(Posted 19th February 2025)
Fresh off the launch and autograph session for his latest book, Dr. Alain St.Ange wasted no time before embarking on his next mission. The seasoned tourism expert and former Seychelles Minister of Tourism was seen landing in Aswan, Egypt, the very next morning, where he is the sole representative from the Indian Ocean and Africa addressing a high-profile tourism conference.
Dr. St.Ange, renowned for his dedication and deep understanding of the industry, is set to speak on Smart Tourism—a concept that Seychelles urgently needs to adopt to revive its faltering tourism sector. His participation in global tourism dialogues reinforces his standing as a respected thought leader, once credited for propelling Seychelles to international acclaim.
Back home, frustration is mounting among tourism operators over stagnating visitor numbers, excessive taxation, and restrictive policies like the compulsory TRIVISORY entry permit. Many recall that under Dr. St.Ange’s leadership, Seychelles became a benchmark destination, praised even by CNN TASK for outperforming expectations. Calls are growing for the reinstatement of a Private Sector-led Tourism Board—an initiative pioneered during his tenure—to restore dynamism to the industry.
With Seychelles at a crossroads, St.Ange’s unwavering commitment to tourism and his global recognition as an industry expert are fueling conversations about his potential to lead the nation forward. His tireless advocacy and deep industry insights make him a formidable contender in the upcoming Seychelles Presidential Elections, where many now see him as the leader who can reignite the island’s economic engine—tourism.
