“OZORDI DIMANS” CONTRIBUTED BY INGRID SINON- OWNER/ FOUNDER CUTTING-EDGE CONSULTANCY
Similar to many other industries both locally and internationally, the tourism industry in the Seychelles is being disrupted by new trends and innovative approaches. That means tourism can never be perceived as constant.
It is evident from the Seychelles perspective that effort is being extended towards the diversification of the economy. However, inertia and inaction will undoubtedly delay the progress of the Seychelles economy.
According to Investopedia, the market failure in the tourism industry, that is, the economic situation of inefficient distribution of goods and services in a free market in which the individual incentives for rational behaviour do not lead to rational outcomes for the group remains visible.
What would it take to snap Seychelles out of the tourism dream?
Amplified mismatch between Seychelles and tourists’ expectations of the future of the tourism industry. Contemporary market research shows an increase in revolutionary approaches and trends in tourism, notably; shift from international to local tourism, virtual reality tourism, eco travel, personalised tourism experience made possible by data analytics, recognition technology that eliminates queues at the immigration desks, “smart” hotel rooms, student exchange programmes, enhanced customer experience, amongst other things.
Unless Seychelles can tap into the above-mentioned approaches and trends to target the right tourists, figures depicted in the charts below is likely to continue.
Source: National Bureau of Statistics, 2021
Source: National Bureau of Statistics, 2021
Seychelles is being challenged to offer more than just beautiful beaches with white sand and crystal-clear ocean. In order for Seychelles to stand out amongst its peers, it has to combine selling its beauty with personalised tourism promotions for targeted groups of tourists. Nonetheless, encouraging trends being observed such as Cable and Wireless’ 5G network are steps in the right direction.
The relevant Ministry and stakeholders have been actively engaged in making improvements in the tourism industry. Recent re-opening of existing tourism establishments and the opening of new ones have been beneficial but it cannot stop there. The tourism industry players must become more proactive and start anticipating trends and innovation accordingly.