The Seychelles is a small pocket of over 115 islands in the Indian Ocean. It's hard to find a more beautiful place, with each island offering a secluded spot that basks in intense sunshine almost all year round. They have become popular locations for people looking for a little something extra compared to the standard European beach holiday. But why have the islands proven so popular in recent years? Here are just a few reasons why so many flock to them every year.
Beautiful Beaches
Carpet Glides
With more than 100 islands, the Seychelles offer the greatest beaches in the Indian Ocean. The capital island Mahe for example, has 65 impeccable stretches of sand to choose from alone. The gentle breeze glides through the palm trees that line the pristine white sandy beaches, it's the perfect cocktail to relax and unwind.
Culture and Cuisine
The islands are home to colourful blend of different religions and cultures, with each expressed through different foods. The subtle influences from French, Indian and Oriental foods have helped develop a popular and wonderfully diverse cuisine for the area. A favourite of the islands is grilled octopus or other fish with steamed rice, complimented with crushed chillies, ginger and garlic.
Natural Beauty
The Seychelles are home to two UNESCO world heritage sites, one on the island of Praslin and the other Aldabra, which is the home to the largest collection of Giant Tortoises. With the islands relatively uninfluenced by humans, the natural beauty has been preserved for thousands of years. Its avian species are also strong, with flagship species including the Seychelles Magpie Robin and the Seychelles Warbler, as well as 10 other types found nowhere else in the world.
Luxury Retreats
With such outstanding beauty offers all over the Seychelles, it has become a luxury retreat for those of us looking for something more than just a standard holiday. Denis Island boasts just 25 guest chalets and acts as one of the premier private destinations. With private beaches and almost the island to explore, it offering the ultimate feeling of escapism and privacy so many people long for in a trip abroad.
Marine Life
In addition to the luscious forests that carpet the land, the seas offer wildlife in abundance. The large coral network around the islands is brimming with life spectacularly, with over 1000 different species of fish recorded. Some of the larger animals of the water include the Barracuda, marine turtles and various species of sharks.