8% Dip: French Tourists Stay Home for Paris Olympics

Mauritius, a popular destination for French tourists, is currently experiencing a decline in arrivals from France, coinciding with the ongoing Olympic Games taking place in Paris. Various local tourism operators report a significant drop in French visitors, attributing this trend to the allure of the Olympics.

Last year, during the months of July and August, Mauritius welcomed 45,735 French tourists.

While official statistics for July 2024 have yet to be released, several operators have already noted a downturn in the number of French arrivals.

The tour operator Coquille Bonheur has observed an 8% decrease in bookings from French tourists in July compared to the same month last year.

Managing Director Christian Lefèvre stated, “The Paris Olympics have indeed impacted the arrival of French tourists, as many have chosen to stay in France to attend the games.”

Kunal Awotar, president of the Association of Tourist Shop Owners, echoed these sentiments, confirming the adverse effects of the Olympics on French tourist arrivals.

He pointed out that French visitors are among their primary customers, contributing significantly to local shopping revenue.

However, he noted a concerning 30% drop in sales to French shoppers compared to the same period last year.

“The Olympics are a global event that attracts tourists from all over the world. Given that it is being held in France this year, many French citizens are likely to seize the opportunity to attend rather than vacation elsewhere,” he explained.

Bissoon Mungroo, president of the Association of Boutique Hotels, expressed caution about directly linking the decline in French tourist arrivals to the Olympics.

“Firstly, we are already in the low season, which typically results in slower arrivals from all tourist markets,” he emphasized.

He acknowledged that while some operators may report significant decreases in arrivals from France, this could also be influenced by the global event occurring in their home country, as many would opt to attend the competitions.

Despite the overall decrease in arrivals, some French tourists are seeking tranquil destinations to escape the hustle and bustle of the Olympics.

“Mauritius, with its stunning beaches and peaceful environment, presents an attractive alternative for those wanting to avoid the Olympic crowds. Those who wish to experience a quieter holiday have chosen Mauritius as their destination,” noted Christian Lefèvre.

This view was supported by Bissoon Mungroo, who added, “With the chaos of travel and rising costs of accommodation and dining in Paris, some French individuals will seek out calmer spots to relax. Mauritius has always been a favored destination for French tourists.”

In contrast, representatives from other major hotel groups in Mauritius reported no significant changes in arrivals from French tourists compared to the same period last year. They maintain that Mauritius continues to be a popular vacation spot for French holidaymakers.

Source: Defi Media