Joanna James
Dazzling Seychelles is every sun worshiper's dream destination; an archipelago of gorgeous islands, lush foliage, traditional heritage and exotic wildlife. Here are some top things to do when here.
The beach is the archipelago's biggest lure, sandy oases of lush surroundings and marvellous encounters. Gorgeous beaches like Beau Vallon in Mahe, home to Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino, are the perfect venue for selecting a laid-back resort and relaxing in style. Choose to laze the entire day under the shade of a palm, or get your dose of adrenaline pumping action by indulging in water sports such as jet skiing, surfing and even fun banana boating. When it comes to the most ideal beach resort Seychelles has to offer, it will most likely be located on the island of Mahe which is also the nation's capital.
Translating to May Valley the Vallee de Mai is a beautiful rainforest, which has been dubbed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled on the Island of Praslin, this exotic haven is home to an amazing collection of tropical plants and wildlife. Amongst some of the rare foliage growing in the rainforest is the Coco de Mer plant, boasting the largest seed amongst all plant-life. The wildlife is equally impressive with the rare black parrot often spotted there, take along the cameras and watch out for varied species of mammals, crustaceans, reptiles and many-hued birds.
One of the world's smallest capitals, Victoria located on the island of Mahe is a mere 20.1sqkms in size; however, in terms of attractions and experiences, the place packs quite a punch. For loads of colour and local flavour head over to the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market, where you can buy exotic spices, tropical fruits and a range of local souvenirs; and tour the Hindu Temple cutting a majestic pose amongst the azure blue sky. Visit the Seychelles National Botanical Gardens home to a range of endemic plants amongst which regal orchids promise to awe. La Domus, built in 1934, is another historical attraction which sits next to the Cathedral of Our Lady of Immaculate Conception.
Coconuts are a major part of Seychelles lifestyles, not only is it a major ingredient, the plant is used to turn out a variety of produce. As such, in order to truly relish the heart of Seychelles, you need to visit a coconut plantation. L'Union Estate is a pretty good choice, as the largest contributor to coconut production in the nation; this estate will take you on a comprehensive tour of the plants many uses. Check out the vintage ox-powered oil extraction machine and explore a pretty little beach called Anse Source D'Argent, close to which a cemetery containing the remains of the first settlers of Seychelles is found.
Boat safaris to the islands of Curieuse, St Pierre and Cousin Island are quite the experience. On Curieuse you will come across the giant Aldabra Tortoise while a hike across the tranquil mangrove forests is recommended for learning about conservation efforts and endeavours to protect the prized Lemon Sharks. Cousin Island, due to its successful conservation efforts is now a thriving habitat for an amazing collection of wildlife and foliage. Saving some action for last, the island of St. Pierre promises you loads of snorkelling action to relish and remember.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
