Hearing that you are about to visit the pristine Seychelles, don’t be surprised if you take a deep breath and sigh with envy. This pearly archipelago comprises a group of 115 islands off the East African mainland and is also the least populated country on this vast continent. Obviously, you can’t visit all 115 islands, but surely you can choose. The best time to visit the country, seasoned tourists will tell you, is March or October.
The people on these islands are generally friendly and hospitable and speak English, French and the local Creole dialect. Getting around the islands is also quite easy, as transportation of all kinds works very well here. A bus is the cheapest option, of course, and so are ferry rides when you want to go island hopping.
As we had previously specified, it is difficult to visit all the islands in the space of a single trip. So, would you like to start with Mahé, which some say turns out to be ‘a jewel in the ocean’? Although it happens to be the capital city, most tourists prefer to see it, for some reason, as a transit hall. What a waste! Because it is one of the most picturesque places on earth with its magnificently rolling canals and valleys, not to mention the beaches and coastlines. Some must-sees are Mount Morne Seychellois and the National Park. There are numerous luxury hotels in which you can stay. There is, for example, Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove with the best facilities that a luxury hotel can offer. And if you want to splurge a little, you can check into Banyan Tree Seychelles overlooking the beach and surrounded by tropical paradise greenery.
For truly exotic sea beaches, most tourists love to visit the island of Victoria. There is also only one theater on the island that shows the latest movies. Those looking to live the life are likely to find a couple of five-star luxury hotels like the Labriz Silhouette and Cousine Island very suitable. However, while you’re in Victoria, don’t forget to visit the Botanical Gardens with their deeply exotic flora and fauna.
Another popular tourist destination is the island of Praslin with its fabulous National Park known for its Coco de Mer tree. It is believed that the first people to set foot on this island were convinced that they had seen the Garden of Eden. Praslin Island is also known for its excellent diving spots, which rival those of the Maldives. As for the coral reefs, you wouldn’t want to touch them as they are pristine and delicate, despite the fact that the last El Niño spread such widespread destruction. As you drive through Praslin you will come across some rather large boulders and rocks that look like they are primed for a steep drop but are actually quite safe. They also add to the scenic appeal of the island.
Like its relatives, the Praslin also has a plethora of five-star luxury hotels. The best known luxury hotel is Le Lemuria Resort with a fantastic location, spacious rooms and excellent food.
There is much more to explore in Seychelles once you start…