I first learned about Seychelles though a social website, and it was, as the French would say, le coup de foudre. It was just so beautiful that initially I thought it wasn’t real. In my thought balloon those photos were most likely photoshopped or heavily enhanced. A strong curiosity drove me to delve deeper, so I started watching travel vlogs and went into various influencers’ websites that featured the place. And as soon as opportunity showed up, plans were arranged and off we flew.
It was a long, arduous 26 hour trip. On our first day we went through strokes of bad luck and misadventures -- no signal, phones not compatible to local sim, thus no internet and no GPS, struggled driving a small right hand car on a very steep narrow road, while endlessly trying to navigate our way without a GPS, and if that wasn’t enough, a flat tire in the middle of nowhere…can it be more exciting??? Fortunately help came not too long after. A very kindhearted local driving by stopped, helped us replace the tire and directed us to our hotel. So you see, there is always a silver lining in every difficult situation.
When we finally got a glimpse of our hotel, everything was forgiven and forgotten, and our vacation started…
Depending on your budget and preference, you will have plenty of options when it comes to accommodations in Seychelles, from ultra luxurious resorts to a modest and low-key B&B. We decided to go for a little luxury…
Surrounded by lavish greenery and an abundance of nature, the Constance Ephelia from the constancehotels group in the island of Mahe is a dream resort. With direct access to two gorgeous beaches and offering a mix of diverse activities and experiences, it is almost a destination in itself. Rooms are immaculate and spacious. Food was fresh and delicious. Staff was nice and welcoming. I mentioned celebrating an anniversary with the hubs and they sent us a complimentary champagne, cake and chocolates. The cake was to die for.
Seychelles is inarguably one of the most magnificent places in the world, yet not every human knew about its existence. It is a true haven of serenity and pleasure and a must bucket list for every travel enthusiast. Officially known as the Republic of Seychelles, it is an archipelago off East Africa, situated at the Indian Ocean and about 1300 miles away from its more popular counterpart, the Maldives. With a total population of less than a hundred thousand, only a few of its 115 islands are inhabited, which has most likely played a significant role in preserving its biodiversity.
Three languages are fluently spoken, French, English and their native tongue, creole, therefore communication is never a problem. Euro and Seychellles rupee are both currencies accepted in the islands. Don’t bother exchanging your dollars or any currency at the airport as there are plenty of ATM machines around where you can withdraw money from and will even get you a much better rate.
Seychelles has 3 major islands, Mahe, Praslin and LaDigue, each offering its own special tropical experience but none is ever short on natural beauty and wonder. Island hopping can be achieved either through a ferry ride, the most popular, or via light aircraft, a faster but more costly way.
Mahe, being the largest is home to majority of the population. Its famous city, Victoria, the center for commerce and business is the biggest in the Republic while being the smallest capital in the world. Additionally, this is where the major airport is located, so this is always where a visitor’s journey begins. The island boasts of white sands, pristine beaches and tropical flora. Grand Anse, Beau Vallon, Anse Takamaka and Anse Royale are a few to take note of. We didn’t get the chance to check on the botanical garden but I heard it’s one worth considering when in Mahe.
Praslin, the second largest is home to Vallee De Mai, a UNESCO world heritage site where the endemic coco de mer palm grows and the rare black parrot lives. Anse Lazio, being the most popular attraction because of its breathtaking views and perfect combination of sun, sea and sand is the busiest. Other attractions to consider are Anse Georgette, Anse Volbert and the Giant Tortoise Farm.
LaDigue, the bicycle island, is the smallest and most laid back but definitely not the least captivating. The picture-perfect and flawless views are something you think you would only see on paintings and post cards. An absolute tropical paradise it is. The island’s centerpiece, Anse Source D’Argent is often referred to as the most photographed beach in the world, and it is not difficult to understand why. The staggering giant boulders are so perfectly carved that one would think they were actually built on purpose. The powdery sands blending perfectly with the turquoise blue water, the lush green landscapes happily kissing each other while the ocean breeze gently blows its cool fresh air, will only leave you wanderlusting and craving for more.
A Seychelles’ review wouldn’t be complete without mentioning its locals… they’re just the most genuine, amiable, warmhearted people we’ve ever had the chance to come across with, always pleasant and eager to help in every way they can. While exploring a beach at the island of LaDigue, I got nauseous and almost passed out due to extreme heat and exhaustion from an hour of biking and walking in a narrow and steep uphill downhill road. We spotted a nearby restaurant, asked a lady if I can have some ice and possibly lay down for a few minutes on one of the benches. She gladly welcomed us and came back with a bag of ice neatly packed on a clean eco bag. When she found out what happened, she offered to call someone who can take us and our bikes to our next station. A few minutes later, a guy came, loaded our bikes in his truck, happily drove us and made sure we got to the exact location where we can safely park our bikes and just walk a few steps to our target location. Yes, he did charge a nominal fee but the service and courtesy these people extended to us was way beyond what was expected of them.
We may or may never have the chance to visit this place again, but one thing we’re certain of, the precious memories and the gratifying experience will always stay, long after those beautiful moments have ended.
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