Russia remains a vital and strategic source market for Seychelles, not only due to the substantial number of visitors it attracts annually but also because of the high economic yield it provides. This was highlighted by the Principal Secretary for Tourism, Sherin Francis, during recent trade events in St. Petersburg and Moscow.
PS Francis attended three marketing events in Russia, which included two trade workshops in St Petersburg and Moscow, as well as a PR reception in the capital. She was accompanied by Tourism Seychelles’ market manager for the Russia and CIS region, Lena Hoareau.
Addressing agents in both cities, PS Francis emphasised Russia’s significance as the third-largest market for Seychelles. The destination has greatly benefited in the past three years following the resumption of Aeroflot flights in April 2021.
“The growth we have witnessed since Aeroflot flights resumed has been nothing short of remarkable, and I want to express my deepest gratitude to all of you who have contributed to this success,” said PS Francis.
She added that after achieving a remarkable 31,392 visitors from Russia in 2021, Seychelles reached another outstanding milestone last year, with 38,172 Russians disembarking on its shores.
PS Francis also informed the agents that after a five-month suspension, Aeroflot will resume flights to Seychelles on 2nd October, which will mean an immediate influx of Russian visitors again. She stressed the importance of promoting smaller, homegrown properties, noting that the trend has shifted in this market, with a growing number of Russian tourists seeking authentic experiences.
“Seychelles is often seen as a luxurious, dream destination. I stand before you today to tell you that it is also a destination for every budget and every type of traveller. Our diverse accommodation offerings are a testament to this. They cater for all – from the big internationally branded hotels to more affordable options. Many high-standard apartments and guest houses are now being graded under our ‘Seychelles Secrets’ portfolio,” PS Francis explained.
She added that the ‘Seychelles Secrets’ properties offer a unique blend of cultural experiences, local cuisine, and the warm hospitality the islands are known for.
The annual Seychelles Summer events in Russia started with a workshop in St Petersburg, which brought together some 30 agents over a scrumptious brunch training session. Presentations were delivered by Tourism Seychelles, along with partners including Emirates, Creole Travel Services, and hotel partners Story Seychelles, Fisherman’s Cove, and JA Enchanted.
The Moscow programme featured a cocktail reception for the press and social media influencers, aimed at raising the profile of the destination in the Russian media, especially now with the imminent return of Aeroflot to the Indian Ocean islands. The well-branded event, held in a beautiful garden setting, attracted some 30 media personalities and provided ample networking opportunities.
The highlight of the summer events – organised to coincide with the new booking season for winter – was the trade workshop in Moscow. Attended by about 50 travel agents, the workshop aimed at ensuring business continuity as well as giving the agents the opportunity to grow their business. It targeted both medium-high and premium segments, thus allowing Seychelles to market itself as both affordable and luxury.
Participating partners included Tourism Seychelles, Emirates Airlines, Aeroflot, Constance Hotels, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Club Med Seychelles, La Cigale Seychelles, Raffles Seychelles, Story Seychelles, Creole Travel Services, Luxe Voyages, and Cousine Island Seychelles.
Speaking about the summer events, the Market Manager Mrs Hoareau congratulated their team in Russia for organising three high-quality events, noting that such networking sessions are necessary to keep the trade reassured of the destination’s support. By sharing information and listening to the challenges encountered by the trade partners when selling Seychelles, Tourism Seychelles can better strategise for the future.
