The tourism industry is a major contributor to the economic development of islands. This trend does not seem to be slowing down. Tourism is a major industry on islands, providing business opportunities as well as contributing to the economic development.
The research has shown that tourists in the 21st Century are more demanding, and they have a different set of needs. The tourists are always looking for unique opportunities.
Mauritius has responded to the more sophisticated needs of tourists by diversifying their offerings. Mauritius has created a range of entertainment options that go beyond the traditional beach tourism. This has led to a rise in tourist numbers compared with the previous year. Statistics Mauritius, for example, shows that in 2015, more than 1 million tourists visited Mauritius compared to 934,827 visitors in 2010.
The rise in tourism is not solely due to entertainment. From 2005 to 2010, tourism increased from 761,000. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including technological advancements, government support, tourism-friendly policies, and the opening of airspace to other airlines.
According to our study, the most important factor in attracting tourists over the past five years was entertainment. Tourism destinations and businesses need to be better informed so they can capitalize on this new type of diversified tourism.
Tourism and entertainment
Mauritius, for instance, has begun to offer scuba diving and other activities such as parasailing, catamaran sailing, deep-sea fishing, and water-skiing.
It has been proven that these activities attract more visitors and keep them longer .
Integrating entertainment into the preservation of natural and cultural resources is also beneficial.
Tourism and entertainment are interdependent. Tourism is all about enjoyment, relaxation and escapism. All these things are important for entertainment. The traditional sega dancing on a catamaran in Mauritius, for example, combines the two.
Tourist entertainment in Mauritius
In a study that I conducted with my colleague, we set out to determine the relationship between Mauritius and tourism.
Since 1968, Mauritius has experienced five phases of tourism entertainment. The five stages are introduction, development, commercialisation, consolidation, and revamping.
Mauritius is a popular destination for sun, sand and sea. Shutterstock
The island has marketed its product by leveraging its sun, sea and sand. A study revealed that almost 90% of tourists are attracted to the island by its water and beach activities. Mauritius, however, has developed over the years a variety of attractions. These include:
Due to these activities, tourists are now arriving from more destinations, including Russia, China and Scandinavia. Before, the majority of tourists to the island were from Europe and India.
Mauritius: Lessons to be Learned
Mauritius and other African islands share similar resources, challenges and problems.
For them to succeed, they need to adapt their tastes and needs. To succeed, they must adapt to changing tastes and needs.
The islands need to explore the entertainment potential and how it could be integrated with existing tourism activities. This must be done with caution to avoid damaging and commercializing natural and cultural resources. Tourists always want to experience authenticity.
African island destinations can diversify their tourism with entertainment options that are tailored to modern tourists. The key is to plan and adopt a sustainable strategy for their natural and cultural assets. Let’s also not forget about the aspirations and interests of local communities.
Mauritius does this exceptionally well. Hotels in Mauritius, for example, offer local artists the chance to perform traditional performances, such as sega dancing. The island supports community-based tourist activities, where tourists can visit local communities to sample local food and drink.