Seychelles, Seychelles
European explorers took what today is Praslin Island's nature reserve to be the original Garden of Eden, and no wonder – the primeval forest of Vallee de Mai has changed little over millions of years, and giant Aldabra tortoises still roam the archipelago populated by an incredible diversity of endemic plant and animal species. Out of the 115 islands that make up the Seychelles only 12 are inhabited – by Homo sapiens, that is – making for splendidly pure natural landscapes, unspoilt beaches, and some of the world's most fantastic diving.
Population:
94,677 (2016)
Currency:
Seychellois rupee
Emergency Numbers:
Police: 999
Medical: 151
Fire and Rescue: 999
Opening Hours:
While general office hours in the Seychelles run from 8am to 4pm Monday through Friday, some tourist-oriented businesses will stay open longer or even open at the weekends.
Newspapers:
Le Nouveau Seychelles Weekly
Seychelles Nation
The Islands
The overwhelming majority of visitors to the Seychelles stay on one of the archipelago's three main islands: Mahe, Praslin, or La Digue.
Mahe, the largest, is also the liveliest, with the most generous offer of shopping and entertainment. The capital city – Victoria – is also located on Mahe, many flocking to its Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market (often simply referred to as "Victoria Market") for produce and souvenir shopping. Mahe is most often any traveller's fist point of entry to the Seychelles, for it is on this island that the nation's only international airport is located.
Praslin, albeit much smaller, has plenty in the way of nature escapes – the UNESCO-listed Vallee de Mai reserve makes for some incredible hiking through primeval mangrove forest, where the endemic (and rather wacky-looking) coco de mer grows undisturbed.
La Digue, the smallest of the three, will please those looking for seclusion – the only means of transportation here is cycling, which means no vehicles or other disturbances – just you, picture-perfect beaches, and star-dotted night skies.
Day-trips and private excursions can be arranged to nearby islands like Curieuse or Silhouette, as well as some of the more remote outer islands.
Do & See
The Seychelles' incredible biodiversity is an attraction in itself, with ample opportunities to get close and personal with the islands' most famous inhabitants – the giant Aldabra tortoises – as well as a countless other animal and plant species (most notably among the latter indigenous coco de mer). The archipelago's luxury hotels are the ultimate relaxation retreats, and active pursuits are available in the way of hiking through thick mangrove forests, diving and snorkelling.
Dining
Seychellois cooking revolves around the sea: fish and seafood play a central part, followed closely by chicken. The proteins are frequently offered as part of a curry, served with a side of rice. Fine dining is available at most upper-range hotels (which can get pricey), but plenty of affordable alternatives can be found at small independent eateries.
Cafes
Many beach bars operate as cafes during the daytime; the archipelago's largest island – Mahe – offers by far the largest variety of cheap casual eateries, especially in and around the capital of Victoria.
