DR KARL MOOTOOSAMY, director of the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, speaks to TTN about the island nation’s growing tourism industry.
How has the past year / Q1 2010 been for Mauritius? Who are your major source markets?
In 2009 Mauritius, like most destinations, suffered as a result of the world’s economic crisis. The forecast from the industry operators was gloomy with a 25 per cent drop in tourist arrivals expected for the year, but with the input of the stimulus package, we managed to limit the crisis to a manageable negative growth of -6.4 per cent. This year shows remarkable signs of recovery with real growth being recorded in all major source markets - we hope to attract nearly 1 million visitors in 2010.
Mauritius’ main source markets include France, the UK, South Africa, Italy, Germany, India and Switzerland. Figures from Q1 2010 showed a total of 85,039 visitors from France (+10.9 per cent), 22,251 from UK (-5.6 per cent), 17,592 from South Africa (+18.1 per cent), 21,170 from Italy (+11.1 per cent), 14,934 from Germany (+1.1 per cent), 8,173 from India (+20.7 per cent) and 4,730 from Switzerland (+30.9 per cent).
How much does the Middle East contribute to this?
The Middle East is seen as a region with great potential for Mauritius. Around 4/5,000 visitors come from the UAE each year, but we aim to double this figure within a couple of years by working closely with tour operators and airlines to promote Mauritius as a luxury destination.
How does an island destination like Mauritius compete with other city destinations?
Most of the island’s attractions are associated with its abundance of pristine white beaches, its stunning scenery and flora and fauna, so it doesn’t really compete with city-style destinations like, for example, Singapore. But what it does offer is a world of choice of activities, far beyond that of smaller island destinations, especially ideal for families wanting more to do than just relax on a beach.
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Mauritius the ultimate island paradise |
Island destinations have traditionally been popular with honeymooners, is this still the scenario?
Yes, Mauritius is very popular for honeymooners and even those wanting to get married. Actually, since the start of the year, we have seen an increase in solicitations from foreigners to facilitate the organisation of their wedding functions in one of the luxury hotels the destination has to offer.
What does the destination offer to the other segments?
The fact is that most of the island’s visitors enjoy Mauritius for a variety of reasons – as an exclusive getaway, for outdoor pursuits, for golf, deep-sea fishing, cycling, horse riding, spas, there are just so many things to do and see. This is what makes it different to other paradise island destinations.
How are you promoting the destination in the Middle East? Are there any ongoing promotional activities?
We work closely with tour operators like Emirates Holidays and Xperienz to promote Mauritius as a destination for visitors from the Middle East. We encourage our local hotels to put together packages that appeal to a wide range of tastes, including those that match the expectations of the Gulf Arab visitor.
Does the destination cater to the mid-market traveller? What kind of mid-range resorts are available for tourists?
Mauritius has more than 100 hotels and resorts and, while many of these are in the 5 star deluxe category, a choice of three and four-star properties exists as well as self-catering villas.
Are there any new tourism projects in the pipeline?
Development in Mauritius is carefully planned in line with the island’s ecology and resources. Tough regulations have meant that there are no high-rise hotels or resorts that are incompatible with the island’s scenic beauty. A number of new resorts are anticipated as investors recognise Mauritius’ potential and the fact that it attracts high-net-worth visitors. Big brands within the hospitality sector are keen to be associated with the destination. The St Regis Mauritius Resort, a new addition to the Starwood group of hotels, will be officially opened by the end of the year.