Despite the recent downturn in UK visitor numbers, hotel development continues in the Seychelles, with more than 20 new properties due to open in the next three years.
Most new hotels will be on Mahe, the main island and seat of the capital and Praslin, the country’s second island, and on the outlying islands of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park. Four Seasons, Emirates, Shangri-La, Raffles and Sofitel are among the groups planning to open hotels on the islands by 2011. Second hotels are also scheduled from Beachcomber and Constance Hotels. Although they will be small branches in keeping with the country’s low-impact development strategy, the new properties will increase the country’s tourism bedstock by more than 3000.
The new hotels will be relatively small developments and will add to the Seychelles’ boutique hotel portfolio. Plus many properties are being refurbished. Sainte Anne Resort and Spa near Mahe reopened in August following a refit that saw private pools and sundecks added to 29 of the 87 villas. Two new restaurants opened, bringing the on-site total to four, and the Clarins spa was extended.
While many of the new hotels are five-star, specialist operator Elite Vacations is seeking increased demand for mid-range and guesthouse properties.
Air Seychelles, which operates the only direct service from the UK with two flights a week between Heathrow and Mahe is considering adding to its winter 2009/10 schedule. “There has been high demand for our new Pearl business class”, said Air Seychelles UK and Ireland sales manager Mitchell Hawes.
While the islands continue to appeal to couples they are also attracting families. On average, visitors stay up to 12 days and “hop” between at least three islands.
Would you consider a trip to the Seychelles in the next few years or have you been recently? Please post your comments below.
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