TRAVELSCAPES  12.20

Seychelles Islands

We know that 2020 has been a tough year and we propose the Seychelles Islands for a future stress release. Prince William and Catherine honeymooned in 2011 in this gorgeous part of the world on the western Indian Ocean. This archipelago of legendary beauty close to the earth’s equator boasts a warm climate all year. The granitic islands of the Seychelles archipelago cluster around the main island of Mahé, home to the international airport and the capital, Victoria, and its neighboring islands of Praslin and La Digue. Together, these Inner Islands form the cultural and economic hub of the nation and contain the majority of Seychelles’ tourism facilities as well as its most stunning beaches. .

The People of Seychelles.

The cosmopolitan Seychellois are a colorful blend of peoples of different races, cultures and religions. At different times in its history, people of African, European and Asian origin have come to Seychelles, bringing with them their distinct traditions and customs. One can see these influences throughout the local art, cuisine, music, dance and architecture. .

The architectural design of some of the grand old houses with their steep roofs are representative of a style adapted for comfortable living in the tropics that displays influences from Seychelles’ French and British colonial heritage. Modern architecture attempts to assimilate traditional styles with practical features designed to capture the island breezes. .

Local artists exhibit diverse styles that echo the multi-ethnic backdrop of the islands. Creole music and dance have their roots in African, Malagasy and European cultures with rhythms traditionally accompanied by simple drums and string instruments. .

Flora and Fauna.

Seychelles is a sanctuary for some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on earth. With almost 50% of its limited landmass set aside as national parks and reserves, Seychelles prides itself on its enviable degree of protection for the environment and the varied ecosystems it supports. .

Nowhere else on earth will you find unique endemic specimens such as the fabulous Coco-de-mer, the largest seed in the world, the jellyfish tree, with only eight surviving examples, the Seychelles’ paradise flycatcher and Seychelles warbler. .

Seychelles is also home to two U.N.E.S.C.O World Heritage Sites: Aldabra, the world’s largest raised coral atoll and Praslin’sVallée de Mai, once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden. .

Accommodation.

There is a large choice of where to stay. The places that have the best reviews and ratings are: 1) Le Nautique Luxury Waterfront Hotel in La Digue and Mahé. 2) Beach View Villa on Mahé Island. The entire villa is available.) 3) Acajou Beach Resort on Praslin Island. 4) Cerf Island Resort. 5) Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel on Mahé Island. 6) Coco D’or Hotel on Mahé Island. Each one ranges according to different budgets. .

The cosmopolitan Seychellois are a colorful blend of peoples of different races, cultures and religions. At different times in its history, people of African, European and Asian origin have come to Seychelles, bringing with them their distinct traditions and customs.