Why The Seychelles are a Dream Destination…

Have you ever been to the Seychelles? Famous for their white sand beaches and natural wonders spread across 115 islands, there are many reasons why they are such a dream destination…

Culinary delights

The Seychelles are renowned for their distinctive Coco de Mer coconuts but the Creole cooking is equally delicious. Try the fish baked in banana leaves, coconut curries, grilled octopus and red snapper dishes. Breadfruit is another popular ingredient, prepared savoury or sweet. Drinks wise, there are several local beers or you might like the palm wine.

Cultural attractions

They know how to party in the Seychelles and if you can possibly time your visit to coincide with the International Carnival of Victoria then definitely do. The next one will be held from 22-24 April 2018. Festival Kreol celebrates Creole heritage and will take place from 23 to 29 October 2017, while the Seychelles Ocean Festival will be held at the beginning of December. There’s also the Seychelles Sailing Cupin January and the International Fishing Competition in November. Visitors at any time of year will enjoy seeing typical tea plantations and Hindu temples including Arul Mihu Navasakthi Vinayagar Temple in Victoria.

Luxurious getaway

From secluded private islands to family-friendly villas, Seychelles holidays offer a range of different accommodation options. Honeymooners are spoilt for choice with a range of luxurious hotels and spa fans will appreciate the range of different wellness activities. If you have several weeks, consider a two centre stay and island-hopping from Mahé to La Digue or Praslin.

Nature in abundance

Almost 50% of the landmass in the Seychelles is a national park or reserve, with many rare species. Unlike in many parts of the world where the eggs of hawksbill turtles can be snatched by predators, they can safely lay them during the day in the Seychelles. Visitors to the islands should keep a look out for the Seychelles warbler bird and the Red Fody with its colourful plumage.

Watersports paradise

The diving in the Seychelles is second to none and whether you prefer scuba diving or snorkelling, there’s plenty of marine life to spot. With 6 national marine parks dotted around the islands, the diversity is impressive. Head to Baie Ternay for the abundant coral and reef fish and to Curieuse for the humphead parrotfish and hawksbill turtles. At times, the temperature can reach 29ºC with visibility over 30 metres!

White sand beaches

Of course, we couldn’t finish without mentioning those pristine white sand beaches again! I’m dreaming of being on this one right now. Some of the best beaches can be found on the islands of Praslin and La Digue. It was once thought that the Seychelles were the location of the Garden of Eden, and the shoreline here is certainly heavenly.

Know before you go

Environment – collecting seashells is prohibited in marine parks and nature reserves. A certificate is required for all flora.

Money – credit cards, in particular MasterCard/Access and Visa are widely accepted. There are ATM facilities at some banks as well as at the airport on Mahé and Praslin. The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee.

Plug sockets: 240 volts AC, 50Hz

Tipping – not obligatory as a 5-10% service charge is generally already included by taxis, hotels and restaurants.

Weather – the Seychelles have a tropical climate, so it’s pleasant all year round. If you’re keen on swimming, diving and snorkelling then April to May and October to November are ideal. Those who enjoy sailing will appreciate the light winds from May to September.

We hope that we’ve inspired you to visit the Seychelles and if you have been already, we’d love to hear your tips for first time visitors!

This post was brought to you in association with luxury travel service Emirates Holidays UK 

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