Joanna James
Revered as one of the best beach holiday hotspots in East Africa there are many reasons why the country is a tourist Mecca for the masses. Here are the top 5 reasons the Seychelles is so popular.
As the country's most touted and coveted tourist attraction, the breathtaking beaches of the Seychelles are the best reason to head down to the island nation. Blessed with sunny skies for most of the year, the white, powdery sands of the country's breathtaking beaches are ranked among the world's finest by no mere coincidence. Offering holidaymakers a plethora of secluded and tranquil beaches the likes of Anse Georgette in Praslin and Anse Source d'Argent in La Digue, the picture perfect confines of this beach haven beckons water sports enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. The luxury resort bases in the island nation which are not limited to AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa and other accommodation hotspots is another lure which draws visitors in.
Those who are based in a resort in Seychelles or visiting the country for a brief period should also sample the exquisite local Creole cuisine. As the perfect blend of East African flavours, the many culinary wonders in the Creole cannon alone is worth the visit to Seychelles. Those with a penchant for African, Chinese, French and Indian cuisine or a fusion of these popular culinary traditions will also appreciate the dining scene in the Seychelles. With easy access to seafood, the many grilled seafood delicacies served in local restaurants are simply to die for. The local desserts the likes of Ladob, which is a combination of sweet potato, bananas and cassava cooked in vanilla sugar and coconut milk are other must-sample items during a vacation in the Seychelles.
While most beach hubs boast tropical landscapes and breathtaking nature reserves, very few can claim that nearly half of its landmass contains protected reserves. In addition to the thick jungles and verdant island terrains typical of most island nations, the Seychelles contains the world's only jungle of Vallee de Mai. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and rightly so as it is where the rare species of coco de mer trees are found. Mahé, the largest of the Seychellois islands also boast excellent walking trails and hiking routes including the Copolia trail which takes hikers to granite peaks which afford stunning views of the nearby islands and port.
The Seychelles is also the perfect venue to come face to face with island life. Engaging with the locals and spending one's time relaxing in local drinking holes and restaurants is one of the best ways to experience the laid back lifestyle and happy-go-lucky attitude of the Seychellois populace. Take part in local festivals the likes of Festival Kreol to truly immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the locals and encounter ancient traditions and a style of music that goes back centuries.
The abundance of marine life also makes the underwater landscapes of the Seychelles a marine life enthusiast's dream. Ideal for deep sea exploration activities the likes of scuba diving or even snorkelling expeditions, those who venture beneath the surface of the waves can encounter lion fish, whale sharks, moray eels and Spanish Dancers among countless other fish species. As a viable diving destination all year round, the islands offer deep sea explorers idyllic conditions to engage in their favourite activity and experience some of the finest coral reefs in the region at the same time.
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.
