destination has for this particular market segment,” she explained.
While Seychelles is often synonymous with idyllic beaches and warm weather, Willemin emphasised that the islands boast a robust infrastructure ideal for MICE activities.
“Seychelles happens to have all the ingredients in terms of accommodation, infrastructure and a variety of activities for the MICE segment,” she said. “Talking about accommodation, we have a good range for medium-sized groups of up to about 300 people. We also have modern technology and good infrastructure, not only for incentives but also for conferences and conventions.”
One of the key advantages Seychelles offers to MICE planners is its year-round appeal. “The good thing is that Seychelles is a year-round destination,” Willemin noted. “MICE businesses can choose when they want to come to Seychelles. In terms of know-how, we have experienced professionals in destination management companies who are ready to craft the best tailor-made itineraries and programmes to suit the motivations of any MICE group.”
Willemin highlighted the unique experiences awaiting MICE professionals in Seychelles, blending the islands’ natural beauty with cultural and recreational opportunities.
“For meetings, we have various meeting rooms of different sizes in hotels, and one large conference center outside the hotels,” she said. “But if someone isn’t coming for conference or meeting, we offer activities linked to the sea — because, of course, we cannot talk about Seychelles without mentioning the sea. Additionally, the interiors of the islands offer opportunities to explore our cultural and experiential aspects.”
She elaborated on how the cultural and natural attractions enrich the experience for incentive groups. “In the interiors, visitors can merge cultural exploration with fun activities. This is where MICE groups can discover Seychelles and take back a part of it with them,” she said.
Seychelles is asserting itself as not just a leisure destination but also a compelling choice for MICE planners seeking something extraordinary and the Director General believes the archipelago has what it takes to meet demands.
The country will host the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup next year, a further testament to its capacity to be a competitive MICE destination.
