Hotel Updates: CaranaBeach Hotel

CaranaBeach Hotel Teases: Restaurant and Spa Names

The new Carana Beach Hotel, opening on North Mahé in February, has released more information about its spa and restaurant concepts.

 

Mason's Travel News

Mason’s Travel staff step up for blood drive

Volunteers from Mason’s Travel formed the largest group of donors among participating companies in a blood drive last week initiated by a youth community group.

"The 15 Mason’s Travel employees who gave blood for the exercise made it possible to collect about 10 litres for the Blood Bank," Karine Rassool from the Victoria hub of the Global Shapers Community said.

Hotel Updates: denis Private Island, Seychelles

A tree in the Indian Ocean to call your own! Newlyweds on Denis Private Island Cap Wedding with Tree-Planting Ceremony

For most married couples, re-visiting that “special day” involves looking through photo albums and professional wedding videos. But for Anne and Moritz Monschau, it will mean checking up on a tree in the middle of the Indian Ocean, on Denis Private Island in the Seychelles

 

Seychelles National Junior Fishing Tournament 2015

Mason’s Travel Sponsors Successful 3rd Annual SSFC Seychelles National Junior Fishing Tournament

The Seychelles Sports Fishing Club (SSFC) welcomed 125 juniors to the 3rd Annual SSFC Seychelles National Junior Fishing Tournament at the  Marine Charter Association on Saturday, 12th December 2015 in what has become the largest yearly junior fishing event in all of Seychelles. 

Seychelles in the Spotlight

Seychelles Swaps its National Debt for Funds for Conservation Projects

Made up of 115 islands, Seychelles doesn't have a lot of land or a huge population, but we do have some amazing biodiversity. Fish and coral reefs throng the waters, and giant tortoises plod around on land. Seychelles is pretty serious about its conservation; our constitution even guarantees citizens the right to an ecologically healthy environment.

Hotel Updates: Constance Lemuria Resort

Temporary Closure of Constance Lemuria Resort

Please be informed that Constance Lemuria Resort on Praslin Island, Seychelles, will be closed for renovation works from 22nd August 2016 to 31st October 2016.

More information about the renovation plan will be communicated to you in due course.
 

Featured Excursion: Praslin Tour | Vallée de Mai/Anse Lazio

Explore the wonders of Praslin, Seychelles’ second largest island.

Enjoy two of Praslin's most famous attractions in one full-day tour! With a small population, life on Praslin is relaxed and the breath-taking scenery pristine. Let Mason's Travel guide you around the island and visit its two most famous attractions!
 

Hotel Updates: Valmer Resort & Spa

Update on the New Upcoming Villas at Valmer Resort & Spa

Valmer Resort and Spa, offering accommodation on Mahé Island, Seychelles, has released an update on the development of 8 new villas at the resort.

Please find below the latest update:


 

Airline Updates: Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines voted as Best Airline to Africa and Best Airline in Africa

Ethiopian Airlines has been recognized as "Best Airline to Africa" (for the second year in a row) and “Best Airline in Africa” by one of the most prominent travel magazines in the United States, Premier Traveler, at a ceremony held on 10 December 2015 in Los Angeles, California.

Hotel Updates: Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa Launches 15 Grand Oceanview Pool Villas and the new Presidential Pool Villa

Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa celebrates the opening of its 15 Grand Oceanview Pool Villas and the new Two-Bedroom Presidential Pool Villa, with a fabulous Bond-themed poolside reception. 

New Property: Le Relax Luxury Lodge

Le Relax Hotel Group Launches Le Relax Luxury Lodge on La Digue Island, Seychelles

Le Relax Hotel and Management Limited has announced the launch of a new Le Relax property Le Relax Luxury Lodge. The new property on La Digue Island, Seychelles, has 3 villas with 6 deluxe room suites & a restaurant right on the white sand beach of Anse Gaulette.

 

Hotel Updates: Villa Koket

Ongoing Construction at Villa Koket

Kindly note that we have been advised that there is construction taking place at Villa Koket as follows:

i) Construction of a steak house kiosk which is to provide clients with light lunch and dinner.  As per the hotel this started a while back and the management of the property has advised that work only takes place when there are no clients around. 

Hotel Updates: Village Du Pecheur

Temporary Closure: Village Du Pecheur

Village Du Pecheur, on Praslin Island, Seychelles, has announced that they will be closed between the 10th and 20th of December 2015, due to an unforeseen maintenance issue that requires immediate attention.

For more information or assistance, please contact your Mason's Travel Representative or contact us HERE.

Hotel Updates: Sun Properties & Resort

Construction Site Near Sun Properties & Resort 

Sun Properties & Resort has announced a construction project that has started close to their premises.

The construction is not part of the hotel. However, it will affect the noise level on their premise.The location of the construction is opposite the resort's B & C block of their Standard Rooms facing their pool area.

Airline Updates: Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines Shows Support for Seychelles Tourism Academy with Signing of MOU

The Seychelles Tourism Academy has agreed to use Ethiopian Airlines as one of the airlines it uses for its passenger transportation services, while in return the airline will provide a discounted fare and other privileges to the institution.

The terms and conditions are set forth in a memorandum of understanding which was signed this week between the Seychelles Tourism Academy and Ethiopian Airlines.

Conservation Updates: Bird Island, Seychelles

Year-End Conservation Update from Bird Island, Seychelles

Bird Island Seychelles has released a conservation update for the period of July - December 2015. Please see an update on the island's conservation efforts for this period, and find out what keeps this island as such a pristine tropical paradise.



 

Hotel Updates: Chez Bea Luxury Villa

New Property Alert: Chez Bea Luxury Villa

Mason's Travel has recently added a new property to our accommodation portfolio - Chez Bea Luxury Villa. A Seychellois owned family business, Chez Bea offers 6 two bedroom apartments each of 90sqm. Including a modern, island style architecture. Located only a short distance from the infamous Cote d’Or this is ideal for those seeking luxurious facilities in a convenient location.

Hotel Updates: Glacis Heights Villa

Construction of Spa and Relaxation Area

Glacis Heights Villa has announced a project that is currently underway to construct a  spa and relaxation area for their guests.

Construction, which is located adjacent to the villa, is scheduled for completion by the end of 2015/start of 2016 and work is carried out between  0830 - 1700.

Hotel Updates: Hotel La Rousette

Hotel La Rousette Now Offers Transit/Early Check-Out Shower Room Facility

Hotel La Rousette recently opened their new shower rooms, available for guests in transit, as well as for guests who checkout early and have a late flight.

“Hotel La Roussette is now offering a new and designated Shower Room facility to all its guests," says Rose-May Lavigne, the hotel's manager.

Hotel Updates: Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

Introducing the New Grand Oceanview Villas

Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa is delighted to announce the launch of the new Grand Oceanview Pool Villas, available from November 2015. 

These 16 new magnificent villas are perfect for guests seeking the ultimate pool villaexperience with additional privacy within idyllic surroundings, and ideal for the honeymoon market.

Airline Updates: Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines wins CAPA Airline of the Year Award in the World Aviation Summit

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest, fastest growing and most profitable airline in Africa, is pleased to announce that it has won CAPA Airline of the Year Award, one of the top airline awards, at the 2015 CAPA Aviation Awards for Excellence, held on 7 October, 2015 in Helsinki as part of CAPA’s 2015 World Aviation Summit.

 

Paris Bombings

We are deeply saddened by the recent horrific events in Paris and wish to extend our sympathies to all Parisians and people of France. Our sincere condolences to all the grieving families and those innocent civilians involved in this tragedy.

Conservation Updates: Denis Private Island

October Conservation Update from Denis Private Island and the Green Island's Foundation

October 2015 marked a busy month for conservation on Denis Private Island and the Green Island's Foundation. Hawksbill Turtle nesting season has begun, the first of this year's vagrant bird species began to arrive and visiting volunteer students studying the endangered Seychelles Warblers that call Denis Island home, left after three months of gathering a treasure trove a valuable research and data.

Fishing in Seychelles: Seychelles Sports Fishing Club and Mason's Travel Conservation League

Seychelles Recreational and Sports Fishing Anglers Setting New Records for Conservation

Angler's recently reached the 200th billfish tagged and released in the inaugural SSFC/Mason's Travel Conservation League.  The Conservation League encourages all recreational and sports fishing anglers to tag and release billfish caught using The Billfish Foundation tags.

 

Industry News: Visa & Entrance Requirements to Seychelles

Lifting of Visa Restrictions for Some African States Affected by Ebola

The Seychelles Public Health Commissioner and the Department of Immigration have revised the measures taken earlier this year to curb the threat of ebola virus entering the country.

In this regard, the travel restrictions imposed on the nationals of various African states, or travellers who have visited those countries, has now been lifted. The only country still affected by the ban is Guinea (Conakry).

Hotel Updates: Six Senses Zil Pasyon

Update on the Upcoming Six Senses Zil Pasyon Hotel

Six Senses Zil Pasyon, a new development on Felicité Island, Seychelles,  will be opening the hotel in mid 2016 and they are pleased to inform you that at present all 30 villas have been built and the interior design is currently in progress.

Furthermore, the staff accommodations are all completed and the infrastructure and landscaping are at their final stages of completion.

Hotel Updates: Denis Private Island

Completion of Tennis Court Restoration

Following our recent blog post on the temporary closure of Denis Private Island's tennis court for restoration and maintenance, the hotel is pleased to announce that remedial works have now been completed and the tennis court is  now operational for their guests to enjoy. 

Should you have any additional queries, please do not hesitate to contact your Mason's Travel Representative. 

Hotel Updates: CaranaBeach Hotel

CaranaBeach Introduces New General Manager

CaranaBeach would like to introduce the new General Manager of the hotel, Mr Cyrille Carofano. Already focused on the opening in February 2016, Cyrille is working closely with the rest of the team in the lead up to the open date.

Airline Updates: Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Received Airline of the Year Award for the Fourth Year in a Row from AFRAA

Ethiopian Airlines, the largest airline in Africa, is pleased to announce that it has been named, for the fourth year in a row, as the Airline of the Year by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) at its 47th Annual General Assembly, held between 8 and 12 November 2015, in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.

Mason's Travel Excursions

Featured Excursion: Experience La Digue | Discover the charm of this beautiful, laid-back island

Experience La Digue; the laid back atmosphere of island living, here the bicycle is the favoured mode of transport and time moves slowly in the light of sunny island charm. La Digue is home to the Paradise Flycatcher, one of the rarest birds in the world. There is a very good chance of sighting one on this tour.

Hotel Updates: Banyan Tree Seychelles

Renovations to Roof of Main Building

On behalf of the Management of Banyan Tree Seychelles, we would like to bring to your attention that the resort is currently undergoing reconstruction of the roof of the main building,  which was damaged by a fire in February

The reconstruction work will hopefully will be completed by the second week of December.

Hotel Updates: Le Domaine de La Reserve

 

Le Domaine de La Reserve launches new Water Lily Wellness Spa

Give yourself the gift of time to relax and rejuvenate at Le Domaine de La Reserve as they launch their new Water Lily Wellness spa - where healing hands and restorative energy awaits you.

Hotel Updates: Fishing Adventures off Denis Private Island

Honeymooners Get More Than They Bargain For on First Ever Fishing Trip

Honeymooners, Olly and Clare from the U.K. got more than they bargained for when they decided on going on a fishing excursion while staying on Denis Private Island, Seychelles. Olly and Clare set off with Denis Private Island's expert fishing guide, Rolly - who has been on the island for about 20 years -  aboard the island's private fishing vessel  Lady Claire for a half-day (4 hour) fishing adventure.

Hotel Updates: H-Resort Beau Vallon Bay

Introducing the H-Resort Art Competition: Unleash the Artist in You.

The H Resort is looking for inspired people to paint or draw some of the imagery in their new property on Beau Vallon Beach, Mahé Island, Seychelles.

The theme for the competition is ‘Relaxed Island Chic.’

Hotel Updates: Banyan Tree Seychelles

Saffron Restaurant Reopened

Further to our blog post on 18 September, Banyan Tree Seychelles has announced that the current works to renovate and upgrade their Saffron Restaurant are now complete and the restaurant is once again operational, offering guests it's  iconic Thai Menu.

Industry News: The Luxury Travel Guide

Seychelles has been voted ‘Country Destination of the Year’

Seychelles has been voted ‘Country Destination of the Year’ by a UK-based publication - the Luxury Travel Guide - which offers luxury travel and lifestyle information. The award certificate was presented to the island nation’s Tourism and Culture Minister Alain St Ange, at the World Travel Market, taking place in London.

Ferry Schedules: Cat Cocos

Cat Cocos: New Ferry Schedule as of 01 November 2015

Please be advised that as of 01 November 2015, the Cat Cocos ferry will be running on a new timetable.

To view/download the new Cat Cocos Ferry Schedule, Click Here.

Hotel Updates: Chalets d' Anse Forbans

Chalets d’ Anse Forbans Awarded 'Their Recommended by HolidayCheck 2015' Certificate.

As per Holiday Checks’ congratulating letter “Chalets d’ Anse Forbans is among the most popular hotels worldwide,” and as result has been awarded this certificate.

Ferry Services: Cat Cocos

Cat Cocos' Isle Of La Digue Back in Operation

Cat Cos has announced that their Isle of La Digue ferry will resume its normal service this afternoon Friday 30th October 2015 Mahe/La Digue (Direct) at 17h00.

The Management of the Inter Island Boats would like to  thank you for your kind understanding and usual co-operation.

Hotel Updates: Denis Private Island

Denis Private Island Excels at World Luxury Hotel Awards 2015

On Saturday 24th October, the World Luxury Hotel Awards Gala Ceremony was held at the Grand Harbour Hotel, Hong Kong whereby 400 guests attended the soiree having flown in from all ends of the globe. Denis Private Island had been nominated in the following categories for the Indian Ocean; Luxury Private Island Resort, Luxury Hideaway Resort and Best Scenic Environment. 

 

Cat Cocos Ferry

Cat Cocos Announces Baggage Restrictions for Business Class Passengers

Please be advised that Cat Cocos has announced baggage restrictions for business class passengers.

Hotel Updates: Four Seasons Seychelles Resort & Spa

Festive Season Highlights at Four Seasons Seychelles:  23 December 2015 – 10 January 2016

With the festive season just around the corner, Four Seasons Seychelles are extending a tropical invitation to you and your family to join them for a castaway Christmas in the paradise setting of Petite Anse bay, Mahé Island, Seychelles.

Hotel Updates: Denis Private Island

Luggage Limit Reminder

Denis Private Island has issued a reminder that the luggage restrictions on scheduled Air Seychelles flights to the island, and guests are urged to pack light. 

Owing to space restrictions, there is a soft baggage only allowance of 15 kgs per person. Excess luggage is subject to space availability only and there is no guarantee that excess luggage will board the same flight as the passenger.

Hotel Updates: Castello Beach Hotel

Update on Improvements at Castello Beach Hotel

Castello Beach Hotel has made recent improvements to their hotel offerings to further enhance their guest experience. Please find below a breakdown of recent changes:

The hotel has installed IP Cable TV in the rooms with 28 channel covering the main markets including, but not limited to Chinese, Russian, Italian,  French and German with 5 Channels (ZDF, NTV, RTL, Euronews and Eurosports).

Hotel Updates: Le Duc de Praslin

Upgrading and Renovations to Standard Rooms

Le Duc de Praslin has announced the upgrading of its 4 standard rooms, in order to provide better accommodations to their valued guests.

The upgrading works of the  4 standard rooms (Ex Cafe Des Arts rooms) will be carried out from 23rd November until 20th December 2015.  

Hotel Updates: Le Domaine de La Reserve

Le Domaine de La Reserve Excels at Praslin Culinary & Arts Festival

It was with pride and utter enthusiasm that the GM and Chairman of Le Domaine de La Reserve, Mr. Joseph Albert, welcomed his team of 3 Chefs to Le Domaine de La Reserve Hotel this afternoon after their landmark victory at the 2nd Edition of the Praslin Culinary and Arts Fiesta held at Cote D’or, Praslin.

 

Hotel Updates: Bird Island Lodge

Stay Connected on Bird Island: Introducing Complimentary Wifi

 

Bird Island, Seychelles now offers wireless internet connectivity in all lounge areas and guest rooms on the island.  The availability of Wi-Fi has become an integral part of travellers’ daily lives, prompting the owner, Mr Guy Savy, to offer this service to the island’s guests. The connection is complimentary, despite many other hotels are still charging for its use.

Ferry Schedules: Inter-Island Ferry

New Ferry Schedule for Inter-Island Ferry as of 23 October 2015

Please be advised that as of 23 October 2015, Inter-Island Ferry has announced that they will be running on a new timetable.

To view/download the new Inter-IslandFerry Schedule, Click Here.

Hotel Updates: Valmer Resort

Introducing New Spa and Gym Facilities

Valmer Resort has announced that their new gym and spa is now operational.

The Frangipani Spa, with Balinese therapists, has been designed to ensure that their guests truly enjoy the serenity of its peaceful surroundings. The Spa features a couples treatment room with private outside shower and jacuzzi, as well as nails and waxing services to complete the spa experience.

 

Hotel Updates: Denis Private Island

Isle of Denis takes to the air | A surprise greeting for the guests of Denis Private Island

On Friday the 16th October, 15 passengers were going through the usual check-in process to board for their Denis Private Island trip, however, the guests were asked to make their way to a mini-bus as there would be a slight diversion prior to boarding.