CaranaBeach, a new 40-chalet tourism establishment in north Mahe and built on the site of the former Carana Beach Chalets, was officially opened yesterday afternoon.

Tourism and Culture Minister Alain St Ange unveiled the plaque and cut the ribbon in the company of Mr and Mrs Mason and their son Alan of the Mason’s Group – the owner of CaranaBeach.

Present to witness the memorable event were family members, friends, representative of the tourism industry as well as members of international delegations and press who are in the country for the sixth Carnaval international de Victoria. South African Tourism Minister Derek Hanekom was also present.

CaranaBeach, which has taken two years to build, is an investment of between 12 and 15 million US dollars. It is spread over an area of 28,000 square metres.

Alan Mason, the director of the establishment, said it has been designed in such a way as to preserve the “unprocessed character of Seychelles as a destination”, with Creole style architecture and touches of modernity.

“We have done our best to retain those same qualities in every facet of CaranaBeach – be it in the architecture, the service style, or the cuisine. We’ve done so in the hope that our guests will enjoy a much more rewarding holiday, and depart with a greater understanding of what makes our country so unique, instead of just sunburn and a souvenir,”  Mr Mason pointed out.

He noted that in many ways, that is the hallmark of each of the Mason’s Group hotels.

“Regardless of star ratings, whether you’re here, or on Denis, or at Indian Ocean Lodge, we strive to give our guests a sense of place that’s authentic to our islands. A truly Seychellois experience, envisioned by Seychellois,” he added.

Mr Mason said he is honoured and grateful for the opportunity to coincide the official opening of the hotel with the launch of the sixthCarnival International de Victoria.

“The carnival brings together cultures from all over the world to share and celebrate our similarities as well as our differences, for a greater understanding of each other and what makes us unique. Ultimately, that’s what tourism, in its purest form, is all about,’ he concluded.

CaranaBeach also welcomed its firs guests yesterday and Mr Mason noted that the hotel will be filled in gradually and full house is expected by June.

The hotel rate ranges from 300 to 600 euros depending on the season and it has a workforce of 90 employees with the majority of them being Seychellois to ensure the uniqueness and real Seychellois warmth.

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