During the welcome networking event at five-star resort Constance Ephelia, Tourism Seychelles’ director general of destination marketing Bernadette Willemin explained this means the archipelago seeks “people who really add value to the destinations when they visit” by staying in “homegrown” properties, choosing excursions outside international resorts and embracing the Seychelles’ culture and communities.

“Today is more than just a gathering; it is an opportunity to foster connections, share insights, and embark on a journey of collaboration and discovery,” she explained. Addressing travel agents she added: “You are the architects of dreams, crafting unforgettable experiences for those seeking adventure, relaxation and cultural enrichment.”

The megafam itinerary featured a stay at Constance Ephelia, visits to Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa on Silhouette Island, plus Mahe’s Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa and Laila Resort. A small group of journalists, including from TTG Luxury, was taken on an exclusive and inaugural trip to the brand-new Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, which is on track to welcome its first guests on 15 February. It will be the brand’s first resort in the country.

Activities on the megafam included yoga, snorkelling, nature walks, craft classes and cooking demonstrations, plus a walking tour of the Seychelles’ capital Victoria and its famed Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market.

TTG Luxury was the only UK trade media title to attend alongside agents from Optimum Experience, Designer Travel and Turquoise Holidays.

The megafam was rounded off with a signature event at Cap Lazare Nature Reserve where local artisans showcased their crafts, Seychellois chefs cooked on location and guests watched a traditional Moutya dance around a beach bonfire.

The destination’s minister for tourism Sylvestre Radegonde was in attendance, delivering a strong message to travel agents around the world: “Encourage visitors to go out into the community, learn a little bit of the language, learn the dance, learn how to cook; somebody who comes on holiday to the Seychelles gets more than the beach and the sea, and we would like you as tour operators and travel agencies to [have this at the front] of your mind when a client walks in.”