VICTORIA, Seychelles — Seychelles small hotels tourism sector enters a new phase as the Seychelles Small Hotels and Establishments Association embarks on a fresh mandate marked by renewed purpose and strategic focus. Chairperson Peter Sinon outlined the association’s commitment to defending the interests of Seychellois-owned small hotels and guesthouses in an exclusive interview.
The newly elected executive committee brings together a diverse and experienced team from across the islands, led by Peter Sinon as chairperson and Louisiane Jacques as vice-chairperson. The association represents a vital segment of the nation’s tourism economy, with members serving as natural custodians of sustainability through low-impact, culturally rooted, and community-embedded establishments.
Mr Sinon identified institutional strengthening, membership engagement, cost-reduction initiatives, enhanced digital visibility, and constructive policy dialogue as key priorities. The association plans to re-engage with the Truly Seychelles digital platform and foster strategic partnerships that will collectively brand and distinguish small establishments. Rising costs, compliance pressures, and expensive market visibility remain the main challenges members face.
The SSHEA aims to position itself as the most credible, solutions-oriented partner in tourism policy, marketing, and promotions, whilst strengthening the commercial resilience of members. The association already maintains close ties with the culture department and wants to serve as a vehicle through which organised cultural events reach clients. Authentic food, music, heritage, and storytelling form part of the visitor experience.
Through targeted collaborations with training institutions, simplified compliance guidance, and peer learning among members, the association aims to foster a more conducive environment for hospitality businesses. Mr Sinon emphasised that supporting small hotels is not a concession but a patriotic investment in resilience, inclusion, and national ownership of tourism.
Seychelles small hotels tourism remains essential for ensuring the country’s number one foreign exchange earner stays partly in Seychellois hands.
📷 Image source: Seychelles Tourism Authority — tourism.gov.sc
