2015 Sep 10
The islands that appear to be as small as a seashell on the world map lies gloriously hidden within the Indian Oceanand is home to Aldabra giant tortoises, one of the largest tortoises in the world, and the rare and legendary Coco de mer tree and nut. Seychelles is a nation which has been uninhabited throughout most of recorded history and therefore still cherishes its untouched and uncorrupted natural environment and exotic living. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a nature lover or even both Seychelles is the next place you need to cross off on your bucket list!
The first sight of the islands from your airplane itself is mind blowing. The hues of blue surrounding the enchanting mountainous landscape leaves your face glued onto your plane window instead of buckling down to prepare for landing, which is a rare experience on its own as the airport landing strip is right beside the shore and the airplane glides to a stop at the tip of the ocean.
The specialty of the ribbon of golden beaches that ring the islands is its takamaka and coconut tree’s that frame the shore and the huge mountains that majestically tower over you once you dive into the water and turn back towards the islands. The Beau Vallon beach is the most popular and frequented beach in Seychelles. And if you’re an adventure seeker it is the place to be – you could go parasailing, snorkeling, diving, sailing and jet skiing. And later when you want to fill up your hungry stomach after all the excitement the best thing to do is to heat up your BBQ grill on the sand, like many of the locals do on a sunny day, and sip a chilled drink. Plus if you’re looking for an even closer experience with nature head onto Bird Island where you can swim with the dolphins and watch hawksbill turtles lay eggs.
On the other hand, if you want to travel to have some quality alone time with yourself or that special someone Seychelles is filled with beaches such as Petite Anse (La digue) or Anse Georgette (Praslin) for you to hideaway in. You can have the opulent blue sky, luxuriously warm topaz water and patch of sand with a backdrop of granite boulders and palm trees all to your heart’s desire.
When heading back home and you’re looking for souvenirs to remember a magical trip the Victoria market will have you bringing out your shopaholic side. Stunning jewelry made of actual seashells, creative home ware made of coconut husks and cocolourful t-shirts with giant tortoises and coco de mer printed on them will leave you running to the bank for all the right reasons. Seychelles is a holiday destination that will fill up your photo album and make you really appreciate the astounding beauty of nature. It’ll have you lazing on its plush beach beside dazzling waters until the last second before your flight leaves!
by Yasonil Piyatissa
