Seychelles offers a holiday experience that is as unique as it is varied, drawing on the amazing diversity of 115 pristine islands to ensure that every visitor goes back with his or her very personal memories. Natural purity with an authentic touch is the cornerstone of a philosophy that echoes the needs of today’s discerning travelers for a tranquil yet vibrant destination, unspoiled by commercialism, where they can feel secure and rediscover their inner needs for simplicity, authenticity and innocence. It is equally a statement of our intention to safeguard our precious island home and its exceptional environment, taking great pains to assure that tourism development is both ecologically sustainable and in the best interests of the local community. For these reasons we take pride in the new momentum being given to Seychelles tourism by a variety of exciting new products.

They represent not only affordable exclusivity but also offer unique benefits that set them apart from those of other tropical destinations and provide the visitor with a refreshing individually-tailored tropical island experience that is welcoming, fulfilling

This isolated island paradise offers fine beaches, turquoise seas and warm weather. As a result of its extraordinary history, the Seychelles is also rich in rare plants which flourish nowhere else on the planet. No less than 81 species are unique survivors from the luxuriant tropical forests that covered the islands until humanity belated arrival two centuries ago. Outstanding amongst these plant species are the coco-de-mer (sea coconut), native to Praslin, which grows in the Vallee de Mai. Its seed is the largest in nature. The Seychelles are also a major attraction for birdwatchers. Close to two million sooty terns nest on Bird Island.

The cosmopolitan Seychellois are a colorful and harmonious blend of different races which stem from African, European and Asian roots, all of whom have brought something of their own customs and way of life to the islands. The result is a charming Creole culture enriched from many continents. Despite being a British colony, the original early French influence remained strong. African slaves were brought in to work the land and after the abolition of slavery they were liberated.

The broad range of Creole cuisine is an eloquent reflection of the diverse ethnic mix of the islands. It features the subtleties and nuances of French cooking, the exoticism of Indian dishes and the piquant flavors of the Orient. Grilled fish marinated in a sauce of crushed chili, ginger and garlic is a favorite as are octopus and chicken curries prepared with coconut milk.

A dazzling array of fresh fish is readily available and is easily transformed into a wide selection of succulent dishes with the help of condiments, fruit spices and herbs on sale in the local markets. Many hotels and restaurants offer various forms of Creole cuisine and international dishes. Creole cuisine is resourceful, echoing a time before supermarkets. Chatinis, made from grated green fruits offer a tasty accompaniment to fish or meat dishes while mangoes, golden apples, and coconut products, heart of palm, tubers and local delicacies such as octopus and fruit-bat form an impressive culinary array.

The Festival Kreol, is held annually at the end of October. It is a manifestation of Seychellois and Creole identity and a celebration of the culture of the islands as experienced through music, dance, arts, crafts and cuisine. True to the Creole spirit of sharing and of openness, it offers a fascinating week filled with color, sounds, flavors and fragrances from a corner of the kreole world that treasures its traditions.

 

'The Jewel in the Sea'
The Seychelles is an isolated archipelago comprising about 115 beautiful island and a paradise on earth is what they call the Seychelles. Seemingly forgotten out in the middle of the Indian Ocean a thousand miles from Africa - the warm waters, high standards and friendly people draw many.

Warm, Friendly People:
The Seychellois are multi racial yet completely intergrated people. They are descendants of the first French settlers, African slaves and traders. Indian and Chinese later enriched these mixtures thus giving them a beautiful look.

Scuba diving:
Most scuba diving areas are next to the beach although the best spots are rocky beaches. April, May, October and November have the highest visibility and calmest seas although conditions are excellent year round.

Coral Reef Diving:
This is the main activity in the island. Fish are unafraid of divers. Spear fishng is strictly forbidden. There are 900 species of fish. The clear waters makes it perfect for underwater photography and viewing.

Angling:
Will find that the southeast trade winds: from May to September are better for Big Game though the seas can sometimes be rough; from November to February the northwest bring calmer seas for bottom fishing. October and April are perhaps the most enjoyable with calm seas.

For birdwatching:
April heralds the new breeding season and Bird Island will be found to be overrun with seabirds from May through September; migration periods are from September to December.

Mountain and Trail Walks:
The numerous hills and mountains provide an excellent opportunity for those who would like to walk up into the cooler air of the mist forest. The view a top the mountains is breathtaking and well worth the climb.

Fruit bats, flying foxes, geckos and skinks are common and there are more than 3,000 species of insects. The giant tortoise (which appears on the Seychelles coat of arms) survived near-extinction; there are now over a hundred thousand on Aldabra. Many species of rare birds, such as the bare-legged scops owl, Seychelles kestrel, black parrot, magpie robin and paradise flycatcher are also to be found. Four islands are bird sanctuaries, including Bird Island, which is inhabited by millions of fairy terns.