The #VanillaIslands – Towards a revival of tourism: Trade shows, partnerships, and sustainable initiatives

After several years of closure imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Tourism Fair of Madagascar (ITM) was finally relaunched in Antananarivo. From June 14th to 18th, tourism professionals from the islands of the Indian Ocean gathered to showcase their products and services. The revival of tourism was at the heart of the discussions.

The Vanilla Islands were present to animate round tables on various topics, including cruises, strategy and action plans, and future collaboration opportunities.

A solid partnership between the Vanilla Islands and Air Austral for common development

The development of exchanges between the islands cannot be conceived without efficient air service. It is in this context that a partnership has been established between Air Austral and the Vanilla Islands Organisation. The aim is to pool resources to develop air transport activity in the region. Thus, Air Austral becomes the preferred partner of the Vanilla Islands for the development of tourism in the Indian Ocean.

Sustainable tourism at the heart of initiatives with the International Organisation of La Francophonie (IOF)

Sustainable tourism is an essential element of development strategies for organizations. This is why the IOF and the Vanilla Islands have decided to implement awareness actions, while promoting the tourist potential of the region and by showcasing a talented and committed Indian Ocean youth.

“Together for the Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)” is more than just a slogan. It is a commitment put into practice in a very concrete way through digital actions. These actions aim to promote more environmentally friendly tourism and more beneficial to local communities. The future of tourism in the Indian Ocean is being built, and it wants to be sustainable and solidary.

4th Working Group on Tourism – IORA: A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism

The development of South-South ties represents a promising response to the imperative of sustainable development for our region. By favoring shorter routes, we can minimize the carbon footprint of our journeys, thereby contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

The highlighting of environmentally friendly tourism projects is essential to the dissemination of good practices. It contributes not only to the preservation of our ecosystems but also provides a unique opportunity to educate the public about the importance of sustainability.

On May 05th, the Vanilla Islands intervened during the 4th working group on tourism of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), bringing together representatives from 23 countries. They advocated for combined eco-tourist circuits and environmentally friendly products. This is an important step towards the promotion of sustainable tourism in the Indian Ocean, a region rich in biodiversity and natural beauty.

This Indian Ocean area has many assets and carries out exemplary actions in terms of sustainability. It is a source of inspiration for other regions and countries, and it is crucial to communicate and share these achievements.

From the protection of unique ecosystems to innovative eco-tourism initiatives, the efforts deployed in this region are a model of sustainable development. By continuing to support and promote these initiatives, we can help make sustainable tourism not just a possibility, but a reality.

About the Vanilla Islands

The Vanilla Islands are a development group covering Comoros, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mayotte, Réunion and the Seychelles: http://www.vanilla-islands.org