?It has been almost 13 years since I have been in Mauritius. Although I must concede that, in terms of environment and on a professional basis, Mauritius is far from being the best, when I consider its assets, I realize it has three main ones, namely: its welcoming aspect (this includes its services), its environment and its safety. It either of these three were to be neglected, this would be the end of the tourism. Coming to the services and the welcoming, there are many wonderful hotels on this island. In fact, there is a wide range of different types of hotels, but the services offered are still the essential ingredients of their successes. I sincerely believe that tourism owes this success to the thirst of learning of Mauritians.

In fact, in the learning process there are two aspects. First the technical issue, this regards the way people are trained to place the table and so on. Whereas the second aspect concerns the attitude of Mauritians itself. Indeed, they want to learn as much as they can, but more importantly, they do their best to help and please people. So, as long as they are like that, this will help to maintain this great standard.

Regarding this thirst for learning, I have to say that I have been positively impressed by the way Mauritian adults act to make sure their children get a great education. For example, they make sure their kids get good schools. More importantly, I am particularly full of admiration when I see the number of people taking huge loans for their children to get good universities abroad.

Nevertheless, one must concede regarding safety issues that safety in Mauritius is becoming a bit more of a concern. But still, as I said, it is worrying in the sense that tourists prefer to visit countries where they would feel very safe and at ease.

Regarding the environment, all I have to say, is that Mauritians should change this habit of just throwing things everywhere. The ministry of Environment and some other organizations have done a great work and many successful campaigns, but the starting point should be a personal effort from every single individual.

I would like to conclude that I am full of optimism for the tourist sector of Mauritius and I see the number of projects being made also. If I were not an optimist, I would be at the airport trying to catch the next plane.? (Laughter)