Hotel Updates: Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa

Local Spirit at Hilton Northolme 

Hilton Northolme Resort & Spa has once more teamed together with local partners to offer a new culinary experience. Members of the Tourism Industry, partners and Hotel Guests were invited to taste a selection of innovative, organic Cocktails created by Seybrew and Seychelles upcoming eco-friendly farmer Jean Paul Morin.

Hilton Northolme has started their culinary journey earlier this year and hosted a vegan guest chef from Sweden, organised exclusive wine tastings in partnership with Mama Mia Deli and introduced the “Les Cocotiers” Creole BBQ on Sundays since then. The latest addition to the culinary offerings is called ‘’Mix it up with local flavors’’ and took place on Thursday, 9th May in the hotel’s reception area. It was the first event of a series the hotel will be hosting in the future and follows Hilton’s global commitment to increase its “big five” impact: youth opportunity, water stewardship, anti-human trafficking, protecting wildlife and local sourcing. 

Hotel Updates: Kempinski Seychelles Resort

Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare Sponsors “Hope for Kids” – a Children’s Respite Programme by Cancer Concern Association

On Saturday, 11 May, a team of delegates from the Cancer Concern Association (CCA) visited Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare to present the outcomes of their first-ever “Hope for Kids” children’s respite programme, which was sponsored by the hotel. 



The programme targets children below the age of 16 who have lost a parent or close family member to cancer, and was designed to offer the children mentorship, peer support, skill development and grief counselling. “Hope for Kids” was launched in April with 40 young Seychellois who benefited from the programme. 

Two of the programme’s graduates, together with a team of volunteers from CCA, visited the hotel to share the outcomes and success from their launch and to personally thank the hotel for their generous sponsorship, which made “Hope for Kids” possible. The hotel’s human resources manager, Cheryl Marie, welcomed the group and was on hand to receive a homemade card with handwritten messages of gratitude from each of the programme’s participants. 

“We are so pleased to have been a part of this success story,” said Marie. “It’s so important for these children to know that they are not alone – that they have the support of their peers and organisations like CCA, as well as their communities. Kempinski is proud to be a part of such a wonderful community initiative.”

Masami Egami, the hotel’s general manager, commented that since its inception, Kempinski has always been people-oriented and that this collaboration with the CCA and the important work that they are doing was a wonderful demonstration of this core brand value.

Hotel Updates: Le Domaine de La Réserve

Mr. Olivier Loreaux appointed Resident Manager of Le Domaine de La Réserve

Le Domaine de La Réserve on Praslin island in Seychelles has announced the appointment of Mr. Olivier Loreaux as Resident Manager.

A French native from Burgundy, Mr. Loreaux has over 20 years of experience in hotel and resort operations in Pacific, Caribbean, Europe, Middle East, Africa and South Asia. Through hard and dedicated work, he made his way up from culinary to senior Hotel Management positions and has handled single and multi-site operations, openings & refurbishments as well as project management. Team building and training is also part of Mr. Loreaux’s numerous skills.

His track records includes Operational Management and Food and Beverage Management with world famous Marriott International. His previous experience before joining La Réserve was in Algeria, at the urban Sheraton Annaba, where Mr. Loreaux successfully developed and implemented strategic and operating plans.

With a very hands-on management style and a wealth of experience in hotels around the globe, Olivier will perform with a very supportive and caring team to ensure that Le Domaine de La Réserve further builds its reputation as one of the most beloved 4* resort of Seychelles, and will drive the implementation of a range of new services available to clients. This, to ensure our esteemed guests at Le Domaine de La Réserve always have a memorable experience.

Mason’s Travel would like to congratulate Mr. Olivier Loreaux  on his latest appointment and wish him all the best in his new role at Le Domaine de La Réserve.

Mason's Travel News

Labour Day Staff Party

On the 11th of May 2019, Mason’s Travel management welcomed their staff to a Labour Day celebration which all its’ staff were invited to.

The event took place at Chilli Bar in La Louise whereby the evening started off with a Chinese buffet and by popular demand the staff were eager to start singing and dancing with their colleagues.



Following dinner, our General Manager said a few words to thank the many faces that are behind the brand of Mason’s Travel. Their unparalleled dedication and efforts to their role is what continues to maintain the high standards we have set as our company goals. This evening was a thank you in appreciation of their hard work over the years. 

We then kicked off with a karaoke competition mixing between international hits, local tunes and some good old classics. The karaoke proved that we certainly have a lot of talented voices at Mason’s Travel. If karaoke were a sport, we’d definitely have some gold medalists among us! The Sega competition began shortly after the vibrant voices. The local Sega, our national dance is always a favourite, no one was going to miss out on this chance to dance and sway their hips to the island rhythms! 

Thanks to The Lifestyle Committee of Mason’s Travel, the Labour Day Party was a great success whereby staff could socialize amongst each other out of the usual work environment. 

Notice: Le Jardin Des Palmes

Le Jardin Des Palmes Closure Extended

Please note that we have been advised that Le Jardin Des Palmes closure will be extended.

The hotel initially planned to close from the 18th of April to the 15th of May 2019 but due to unexpected work, the renovation will not be completed until the 25th  of May 2019.
  
The hotel is currently liaising with respective reservation agents to make alternative arrangements.

Hotel Updates: Kempinski Seychelles Resort

Kempinski Seychelles Resort’s Food & Beverage Team Exposes Local Talent

A passion for food and beverage has always been at the forefront of the Kempinski brand, but in the second week of May the food and beverage team at Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare took centre stage on more than one occasion to shine a light on the development of local talent and creativity: 

Hotel Updates: Fregate Island Private

Luxury Travel Guide Award Fregate Island Private For Service Excellence

Masons Travel would like to congratulate Fregate Island Private on being awarded for your service excellence by the Luxury Travel Guide.  We commend you for your dedication to service. 

Please see below what the Luxury Travel Guide had to say about Fregate Island Private;

The judges were impressed with the consistency of the guest reviews. We could see that many guests were repeat visitors and were constantly referencing the attentiveness of the staff. Your team seems very keen to ensure each guest has a special experience and go over and above what is expected. 

As discussed, I am extremely pleased to announce you have been successful in winning the award for: 
  

SERVICE EXCELLENCE – SEYCHELLES

The Luxury Travel Guide Awards champion the very best in their respective fields; therefore to come out on top is truly an achievement you should be proud of. We are delighted to pay tribute to and commend all those who have excelled in the industry. This year has seen an unprecedented number of shortlisted companies, providing strong competition in every category. 

Mason's Travel News

Meetings & Massages with Banyan Tree

As our Contracting team is fully immersed in Contracting season for 2020, the team are also meeting with our numerous partners to discuss offers and rates. During the last week of April our Product and Contracting Manager, Lise Vidot, had a meeting with the Banyan Tree Director of Sales, Mr German Herrera.

The Banyan Tree Team arrived with a Spa therapist. The Mason’s Travel staff in the office were elated to find out that they would each be treated to a 5 minute shoulder massage.  We all know that, ‘time spent getting a massage is never time wasted’ and the team were certainly revitalized following this surprise treatment to then continue on with their contractual obligations. 

The Mason’s Travel team would like to extend a huge thank you to the Banyan Tree team! We are very appreciative of this generous gesture.

Notice: Jardin Du Roi

Jardin Du Roi closure from the 08th of May 2019 until the 11th of May 2019  

Please note that we have been advised that Jardin Du Roi will be closed from the 08th of May 2019 until the 11th of May 2019. 

During this time the the restaurant will be undergoing roof renovations. No visits or lunch will be available over this period.

Hotel Updates: Le Domaine de La Réserve

L’Occitane en Provence cosmetics at Le Domaine de La Réserve

Praslin, Seychelles, Le Domaine de La Réserve welcomes a new range of cosmetics from world famous L’Occitane en Provence, now available in guests’ accommodations. The range of products is from the Aromachologie collection and contains Mediterranean essential oils and features 100% natural scents which help to soothe or to revitalize body and mind using the ancient aromatherapy approach. 

Seychelles Tourism News

Beach and Sea Safety Guide now available for Seychelles visitors

The Tourism Department proudly released the second edition of its Beach and Sea Safety guide during a Launch ceremony Officiated by Minister Didier Dogley, Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine on Monday April 15, 2019 at Botanical House. 

The launch of the publication saw the presence of Principal Secretary for Tourism Mrs. Anne Lafortune and Ms. Philomena Hollanda, Director for Risk Management at the Ministry for Tourism. 

Hotel Updates: Hilton Labriz

Hilton Labriz re-opens local art gallery on Silhouette Island

On Friday, 19 April, Minister for Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine, Didier Dogley and General Manager of Hilton Labriz Resort and Spa André Borg opened the ‘Labriz Art Gallery’ on Silhouette Island. 

The ceremony was held on the hotel’s property and attended by hotel guests and local artists who feature at the exhibition. Project consultant Monsieur Richard Touboul coulnd’t attend the event, but played a big part setting up the exhibition and is responsible for the  creative concept. He was thanked by the General Manager during the speech. Another great supporter of the project and art ambassador of Hilton Labriz is the local artist Nigel Henri “I have been here for a year- and-a-half working around projects artistically. Hilton is the first five-star hotel that has approached local artists to combine culture and the artistic side.”

Industry Updates: Emirates Renews its Commitment to Seychelles

Emirates Renews its Commitment to Seychelles at the Arabian Trade Fair in Dubai 

The partnership between Emirates and destination Seychelles continues to grow, as both parties signed a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), outlining joint activities to promote the island destination.

A Memorandum of Understanding was signed at the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai on Monday April 29, 2019 by both Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations for Africa and Mrs. Sherin Francis, Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) Chief Executive, in the presence of Didier Dogley, Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine of the Seychelles.

Hotel Updates: Auberge Chez Plume

Auberge Chez Plume:  Hotel Closure 17^th June 2019 - 27^th June  2019

Auberge Chez Plume hotel  have advised that they will be closing from 17^th of June 2019 to 27^th of June 2019.

See below the self explanatory email received from the hotel; 

Hotel Updates: Castello Beach Hotel

Announcement - New General Manager at Castello Beach Hotel 

The Castello Beach Hotel Praslin has announced the appointment of Mr Derek Savy as General Manager effective immediately.

Derek has acquired many years of experience, working in various positions linked to the hospitality and tourism industry in the Seychelles. 

Mason’s Travel would like to congratulate Derek on his latest appointment and wish him all the best in his new role at Castello Beach Hotel. 

Hotel Updates: Denis Private Island

All Clear for Dining

 

A starlight feast on the airstrip delights guests on Denis.

Hotel residents on Denis Private Island enjoyed a special surprise for April Fools’ Day, with a banquet-style buffet spread out on the island’s landing strip.

About 40 of the island’s guests were whisked through forest vegetation lined with torches, in a manoeuvre that was kept secret until their arrival at the runway.

There, the island staff prepared a barbecue featuring the island’s famed local produce, set up under the starlight for guests to unwind in a most unusual makeshift “restaurant.” 

Hotel Updates: Six Senses Zil Payson

Six Senses Zil Pasyon Plants the Seed for a Sustainable Future 

Engaging children’s amenities are added to the Grow With Six Senses program 

FÉLICITÉ ISLAND, Seychelles – April 25, 2019 – Six Senses Zil Pasyon adds a fun and quirky twist to experiences for little guests by introducing new amenities to the Grow With Six Senses program. On a peaceful tropical island, with diverse and lush natural surroundings and with so much to explore, Félicité becomes a home away from home, with an array of educational yet fun activities for youngsters to experience. The program aims to offer a holistic approach to their development intellectually and spiritually, while further connecting with their family and themselves. 

Mason's Travel News

Mason's Travel Promotes Environmental Awareness

Mason’s Travel believes in being environmentally conscious. As a team, we make daily efforts to be more proactive in becoming an environmentally friendly organization. Paul McCartney said, “out of all those millions and millions of planets floating around there in space, this is our planet, this is our little one, so we just got to be aware of it and take care of it.” One of the biggest threats to the planet is destruction of habitat and loss of prized wildlife from pollution. There are many ways to show that you care about the environment. Recently some of our team showed how they could make a difference by participating in a beach clean up.  

Seychelles in the Spotlight

Seychelles Receives the Honours of Hosting the FINA CNSG Open Water World Series 2019 

The excitement was palpable at Beau Vallon Beach on Saturday April 13, 2019 almost a month before the Seychelles hosts for the second consecutive year the FINA CNSG Open Water World Series 2019. 

Seychelles in the Spotlight

Indian Fashion Guru Sabyasachi Selects Seychelles as Backdrop for his First Ever Destination Wedding Collection 

The beauty of Seychelles is once again at the center of a media buzz as India’s distinguished Mr. Sabyasachi Mukherjee, publicised photos of the recent photoshoot conducted in the exotic destination for his first ever destination wedding collection. 

The project initiated by the prestigious magazine Condé Nast Traveller, India for their April issue cover photo shoot, was executed in partnership with the Seychelles Tourism Board Office (STB).  Seychelles appeared grandiose in an enchanting white wedding setup featuring Miss World 2017 Ms. Manushi Chhillar, her handsome groom and the bride’s tribe all dressed and styled by Sabyasachi.   

Hotel Updates: Hilton Labriz

Hilton Labriz is the most popular property in Africa to say ‘I do’

The wedding day is one of the most important days in life. And the location is one of the most important parts of a wedding. Hilton Labriz Resort & Spa has just been elected the perfect place to make wedding dreams become true and won the Award for the ‘Best Destination Wedding Property 2019’ in Africa at the Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress. 

Hotel Updates: Le Duc de Praslin

Le Duc de Praslin Expands Its Services by Appointing New Villa & Events Manager

The management of Le Duc de Praslin Hotel & Villas has announced a further enhancement in its service delivery and product enhancement for the upcoming 2020 season. The construction of the 20 deluxe rooms complex and new villas are well on the way and set to open later this year in time for the new season.

Hotel Updates: Jardin des Palmes

Temporary Closure of Jardin des Palmes: 18.04.2019 - 15.05.2019

Please take note that Jardin des Palmes hotel will be closing for urgent renovation to their swimming pool deck. The hotel will be closed from the 18th April to 15th May 2019. 

Seychelles Tourism News

Seychelles Tourism Board Chief Executive sits on Tourism Panel at the sixth Annual Destination Wedding Planners Congress in Dubai 

Seychelles was bestowed with high honours as the destination was represented at the Tourism Panel at the Destination Wedding Planners (DWP) Congress from March 27 to 29 2019, held in Dubai’s iconic five-star hotel and luxury resort, Atlantis the Palm. 

Hotel Updates: Hotel L’Archipel

Temporary Closure of of Hotel L’Archipel: 01st May 2020  to 31st July 2020.

Hotel L’Archipel have announced that the hotel will be undergoing major renovation works for a period of approximately three months - starting 01 May 2020 with an expected completion date of 31st July, 2020.

The works will encompass the construction of an entirely new access road, a Welcome Pavilion, the extension of La Gigolette Beachfront Restaurant and eight additional rooms.

Hotel Updates: Six Senses Zil Pasyon

Félicité Ranks Number Two Sustainable Destination in Africa

Green Destinations, unveils the winners of the top 100 Sustainable Top Destinations of the World Awards during ITB Berlin Leading Travel Trade Show

During ITB Berlin 2019, the island of Félicité was recognized as the second most sustainable destination in Africa in the Best of The Planet category by Green Destinations of the Sustainable Top 100 Destinations Award.

Seychelles in the Spotlight

Seychelles Recognised as the 'World’s Most Beautiful Island' at GQ Travel Award Russia

Destination Seychelles cited as ‘The Most Beautiful Island’ in the world after walking away with the title at the GQ Travel Award, a ceremony that took place on March 15, 2019, at the Metropol Hotel, in Moscow Russia.

The GQ Travel Awards Ceremony recognizes the leading companies, hotels and destinations from the elite travel industry.  The winners in the 17 different categories including Seychelles were chosen by GQ readers who voted online on the magazine’s website.

Hotel Updates: North Island Seychelles

The World's Most Exclusive Beach Bar, Right Here in Seychelles!

Tucked against towering granite boulders at the far end of a private beach in Seychelles, fringed by lush tropical forests and glittering white sands, lies the world’s most exclusive beach bar. 

Seychelles Tourism News

‘Seychelles Discovered Roadshow’ Marches North in the UK

UK based travel agents are now better equipped to attract clients as they learn more about destination Seychelles through the Seychelles Tourism Board’s (STB) ‘Seychelles Discovered Roadshow’ hosted from March 12, 2019 to March 14, 2019. 

The group, led by STB Director for UK and Ireland, Ms. Christine Vel, took to Chester in the north of England, and Glasgow and Aberdeen in Scotland, to promote the tropical island nation. Onboard the team was also Marketing Executive, Ms. Eloise Vidot and other local partners. 

Hotel Updates: Fregate Island Private

Fregate Island Now Offers Credit Card Payment Options

Fregate Island Travel has advised that they now have credit card terminals installed on Fregate Island Private for Visa- and MasterCard (American Express to be added during this year). This new method of payment is only accepted for extras on the island. All accommodation and transfers still need to be prepaid via bank transfers.

Seychelles Tourism News

Seychelles’ Intensified Presence Makes Successful Impact During 2019 Edition of Internationale Tourismus-Börse, Berlin 

Announced by the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) Headquarters in February 2019, Seychelles’ delegation pull the spotlight on the destination at the 53rd edition of Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB) travel trade fair during a five-days event in the German Capital.

Seychelles Tourism News

Seychelles eco-friendly efforts put forward to the German press during Seychelles delegation press conference organized during ITB

Environment conservation efforts being made by Seychelles, and how tourists can join in the initiatives were the focus points of a press conference organized by the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) during the Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB) fair that took place in Berlin, Germany.

Hotel Updates: Sun Resort

Sun Resort reports continued renovation works

Please note Sun Resort will be continuing renovation works on all Standard rooms.Works will be done in the bathrooms as from 01st April 2019 through to 15thJune 2019. 

Hotel Update: Kempinski Seychelles

Resort Participates in Fifth Edition of Goût De France

Kempinski Seychelles Resort Baie Lazare will once again be joining over 200 restaurants across the world, participating in Goût de France - a global celebration of French cuisine. In March each year, as part of the celebrations of the International Day of La Francophonie, hundreds of restaurants across five continents serve special menus that celebrate French cuisine and joie de vivre, with a local twist.

Hotel Updates: Denis Private Island

Shortlisted for Region’s Top Private Island in World Travel Awards

Denis Private Island is in the running for one of the world’s most prestigious honours in the professional tourism trade.

Its nomination in the 26^th World Travel Awards (WTA), for the Indian Ocean’s leading private island resort category, is a first for the locally owned property.

Mason's Travel News

Meet the Team - Heather

Can there be a better insider to Mason’s Travel than someone who’s been with the company for 30 years? We didn’t think so either! This week we’d like you to meet Heather, our front office team member, although you may already know her, if you’ve ever visited our office on Mahe. Heather knows the company inside out and claims that she could write a book about it.

Hotel Updates: Bird Island

Sea Turtle Season

When it comes to sea turtles, Bird Island has recorded some great numbers this season; from turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs to successful nests hatched, turtle lovers will be happy to read this update.

Airline Updates: Air Seychelles

Air Seychelles to Increase Frequency on its Mumbai Route 

 

Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles has announced that it will increase its services between Seychelles and Mumbai to six flights per week starting from 12 May, 2019.

Mason's Travel News: Seychelles Eco-Healing Marathon

Mason’s Travel Staff Delivers Record Participation and Performances at Annual Marathon Event

Runners and walkers of all ages took to the roads of Mahé to participate in the Seychelles Eco-Healing Marathon on Sunday, with Mason’s Travel well represented at the event despite heavy rain and windy conditions.

Hotel Updates: Le Relax Beach Resort

Temporary Renovation Works

Dear trade partners and customers, please note that Le Relax Beach Resort on Praslin will be temporarily carrying out renovation work from the 31^st of March 2019 to 18^th April 2019. The hotel will be doing some maintenance work and replacing the decking around the swimming pool, therefore the swimming pool will not be operational and the outside restaurant will be closed for health and safety reasons.

Industry Updates: Seychelles to Receive an Award

Seychelles recognised as Favourite Beach Island Destination 

Seychelles was the proud recipient of the Favourite Beach Island Destination Award at 32^nd Edition of the Conde Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards, in a ceremony organised at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel in Dubai on Wednesday February 27, 2019. 

Industry News: Seychelles to Attend ITB Travel Trade Show

Seychelles to Take Over Berlin in a Tropical Storm as Strong Tourism Delegation Hits ITB in March

Destination Seychelles will have a strong presence in the German capital, Berlin, as a 42 strong member delegation gets ready to attend the 53rd edition of Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB) travel trade show, which will take place from March 6, 2019 to March 10, 2019.

Hotel Updates: AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa

Payment Facilities and TGA Private Music Lounge Updates

Dear customers and trade partners, please note that AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa does not accept Diners Club charge cards and will no longer be accepting American Express credit cards at the property from 01^st March of 2019. The hotel will only accept Mastercard, Visa and Union Pay card payments.

Hotel Updates: North Island

North Island Joins the Luxury Collection

North Island announces that it is joining The Luxury Collection, part of Marriott International, Inc., comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. As one of the world’s leading private islands, North Island is a unique addition to The Luxury Collection as it makes its debut in the Seychelles, one of the world’s most desirable destinations. This iconic island resort is also the first hotel in the portfolio of the newly-launched A Small World Hotel Collection, who will oversee the resort’s integration into The Luxury Collection brand portfolio and the operations of the business.

Mason's Travel News: Exceeding Beyond Expected

Mason’s Travel Exceeding beyond Expected

Here at Mason’s Travel we believe that the employees are what make the company special and the customers are what keep us growing and make everything what we do matter. There is nothing more rewarding than receiving positive feedback and knowing that we were able to go beyond the expected. We’re excited to share the letter that we received from Andrew Kennedy, one of our customers back in October.   

Hotel Updates: Four Seasons Resort

Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Celebrates 10^th Anniversary

A Cocktail reception and special Bazar Labrin evening was organised by the Four Seasons Resorts Seychelles on Friday February 8, 2019 to mark the tenth years of existence of the Petite Anse Resort.

Mason's Travel News: Meet the Team

Meet the Team - Jeanette

In celebration of love this Valentine’s Day, we prepared a special interview. Continuing our series of “Meet the Team”, we would love to introduce you to Jeanette Violette, our one and only Wedding Supervisor.  Conducting over 30 weddings every month, it was an easy choice to feature Jeanette as our staff member this Valentine’s day. She has been planning the ‘special day’ for couples from all around the world at Mason’s Travel for over 10 years now and  has been celebrating love way more often than just on Valentine’s Day.

Hotel Updates: North Island

Don't Vote for North Island, Vote for Her

Did you know that turtle hatchlings have less than a 1% survival rate? Only 1 in 1,000 make it to adulthood. Crabs, birds, fish, plastic - the odds are against her. She can certainly do with all the help she can get.