ABSTRACT
The development of tourism into a major industry for the Seychelles resulted from a conscious decision taken in the light of the need to diversify the economy from its near complete dependence on agriculture and fisheries. In March 1995 air links between South Africa and the Seychelles improved with a new weekly service, provided by a subsidiary of the South African, Inter Air. The Seychelles is fortunate in not having marked seasonal variations in tourist arrivals, which partly reflects the islands' favourable year round climate — a major attraction to winter-bound Europeans. In order to make the Seychelles a centre for international conferences and conventions — combining professional advancement with some leisure and relaxation, the government initiated the construction of an international conference hall adjoining the Maison Du Peuple at the centre of Victoria. In addition to the direct employment generated in the industry, tourism expenditure creates and maintains additional employment through the flow of tourist spending through the economy.
