On top of the Indian Ocean…

Admit it, when you think about the Indian Ocean, what comes to your mind first and foremost, are the beautiful beaches, the sun loungers in the shade of coconut trees, turquoise lagoons and exotic fruits. But the Indian Ocean islands can not be reduced to this... Whether you are a deckchair specialist or a thrill seeker, whatever your lifestyle, whatever you want to discover, one sure thing is that you will find in the Indian Ocean what you are looking for. You may never have thought of it but bear in mind that the Indian Ocean mountains - which are amongst the most beautiful in the world - are at your fingertips…

Reunion Island is probably the destination that has the Indian Ocean’s, and maybe even the world’s, best rock climbing spots. Home to an active volcano, Reunion island has a multitude of mountains where climbing routes have been marked. Routes from Level 3 (low) to Level 8 (very difficult) were marked mainly in the north and west of the island. The Gaillards Cliffs in Saint Paul, in the West of the island, have a bit more than 45 routes that are not very high and accessible to all levels. They are thus ideal for beginners who want to discover this sport. Ouaki Zamal Cliffs in the southwest enjoy long and pretty high routes of medium to high level. This spot is recommended for climbers who already have some experience. The Piton du Sucre in Cilaos, located in the center of the island, offers a totally different rock as the place was a magma chamber 3,000 years ago. Calcification led to a great site that should only be considered by experienced climbers. As long as you are accompanied and well equipped, whatever your climbing level, you will find happiness in Reunion Island.

There are also several spots where it is possible to practice rock climbing in Mauritius. Most of them are located in the west of the island. The main site is known as the Belle Vue Cliffs. There, you can climb La Pointe aux Caves cliff, where you can observe the Albion lighthouse. Supervised by professionals who will introduce you to the basic techniques of rock climbing and provide you with all the necessary equipment, you can try five routes of different levels. If you want to get higher up, go for the mountains of Pieter Both or Corps de Garde, which peak at 720 and 820 meters above sea level. These two spots are particularly known for their spectacular views of the West Coast. We advise you to climb (very) early in the morning to watch a spectacular sunrise.

Seychelles is not necessarily the destination of choice for rock climbing, but you will find some interesting spots including the site of Anse Source d'Argent on the island of La Digue. There, you will not be climbing marked routes but blocks of granite, up to 15m high. You will find interesting paths level 6 and 7. On the island of Praslin, paths of 150 to 250 meters long have been developed so that rock climbing addicts can climb the beautiful black Seychelles granite.

As for Madagascar, it has beautiful mountains to climb like Montagne des Français in Antisiranana, located north of the country. There are also 180 tracks of all levels and styles that await you: rock walls, plunging slopes and gigantic stalactites. Note that on the islands of Nosy Anjombavola and Nosy Andatsara, there are 80 tracks where it is forbidden to climb alone because the sites are protected. But excursions are organized daily to see these spectacular natural rock walls carved by time. So, what are you waiting for ? Come climb to the top of the Indian Ocean...

Le Zilwa or Mauritian Attitude

You are currently planning your holidays in Mauritius and you want a 100% Mauritian hotel? During your stay under the Mauritian sun, you would like to adopt the Mauritian attitude? Then, you must make sure to book a room at Zilwa Attitude. This extraordinary resort, located in the north, is unique on the island. What’s more Mauritian than Zilwa Attitude? Even the name is totally Mauritian as Zilwa means islander in Creole! With this four star hotel the Attitude group wanted to satisfy their clients by bringing to them the culture and richness of Mauritius in a world of simplicity and tranquility.

Le Zilwa offers three categories of rooms, all designed in a traditional architecture suggesting seaside bungalows; unplastered walls, lots of wood and even coconut fiber mats. Located in small bungalows aligned with one or two floors, the rooms have all the necessary commodities to satisfy you: telephone with international access, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, minibar, 220 volt power outlet, fan and essential air conditioning.

The hotel has 95 superior rooms of 35m² including 68 with sea view. Suitable for up to three people, they open onto a balcony or a terrace ideal to watch the sunset. The atmosphere of merriment that prevails is accented by yellow tints used in the decoration. A reminder of the Mauritian sun and sunlight… The 51 Couple rooms are spread in three classes: deluxe rooms of 40m², junior suites of 50m² and 40m² Privilege suites. The latter is equipped with a Jacuzzi on the terrace offering a magnificent view of the northern islands. These Couple rooms are ideal for a dream honeymoon. The 48 family rooms are spacious. Up to 80m², they can accommodate up to five people.

Painted on the walls, you will find “sirandanes” (Creole riddles). The warm colors used; yellow, red or orange are very vivid and trendy. Paintings inspired by the famous Mauritian painter Malcolm de Chazal fuel this typical Mauritian decoration.

At Zilwa, you will not get bored! A whole range of activities is proposed to keep you busy in a fun way during your stay. Guests can enjoy four pools on the property as well as water sports such as kayaking, windsurfing, scuba diving, paddle, water polo and aerobics. On request, kitesurfing lessons and catamaran or big game fishing trips are also possible. On land, you can play beach volleyball, tennis, pétanque (a form of lawn bowling) or mini football. The hosts will also discover typical Mauritian games. Outdoor film screenings and Sega dance animations on the beach will keep your evenings bustling. For the parents to enjoy their holidays, the Kids Club takes care of children from 9h to 21h and offers a wide variety of activities that they will most definitely enjoy such as games, treasure hunts, shows, etc.

Two bars and six restaurants will keep your belly full and most importantly; introduce you to the varied gastronomic culture of Mauritius. Because of its diversity, Mauritius has developed a unique expertise in the field of gastronomy, a blend of flavors that will delight your taste buds. Creole, Indian, Asian, you can taste it all…

Welcome to Fishing Paradise !

Amateurs and professionals, everyone agrees that the Indian Ocean is one of the best areas to indulge in sports fishing and big game fishing. So if you are looking for an original holiday that allows you to stock up on unusual sensations, fisherman paradise is waiting for you. The Indian Ocean is vast, you will not run short of fish. And this, regardless of the spot you choose... Mauritius and Reunion Island and the Maldives and Seychelles archipelagos are some of the most prestigious, and most popular, locations for sports fishing and big game fishing.

Needless to say that the largest ocean in the world offers a wide variety of fish. The marine fauna is extremely diverse. We find several types of Marlin which are amongst the most caught fish in Mauritius and Reunion Island. If the blue and black Marlins are very common, the Striped Marlin, is rather rare. Yellow and dogtooth tuna and sailfish are also species frequently fished. Combative, they are difficult to catch though. As for bonitos, barracudas and sea bream, these fish are the easiest to fish. Perfect for beginners who want to try their hand at fishing. Especially as they are available in abundance around the island. In Maldives and Seychelles, you will find an abundance of barracudas, red carp, chicken fish and other wahoos. It is to be noted that various shark species wander around the four mentioned islands. The Mako, Hammer, Blue and Tiger sharks are very difficult to fish. Firstly because they are not seen often in these waters and secondly because of their dangerousness. Shark fishing is restricted to experienced anglers, those who have already done some fishing in the past.

Big game fishing is a sport, an exciting experience, to live at least once in a lifetime. If you do not want to be left empty-handed, this is where you need to fish! Thrills and adrenaline guaranteed! World records were achieved several times in the Indian Ocean. Deep-sea fishing is an unforgettable experience. A particular folklore is associated with it. And if you are strong in the arms, you will most certainly not leave empty-handed. You will fish enough to feed a regiment. Blue and black marlin 1430 and 752 pounds were fished whereas the average weight is around 400 pounds. The biggest tuna weighed 230 pounds, regularly bonitos breaking all records are caught and it is not uncommon to get sharks of more than 500 kg in Mauritius.

Regarding the different spots, we recommend the west coast of the Reunion Island, close to St Gilles. For the Seychelles, go between Mahe and Silhouette Island. As for Mauritius and the Maldives, there is really no specific spots to fish. From north to south and from east to west, the currents are such that small and large fish abound. A multitude of service providers offer their services for sports fishing and big game fishing. You will most definitely find one that suits your needs…

Welcome to Constance Moofushi, Maldives

If there is one destination that comes immediately to the mind of tourists looking for a change of scenery, it is the Maldives! And even if accommodation wise, there is something for everyone and every budget, Concierge Hotels suggests you book a villa at Constance Moofushi. This is one of the most beautiful resorts in the region. This five star hotel is located on the southern island of Ari Atoll. This wonderful hotel managed to combine luxury, calm and simplicity for you to enjoy an unforgettable holiday.

The Moofushi Constance has three types of accommodation: beach villas (57m2), water villas (66 m2) and senior water villas (94 m2). They can accommodate up to three people and give you access to exceptional services: air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, Mac mini with integrated DVD and iPod connection, minibar and telephone. And for you to enjoy a stress free stay, a safe is also at your disposal. Choosing a water villa is opting for a special experience. You will feel like you’re floating. These villas include a large deck where you can enjoy beautiful sunsets. 

Many activities are available at Moofushi hotel. It is of course impossible for you to leave the Indian Ocean without having taken a dip in the ocean. You will discover around the hotel Moofushi one of the most beautiful diving spots in the world. You will certainly not be disappointed with the manta rays, turtles, dolphins, whale sharks or clown fish that wander around the hotel. The aquatic fauna of Maldives is extraordinary. The possibility to fish day and night will ravish anglers. For the sporty ones, windsurfing, kayaking and the sports and fitness center will for sure be on your holiday to do list. If you would rather take it easy; relaxing by the pool, sun bathing on the beach, pedal boats and catamarans are waiting for you under the sun of Maldives. Want to relax and unwind? A short stop at the hotel's spa is a must! Guests can enjoy massages and other body treatments.

For dining Constance Moofushi invites you in one of its four restaurants and bars. Manta offers an unforgettable dining experience overlooking the ocean. A different theme is given every night to give you the pleasure of discovering the surprises of the day. In their magnificent wine cellar you will discover great wines from around the world. At Manta Bar, you can enjoy delicious cocktails or snacks. In the evening, let the in-house DJ bring you to the dance floor. Alizee is located directly on the beach and offers different menus: from grilled seafood to steak and fries. The Totem Bar invites you to taste delicious cocktails a few meters from the pool. One thing for sure is that choice will not be limited…

Arnaud Glannes: “Concierge Hotels is a Challenge for Me”

Arnaud Glannes, you recently joined the Concierge Hotels team. Can you tell us a bit about your job?

I joined Concierge Hotels two weeks ago as Sales and Conciergerie Manager. I will be supporting the development of services for the conciergerie clients and also work on customer relations. I coordinate the team of concierges; work on special VIP requests; approach partners and service providers, and I also take care of the recruitment and training of concierges. As for the sales part of my job, I respond to customer requests and I also look for new clients.

What motivated you to join Concierge Hotels?

Concierge Hotels has a young and dynamic team which I was eager to join. As part of this team, my challenge will be to develop this unique conciergerie concept and make it grow and prosper. Joining Concierge Hotels as Sales and Conciergerie Manager also means that I will be working on sales and reservations for hotel booking. This will also be a challenge and a challenge is always an exciting endeavor!

And what is your background?

I started working in the tourism sector fifteen years ago in Paris as a concierge. I then moved in 2008 to Hawaii USA to work as Guest Services Manager at The Hilton Hawaiian Village, a 3600 rooms hotel located in Waikiki Beach. In 2009 I was promoted by Hilton Hotels as Director of Guest Services for the opening of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando Florida. My Lovely wife Jennifer is Mauritian that is why we decided to move to Mauritius in 2011. In 2012, I did the opening of the St Regis Mauritius Resort as Director of Guest Experiences in charge of the Rooms operations including Concierges and Butlers services. Having worked in the telecommunications sector before, I went back to the phone industry after one year and now I’m back in the tourism industry. And I’m here to stay… I am also part of Union International des Concierge d'Hotels (UICH). In 2005 I became a Clefs d’Or Concierge in France and I got the same recognition in the United States in 2009. Being a Clefs d’Or concierge means you are an experienced concierge who is dedicated to providing excellent service to all. You have only a few concierge Clefs d’Or in Mauritius.

Press Release: Concierge Hotels ® announces exclusive agreement with SAMSUNG B-THERE Travel app in wide Indian Ocean!

Mauritius March 10^th, 2015

The b-there Travel App is essential for any business traveller or travel enthusiast, this convenient travel application enables Samsung smart device users to book flights, accommodation, car rentals and holiday and safari deals at discounted rates exclusively and specially negotiated for Samsung smart device users.

With the b-there Travel App the sky is the limit. You can book your entire vacation from the palm of your hand in a matter of minutes! Want to go to Cape Town? Book your flight, reserve your room at the hotel of your choice and even arrange for airport transfers to and from your hotel.

b-there is the future of travel!

Benefits of using the b-there Travel App
- Benefit from exclusive and amazing holiday packages for you and your family
- Search & book available flights for best prices
- Find and book hotels at specially negotiated prices for the Samsung user 
- Search for your next car rental at discounted prices
- Find the best prices for your destination
- Save time and money
- Book everything from your Samsung Smart Device
- 24/7 Support Centre dedicated to you the user
- On-going promotions and competitions where you can win holidays and Samsung Smart devices

The b-there Travel app is continuously growing our base of preferred suppliers and improving the app experience with regular updates and adding of new specials and promotions. Being a Samsung Smart device user has never been this exciting and rewarding and it needed a strong hospitality partner in Indian Ocean: Concierge Hotels®.

Concierge Hotels® is the wide Indian Ocean OTA - accessible in English, French and German - powered by Sabre Hospitality Networks offering “Privilege Services and Hotels in Mauritius, Seychelles, Rodrigues, Reunion Island, Maldives, Madagascar, Sri Lanka & Zanzibar for affordable luxury holidays.”

Founded in 2010, Concierge Hotels® has built over the years an exclusive portfolio of over 100 hotels offered with unique privilege services, between Zanzibar and Sri Lanka, based on exclusive partnership with Sabre Hospitality Solution as Online OTA until 2023.

To compete with established travel agencies whose prices can be compared on Meta Search engines, Concierge Hotel has built an “added value strategy” based on it’s own concierge service La Conciergerie® Indian Ocean and exclusive agreements with DMC and unique service providers. These services are included in the price of the stay or offered at discounted prices:

• Free concierge service during stay for VIP and local experiences,
• Free airport road transfers at destination, from airport to hotel (excluding Air Taxi),
• Free newspaper in Native language delivered at hotel room,
• Special rates, VIP access on local activities and VIP pick-up, transport and delivery, luggage services.

It’s no coincidence Concierge Hotels® has been chosen as an exclusive partner of Samsung South Africa “b-there” mobile application.

Download the b-there Travel app now to gain access to your amazing travel deals and be rewarded for making the smart decisions in life.

For more information contact: Clea Vedrine - clea@concierge-hotels.com – Marketing & Communication Officer

Welcome to Zanzibar! Welcome to the Cannibal Party!

There are white sandy beaches, sun and sea... But the Indian Ocean does not resume to that! We often forget that the inhabitants of this region of the world also know how to party! Really party! Here in Mauritius but also in Maldives or Zanzibar are organized parties that have nothing to envy to those of the trendy capitals of the world. Follow us to Zanzibar! More precisely on the small island of Pwani Mchangani, located North East of Unguya, the main island of the archipelago.

On Pwani Mchangani Island, every Friday night is organized, on the largest beach of the island, one of the most original festivals in the region, the Cannibal Party. No Friday night looks the same on Pwani Mchangani Island. The least we can say is that there is something for everyone. In the early evening, groups and orchestras are there to entertain the crowd by playing their most “caliente” songs. The party then continues with the best DJs on the planet. Their extraordinary show gets people on the dance floor and on the beach until the next morning.

Partying on the beach, that’s definitely not new! So what does the Cannibal Party have to offer more than just a regular party on the beach? The Cannibal Party is simply an extraordinary celebration where the atmosphere is phenomenal. The organizers have a real eye for detail. They set up fantastic sceneries for all those coming from around the world to party. Bars and even cages are placed everywhere for you to enjoy this exceptional evening. Some regulars even come dressed as Masai, which adds to the atmosphere and exotic decor.

Dancers and artists offer a unique show. You came for a party ? You will enjoy a party! And you will also get a professional show as a bonus! Artists offer authentic circus and acrobatics acts. Between the fire-eater juggling flaming torches, the dancer who rises to several meters high and stands head balanced upside down for several minutes, the artists who do extraordinary tribal dance numbers, you will not know where to look. 

If you are in Zanzibar on a Friday night, you cannot - and you should not - miss the Cannibal Party, an event that will delight you if you like exotic atmospheres and original evenings. You will leave the Cannibal Party with wonderful memories!

Edouard Labat: “With Concierge Hotels, I went from theory to hands on experience”

Edouard Labat, you will be starting your third and final year of Bachelor in Tourism and Hotel Management at Vatel Mauritius next month. Can you tell us a bit about your four months long internship with Concierge Hotels?

I had an experience as concierge in a hotel before but had never worked on such an exclusive and upscale concept as Concierge Hotels. When asked by the person in charge of internships at Vatel last year what kind of internship I was looking for, I immediately said I wanted to get hands on experience in sales and marketing. As Junior Concierge at Concierge Hotels, that’s exactly what I got. The experience was very enriching. I was able to express myself and share my ideas. I met with future business partners to sell our concept.

And did you manage to sell?

I haven’t signed any contracts with potential business partners but this experience was nevertheless a great one. Especially as Concierge Hotels gave me the opportunity to work in the booking department for the past two and a half months. I worked with Mauritian clients who wanted to book hotels both in Mauritius and Rodrigues Island. This was hand on sales experience. I went from theory in the classroom to the real world, selling real products to real customers. And since Concierge Hotels’ booking is more complex than booking in a hotel itself, with loads of research to do, etc. I learnt a lot.

You mentioned the fact that you could share the ideas you had with the Concierge Hotels team. Mind sharing some of these ideas with us?

I had loads of ideas they had already thought of but I managed to come up with some new ideas too. I suggested some VIP services like the bodyguard service and also a day at the horse racing track in the lodges. I might be leaving Concierge Hotels now but I trust these services will be a huge success with our VIPs.

The Most Beautiful Indian Ocean Beaches

It is difficult – for us at least – to imagine better way to spend an afternoon than just lounging on the beach, sunbathing and contemplating the horizon feet in the warm, soft sand... We therefore came up with a selection of the best beaches in the Indian Ocean, which tend to prove that this is one of the most beautiful areas on the planet.

Indian Ocean islands have a significant advantage over other countries: they are surrounded by beaches. You will most definitely be spoiled for choice for sunbathing and swimming. In Mauritius, the north and east are the most popular areas for the beauty but also the tranquility of their beaches. We recommend the beaches of Pereybere, Trou aux Biches or Belle Mare. All three offer a range of fine soft sand and clear water, which allows you to easily observe the various aquatic species of the lagoon. The absence of pebbles in the sand makes walking and swimming very enjoyable.

Walking along endless beaches on a soft, warm sand, this is what awaits you in the Maldives. The Maldives is renowned for being one of the most beautiful archipelago in the world and its beaches are up to that reputation; a dream come true. Isolated from the world, Cocoa Island is considered by many as the most beautiful beach in the Maldives. The white sand is so smooth and soft that it is very pleasant to walk on the beach. With rows of palm trees lined along the coast, you can enjoy some well needed shade when the sun is high up. With blue gradient mixture of azure sea, Cocoa Island offers a surprising and unforgettable scenery. In the same vein, the beach of Sun Island Nalaguraidhoo impress with its palm trees as far as your eyes can see and translucent water that is particularly suitable for snorkelling and diving.

You might not know it but Sri Lanka also has wonderful beaches. Unawatuna is one of them. This little paradise is very different from other beaches. One can admire a huge jungle of coconut trees all along the beach, which adds an exotic touch to the place. And since it is a bit more remote than the other beaches, there are therefore fewer tourists there, which is perfect for those looking for some peace and quiet...

Choose Anse Source d'Argent, located in La Digue in the Seychelles, and you’ll be in for a treat. This little piece of paradise in this gigantic ocean has the distinction of being surrounded by huge blocks of dark hard rock. This scenery will certainly not leave you indifferent. And wherever you are in the Seychelles, you will always find a deserted beach. The kind that should delight those who dream of having, even only for one afternoon, a private beach all to themselves…