Newsletter June 2023

Dear Partners and valued readers,

Warm greetings! As we bid farewell to the vibrant month of June, I am delighted to present another captivating edition of our My Holidays’ newsletter.

This particular edition holds a special place within our company as we shine a spotlight on the remarkable lives of our loyal and dedicated hotel representatives. Since the inception of our company, they have been an invaluable part of our team, and I am immensely grateful to have them by our side.

I cordially invite you to join us on a journey of discovery, as we delve into the fascinating lives of our hotel representatives. Through engaging anecdotes, personal experiences, and heartfelt stories, we provide you with a glimpse into the daily endeavors that makes them an integral part of your holiday experience. Their unwavering commitment to ensuring your stay is memorable, comfortable, and tailored to your needs is a testament to their dedication.

Happy reading!

Josian Deelawon

What's happening in Mauritius?

Annual Budget

Amidst the challenging landscape of what the COVID-19 pandemic left and various global headwinds, including geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and inflationary pressures, the Mauritian economy has displayed remarkable resilience and achieved a stronger-than-expected recovery in 2022. Restoring the economic fundamentals to pre-COVID levels, we proudly witnessed an impressive growth rate of 8.7%.

Looking ahead, the tourism sector is poised for an encouraging rebound. By June 2023, Mauritius anticipate welcoming approximately 2 million tourists, with a further 1.4 million expected in the year ending 30 June 2024. To complement this growth, the focused is on developing medical tourism through the implementation of premium visa and medical insurance programs.

Recognizing the urgency to enhance sustainability, Mauritius has implemented several measures and incentives to minimize environmental impact. Notably, the promotion of PET bottle recycling and the incentivization of sustainable practices align with global tourism trends and position Mauritius as an eco-friendly, long-haul destination. With a clear objective of becoming a Green-Certified Destination by 2030, we are committed to reducing carbon emissions and preserving our natural resources.

The government’s dedication to promoting Mauritius as a premier tourism destination is exemplified by its substantial budget allocation of Rs500 million for the Marketing and Promotion activities. This investment will enable Mauritius to showcase the unique experiences and attractions.

Lastly, in an effort to uplift the well-being of the workforce, the minimum wage has been increased to Rs15,000, ensuring fair remuneration and supporting a more equitable society.

As Mauritius embark on this journey of sustainable tourism and reducing carbon emissions, we remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a greener future for Mauritius. With these strategic measures, we aim to strengthen our position as a leading destination while preserving our pristine environment for generations to come.

On the 2nd of June, 2023, the Tourism Authority of Mauritius proudly announced the winner of the Sustainable Tourism Award, recognizing exceptional efforts in promoting sustainable practices. The Sustainability Excellence Award 2023 was awarded to Rogers Hospitality who, showcased innovative initiatives and a commitment to environmental stewardship.

My Holidays has actively engaged in sustainable development goals through its participation in Sustainable Island Mauritius (SIM), a project funded by the European Union under the SWITCH Africa Green programme. SIM aims to promote sustainable tourism in Mauritius by implementing self-sustaining mechanisms and enhancing awareness of sustainable tourism products.

In line with these initiatives, My Holidays eagerly anticipates sharing its forthcoming activities towards achieving a better tourism industry and a more sustainable future.

Click here to read the official Press Release and browse through the award ceremony pictures.

The World!

World Environment Day

In commemoration of World Environment Day (WED) 2023, the Ministry of Environment, Solid Waste Management, and Climate Change organized the Environmental Awards 2023 on Tuesday, 06th of June 2023. The event took place at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port-Louis, Mauritius.

World Environment Day, observed annually on 5th June, focuses on various environmental issues, and this year, the theme “Solutions to Plastic Pollution” was selected. The campaign for WED 2023 aims to raise awareness and combat plastic pollution under the hashtag and slogan #BeatPlasticPollution.

The Environmental Awards recognized achievements in eleven thematic sectors, including textile manufacturing, food manufacturing, supermarkets/hypermarkets, media, NGOs, waste and resource management, finance, tourism, local authorities, the public sector, and educational institutions. Each sector’s efforts in reducing plastic usage contribute significantly to the overall goal for Mauritius and the world.

By fostering collaboration and highlighting innovative solutions, these awards encourage stakeholders from various sectors to play their part in mitigating plastic pollution. Together, we can make a significant impact on protecting the environment and building a sustainable future for Mauritius and the entire planet.

World Oceans Day

Coral reefs in Mauritius are crucial for the island’s socio-economic development. They provide coastal protection, support fisheries and tourism, and preserve biodiversity. However, like reefs worldwide, Mauritius’ reefs are facing threats from climate change and other human and natural disturbances. To study coral species’ response to these stressors, the MOI launched an ecological monitoring program in 2010. Permanent stations have been established in different nearshore and offshore locations around the island, where regular data collection on biological and chemical parameters takes place. The long-term data gathered through this initiative aims to (i) uncover ecological processes underlying reef resilience, (ii) assess human impacts on coral reef ecosystems, (iii) contribute to multidisciplinary coastal studies, (iv) enhance understanding of short-term and long-term climate change effects on coral reefs, and (vi) support informed decision-making to reverse reef degradation trends.

Music Day

To commemorate this special day, a range of events were arranged across the island.

Artists filled the streets and corners of Port-Louis with their performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The Police Marching Band also entertained the public with their captivating performance.

Activities on the agenda comprise as well Chinese music – flute, violin and percussion; popular tunes on bagpipes; Hindustani and Western music; Sufi music and Ghazals; Sega Tipik and modern music; Carnatic music and Marathi folk music.

In the spirit of festivities, the My Holidays team organized a lively karaoke competition, brimming with enjoyment and positive energy, held at their premises.

Our Hotel Representatives

Dedicatedly guest oriented, connected and being the center point in the organization, our hotel representatives play a vital role in realizing our guests dream into reality. Ambassadors of the true Mauritian hospitality, they are not only the face of the company but the representative of the island, Mauritius. Patriots at heart, they share all their knowledge about the history, culture, local food, and places of tourist interest ensuring each visitor is aware of the destination in the right way before they depart.

Their office is in the nature, surrounded by turquoise ocean and white sandy beaches. Customer oriented, they adapt their approach towards different kind of travellers in different categories of hotels from honeymooners, families to adventure seekers passing by green tourism.

Crystel

Since joining My Holidays in 2006, Crystel has been responsible for attending to our guests staying in the North. She finds great joy in meeting new people every day, creating a unique experience for each individual. With previous experience living and working in Germany, she effortlessly puts travelers at ease in this tropical setting by conversing in their native language.

“As my personal guests, I prioritize their well-being throughout their stay, making sure to check in with them at least three times to address any concerns and ensure they have a wonderful time,”

In the event of any dissatisfaction, she maintains open communication with the hotel’s front office and management to swiftly find solutions, ensuring a hassle-free holiday for all.

Reshma

Reshma, who covers the North East and East coast of the island, sees every information session with a new guest from various parts of the world as a captivating journey and an adventure in itself. She considers it a great privilege that guests take the time out of their precious holidays to meet her. With a background as a former guide, Reshma feels privileged to describe the remarkable places our esteemed guests can explore. She believes it is a means to exchange knowledge about each other’s countries in a unique and enriching manner.

With a smile, she explains, “Being able to share this experience is truly special to me, as I have personally been in their shoes. It’s a wonderful way to foster a deeper connection.”

Reshma has been a part of our team since 2006.

Vima

Vima, who caters to our guests in the South West coast, finds her motivation in waking up each morning, knowing she will be traveling along picturesque roads and working in a holiday environment. Bringing a smile to the faces of every holidaymaker who has chosen My Holidays as their destination management company (DMC) is a source of immense pleasure for her. Vima prides herself on maintaining excellent coordination with the hotel staff, allowing for seamless communication and the ability to find solutions to any minor discrepancies in order to meet our guests’ expectations.

Vima expresses that, “the most gratifying aspect of her job is witnessing every traveler arrive and depart with a smile.”

Her extensive experience in the hospitality industry prior to joining us in 2010 has undoubtedly contributed to her exceptional skills and passion for creating memorable experiences for our guests.

Arvind

While traveling is undoubtedly exciting, adjusting to a new destination, environment, and unfamiliar faces can pose challenges during the initial days. As hotel representatives, we play a crucial role in ensuring our guests feel comfortable enough to share even the smallest concerns and requests they may have. Arvin, for instance, shares amusing experiences with guests who may be hesitant to express their fears of ants, flying insects, or even “mini crocodiles” in their rooms. With a good-natured laugh, he clarifies that these harmless creatures are actually geckos that are occasionally drawn to the rooms by insects attracted to the lights (nature’s food chain).

“Family is priceless, and the moments spent together are precious. When it comes to holidays, every aspect is carefully considered to guarantee an unforgettable experience with My Holidays,” Arvin emphasizes.

He has been a part of our company since 2008, starting as an airport representative before transitioning to his current role as a hotel representative.

Christelle

Christelle embarked on her journey with My Holidays in 2006, initially serving as a hotel representative for various markets. Over the years, she has taken on different roles and responsibilities, progressing from a hotel representative to working in the planning department and eventually overseeing a club within a specific hotel. Managing a club has proven to be another remarkable experience for Christelle, as it involves being present with her guests at the hotel and accompanying them throughout their local adventures, from their arrival until their departure.

These experiences have not only allowed her to grow professionally but have also exposed her to new challenges, provided opportunities to create exceptional guest experiences, establish valuable connections, and forge lasting friendships.

Christelle strongly emphasizes the sense of unity that comes from working as a team, likening it to a close-knit family.

Her journey within My Holidays has been a testament to her continuous growth, adaptability, and dedication to delivering exceptional service to guests, making her a valuable asset to the company.

Hotel representatives are our frontline soldiers. They not only handle and provide guests with positive experiences but, they also handle flight delays, natural calamities such as cyclones and not to mention that when the pandemic of Covid-19 was declared, with their support, coordination and reassurance, more than 2000 inhouse passengers were able to reach their respective countries safely.

Our Airport Team

Our dedicated airport team shares a similar passion and commitment to our hotel representatives. They take immense joy in warmly welcoming each guest upon their arrival, providing a sense of home after a tiring flight. Their welcoming demeanor represents the values and reputation of our international partners.

Beyond the arrival experience, the airport team continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring a seamless and hassle-free departure process. They diligently assist guests with their check-in procedures, ensuring a smooth and efficient departure from the destination.

The airport team’s dedication and attentiveness contribute to the overall satisfaction of our guests, leaving a lasting impression from the moment they arrive until the time of their departure. Their efforts are instrumental in upholding the reputation of our company and our commitment to exceptional service.

Highlight

The Tea Route

Wild South

Immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of nature as you embark on a journey along the enchanting “tea route.” Begin with a visit to the colonial house of “Les Aubineaux,” where you can explore its rich history. Continue your adventure with a fascinating tour of the renowned tea factory, “Bois Cheri.” Delve deeper into the captivating South as you indulge in a rum tasting experience and explore the vibrant anthurium and vanilla plantation at “Saint Aubin.”

Prepare to be amazed by the stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife at the remarkable “La Vanille Crocodile Park” and its captivating insectarium.

Relish a delectable lunch at Saint Aubin, savoring the flavors of the region. This emblematic trip will take you on a captivating exploration of the untamed side of Mauritius, where you’ll discover the art of Mauritian tea production, the history of sugar cane plantations, indulge in a rum tasting, and marvel at colonial houses and breathtaking viewpoints like Gris Gris.

This adventure through the Wild South is an ideal experience for families, immersing you in the wonders of nature and providing a delightful blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes that will leave you with lasting memories.

As we wrap up this edition, we extend our warmest wishes to you for a joyous month of July 2023. May this month be filled with happiness, memorable moments, and exciting adventures. Thank you for your continued support, and we’ll see you soon!