I N S I G H TN E W S L E T T E R O F S A I N T E A N N E I S L A N D - O C T O B E R 2 0 1 4

The setting up of an audiovisual room at Anse-aux-Pins Primary School brought smiles on the faces of the hundreds of pupils and their teachers

on Thursday 17th August last. This initiative of Sainte Anne Island is in line with its policy to support youth development and education in Seychelles. It also forms part of the overall sustainable program of Beachcomber Hotels to empower young people in their education.

The bright idea was initially shared by the resort’s Financial Controller, Kevin Vadamootoo, with his colleagues and the implementation was soon ongoing. Immediately, the resort’s team members started working closely with the management of Anse-aux-Pins Primary School to set up this audiovisual facility, which will also serve as a recreational area for some 500 pupils attending the school.

The new audiovisual room is housed in a converted classroom and the project involved cleaning and painting, the supply of curtains, carpet fl ooring and furniture, the installation of a new 50” LED TV set as well as an audio system equipped with DVD/CD player and educational games. These new tools will contribute to the pupils’ individual development and will allow teamwork on small projects with video footage on fundamental civic values. The Headmistress, Kathleen Samson, expressed her gratitude to Sainte Anne Island. «The resort has always shown great interest in the development of our pupils. I can still recall the time when our teachers had to use only chalk and talk but now new technologies contribute in a better way to support the curriculum,» she said. «It gives a new dimension to our pedagogical methods, which blend practical work and leisure. This is an investment in a good cause and it will surely

benefit our pupils. This facility will impact positively on their behaviour and will empower them to be active learners.»

«We have a staunch belief in the promotion of the warmest relations with our community neighbours. It is a policy deeply embedded in our quest for upgrading competence, developing talents amongst young Seychellois and off ering aid to the most vulnerable. We shall pursue our actions in all the ways we can in the future for the ultimate benefi t of our social partners,» added the resort’s General Manager, Norbert Couvreur.

A ceremony was organized on 17th August to celebrate the opening of this new facility at the school. Mrs Mac Suzy Mondon, Minister for Education, Dr Rolph Payet, Minister for Environment and Energy, Mrs Anne Lafortune, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, members of the National Assembly and offi cials from the District Administration joined the school staff and pupils for the occasion. The pupils put up a nice show with songs to express their joy and off ered some gifts to the guests. Minister Mac Suzy Mondon said that project is very encouraging and is a vivid example of what private and public sector partnership can achieve.

Kevin Vadamootoo, Financial Controller of Sainte Anne Resort, told the guests that he was very happy to see this project completed. «We are very close to this school as our staff residence is not far away. Many of our children are pupils here and it is most fi tting to be able to be an active partner of this school. We are proud that this humble contribution will help our young friends in their studies.»

For the teachers, the setting up of this audiovisual room is most welcome. Sheila Volcère, the school librarian, was enthusiastic about it. «We were yearning for such a facility. We wanted to organize activities but we did not have the required tools.»

As part of Sainte Anne Island’s long-term commitment to supporting youth development

and educational projects in Seychelles, some pupils from Anse-aux-Pins Primary School also received their fi rst introduction to golf by an international coach in February this year. Moreover, the resort welcomes groups of schoolchildren and students on a regular basis for study visits to discover the island’s fauna and fl ora.

• IN THIS ISSUE • PAGE 2 | COMMUNITY | SBC at Sainte Anne Island • PAGE 3 | NEWS | Green cleaning • PAGE 4 & 5 |PEOPLE | A life-changing job| Nos amis de la Réunion • PAGE 6 & 7 | GUESTS | Ils avaient promis de revenir ! | Popular destination • PAGE 8 | Beachcomber Aventure • PAGE 9 | EXPOSURE | Touring South Africa • PAGE 10 | GREEN CORNER | Research on insects started on Ste Anne • PAGE 11 | AIR NEWS| New Airbus for Air Seychelles • PAGE 12 |We're in the News

benefit our pupils. This facility will impact positively on their behaviour and will empower

«We have a staunch belief in the promotion of the warmest relations with our community neighbours. It is a policy deeply embedded in our quest for

The setting up of an audiovisual room benefit our pupils. This facility will impact benefit our pupils. This facility will impact

Investment in a good cause

upgrading competence, developing talents amongst young Seychellois and off ering aid to the most vulnerable. We shall pursue our actions in all the ways we can in the future for the ultimate benefi t of our social

» added the resort’s General

A ceremony was organized on August to celebrate the opening of

this new facility at the school. Mrs Mac Suzy Mondon, Minister for Education, Dr Rolph Payet, Minister for Environment and Energy, Mrs Anne Lafortune, Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, members of the National Assembly and offi cials from the District Administration joined the school staff and pupils for the

upgrading competence, developing talents amongst young Seychellois and off ering aid to the most vulnerable. We shall pursue our actions

N E W S L E T T E R O F S A I N T E A N N E I S L A N D - O C T O B E R 2 0 1 42

COMMUNITY

La SBC à Sainte Anne

Ce n’était pas un groupe de touristes européens fraîchement débarqués qui poussaient ces cris enthousiastes sous le grand

baobab de Sainte Anne récemment. Il s’agissait plutôt d’une douzaine d’employés de la Seychelles Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) et quelques-uns de leurs parents et amis qui effectuaient une randonnée autour de l’île, sous l’œil attentif d’Errol, le guide de la journée et responsable du gymnase à l’hôtel Sainte Anne Island.

Nos amis de la radio télévision ont été impressionnés par le baobab géant qui pousse sur l’île mais le banyan aux racines tentaculaires et aux troncs multiples et tortueux leur a laissé un souvenir inoubliable. D’autres découvertes les attendaient : des plages désertes jonchées

de coquillages sur la côte est ; les canons historiques pointés versla petite île de Mamelles ; sans oublier des plantes rares comme le «bwa sagay» et le «bwa dir ble…»

Après avoir effectué le tour de l’île, les réalisateurs, techniciens et autres professionnels de l’audiovisuel se sont arrêtés à l’hôtel pour admirer les tableaux de l’artiste Amadeus qui y sont exposés, siroter des rafraîchissements et prendre une photo de groupe parmi les cocotiers.

« Nos collègues auront envie de venir eux aussi lorsque nous leur raconterons tout ça et que nous leur montrerons nos photos ! » confiait Harry Dingwall, un technicien de diffusion à la SBC, au moment de prendre le bateau pour rentrer à Mahé.

I l y a quelques semaines, 16 élèves de 5ème et de 4ème de l’Ecole française sont venus découvrir les trésors naturels de Sainte Anne. Philippe Latorre, enseignant de l’établissement scolaire,

a tenu à dire son appréciation après cette visite. « Je voudrais exprimer combien nous avons apprécié le professionnalisme et la gentillesse de toute l’équipe de Sainte Anne Island, la qualité de l’intervention de Gérard Rocamora, sans oublier la collaboration de Norbert Couvreur , le Directeur Général, qui nous a accueillis et restaurés dans son établissement. Nous n’oublierons pas l’attachement de l’hôtel à la préservation de la nature que vous avez su nous transmettre avec autant de passion. »

Quant au directeur de l’école, Philippe David, il a précisé combien il était important pour ses élèves de venir étudier le fonctionnement de l’hôtel et d’apprécier le travail effectué pour préserver son cadre naturel. « L’œuvre d’éducation est une affaire collective, un sport d’équipe en quelque sorte. Il faut un vrai sens de l’initiative, une bonne dose de volonté, une grosse capacité de dialogue, de la générosité et le sens de l’hospitalité pour faire des élèves, les adultes responsables de demain. Je suis très heureux de trouver tous ces ingrédients réunis dans cette nouvelle collaboration entre Saint Anne Island et l’Ecole française des Seychelles et je remercie chaleureusement tous les protagonistes de cette journée. »

Pupils from the Independent School paid a visit to the resort recently to get acquainted with the way a hotel is run. They were guided on the different sites. At the desalination

plant, they were shown how sea water is pumped and distilled into drinking water. Further ahead, they discovered the wastewater treatment plant where all water around the resort is recycled for irrigation. They then had a look at the laundry where tons of linen and clothes are washed and ironed during the week. They also toured the spice and vegetable garden as well as the nursery where endemic plants are nurtured before being planted in the resort’s gardens. Of course, after this tour, our young visitors and their teachers were treated to some snacks and refreshments.

I N S I G H T

Fructueuse visite

On a discovery tour

« Wouah! Que c’est beau! » « Je crois que je pourrais rester ici toute la journée ! » « Il faut que je prenne encore une photo ! »

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NEWS

The resort has adopted a «green cleaning» method in line with its policy to protect its natural environment. This eco-friendly

product is made of natural materials and has been introduced to all team members of various departments.

This move aims at eliminating non-ecological cleaning products all over the resort. The multipurpose product has also an economical advantage as it has replaced the numerous products previously needed for various cleaning tasks.

Furthermore, it saves working time for team members.

Training sessions for team members of the housekeeping, kitchen, food & beverage, maintenance, and stewarding

departments were held and the products tested for proper usage.

«Green Cleaning» is yet another important step to ensure that we preserve our most precious natural treasures.

During the past few weeks, the television entertainment system in the villas has been thoroughly improved. The relay boosters and cables that feed the pictures to the 87 villas have been replaced. This has

considerably upgraded the video and audio quality for our guests. DSTV network as well as Canal + are now available in all villas. The feed to the staff residence on the island has also been upgraded.

Though it is the fastest method for guests to travel to many places, the helicopter service imposes

some tight and indispensable safety measures. Zil Air, which ensures this helicopter service for guests at Sainte Anne Island, is committed to provide a safe and healthy working environment to all its clients. These standards are upheld through regular training sessions for all the resort employees who have a connection with the helicopter service.

Recently, Zil Air offi cials spent time with team members of Front offi ce, Luggage Service and Reception as well as the Guest Relations department to review the safety measures to be observed when guests get on or off the helicopter.

This exercise is performed to eliminate all threats, hazards, errors and incidents which may compromise the safe conduct of our VIP service and to ensure the highest level of safety and reliability.

This rigorous training programme provides the most eff ective advice for best practices. Team members had to master the safety measures when attending a landing or a take-off . Participants received an offi cial certifi cate after the training session testifying their ability to apply the strict safety measures.

L’auteur-compositeur, Mounawar Sawa, a séjourné à l’hôtel lors de sa tournée musicale aux Seychelles en juillet dernier. Il était venu présenter le concert «Les

larmes de l’assassin» au Théâtre National de Mont Fleuri. Sainte Anne Island, qui était un partenaire de cet évènement culturel, avait off ert le séjour à la troupe.

Le Comorien, un phénomène au style unique, a ainsi pu initier le public seychellois au tout nouveau concept de concert live : un concert en «bande dessinée». Sur scène, défi lait en arrière-plan, «Les larmes de l’assassin» une bande dessinée de Thierry Murat, et au premier plan, l’artiste incontestable avec sa musique marquée par le rythme ternaire du M’godoro et des infl uences africaines et orientales.

« Les Larmes de l’assassin », à l’origine, un roman écrit par Anne-Laure Bondoux et mis en bande dessinée par Thierry Murat, a été récompensé au Festival d’Angoulême en 2012. La mise en scène est une projection des planches de la bande dessinée sur écran accompagnée par une musique créée spécialement par Mounawar et jouée en direct.

I N S I G H T

Green cleaning

Mounawar à Sainte Anne Island

Improved entertainment

Safety fi rst

This exercise is performed to

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PEOPLE I N S I G H T

A few years ago when she was still a teenager, Vania Godley was a bit lost in her choice of a career. However, she knew

she was interested in cooking as she always helped her mum in the kitchen. «I have two brothers and when we were still in our childhood, I always liked to cook or help my mother when she was busy preparing our food.»

Vania then discovered the unique opportunity to develop her skills and join a job she would like. «I learnt that the Ministry of Labour and Human Resource Development had a special training program for people like me. Without any hesitation, I joined the Special Skill Development Program. This was a chance I could not miss as it would take me nearer to my goals.»

Some friends told Vania that Sainte Anne Island was the resort where she could get the training and join a working team. In June last year, she made her way to the resort and entered the busy operations. «I was so impressed the first time I came here. I looked around and saw many of my colleagues dressed in their uniforms at the

staff restaurant. This was another world for me and, from that time on, I was sure that it would be a life-changing job.»

After more than one year training on the job, she is now working in the pastry department of the kitchen. Her talents have developed and her dreams are coming true. «I cannot believe that I am now preparing bread, cakes and other desserts! I feel I have learnt a lot since the time I joined the resort. I had no career prospects before coming here. I had to look and care after my baby boy. I did not really know what to do to earn my living. Now, this training and this job are defining a lifetime career…»

Vania is now setting her eyes on the future. She wants to improve her skills and become a full-fledged pastry chef. «I feel more at ease now and I am not as shy as before. I can operate on the buffet. I can chat with our guests. I want to become a very skilful chef. I do not want to disappoint the people who have trusted me here. They believed in me at the start and I must pursue my learning and training to show them that this was trust well banked.» This is a very sweet pledge by Vania!

Six years after joining the resort, Keni Mangroo has made her way up to the job of Assistant Financial Controller, which she says she is

enjoying. She did not look destined to an accounting career when she was younger. «I never liked accounting as I felt that I am more people-oriented. But I finally opted for my present job, which I am enjoying fully.»

Keni joined Sainte Anne Island as Accounts Officer after starting in the auditing field. «At that time, I was doing much field work as an auditor for quite a few companies. I felt I had no good prospects there and decided to join the hospitality industry instead. I had worked in a hotel for five years in the payroll department and, when I was offered the job at Sainte Anne Island, I did not hesitate a second.»

When she arrived at the resort in 2008, Keni discovered a more active job and she was exposed to all the aspects of accounting. She discovered a new world and blended well into it. «It pays to have

good relations with colleagues. It always solves difficult problems and avoids conflict. It is more enriching here as we work with different nationalities.»

Since she is the deputy of the financial controller, Keni has added responsibilities in the resort’s general financial management. «I work closely with the Head Office for reconciliation of accounts and I oversee the whole accounting part of our operations under the guidance of the financial controller. I must make sure that all the control systems function well and that accounting norms are respected. Then, when the Financial Controller is on leave or on mission, I must replace him to the best of my abilities. I enjoy the Heads of Departments’ meetings as I get along very well with everybody.»

Now that she has reached this position in her career, Keni looks forward to climb even higher but without neglecting her private life. «I like to relax on a lazy day! I like to do some travelling and enjoy my cooking.»

Christian Rath could not have wished for a better career opportunity in his life. He has had a passion for everything related to the digital world since his childhood.

«My hobby is now my job! I can’t believe that I have had my dream come true.»

He has recently been appointed ICT Support Officer at the resort and he is relishing these moments by discovering all the facets of his work. «Since August, I have been working closely with the ICT Manager Kishan who helps me a lot to understand the software systems. It is a big change from my former job as Senior Head Storekeeper.»

Christian has always wanted to be involved in the hotel’s ICT operations. He had been trained in this field before joining Sainte Anne Island seven years ago. «Now I can put all my training into practice. I learn new things every day and it is thrilling to be in this position.»

He shares his happiness with his family at Anse Boileau and enjoys playing with his four-year old son. «I know that soon I will have to initiate him to the digital world! After many happy moments at work, I like to come home and blend into this family atmosphere. I have been blessed up to now. The resort has the right policy to empower local competence. We are given the opportunities to progress in our careers. But, at the end of the day, we have to make the efforts and prove ourselves. Nothing is free and we must have the right attitude at work. I am happy and I only want to say "thank you" to all those who have made this happen.»

Christian is now well on track to succeed. The shy but efficient young man has the desire to make it happen.

Representatives of the Chinese students presently on placement at Sainte Anne Island recently attended a lunch at the Seychelles

Tourism Authority (STA). Ethan, the country group leader for the students, and Paul participated in this event. They were accompanied by Bernadette Stravens, the training manager of Sainte Anne Island. All the students from Hubei Hotel School were invited to a Chinese lunch, which they helped to prepare. The students are in Seychelles following an agreement signed last year between the STA and Hubei Hotel School in China concerning the placement of hospitality management students.

«My work is my hobby!»

«It pays to have good working relations»

Chinese get-together

«A life-changing job»

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PEOPLE

Racontez-nous comment vous avez fait partie de ce premier groupe de stagiaires.

J’ai fait mes études au Lycée hôtelier de La Renaissance à la Réunion. Après une formation de trois ans, j’ai obtenu mon baccalauréat professionnel en boulangerie-pâtisserie. Quand j’ai appris la possibilité de faire ce stage, j’ai postulé et heureuse coïncidence : le jour des résultats des examens, j’ai reçu un coup de fil pour m’informer que j’étais choisie pour venir à Sainte Anne Island. Que du bonheur !

Depuis que vous êtes ici, que faites-vous précisément ?

Je suis affectée au service pâtisserie dans la cuisine. Je participe pleinement à la préparation des desserts. Ici la présentation est plus soignée ; je dois faire attention car c’est la première fois que je travaille dans un hôtel de luxe.

Vous aviez déjà une expérience du métier ?

Oui, durant mes stages à la Réunion, j’ai travaillé dans la pâtisserie artisanale et industrielle. J’ai fait un stage à la Boulangerie du Centre à Saint-Denis, à la pâtisserie La Parisienne, à la Boulangerie Saint Alexandre et enfin j’ai travaillé au supermarché Jumbo à Sainte-Marie. Mais, à Sainte Anne Island, on entre dans une toute autre division !

Comment se passe votre adaptation à votre nouvelle vie aux Seychelles ?

Je dois dire d’emblée que nous avons été bien accueillis. On s’entraide beaucoup entre les différentes nationalités. C’est fabuleux de côtoyer des collègues qui viennent de plusieurs pays et cela me permet d’améliorer mon anglais. Durant mon temps libre, je communique avec mes parents et mon copain à la Réunion. Je leur raconte ma journée et je leur décris la beauté de mon île. C’est vrai qu’ici on mène une vie différente de celle de la Réunion mais je sens que je vais sortir grandie de cette expérience.

The resort’s Head Storekeeper and Purchasing Officer is a young dynamic young man who has seized all the opportunities that he has been offered.

Darren Barbé is convinced that he has made the right decision in joining Sainte Anne Island. «Since I arrived at the resort in 2009, I have always been urged by management to believe in myself and to give my best at work. My work is all important for me. I value it very much as it allows me to feed my family.»

Since he has been promoted to his new post, Darren has learnt new stock management systems. He feels that his on-the-job training has helped him a lot. « have received the support of my superiors at all times. I have also followed a training course at the then Seychelles Institute of Management (SIM) in Inventory & Stores Management.»

Darren is the fourth of a modest family living in Mont Buxton and he now has two children. «I remember quite well when I joined Sainte Anne Island in December 2009. My cousin who was working in the Food & Beverage Department informed me about some vacancies here. I applied and got the job as Store Clerk. At that time, I was jobless and sometimes I was just earning some money by helping in a shop.»

Now he reflects on the road he has travelled since this first day. He reckons that the five years he has spent have not been useless. «I was promoted to Storekeeper after ten months only. Then another promotion came when I became Internal Controller and now I manage the store. I place orders for all purchasing requests

that I receive from all departments. I issue the invoices for payment and I must supervise three colleagues.»

Darren now looks forward to consolidate his position and tries to get some training from his immediate superior to improve his purchasing techniques.

I N S I G H T

Emeline Payet : «J’ai été très bien accueillie ici»

OCTOBERDAY NAME DIVISION

2 JULES MARIE F&B SERVICE

2 HEMANT KUMAR DURBARRY F&B SERVICE

2 ANGELIC MADELEINE SPA

3 VICTOR SAVY KITCHEN

3 MEDLINE FABIENNE MALBROOK ROOMS

4 FRANKY EMILIEN AGLAE MAINTENANCE

5 WIRAT JUNPRATUS KITCHEN

6 SAMUEL BASTIENNE MAINTENANCE

8 LOUIS MICHAEL ECUMOIRE KITCHEN

10 DANIELLA NOURRICE ROOMS

11 GOVINDEN ANASAMY ROOMS

11 BREHMA CORALIE ROOMS

16 SAMEERA CHAMARA WIJESINGHE ROOMS

16 AMANDA ROSALIE ROOMS

16 JUZI MOUSMIE F&B SERVICE

16 JANICK SAMIA GABRIEL F&B SERVICE

17 MICHAEL MOREL MAINTENANCE

17 NIRAJAN GHALE KITCHEN

19 NATHANIEL ESPANOLA COLLINS KITCHEN

20 RAMJEET RAMSAHAH KITCHEN

22 NIGEL PILATE MAINTENANCE

22 DINESHKUMAR JAYARAMAN F&B SERVICE

23 TELMA RATH F&B SERVICE

28 JOSIANNE EULENTIN H/RES

31 MARIE CHRISTINA GONTHIER F&B SERVICE

NOVEMBERDAY NAME DIVISION

6 RAOUL RENE PAYET MAINTENANCE

8 CLENCY TRAVIS LEON STORE

9 EROL ALLY SPORTS

11 FAUGIA AGATHE ATALA HOUSEKEEPING

13 GERINA MAY PAYET ADMINISTRATION

15 WILNA MARIE ANTOINETTE SOPHIE PERSONNEL

20 CLAUDELLE LINDY MARIE BOUTIQUE

24 GUESU MARIA HOUSEKEEPING

25 SHAFIUL ALAM HOUSEKEEPING

25 TEENASHSINGH CEERAZ MONT FLEURI

30 TANIA BUISSON L'ABONDANCE

DECEMBERDAY NAME DIVISION

1 REMMY JAFFA ANACOURA MAINTENANCE

5 MAXWELL GEORGE DUBEL ROOM SERVICE

5 SHAMIRAH ANACOURA MAIN RESTAURANT

7 ROUSSEL GEORGES ADAM MAINTENANCE

7 YVONNE OGADA FRONT OFFICE

7 IAN VOLCY ADMINISTRATION

10 SHARIF BUIYAN HOUSEKEEPING

11 ROBIN JUNES DUBEL SAINTE ANNE RESIDENCE

11 COLLIN JEAN-PIERRE POUPONNEAU FRONT OFFICE

11 MADELEINE MICHEL ROOM SERVICE

15 VILORSEN VENKATESU MAINTENANCE

15 RAM PARSAD JAISWAR HOUSEKEEPING

15 NOELINE LEON CANTEEN

20 SHIRYN VICTOR MAIN RESTAURANT

23 AHMED GAETAN CUPIDON MAINTENANCE

24 JUDLEY PAUL LABROSSE LABONDANCE

25 GELAGE NOELDAR HOAREAU ADMINISTRATION

29 NICHOLAS THOMAS ASBA LABONDANCE

29 DAVID GAPPY MAINTENANCE

30 LUCY CONFIANCE FRONT OFFICE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO OUR TEAM MEMBERS

Le premier groupe de stagiaires de l’île de la Réunion est arrivé au mois d’août. Cela fait suite à l’accord signé avec les autorités réunionnaises pour des échanges dans la formation. Nous avons rencontré Emeline qui travaille à la pâtisserie.

«I made the right decision in joining the resort»

Here is a young man who looks so happy with his eyes dazzling with joy. He is everywhere in L’Abondance restaurant at each meal. Roman Brasse, who

comes from Quatre-Bornes in Mauritius, now feels part of his newly adopted country. «I met a Seychellois girl here and we got married in 2010. This is our destiny as we were both born on the same day with three hours difference only. I had to come and meet her here, isn’t it? I have found love and I am happy in my job.»

Roman, who is now 35, started his career in the hospitality industry twelve years ago at the famous Royal Palm in Mauritius. «I was a waiter there and I learnt a lot in this prestigious Beachcomber resort. Then, in 2006, I joined Sainte Anne Island as waiter. At first, my parents were quite worried about me going to work abroad. But since they visited me, they are now convinced that I’ve made the right decision. I knew I was making a big change in my life when I left Mauritius.»

He feels that he has since then developed his skills in managing the restaurant. Now he is the Assistant Manager of L’Abondance restaurant. «I’ve been given all freedom to express myself in my work. I’ve received encouragement to improve and go further in my career. I must say that by nature I am very easy-going. I get along well with all my colleagues.»

Roman sees his job as an important element in the overall service that the resort offers. «The guests value the welcome each time they arrive in the restaurant. We have to be always well-groomed and smiling. We also make it a must to go beyond guests’ requests as we try to anticipate their wishes. This is a big part of our job. We always say that a happy guest at the restaurant will forget about any problem during his stay. Then we always keep them happy!»

«I found happiness here»

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GUESTS I N S I G H T

La marche pour aller à la découverte de l’île est une des activités de plus en plus populaires à l’hôtel. Plusieurs clients venant

de diff érents pays se sont ainsi retrouvés pour une randonnée à travers montagnes, vallées et plages. Cette marche les a conduits vers Anse Manon et les reliques de la riche histoire de Sainte Anne. Ils ont ainsi admiré les arbres majestueux comme le grand banyan ou encore découvert les ruines des camps de l’ancien National Youth Service. Nos invités sont toujours surpris par ces sites fascinants et sont unanimes à reconnaitre que l’île a beaucoup à off rir aux visiteurs.

Découvertes

fascinants et sont unanimes à reconnaitre que l’île a beaucoup à off rir aux visiteurs.

Service rapproché

Du Paradis à Sainte Anne

Ils avaient promis de revenir…

Quand les membres de la famille Stuhler sont entrés dans la villa royale pour leur récent séjour, ils ont été immédiatement conquis par la disponibilité de Sameera, leur ‘butler’ personnel. Comme pour tous les résidents de la villa royale, Sameera met les petits

plats dans les grands et organise tout le séjour comme une partition de musique. Il est aux petits soins et prépare leurs journées à l’hôtel comme à la ville. Pour la famille Stuhler, il avait surtout voulu mettre en valeur les actions que l’hôtel entreprend pour la préservation du patrimoine naturel. Des visites à la pépinière de plantes endémiques et une balade dans le jardin d’épices ont particulièrement fait plaisir à nos invités.

Lors de nos premières éditions d’INSIGHT, nous avons souvent entendu nos visiteurs nous dire : «On promet de revenir à Sainte Anne

Island !» Beaucoup ont tenu parole et les voilà revenus sur les lieux… du bonheur. Nous avons rencontré trois de ces familles qui n’ont pas résisté à la tentation de revenir goûter aux plaisirs de leur hôtel préféré après quelques mois seulement. Pour eux, c’est comme retrouver la famille après une longue absence. Ils ont repris les mêmes habitudes de leurs séjours précédents, se sont mis à la même table pour les repas, ont choisi les mêmes coins sur les plages.

Jean-Marie et Agnès Hell avaient fait un vœu en juin dernier quand ils avaient répondu aux questions d’INSIGHT : « Nous allons revenir pour célébrer nos 50 ans de mariage à Sainte Anne Island. » Ils y étaient comme prévu en août dernier toujours très amoureux comme aux premiers jours de leur mariage. « On ne voulait pas rater cette occasion unique dans notre vie de couple. Etre dans les lieux enchanteurs de Sainte Anne Island est un vrai cadeau pour notre anniversaire de mariage. Nous ne pouvions espérer mieux pour marquer la 50e année de notre union, » confi e Jean-Marie.

Ancien technicien des Laboratoires Sandoz et originaire du village d’Aspach en France, Jean-Marie est un vrai amoureux des Seychelles et, avec son épouse Agnès, il aime profi ter de la vie confortable à Sainte Anne Island. Ils ne nous ont pas encore dit s’ils viendront pour leur prochain anniversaire de mariage. On ne serait pas surpris de les revoir bientôt.

Les Bischoff ont également une belle histoire d’amour avec Sainte Anne Island. Friedrich, Monika et Marie ont toujours rêvé de l’hôtel durant tous ces mois après leur dernier voyage en juin 2013. Ils y sont retournés en août dernier. Friedrich pensait déjà à ce nouveau voyage depuis des mois : « Nous pensons très souvent à cet hôtel quand nous sommes à la maison en Allemagne. Déjà, nous avions réservé nos billets d’avion et nos chambres à l’hôtel depuis septembre dernier pour être certains d’être là. Nous sommes partis aux Maldives pour les fêtes de Pâques mais nous souhaitions tellement venir aux Seychelles en ce mois d’août. Nous savourons le climat ici, nous sommes heureux de retrouver les employés de l’hôtel que nous connaissons bien maintenant. »

Durant leur séjour de deux semaines, les Bischoff ont fait le plein de soleil, de poisson frais, de baignades dans le lagon et de marches à travers l’île.

Pour la famille Ouareth, venir à Sainte Anne Island, c’est comme rendre visite à des proches. Quand INSIGHT les avait rencontrés en septembre 2013, Fawzi et Rachida avaient évoqué les anecdotes qui les lient tellement à cet hôtel. Ils viennent pour décompresser après des mois de dur labeur au sein de leur société de conseil et d’expertise en technologies de l’information. «On est si heureux de se retrouver ici après presqu’un an. Nous attendions tellement ces semaines de vacances pour nous éloigner de la vie très speed de Paris. Ici, on vient faire notre provision de bien-être! C’est une vraie cassure pour nous et nous en avons tellement besoin, » avoue Fawzi.

Fawzi, Rachida, le jeune Adam et le petit Naël aiment se détendre au bord de la

piscine. Bien installés dans leur Club Car, ils retrouvent les coins qu’ils préfèrent, font un petit brin de causette avec quelques employés. Certains jours, ils prennent la navette pour Mahé où ils vont visiter les lieux qui leur rappellent des souvenirs. Apres dix années de visites dans le pays, ils sont maintenant bien informés sur les sites à redécouvrir.

piscine. Bien installés dans leur Club Car,

GUESTS SAINTE ANNE INSIGHT6

A RED DEVIL AT SAINTE ANNE RESORTFormer Manchester United star Dwight Yorke, who is also the ambassador for the world-renowned club, spent some days at Sainte Anne Resort this month. He was on a promotional tour in Seychelles to encourage our young footballers. 'It is the discipline that I've developed throughout the years that have led to my success and I hope that I can pass on that message to the kids.' York told Insight. The Trinidad and Tobago player led a series of soccer clinics for young Seychellois players aged 15 to 17. He also visited the vocational training centre for the disabled at North East Point, have a series of talks with youths, and met the local media.

Now that he is a young retired red devil, Dwight has mixed feelings about his future: football or golf? 'I'm nearly completing my A license and I will do my Pro license. Eventually, one day I want to be a football manager. Golf - I have always been a passionate of golf but now it becomes more obvious since I stopped playing football. I just like the individualist side about golf and my objective is to play at a very high level one day.'

The Old Trafford legend was quite happy about his memorable visit to Seychelles and to Sainte Anne Resort. 'I would do anything to come back. I think this has been a great experience, one of the finest countries I have ever been. I have been blessed in my life to travel a lot around the world but I now have to say that it has to be something very special to top this country over. Food at Sainte Anne Resort has been exceptional, service and people have also been very impressive. You just have a beautiful product. You know for people who have heard about Seychelles but who haven't been able to come here, it's one of those countries which must be on their bucket list. You must come here before you die! I'm glad that I had this opportunity to do that.’

Mr Yorke, Govind has already booked your room, the General Manager is ready for a golf round with you, the Chef has some few new menus for tasting and…some Liverpool fans are waiting to tease you too. You come whenever you wish. We can guarantee you a premiership atmosphere!

Enjoying a peaceful evening near the pool

Meeting with Prseident James Michel

7 ÉVASION TOTALE AUX SEYCHELLES

Quand il est arrivé pour la première fois en 2002, cet informaticien, directeur d'une société spécialisée dans le conseil et l'expertise en technologies de l'information en France, ne savait pas qu'il allait signer un long bail avec les Seychelles pour ses vacances! Depuis plus d'une décennie, Fawzi Ouareth prend donc ses vacances sur les plages de l'Océan Indien aux pays des cocos de mer. Entretemps il a fondé une famille et a entrainé celle-ci vers ces horizons lointains pour venir gouter aux plaisirs exotiques.

'J'avais toujours envie de découvrir les Seychelles, cet archipel mythique avec ses plages magnifiques et son peuple si accueillant. Je me rappelle encore de ce premier voyage en 2002 organisé par Beachcomber Tours à Paris. Et quand on vient une première fois, on y retourne très souvent. La preuve : c'est la 7ème fois que je viens chercher le bonheur des vacances paisibles et ensoleillées ici !' nous dit Fawzi avec son fils Adam sur les genoux.

Sa compagne Rachida, qui s'occupe du bébé Nael au bord de la piscine abonde dans le même sens pour dire tout le bien que ces vacances loin des terres parisiennes procurent à sa famille : 'C'est une évasion totale dans un décor si naturel, avec des crabes sur les plages, proche mais en même temps si loin de la civilisation, le tout avec un confort et des commodités cinq étoiles. ’

A Paris quand ils sont plongés dans leurs activités professionnelles, Fawzi et Rachida trouvent rarement le temps nécessaire pour être vraiment ensembles avec les enfants. Les vacances leur procurent l'occasion de se rattraper. ‘C'est très difficile de se réunir tous ensembles très souvent de par nos activités professionnelles. Alors quand on vient en vacances ici à Sainte Anne Resort, on savoure vraiment la vie de f a m i l l e . O n p r o f i t e d e c e c a d r e extraordinaire de l'hôtel avec la mer calme sur les plages magnifiques et on se régale des plats succulents avec la touche d'un service impeccable. On a la Méditerranée et la Côte d'Azur en France, mais ce n'est pas la même chose…' nous dira Fawzi.

Pour la famille c'est la deuxième visite à Sainte Anne Resort. La première était plutôt particulière car c'est à la suite d'une maladie du petit Adam en 2010 qu'ils ont découvert l'hôtel. Adam étant souffrant et admis à l'hôpital de Mahé, la famille avait dû chercher un lieu assez proche et confortable pour se loger. Et c'est de cette façon que Fawzi et Rachida ont adopté l'hôtel en se promettant de revenir une prochaine fois.

'On avait apprécié le cadre et c'était l'idée qu'on se faisait d'une île ile paradisiaque : une belle piscine, un paysage idéal, des vacances paisibles avec de très belles prestations, une bonne gastronomie et une sécurité parfaite. Surtout que les enfants profitent beaucoup des activités aquatiques et des promenades en bateau de fond de verre. On ne peut pas demander mieux.'

Pour ce couple venu de Paris pour rechercher le dépaysement, la mission est accomplie. Ils sont maintenant rentrés pour reprendre le travail en attendant de préparer les prochaines vacances et comme le dit si bien Fawzi : 'On est conquis par les Seychelles et par Sainte Anne Resort'

UN REPOS BIEN MERITÉ

Dominique François le Directeur des ressources humaines à l'hôtel Dinarobin à Maurice était en vacances à Sainte Anne Resort le mois dernier. Il était venu se reposer avant de prendre de nouvelles responsabilités comme responsables des ressources humaines à l'hôtel Le Paradis. Dominique était accompagné de son épouse Jane qui est la responsable de réservations au Dinarobin et de leurs deux charmantes filles Ophélie et Gwendoline. Ils ont su profiter pleinement de leur séjour. Le menu était parfait pour ces vacances : randonnées, visite à Mahé, farniente à la plage et repos bien mérité dans la villa. Une façon aussi de recharger les batteries et de se doter de merveilleux souvenirs pour affronter une nouvelle saison.

Somduth Takoor a séjourné à Sainte Anne Resort durant le mois de juillet profitant de cette escapade pour s'inspirer des Seychelles. Somduth qui est le chef de la restauration au prestigieux Royal Palm à Maurice, a ainsi profité de ses vacances à Sainte Anne Resort pour rencontrer quelques amis et apprécier les différentes cuisines que l'hôtel propose. Il a partagé ses impressions avec les responsables de l'hôtel sur les nouvelles cartes de menus. Son avis est toujours très pointu et professionnel. Somduth est reparti vers Grand Baie avec une foule d'images des Seychelles et de Sainte Anne. Vivement la prochaine visite !

SOMDUTH TAKOOR

TRAVEL INDUSTRY REVIEW SOUTHERN AFRICA VISITS SAINTE ANNE

Newly married, Sarah Cornwell, Managing Editor of South African travel industry news magazine TIR visited Sainte Anne Resort on honeymoon, enjoying a seven-night stay on the island in September with husband Marc. TIR is one of the most respected travel trade news sources in the region and the publication serves the entire travel industry, particularly the travel agent community. Sarah gracefully agreed to answer to some questions from Insight.

How will you rate the selling points of Sainte Anne Resort?

Our visit to Sainte Anne Resort provided an excellent opportunity to experience the island’s spectacular scenery and unique selling features first hand and all of which will be shared with our readers back home - many of whom have yet to visit the destination. Snorkelling, kayaking, hiking, cycling, trail running and swimming headline the hotel's activities programme with day trips to neighbouring islands easily arranged and well-priced. Having also enjoyed the serene Spa by Clarins and unforgettable meals each day at four of the resort's five five-star restaurants open for service, Sainte Anne Resort's beautiful, spacious pool villa accommodation will come highly recommended for couples as well as families visiting the island. Although Mauritius still attracts the lion's share of business from South Africa, Sainte Anne is an ideal alternative for travellers familiar with Beachcomber's five-star services and facilities but looking to explore more of

the region. The resort's all-inclusive package option has also proven to be one of its most attractive selling points.

And the guest experience?

While the resort and its surroundings are astoundingly beautiful and well maintained, perhaps most impressive was the hospitality and superb professionalism of the management and staff on the hotel. Cost-conscious South Africans will also benefit immensely from the all-inclusive option unique to Sainte Anne while the affordability of other tourism product - including on nearby Mahé - is sure to encourage repeat bookings. Bookings to Sainte Anne from the market - especially for large groups - are on the rise through Beachcomber Tours in South Africa. We will cherish this incredibly special experience and, with so much on offer and still to explore, we look forward to returning to Sainte Anne very soon!

How is Seychelles performing on the South African market?

The Seychelles Tourism Board and local tourism partners have been hard at work to raise the destination's profile and to grow the number of bookings with, for the first time this year, two, multi-city travel agent product road shows being held. Air Seychelles has also added a third weekly direct flight between Johannesburg and Mahé, operated by its new Airbus 330-200 aircraft, which entered service earlier this year.

Sainte Anne Resort hosted the Multichoice Annual Incentives Trip in August with forty eight adults and 25 children. This is the first time this important company is organising its annual event in Seychelles after having done so in Mauritius, Dubai and Tanzania. The group members were overwhelmed by the top quality welcome and service during their stay that the Sainte Anne Resort offered to them. A special

WELCOMING MULTICHOICEparty was organized at Le Robinson restaurant during which they enjoyed a lavish dinner and has a go at the local dance.

MultiChoice has become one of the most prominent companies in Africa. It owns exciting brands, some of which are well known in Seychelles: DStv, M-Net, SuperSport.

Somduth with Resident Manager Kervyn Rayeroux

Multichoice CEO and colleagues enjoying a local dance The Sainte Anne Resort experience

ÈME

2013. Ils y sont retournés en août dernier. Friedrich pensait déjà à ce nouveau voyage depuis des mois : « Nous

la maison en Allemagne. Déjà, nous avions réservé nos billets d’avion et

l’hôtel depuis septembre

certains là. Nous sommes

partis aux Maldives pour les fêtes de Pâques mais nous souhaitions tellement venir aux Seychelles en ce

t. Nous savourons le climat ici, nous sommes heureux de retrouver les employés de l’hôtel que nous connaissons bien maintenant. »

beverage outlets of the three hotels that constitute

the hotel complex.

'It is a very large operation and with my 199 staff

members, we cater for the family, business and

exclusive resort hotels. We live a unique food

experience by offering cuisines from all continents

and serving very favoured sea food products. But I

must say that at Sainte Anne Resort, the fish here is a

blessing! You have them so fresh and of such high

quality and I like the exotic Seychellois favours very

much. I have made it a point to enjoy all varieties of

fresh fish the hotel serves in its many restaurants.’

At 47 years, Executive Chef Marc Cibrowius already

has a long career behind him. He is a graduate from

the well-known Koblenz Hotel School in Germany,

has worked at the world-renowned German

Traube-Tonbach Hotel.

'I have grown up in the exclusive atmosphere of the

Meridien hotels in Germany and later went

international. I participated in the opening

operations of the Grosvenor Hotel in Dubai where I

worked for two years and also worked in China for

four years.'

Chef Marc and wife Naychi now look forward to

come back next year to celebrate their first

anniversary as the Sainte Anne Resort Staff keeps

the champagne always chilled for them

GUESTS

SAINTE ANNE INSIGHT

7

EXQUISITE WEDDING FOR AN

INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE CHEF

He comes from Germany, she is from Myanmar and

they got married in Seychelles at Sainte Anne Resort.

This is the fascinating story of Marc and Naychi

Cibrowius who both work at the Shangri-La's Barr Al

Jissah Resort and Spa in the Sultanate of Oman. They

wanted to celebrate their wedding in the exclusive

atmosphere of Seychelles and have long desired to

tie the knot here.

'We have always wanted to come to Seychelles as it is

a very unique holiday destination. We have seen so

many adverts of the country and we have been

impressed by the magnificent flora and fauna of the

archipelago' Marc says. 'This prompted us to come

and get married here at Sainte Anne Resort. I must say

that the hotel staff and management did a great job to

organize our wedding. It was simply sensational and

flawless in its planning and execution.’

Marc is a celebrity Executive Chef who has immense

international experience from many continents. He

is presently the Head of all the culinary operations at

the famous Shangri-La's Barr Al Jissah Resort in

Oman and is responsible for feeding the 23 food and

Chef Cibrowius with Sanjesh,

Executive Sous Chef of Sainte Anne Resort

THE BISCHOFF FAMILY:

'Sainte Anne Resort is our home'

'We are living our dream each time we set foot on

the island. It's a dream that is going on for years

now. We cannot complain isn't!'

Friedrich Bischoff is so thrilled when he is on

holidays at Sainte Anne Resort that he admits it

is a honeymoon on each occasion. His dream

was always to visit Seychelles even before he

married his wife Monika.

'In 2000, we wanted so much to come to

Seychelles for our honeymoon, but then plans

changed and we stayed in a German castle with

all our friends and our parents.'

Friedrich and Monika had discovered Seychelles

through documentaries on television and their

love of nature made their desire to visit the

archipelago even greater knowing that the

country is so protective of its natural treasures.

'In 2008, we finally decided to come and enjoy

this unique place. We discov ered the

Beachcomber hotels through a Tour Operator

and we were never disappointed since he

proposed Sainte Anne Resort to us.' Monika

says. 'This was exactly the kind of peaceful and

friendly retreat we were dreaming of! Nature at

its best, care and smile from the staff members,

gorgeous beaches and fantastic food… what can

you ask more!'

The Bischoff family is on its fifth stay at Sainte

Anne Resorts, coming back every year to pursue its

dream. Meantime, baby Marie has grown up with

souvenirs of the hotel and now at eleven, she feels

at home here when she sets foot at the arrival jetty

every year.

‘I feel like meeting my family members here' Marie

says. 'I know the Kid's Club quite well, I feel so

secure and free to roam around the island as I always

meet familiar faces around any corner.’

Friedrich, himself a travel professional, is already

contemplating plans for his holidays next year:

‘The whole family feels very free and happy here. We

enjoy every minute of our stay, then why not come

back! We want to continue to taste the marvellous

lobster menu at Le Robinson Restaurant. I find this

concept of the classy beach restaurant a very bright

idea. After all, Seychelles is what nature offers

best…'

The Bischoff Family & Princilla

‘NOUS REVIENDRONS POUR FÊTER

NOTRE 50 ANNIVERSAIRE DE MARIAGE'

Ils ont quitté leur petit village d'Aspach dans le

haut Rhin en France en ce mois de Juin laissant

derrière eux la neige et le froid pour enfin venir

aux Seychelles, une destination qu'ils

voulaient tellement découvrir. Jean-Marie (77

ans) et Agnès Hell (67ans) ont finalement

réussi à effectuer ce voyage.

'Les Seychelles c'était un rêve qu'on ne pouvait

se payer car c'était une destination trop chère

pour nous. Entretemps nous sommes partis à la

République Dominicaine, à l'île Maurice au

Club Med et l'année dernière au Beachcomber

Shandrani, et à chaque fois en condition de All

Inclusive. Puis en début d'année en feuilletant

un numéro du Figaro Magazine on découvre un

article sur Sainte Anne Resort et on réalise que

les prix étaient enfin abordables. ’

Jean-Marie Hell est chimiste retraité depuis 17

ans et il a travaillé comme technicien de

laboratoire Sandoz (section chimique) devenu

depuis Siba et Novatis.

‘Quand nous avons décidé de venir à Sainte Anne

Resort, l'agence de voyage de notre petit village a

du se renseigner pour réserver l'hôtel sur notre

insistance car nous voulions absolument venir ici.

Nous avons été surtout et avant tout attirés par la

formule All Inclusive. Sans cette formule nous

n'aurions jamais pu nous payer ces vacances de

rêve. On a réservé au mois d'avril pour juin et on a

pris un vol de Francfort car c'était en direct et à 350

kms de chez nous avec un transfert de notre

résidence à l'aller comme au retour, formule

intéressante pour les personnes de notre âge.

Loger au Sainte Anne Resort durant 14 jours, ça

correspond à ce que nous avions toujours rêvé.’

'On dit toujours ça, mais il faut le répéter : le

personnel à Sainte Anne Resort est tout

simplement fantastique et très attentionné. Les

Seychelles, c'est un cadre idyllique avec un climat

merveilleux pendant cette saison, pas trop humide

et du beau temps. On a été sur Praslin, La Digue et

Mahé mais on va devoir revenir car il y a encore

beaucoup à découvrir aux Seychelles. ’

Pour Jean-Marie et Agnès Hell la prochaine

destination de leurs vacances sera définitivement

les Seychelles car ils réalisent qu'une fois qu'on y a

gouté on y prend goût !

'Ce fut superbe, une merveilleuse aventure et nous

pensons revenir l'année prochaine, toujours à

Sainte Anne Resort pour fêter notre 50ème

anniversaire de mariage aux Seychelles. ’

Monsieur et Madame Hell, les portes de l'hôtel

vous sont grandes ouvertes. A bientôt !

ème

SERVICE WITH A SMILE:

THE WINNING FORMULA

A smile is an expression of welcome.

A sincere and voluntary smile doesn't cost

anything to deliver but it can be a hotel's most

valuable asset in creating a first impression. A

hotel can have all the ingredients for success —

a great location, venues, recreation and quality

facilities — but if there is a lack of joy and

excitement, the guest will not feel welcomed.

Here are the basic components of service

with a smile:

VALUE: Guests experience value when they

feel they have received a fair return on their

investment. Guests expect the experience we

have promised them, from before the time

they step foot in the lobby. Guests value their

with kindness, warmth and genuine friendliness.

What better way to show this than with a smile?

FACE: Your face is your most important tool —

don't ever forget it! Your face allows you to offer a

certain level of grace and respect in all

transaction —personal and professional. Any

exchange, the give and take of energy and

resources, establishes some result. A smile makes

a transaction much more memorable.

ENHANCEMENT: Like it or not, we all

communicate through body language. We send

messages through our mannerisms, posture,

attention and movement. Body language

demonstrates attitude. Guests base their

impressions on our attitude. Serving guests

without making eye contact, with hands in

pockets, a hung head send out a very strong

message: Don't bother me; you are not important;

I don't care. This attitude sends out the signals

that a guests' business is not valued and that they

are not respected. Enhancement involves

attention to behaviour and attitude. A smile

elevates the level of service and sets the tone for

the experience the guest seeks.

THE SMILE: The smile is a simple muscle

contraction, brought about by joy, pleasure, relief,

confidence, and a commitment to service. A smile

communicates accessibility and a feeling of

welcome and care. Plus, a smile is contagious. If

you smile, guests will too!

Graceful smile from Audrey

of L'Abondance Restaurant

Yvonne (far right) grooming two trainees

to serve with a smile

Le couple Rosset est un des clients réguliers du Paradis Hotel & Golf Club

car il a toujours apprécié l’atmosphère et le service de cet établissement réputé du sud-ouest de l’île Maurice. Récemment, les Rosset ont voulu découvrir un autre hôtel du groupe Beachcomber et ils ont choisi Sainte Anne Island. Ils ont surtout apprécié les plages et les randonnées à travers l’île. Pour le service, ils ont retrouvé le même niveau qui fait la réputation des hôtels du groupe Beachcomber !

Qu’est-ce qui vous attire tant dans cet établissement ?

Pour mon épouse et notre fi ls Mathys qui a 10 ans, c’est tout d’abord la beauté des lieux et surtout l’esprit sauvage et naturel qui a été préservé aussi bien sur la plage que dans les jardins ou le reste de l'île. Vous êtes dans un 5-étoiles mais vous êtes décontracté et à l’aise. Toute l'équipe, du Directeur Général au plus petit employé, fait tout pour que votre séjour soit agréable. Ils viennent régulièrement s’enquérir que tout se passe bien (de nos jours, c'est très rare puisqu’il y très peu d'hôtels à taille humaine – moins de 100 chambres. Le Chef aussi est toujours présent dans les restaurants ; le Robinson est exceptionnel. C’est un lieu magique. La possibilité de louer un club car pour se déplacer est géniale quand vous avez des diffi cultés physiques à faire du vélo. Je pourrais écrire 10 pages sur l’hôtel !

Comment avez-vous découvert l’hôtel et comment avez-vous pris la décision d’y venir pour la première fois ?

J’ai découvert le Saint Anne Island après avoir séjourné dans un très bon hôtel à Mahé mais qui ressemble à une grosse machine touristique avec du monde bruyant, un service impersonnel. C’était comme une usine à touristes ! Alors, en

visitant Mahé, j'ai aperçu l'île Saint Anne et je me suis renseigné. C’est comme cela que j'ai réservé mon premier séjour en février 2013. En général, quand je décide de partir en voyage, je propose à mon épouse et à mon fi ls plusieurs destinations. Mais depuis février 2013, j’ai à chaque fois la même réponse : « Si tu veux bien, ce serait bien le Saint Anne Island ! » Entre-temps, nous sommes allés dans plusieurs autres pays mais nous avons été déçus par rapport à notre hôtel préféré. La sensation d’être sur une petite île est tellement agréable et reposante que je crois bien que nous n’en avons pas fi ni avec Saint Anne Island…

Vous parliez du service personnalisé à Sainte Anne Island?

Je trouve le service exceptionnel car il est à la carte. La gentillesse doit être primordiale dans un hôtel et, à Saint Anne Island, que ce soit le jardinier qui nettoie la plage tous les matins, le personnel de chambre toujours disponible, les serveuses et serveurs dans tous les restaurants, au bar, à la réception, tout le monde s’occupe de vous avec un large sourire. Franchement, après cinq séjours, je n’ai rien à dire de négatif.

On parle souvent de destination de rêve dans les brochures. Les Seychelles en fait partie et pourquoi ?

Ce pays est vraiment une destination de rêve. Tout d'abord par le climat qui est très agréable en toutes saisons. Ensuite le paysage est resté naturel ou on n’a pas trop bétonné. Mais encore il faut faire attention pour empêcher que des constructions gigantesques viennent gâcher le panorama. Enfi n et surtout, il y a la gentillesse des Seychellois et des Mauriciens qui travaillent aux Seychelles.

Vos activités préférées quand vous êtes à l’hôtel et aux Seychelles ?

D’abord, ma femme et moi, on aime se faire bronzer sur la plage de l'hôtel et se rafraîchir dans l’eau de la mer. Avec mon fi ls, on pratique les sports nautiques, la plongée avec palme et tuba et on aime se promener sur l'île pour découvrir des endroits nouveaux à chaque séjour, faire de la peinture, de la sculpture, etc.

Vous évoquez vos séjours avec vos amis en France?

Bien sûr que je parle du Saint Anne Island à mon entourage et que je leur donne envie de venir ici. Ce n’est pas diffi cile d’en parler après tout car il y a tellement à raconter de merveilleux.

Christophe Declercq : «Un service à visage humain»Ce sera bientôt la cinquième visite de la famille Declercq en deux ans. Ils aiment surtout le côté humain de l’accueil et du séjour à Sainte Anne Island. INSIGHT a rencontré Christophe Declercq pour comprendre les raisons de ces évasions si fréquentes sur notre île.

Sainte Anne Island is a popular holiday destination for our colleagues throughout the world. They are always

happy to come and enjoy the remote luxury resort with their family and friends. Recently, colleagues from Germany and France came to have a taste of what they usually sell to their customers.

Carmen Marozzi, from the Sales Department of the Beachcomber offi ce in Germany was overwhelmed by her stay with her friend. She enjoyed the perfect mid-year climate, the island’s wonderful natural settings and some snorkelling. «I like the private atmosphere of the villas and the very good cuisine. Our stay was amazing and we enjoyed every moment very much. We feel at home here and we were welcomed so gracefully. I must commend the good service from all your team members.»

Veronique Ibrard usually accompanies groups from France for visits to Sainte Anne Island. But

this time, she decided to forget about work and come to enjoy the facilities with her friend Pierre. She made the right choice! «I love the relaxing atmosphere here. Nature is at its best and stress is far away without polluting noises,» Veronique told INSIGHT. «This is a resort with multiple assets. It is close to Mahé by boat; it is situated in a beautiful marine park. I must say that the team members here made it a gorgeous holiday for me.»

Christian Ast has been organizing the trips of so many incentive groups to Sainte Anne Island from his offi ce in Germany. This time, he decided to enjoy a holiday with his family. «It´s a lovely destination, perfect for relaxing with a lot of sports and it has a romantic atmosphere. We enjoy swimming, snorkelling and diving. The trekking tours and wellness treatments are perfect.»

Franchement, après cinq séjours, je n’ai rien à dire Franchement, après cinq séjours, je n’ai rien à dire Ce n’est pas diffi cile d’en parler après tout car il y a Ce n’est pas diffi cile d’en parler après tout car il y a tellement à raconter de merveilleux.tellement à raconter de merveilleux.

and come to enjoy the facilities with her friend Pierre. She made the right

«I love the relaxing atmosphere here. Nature is at its best and stress is far away without polluting noises,»

INSIGHT. «This is a resort with multiple

by boat; it is situated in a beautiful marine park. I must say that the team members here made it a

Christian Ast has been organizing the trips of so many incentive groups to Sainte Anne Island from his offi ce in Germany. This time, he decided to enjoy a holiday

«It´s a lovely destination, perfect for relaxing with a lot of sports and it has a romantic atmosphere. We enjoy swimming, snorkelling and

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GUESTSI N S I G H T

StorTech, a leading provider of innovative ICT solutions and services in South Africa, treated its staff members to a holiday at Sainte Anne Island in August. These guests,

who are usually so busy during their working hours, were given a fi ve-day stay that they will remember for a long time. The CEO, Steven Hayward, who was part of the group, expressed his appreciation for the care and service at the resort. «The trip was an absolute success!!! The quality of service, accommodation and meals were fabulous. Transfers were prompt and comfortable and the entire Sainte Anne Island’s team was exceptional. We can certainly recommend them as a destination for future bookings for other groups.» No comments!

Greeting StorTech group

Popular destination

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I N S I G H T

Repérages

Opération séduction Les meilleurs vendeurs français de l’hôtel

jusqu’au 14 décembre prochain seront invités à participer à une aventure inédite avec Denis Brogniart, le

célèbre animateur de l’émission Koh Lanta. Cette opération de charme est menée par Beachcomber Hotels en partenariat avec l’Offi ce du Tourisme des Seychelles (STB), Air Seychelles et la société PromoAGV.

Le groupe de vendeurs viendra à Sainte Anne Island au premier trimestre 2015 en compagnie de Denis Brogniart pour un séjour de 4 nuits. Ils participeront ainsi à un voyage où l’aventure rimera avec l’art de vivre. Il les fera découvrir toutes les riches facettes de l’île Sainte Anne à travers des épreuves conviviales et sportives.

Les agents de voyages qui vont s’inscrire à ce Challenge de ventes pourront enregistrer un maximum de dossiers sur Sainte Anne Island avant mi-décembre 2014.

Cette opération sera aussi importante pour la destination Seychelles dans la mesure où les retombées médiatiques seront nombreuses.

Denis Brogniart a séjourné à Sainte Anne Island récemment pour bien préparer cet évènement qui se tiendra

en 2015. Il a fait le déplacement en compagnie d’un photographe/caméraman et ils ont sillonné l’ile durant plusieurs jours. «Denis a eff ectué un repérage minutieux quand il était ici. En vrai professionnel, il a pris des notes, identifi é des sites, refait des parcours. Le travail de préparation était comme celui eff ectué pour une émission de télévision,» raconte le Directeur Général de l’hôtel, Norbert Couvreur, qui a accompagné Denis dans toutes les randonnées sur l’île.

L’animateur de télévision a profité pour prendre des photos des sites et

a enregistré son message vidéo pour l’invitation à cette Beachcomber Aventure sur une des plages de Sainte Anne Island. Les réunions de travail se sont ensuite enchaînées pour mettre en place une organisation sans faille.

Denis a profité de son séjour aux Seychelles pour rencontrer Alain St Ange, le Ministre du Tourisme et de la Culture. Ce dernier a montré un vif intérêt pour cet évènement et a souligné que le Seychelles Tourism Board ainsi qu’Air Seychelles en sont des partenaires enthousiastes.

Maintenant que les repérages sont faits, Denis est rentré en France pour fi naliser son programme d’épreuves et lancer l’invitation aux agents de voyage.

Parcours Denis Brogniart est surtout connu pour son émission Koh Lanta qui est toujours un énorme succès sur la chaîne française TF1. Mais il est avant tout un amoureux des sports et c’est d’ailleurs comme journaliste sportif qu’il a fait carrière.Il a été chroniqueur sportif sur Europe 1, puis sur Eurosport avant de passer au service des sports de TF1. En 2002, Denis Brogniart devient l’animateur de Koh-Lanta sur TF1. Arbitre de ce jeu de télé-réalité, Denis Brogniart a veillé au respect de l'esprit sportif. Il a également présenté le jeu Fear Factor, toujours sur la chaîne TF1. Il a animé plusieurs émissions sur le football, l’athlétisme et la Formule 1, entre autres.

EVENT

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EXPOSUREI N S I G H T

A smooth arrival and departure at Yu Lounge

GROUP NEWS

Beachcomber Hotels has recently partnered with Yu Lounge, an exclusive VIP lounge located within the terminal of the General Aviation Mauritius next to the international airport.

Beachcomber now gives its guests the possibility to book a Yu Lounge package on their arrival or departure via its website www.beachcomber-hotels.com.Thanks to this exclusive optional service, your holidays start from the moment you step out of the plane!

www.sa inteanne- island .com

WEEK-END DISCOVERY FOR SEYCHELLES RESIDENTSSCR 10,000 per couple for 2 nights including Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

T H I S O F F E R I S S U B J E C T T O A VA I L A B I L I T YFor reservation and further details please e-mail us on sainteanne@bchot.com

INCLUDED IN YOUR PACKAGE- Delicious buffet at the main restaurant (A la Carte menu available in all restaurants with a supplement)

- Water and land activities including nature treks to explore the island- Access to all the facilities of the kid’s club for children- Free boat shuttle service

N.B. CheCk-in Time AT 2 p.m. & CheCk-ouT Time AT noonChildren sharing parents room (maximum of 2) from 5 to 17 years old: SCR 2,500 per child for the 2 daysChildren under 5 years old stay for freeThe price includes tax

This package

is also available

 for 

2 consecutive d

ays

during the week

Showcasing Seychelles in South AfricaSainte Anne Island participated in a

workshop organized by the Seychelles Tourism Board in South Africa in August. Koogen Vythelingum, the

resorts’ commercial executive made the trip to Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town together with participants from diff erent corners of the Seychelles hospitality industry. In each city, presentations were made to South African travel professionals. The fi rst workshop was held at Sandton Hilton Hotel in Johannesburg where 90 travel specialists attended. At the second event at Coastland Hotel in Durban, Sainte Anne Island off ered a complimentary 3-night stay at the resort for the raffl es organized during the session. This South Africa roadshow ended at Royal Yacht Club in Cape Town.

Showcasing Seychelles in South AfricaShowcasing Seychelles in South AfricaShowcasing Seychelles in South Africa

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I N S I G H T

Some pebbles combined with the desire to embellish have changed the look of a corner near the bar.EYESORE | NICESORE

Little is known of the insects of Sainte Anne and, more generally speaking, on the insect fauna of Seychelles,

which comprises several thousands of species, many of which are endemic, that is, they only exist in Seychelles. The ecological habits of many species – their habitat or feeding process – are barely known. Some rare species have not been observed for decades and some have probably not been discovered yet.

This is precisely what Lucy Neumann and Dominik Schwab, two German students from the University of Trier, are doing in Seychelles. This two-month internship with the Island Conservation Society have brought them to Saint Anne Island where the study of insects is most interesting.

This study is also part of a research project that aims at studying the Orthoptera (crickets and grasshoppers) of Seychelles, under the supervision of Professor Axel Hochkirch, entomologist Pat Matyot, and conservation biologist and Sainte Anne environmental advisor, Dr Gérard Rocamora.

Areas of high interest for biodiversity of Sainte Anne Island, particularly for native plants, are being surveyed by the two students and the remarkable species of insects that they find are being noted. Specimens are photographed and data collected on

their habitat and the type of plants where they are found.

Dominik and Lucy have already found several interesting insect species on Sainte Anne Island since they started their study. These include a series of crickets that chirp beautifully by day or by night. Some of these animals live under the leaves of native palms, which the resort’s nursery is propagating. Illustrations and songs from some of these species are available in the boxed set of two CDs and booklets «Fauna and natural atmospheres of the granitic islands» of Seychelles, produced by Dr Rocamora and re-edited in 2012 with the support of Sainte Anne Island.

But some of these animals are tiny, not more than 1 cm long! Actually they are more easily heard than seen! In order

to determine the song these small species of cricket produce, they have to be captured and kept in captivity until their songs can be identifi ed and recorded. Some crickets produce sounds that cannot be heard by the human ear. A ‘bat detector’ used to transform  the sounds produced at night by bats into audible calls, can then be used to make these cricket chirpings audible. Some of them have already been recorded on the island.

This research will provide Sainte Anne Island’s nature guides with interesting information when they accompany the guests on island discovery trips. It will also help to enhance the value of the biological heritage of Sainte Anne Island.

We look forward to learning about the fi ndings of Lucy and Dominik!

Health tips

Tame tension headaches by rubbing peppermint oil, Tiger Balm, or white fl ower oil into your temples. All three remedies contain menthol, which has analgesic properties.

The volatile oils in ginger have long made it a useful herbal remedy for nasal and chest congestion. Pour 2 cups of boiling water over a 1-inch piece of peeled, grated ginger; steep for 10 minutes; and strain. Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper to the water and drink as needed.

According to some research, catching a whiff of this aromatic herb may increase alertness and improve memory. To stay sharp, try smelling fresh rosemary or inhaling the scent of rosemary essential oil before a test or meeting.

Combat a yen for sugar by following a Chinese medicine approach: Eat foods such as endive, radicchio, cooked greens, and olives.

People whose diets are rich in potassium may be less prone to high blood pressure. Besides reducing sodium and taking other heart-healthy steps, eat potassium-packed picks such as bananas, cantaloupe, and oranges.

Rub your temples

Enjoy ginger

Snif f rosemary

Embrace bitters

Eat bananas

Research on insects launched on Sainte Anne

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I N S I G H T

Histoire de Sainte Anne

1992Les ruines des deux villages, Ste Anne I et II, peuvent encore être aperçues sur les différents sentiers de randonnées se trouvant sur l’île.

Air Seychelles adds Airbus A320 to its fl eet

Dubai unveils $32bn plan for aviation mega-hub in desert

Fermeture des villages Sainte Anne N.Y.S.

Air Seychelles partners with Alitalia

Air Seychelles will take delivery of its fi rst Airbus A320 aircraft in December 2014 to enhance its international fl ight schedule. The changes, eff ective as

from 1st December, include increased weekly frequencies between Seychelles and Abu Dhabi, more capacity on fl ights to Mauritius and revised schedules for routes to and from Johannesburg, Mauritius and Paris. The Airbus A320 will be confi gured with 16 seats in Business Class and 120 in Economy Class. The aircraft, a wet lease from partner Etihad Airways, will allow Air Seychelles to increase its regional presence.

In December, Mauritius services will move to a morning departure from Seychelles, operating on Monday, Friday and Saturday, with the Saturday service fl own by Airbus A330-200 aircraft, providing 29 per cent more seat capacity. Johannesburg’s three weekly wide-body services will operate on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, off ering a new weekend option for passengers.

Air Seychelles’ services between Abu Dhabi and Seychelles will increase from 14 to 18 fl ights per week, while partner Etihad Airways will continue to operate three return services per week on the same route, off ering customers a choice of 24 weekly fl ights between Seychelles and Abu Dhabi.

Air Seychelles is also looking forward to increasing connectivity to key markets for Seychelles tourism – in Asia such as Beijing, Chennai, Delhi, Riyadh and Tokyo, as well as in traditional and emerging European markets including Rome, Moscow and Paris.

Dubai recently unveiled plans to invest $32bn in a desert project to create what should be one of the world’s largest aviation mega-hubs, and the home

of Emirates Airline, the fast-growing Gulf carrier. Dubai’s ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum approved the project to expand the city state’s second airport, allowing Emirates Airline to move to the facility by the mid-2020s.

It highlights how Gulf States have over the past 30 years founded airlines and built aviation hubs that are putting pressure on longer-established western carriers and airports. Emirates already has the world’s biggest fl eet of long-range passenger jets, and Dubai International,

currently Dubai’s main hub, is poised to overtake London’s Heathrow airport as the largest by number of international passengers.

The facility should become the biggest hub in the world and will dramatically expand the area known as Dubai World Central (DWC) – so it can deal with up to 200 million passengers each year.

Paul Griffi ths, chief executive of Dubai Airports, said Dubai was considering various fi nancing options for the $32bn project at Al Maktoum International, adding that the central importance of aviation to the city state – accounting for 28 per of gross domestic product – made it an appealing prospect for fi nanciers.

Air Seychelles has signed a codeshare agreement with Alitalia, Italy’s leading airline. The new deal will allow customers from both airlines to fl y

between Rome, Milan and Venice to Seychelles via Abu Dhabi, with just one ticket for their entire journey. Air Seychelles’ HM fl ight code will be placed on Alitalia’s fi ve weekly return non-stop fl ights between Rome and Abu Dhabi, on ten connecting fl ights to Milan via Rome and twelve connecting fl ights to Venice via Rome.

Alitalia in turn will place its AZ code on seven of Air Seychelles’ return fl ights between Abu Dhabi and Seychelles and on 47 weekly fl ights to and from Seychelles’ second largest island, Praslin, allowing stopovers on the main island of Mahé. Italy is Seychelles’ third largest European market after Germany and France and this agreement will strengthen business and leisure travel connections between the two countries.

I N S I G H T

SEYCHELLES TIDES - OCTOBER 2014

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

HOSPITAL

248-4388000

POLICE

248-4288000

RISK & DISASTER

4324646

FIRE BRIGADE /

POLICE

999

AMBULANCE

151

Sudoku

La grille est composée de neuf colonnes et de neuf lignes. Elle est aussi divisée en groupes de neuf boîtes, résultant en un total de neuf blocs. Chacun de ces neuf blocs doit contenir les chiff res de 1 à 9. C’est là le problème : aucune ligne ni aucune colonne ne peut avoir le même chiff re. Ainsi, le but du jeu est de placer les chiff res dans les boîtes, sans qu’ils soient répétés ni dans les lignes ni dans les colonnes.

5 3 76 1 9 5

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6 2 84 1 9 5

8 7 9

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