Travel News

Creative artists originating from the Seychelles got together yesterday (August 10th) for a prominent arts and crafts fair that is gaining momentum and becoming extremely popular with tourists from the area.

Taking place on the beautiful Port Launay Beach, the event was held following the success of its previous incarnation which happened earlier this year on May 31st.

Initially set up by the Pro Art Association in conjunction with the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and its National Arts Council, the event was established with a view to giving local artists a platform upon which they can showcase their work to an international audience.

However, following its success with foreign visitors, the minister responsible for tourism and culture Alain St Ange has confirmed he would like to make it the centrepiece of a new touristic drive for the country.

As well as featuring hand-painted arts and crafts, the festival features live music from the likes of well-known and much-loved singers, such as Claude Rene, Serge Oreddy, Donatien Madeleine, Collin Athanasius and George Agripine. These names were among those who took to the stage last night in recognition of the event.

“Today we see culture and talent through the creative artists and supported by the Performing Artists taking its place as the center display of our tourism industry,” Mr St Ange said.

“Yes, we have the best of sun, sea, and sand holidays, but that is just not enough anymore. We needed more, so we launched the concept that tourism for Seychelles is now culture and experience.”

Those wishing to experience more of this incredible country than just its lovely beaches and charismatic landscape can do so on a Seafarer Cruise. Our itineraries always allow for exploration of the local culture, whether that takes the form of seeking out local wildlife or visiting the island community of La Digue on the Sister Islands.

Holidays to the Bahamas are often an incredible experience, with the nation's endless stretches of perfect white sand, turquoise waters and verdant forests ticking all the boxes for those seeking the perfect break away from daily life.

So it comes as no surprise that 1.8 million tourists visited the country in the first quarter, with a report published by the Central Bank's latest Quarterly Economic Review indicating modest gains in tourism arrivals.

The news will no doubt be highly welcomed by the government, which expressed shock at a 3.3 per cent decline in the same figures a year earlier.

In the breakdown, it was revealed that, in terms of components, air arrivals rose by 0.2 per cent, reversing a contraction of 3.4 per cent in 2013, while growth in sea visitors continued its strong increase with a rise of 0.9 per cent.

Minister of tourism Obie Wilchcombe told Bahama Journal that the increase in visitors is largely due to the worldwide economic recovery, and that steps are already being taken to attract tourists who are finding they are once again able to travel to the Bahamas.

"With the uptick in economic trends, you will see more disposable income, which bodes well for the tourism industry," the tourism minister said. "This means people will travel more. We are also working aggressively on our marketing strategy."

Here at Seafarer, we believe it is no coincidence that people are choosing to visit the Bahamas by sea, as evidenced by the figures in the report.

The white sandy beaches of the picturesque coastline are all the more pretty when viewed from the ocean, and a a sailing cruise on a professionally crewed catamaran allows you to experience every romantic cove, luscious island or quiet community village without finding yourself interrupted by your fellow holidaymakers all the time.

The Seychelles remembered the many people who died during the First World War last week, with special events held across the archipelago that commemorated the efforts of Seychellois war victims in particular.

At the time a British colony, the 115 islands ended up sending troops into the great battle to aid in the fight against the Kaiser.

Celebrations were prominent but subdued as the time came to remember people who died in the fight for freedom.

The Seychelles' vice president Danny Faure, government ministers, members of the resident diplomatic corps and representatives of other religious faiths attended a special congregation organised by the British High Commission.

A number of war veterans from the Second World War met with high commissioner Lindsay Skoll, who was quick to praise the people who lost their lives to the cause. She also commented on the fact a quarter of the population of the island nation was wiped out.

"But there is perhaps no greater testimony than to the spirit and character of the people of Seychelles than the fact that , a little over twenty years after suffering this terrible trauma , they did not hesitate to take up arms again in defence of the Commonwealth at the outbreak of the Second World War," Skoll added.

Another speaker was Major Andre Baronne, a soldier and survivor of the Second World War, who spoke at length of how difficult it was to survive in the Seychelles during the global conflict.

Get a sense of what the soldiers felt they were fighting for by visiting this beautiful unspoilt island paradise. We provide a Mega Yacht Cruise of the archipelago that encompasses all elements of Seychellois culture – from its warm and wonderful people to the stunning natural surroundings.

Panama has registered an uptick in tourist numbers flocking into the country to experience the incredible Panama Canal, which is set to celebrate 100 years since opening and becoming the epicentre for world trade.

The countdown for the milestone anniversary – which is set to take place on August 15th – actually began last year, as the local government implemented an exciting programme of events designed to inspire excitement.

Various celebrations have highlighted the incredible history of this beautiful waterway, which is now a cruising favourite, and also discussed how the canal is being adapted to take future vessels.

"The Panama Canal has been connecting the world since August 15th, 1914," said Roberto Roy, president of the Panama Canal Authority’s (ACP) board of directors. "The fact that 14,000 vessels make use of the waterway every year in order to serve 1,700 ports in 160 countries is sufficient proof of this statement."

A spectacular extravaganza is in the process of being planned for the big day, with recent announcements confirming that the fun will start from the moment the first vessel passes through the entrance at Miraflores Locks on August 15th.

There will be a world premiere of the film Historias del Canal (Canal Stories) that aims to portray the waterway's impact through five fictional stories that will be screened at Panama's National Theatre.

Finally, the Centennial Gala will take place on the evening of the 15th, boasting a musical artistic performance that will attempt to recreate the canal's construction. This will be broadcast across the nation.

The addition of the Turkish city of Bursa and its historical Cumalıkızık district to the UNESCO World Heritage List last month has seen various archaeological experts demanding the nation's beautiful cultural heritage is sufficiently protected against mass tourism.

Various educational bodies and concerned individuals have spoken out, claiming the government must take steps to ensure measures are put into place to this effect, to avoid the fate that has befallen other ancient sites damaged by 21st-century visitors.

Professor Neslihan Dostoğlu, head of Istanbul Kültür University’s Architecture Department, was among those making comments.

"A balance must be achieved between attracting tourists keen to visit Turkey’s classical heritage and protecting ancient sites from being harmed," he argued, adding he hoped a more controlled and conscious protection of the areas would take place under the United Nations body.

Local communities have become increasingly vocal about the protection of their heritage after a Mayan temple in Tikal, Guatemala, was almost destroyed by tourists flocking to the area for an 'end of the world' party.

However, Mr Dostoğlu has higher hopes for ancient sites in possession of a UNESCO designation as carers are ordered to submit a report every five years to the committee over the condition of the site.

"One has to offer a management plan to UNESCO while applying," he added.

Turkey is among the wealthiest countries in the world in terms of UNESCO sites, with some 13 ancient areas coming under the prestigious designation.

The extraordinary number of places where you can sample ancient lands is astonishing, and makes a holiday here truly unique. Why not consider sailing around Turkey's unique coastline, experiencing the likes of market town Bodrum and the stunningly beautiful natural harbour of Longoz on your way? For more information, check out our Turkey cruises.

Croatia's tourism industry is continuing to report significant rises as more people flock to the country, inspired by its beauty as witnessed on the popular Game of Thrones television series.

The epic fantasy story, which has received numerous awards including 19 Emmy nominations as announced on Thursday (July 10th), grew its audience by 24 per cent last season, with an even greater number of fans inspired to visit the locations where it is filmed.

While Game of Thrones is filmed in a number of places around Europe – and recently announced a new filming location in Seville, Spain, for the next season – it is Croatia that has particularly benefited.

Through the TV series, the unique beauty of places such as Split and Dubrovnik is uncovered, with people keen to experience their charms, beautiful architecture and fascinating histories.

Dubrovnik, a Croat port city used to represent King's Landing in the series, even offers special Game of Thrones-inspired tours for those who want to relive the viewing experience.

Croatia's deputy tourism minister Ratomir Ivicic was among those celebrating the success of this UNESCO-recognised location.

"Thanks to 'Game of Thrones', many people are coming to visit the very old walls in Dubrovnik and Split," he told CNBC. "Season five will be made in Sibenik – also a very beautiful place in Croatia."

However, the fantasy series is but the latest in a line of TV series and films that made Croatia a star in her own right. Others include Winds of War and The Pope Must Die, both of which were filmed in the late eighties.

If you want to experience Split and Dubrovnik in one holiday and see firsthand what the attraction to the film industry is, what better way to do so than on our Split to Dubrovnik itinerary? This gives you the chance to cruise the coast in comfortable surroundings and experience all that Croatia has to offer.

Coastal tourism in the Caribbean was the main topic of discussion at hand during a three-day symposium taking place in Grenada last week.

The event, which was held with the aim of exploring sustainable models for the development of sustainable tourism in the coastal areas of the island nation, kicked off on Thursday (July 10th) and attracted some 150 experts from universities, government agencies, nongovernmental organizations and private sectors

Participants were able to share experience and lessons, examine key obstacles together and come up with potential solutions for the problems facing the sector.

Grenada tourism minister Alexandra Otway-Noel addressed the opening ceremony of the event, urging stakeholders that they need to take a strong interest in best practice of ecotourism if this beautiful paradise is to remain as it is for generations to come.

"Now it is the time for us to apply ourselves to learn about eco-certifications," she commented.

"We will benefit from learning how linkage are formed between tourism and agriculture and how communities have benefited from ways we haven't imagined."

Prime minister of Grenada Keith Mitchell also spoke out, calling for renewed efforts from all touristic organisations lest the beautiful coasts of the Caribbean be lost forever.

A number of innovations were announced at the event, such as a new green certification programme for holiday homes and several new partnerships dedicated to improving the sustainability of the Caribbean's coastal tourism.

Participants at the symposium also enjoyed field trips to leading tourism attractions in Grenada where positive steps have already been taken to preserve the beauty of the area's heritage.

These included the famous Grenada Chocolate Factory and cocoa processing facilities and La Sagesse Beach.

If you're interested in experiencing the Caribbean but want to preserve this incredible part of the world for future generations, be sure to go on holiday with a company that promotes responsible travel.

Here at Seafarer, we respect the environment and native communities, as well as the laws, creatures and culture of the countries we visit. Our Caribbean island hopping sailing cruise on a deluxe Dream yacht Catamaran represent probably the most environmentally neutral way you could explore these wonderful islands, see here for details.

If you're visiting Turkey at any time over the next year – for example on one of our small cruise ship holidays – be warned that the country is set to introduce further legislation that tourists should be aware of.

According to a statement from the Turkish Ministry for Culture and Tourism, tourists will need to hold a passport that is valid for at least 60 days after the expiry of their traveller's visa, visa exemption period or residency permit.

So for example, someone departing on August 20th will need to ensure their passport is valid until at least October 20th in order to be allowed into the country.

It is the latest in an ongoing series of events that has seen Turkey introduce various changes to its border control, including abolishing paper visas in favour of an electronic system that tourists need to use before arriving in the country. The e-visa introduction is seen as a simple and quick modernisation of the previous system.

"Travellers without the required period of validity on passports will regrettably not be allowed entry into Turkey due to this new legal regulation," the Turkish Ministry for Culture and Tourism said.

"The new rules form part of Turkey’s responsibilities within the framework of its European Union negotiation accession process, including as signatory to relevant international agreements within this framework."

Anyone who does not follow the new rules will be turned away after they come into effect on January 1st 2015, so it is important to check your passport with plenty of time in advance before travelling.

The requirment to have six months validity on one's passport has been a long standing advisory for British subjects on travel to most countries. While there are plenty of examples that show you probably won't be prevented from going on holiday, it pays to check your documentation.

There will be celebrations throughout the Caribbean islands tonight as the island nation's nations tourism sector publishes details confirming a rise in holidaymakers arriving during the first quarter of 2014 – a great achievement indeed.

According to like-for-like figures released by the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) over the weekend, there was a 2.2 per cent rise in stay-over arrivals between January and March 2014.

The number of people choosing to explore this island paradise by cruise vessel saw an even larger increase of 2.3 per cent in the same period, with travellers continuing to flock to the shores for pristine beaches, azure seas and a carefree lifestyle.

America remained the Caribbean's largest market, contributing some 3.5 million arrivals, although the CTO warned that the Canadian market should not be underestimated as it grew faster than that of the US during the first quarter of the year.

Growth was also witnessed where European tourists were concerned, with an improved figure of 1.5 million visitors posted. 

Beverly Nicholson-Doty, chairman of the CTO, was understandably delighted as she reported the news to the world at Caribbean Week Toronto over the weekend.

"Based on the increased arrivals and improved average visitor spending so far, a rise of around four per cent in total spend region-wide is predicted this year," she said

"That’s an extremely good indicator for the region in terms of people spending both on their way to our destinations but also while they are in our destinations," Miss Nicholson-Doty added.

With more people travelling to the Caribbean, why not pick up the trend and see what you can see on the emerald islands? Board a Seafarer cruise and experience the journey of a lifetime – from white sandy beaches edging into turquoise waters to fascinating historical artefacts.

Beach fanatics know that there's nothing better than a long stretch of soft white sand, blazing sunshine against a blue sky and a turquoise wave lapping gently at the coast. Which is why the pristine waterfront of the Seychelles has once again come out on top in the Travellers' Choice awards.

The accolade, which is distributed by popular reviews website TripAdvisor, recognised Anse Lazio beach on Praslin Island as one of the 2014 winners. Described as "picture perfect in every way. Gorgeous beach and the bluest water ever", the coastline gained its status for having unrivalled swimming.

More than 320 beaches were recognised around the globe for being of outstanding quality, with other choices including Baia do Sancho and Fernando de Noronha in Brazil, Playa de ses Illetes and Formentera in Spain and Hawaii’s Lanikai Beach.

However, it was the beaches in the Seychelles that received most praise, largely thanks to the island nation's weather system which ensures an almost perpetual summer.

Winners of the Travellers' Choice Beaches Award were decided based on the quality and quantity of reviews posted on TripAdvisor over a 12-month period, with the most popular and highly-rated destinations garnering accolades.

Alain St.Ange, the Seychelles minister responsible for Tourism and Culture, was quick to acknowledge the awards, using them as an opportunity to push for sustainable tourism.

"We are known to be a country promoting eco-tourism since the launch of our tourism industry. We intensified our conservation approach declaring over 50 per cent of our total land area as protected national parks and embarking on the sustainable tourism approach," he said.

"Today the world at large is recognising the tenacity with which the people of Seychelles have embraced the concept of being seen to be good custodians of the natural beauty of our mid-ocean islands."

If all this has tempted you to pull on your Speedos and apply suncream, why not consider a Seafarer cruise that allows you to sample a number of beaches in the Seychelles and get an insight into the natural beauty available on this stunning archipelago? Consider the Seychelles Garden Of Eden Cruise with Variety Cruises or the Catamaran Sailing Cruise with Dream Yacht.