Paradise on Earth
Paradise on earth is the only way to describe this cluster of some 115 Tropical Islands scattered in the Indian Ocean just 4 degrees south of the Equator.
Uninhabited until recent times, the islands of the Seychelles are stunningly beautiful, and environmentally unspoiled.
The climate is a perfect 24 - 30°C, (75 - 86°F) from May to September, the South East wind season; the warmest season is October to April when light North Westerly winds allow temperatures to rise to 32°C, 90°F.
Sea temperatures are around the 25°C, 77°F during the South East season and peak out at around 29°C, 85°F, in the North West season. The majority of rainfall is normally in the North West season in December / January and is heavier on the inner islands with large mountains than on the flatter low lying coral islands, although light showers are possible all year round.
The main tourist islands known as the Inner Islands are based on a shallow granitic plateau, a relic from the pre-historic super continent of Gondwanaland; the majority of the islands are mountainous with a few outlying coral islands at the edge of the plateau.
The main island of Mahe with the capital city of Victoria is home to most of the resident population followed by Praslin, and La Digue. These islands are North of the cyclone belt with a climate moderated by the trade winds and dominant mountains that promote excellent all year round diving conditions.
More destination information on Mahe
More destination information on Praslin
More destination information on the surrounding islands
Tourism
Tourism as is everything else on the Islands, is tightly controlled by the Socialist Government. This often prevents Hotels from upgrading facilities or refurbishing, as Government permission is required for every import. The result is that older hotels are becoming a little shabby, whereas new Hotels reach the standards required of discerning International clients.
It is often said that The Seychelles have 5 star beaches and 3 star hotels, whereas Mauritius has 3 star beaches and 5 star hotels! Visitors to The Seychelles should also expect 'laid back' levels of service, although this is being improved upon by many Hotels implementing International Training programmes.
The control of imports also means the Islands are short of many items travellers usually take for granted. Camera Batteries, film, confectionery, over the counter medication, good coffee or tea, international foodstuffs. Visitors are advised to stock-up on such items before travelling to the Islands. Very high prices for International Spirits is also a reason to take your maximum permitted alcohol allowance (1 litre per person).
The strong Government involvement has however kept the islands of The Seychelles an environmental haven. Rigid controls protect the flora and fauna, beaches, bird life, coral reefs etc.
Mass tourism is deliberately avoided by making sure prices for both flights and accommodation are very high. The Seychelles is not a backpackers' destination!
Island hopping is highly recommended - either by designing your Itinerary to stay on different islands, or by making day trips to other islands.
We cannot think of a better Honeymoon destination that the Seychelles, and all Hotels are well prepared for couples wishing the intimacy of a honeymoon, or even staging the wedding on the islands.
The currency is the Seychellois Rupee, but change very little, because as a Tourist you will have to pay in Foreign currency (US$s UK£s etc.) If you do change money into Rupees it is a nightmare changing it back!
The hotels on Seychelles are of a very high standard, and those selected by Island-Safari are amongst the best.
Have a look at our Seychelles Hotels... |
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