Tourism Seychelles has successfully concluded its participation in the 45th edition of the International Tourism Trade Fair, known as FITUR, held from January 22 to 26, 2025, at IFEMA in Madrid, Spain.
This five-day event offered Seychelles an excellent opportunity to promote the destination within the Iberian region, reaffirming its status as a premier island destination and strengthening its global tourism network.
The Seychelles delegation was led by Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, Director General for Destination Marketing, and Mrs. Monica Gonzalez, Senior Marketing Executive based in Madrid. They were accompanied by key co-exhibitors – three of Seychelles’ leading Destination Management Companies (DMCs) – namely Mr. Andre Butler-Payette from 7° South, Ms. Amy Michel from Mason’s Travel, and Mrs. Normandy Salabao from Creole Travel Services. Together, the delegation showcased the country’s unique cultural heritage, pristine natural landscapes, and sustainable tourism offerings.
Throughout the event, the Seychelles pavilion garnered significant attention from visitors, travel professionals, and media representatives. Attendees engaged in meaningful discussions about Seychelles’ diverse travel experiences, from its iconic beaches and lush ecosystems to its eco-friendly initiatives. The pavilion embodied the essence of Seychelles as a sustainable and enchanting destination.
Mrs. Willemin emphasised the importance of diversifying Seychelles’ visitor base and maintaining a strong presence in key markets such as Europe. She stated, “FITUR provides an invaluable platform for us to connect with our European partners, particularly in Spain, where we see great potential for growth. Diversifying our source markets and attracting visitors from different regions is vital for the sustainability of our tourism industry. By broadening our reach, we can ensure Seychelles remains resilient and competitive in an ever-changing global landscape.”
She also highlighted the crucial role played by Seychelles’ DMCs in engaging potential buyers and showcasing tailored travel experiences. “Having DMCs participate in promotional activities, especially at fairs, is always a fantastic opportunity because they drive the conversation around our call-to-action. I am proud to highlight the seamless collaboration within the country’s tourism sector, which ensured a thorough representation of Seychelles’ hospitality and travel services, further enhancing its appeal to international stakeholders.”
During FITUR 2025, Mrs. Willemin also shared the Seychelles experience on a live radio programme, reaching a broad audience. She emphasised Seychelles’ unique attractions as a must-visit destination and outlined the country’s commitment to sustainability and diversification in the tourism sector. Her participation enhanced Seychelles’ visibility and engagement with the European market.
Europe remains a crucial market for Seychelles tourism, and FITUR 2025 reaffirmed the country’s position as a preferred destination for European travellers. The delegation engaged with Spanish tour operators, travel agents, and key stakeholders, paving the way for fruitful collaborations and exciting new travel opportunities. The event also allowed Tourism Seychelles to introduce tailored offerings designed to meet the preferences of Spanish travellers seeking unique and unforgettable experiences.
On behalf of Tourism Seychelles, Mrs. Willemin extended her heartfelt gratitude to its co-exhibitors and everyone who contributed to the success of FITUR 2025. As the delegation returns to Seychelles, the focus remains on nurturing the connections established at the event and driving the growth of sustainable tourism in the archipelago.
