Seychelles have been named the most sustainable travel destination in the Indian Ocean for the second time. The island archipelago, for which there is currently no travel warning, wants to be a role model in ecotourism.
The islands are considered the smallest country in Africa and are located in the middle of the Indian Ocean. There is a lot to discover there: wonderful long sandy beaches, turquoise sea, fascinating coral reefs with whale sharks, and, on land, giant tortoises that can live up to 130 years.
Seychelles is not only interesting for travelers because of the low number of new infections with Covid-19 and the non-existent travel warning for the country. They are also at the forefront of sustainability. Recently, the country was named the most sustainable destination in the Indian Ocean for the second time in a row, again beating out the Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, and La Réunion reports “eTurbo News”.
Seychelles: A dedicated foundation looks after sustainable tourism
“As a destination, we are proud to be an inspiration to the world,” said Sherin Francis, managing director of the Seychelles Tourism Authority, on winning the World Travel Awards. “This award goes to all residents who go to great lengths to make a huge contribution to the protection of some of the most endangered species and their habitats – as well as the protection of our ecosystems.”
In Seychelles, there is a foundation specifically dedicated to sustainable tourism on the islands only, which tries to bring together the public and private sectors, scientists, and non-governmental organizations. Politicians are also involved; as recently as 2019, former President Danny Faure spoke of people running out of time and excuses to save the “beating blue heart of the planet”. Plastic bags and straws had already been banned for two years at that point.
Seychelles: Politics promotes companies that care about marine protection
Meanwhile, politicians are trying to use financial incentives to get companies such as hotels or restaurants to organize themselves in environmental protection. Through a special program of the World Bank, the country received subsidies and bonds that it can pass on to companies that care for the protection of the oceans.
Together, they agreed that ecotourism was the future of Seychelles, foundation founder Daniella Payet-Alis told the Seychelles News Agency. In the wake of climate change, she said, it is important to protect the environment in order to preserve livelihoods.
Ecotourism: Seychelles want to be a model for nations worldwide
Tourism chief Francis praised environmentalists, nature lovers, and organizations who never tire of their constant and persistent efforts to keep the islands in a pristine state. In doing so, the country hopes not only to attract more tourists but also to encourage other nations to follow suit.
