Seychelles Shines at ITB Berlin 2025, Showcasing Sustainability and Tourism Growth
The Seychelles reaffirmed its status as a premier travel destination with a vibrant and impactful presence at ITB Berlin 2025, the world’s leading travel trade show. Led by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism, Mr. Sylvestre Radegonde, and the Director General for Destination Marketing, Mrs. Bernadette Willemin, the delegation highlighted Seychelles’ unique appeal, engaging with global trade partners and cementing its position as a must-visit destination in the Indian Ocean.
Supported by a strong delegation of 15 companies representing Destination Management Companies (DMCs) and hotels, Seychelles showcased its diverse tourism offerings to a global audience. The event provided an excellent platform to negotiate partnerships, enhance visibility, and promote the destination's sustainable tourism initiatives.
High-Level Engagements and Media Outreach
During the three-day event, the Seychelles delegation held numerous high-level discussions with leading tour operators and airline partners from Germany, neighboring European markets, and beyond. These meetings focused on strengthening existing partnerships, exploring new collaborative opportunities, and promoting sustainable tourism growth. Both Minister Radegonde and Mrs. Willemin also conducted interviews with global media outlets to showcase Seychelles’ strategic vision for tourism and reinforce its position as a top-tier destination.
Highlighting the importance of these engagements, Minister Radegonde remarked, “Our presence at ITB Berlin 2025 has been immensely valuable, allowing us to engage with key partners and reinforce Seychelles as a top-tier destination. The enthusiasm from the industry reflects the continued appeal of our unique islands.” Mrs. Willemin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of trade relationships: “The event has provided an excellent platform to discuss strategies for sustainable tourism growth and enhance visibility in key markets.”
A Standout Sustainable Presence
A major highlight of Seychelles’ participation was its newly designed stand, which captivated visitors with its authentic and eco-friendly concept. Built using natural materials, the stand embodied the unspoiled beauty of the Seychelles islands and underscored the country’s commitment to sustainability. The design not only attracted significant attention from industry professionals but also served as an inviting space for business meetings and networking. This innovative approach reinforced Seychelles’ dedication to sustainable tourism practices while showcasing its natural charm and cultural authenticity.
Strong Representation from Seychelles Tourism Stakeholders
The Seychelles delegation at ITB Berlin included representatives from prominent tourism companies and associations, such as the Seychelles Small Establishments Association (SSHEA), Seychelles Hospitality & Tourism Association (SHTA), and major players like Anantara Maia Seychelles, Hilton Seychelles Resort & Spa, and Mason’s Travel. These stakeholders worked together to present Seychelles as a destination that combines luxury, sustainability, and unique experiences.
Notable participants included Mr. Christian Zerbian, Ms. Winnie Elisa, and Ms. Junia Joubert from Tourism Seychelles; Mrs. Sybille Cardon of SHTA; and Ms. Daphne Bonne representing SSHEA. Representatives from leading hospitality brands, such as Ms. Wendy Tan (Berjaya Hotels & Resorts), Mr. Thomas Matrat (Hilton Seychelles Resort & Spa), and Mr. Alan Mason (Mason’s Travel), were instrumental in showcasing Seychelles’ world-class offerings.
A Vision for Sustainable Tourism Growth
Throughout the event, Seychelles underscored its commitment to sustainable tourism by promoting eco-friendly travel experiences and engaging with partners interested in supporting responsible tourism practices. The delegation received overwhelmingly positive feedback from trade professionals who appreciated the destination’s unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and sustainability initiatives.
The booth attracted significant interest, with visitors eager to learn more about Seychelles’ latest tourism offerings, including enhanced visitor experiences and its focus on preserving the islands’ pristine environment. This focus on sustainability positions Seychelles as a destination that appeals to environmentally conscious travelers while fostering long-term tourism growth.
Looking Ahead
The success of Seychelles at ITB Berlin 2025 lays a strong foundation for future growth and collaboration within the global tourism industry. With the support of its dedicated trade partners and a clear focus on sustainability, Seychelles is poised to continue delivering exceptional travel experiences. This presence at ITB Berlin not only strengthened existing relationships but also opened new opportunities for Seychelles to expand its footprint in key international markets.
As the country looks ahead, its participation at ITB Berlin 2025 signals a bright future for Seychelles’ tourism sector, further solidifying its reputation as a leading travel destination committed to excellence and sustainability.