Page 114 - Africa Collection Online Brochure for Travel Agents and Travellers
P. 114
SEYCHELLES
AS PURE AS IT GETS
Seychelles
Seychelles is all about island life – 115 of them - spread over 1 400 000 square km and six island groups lying 500 - 1 600 km from the African Coast. Seychelles is also about enticing beaches, warm turquoise waters and island-hopping opportunities. There are 43 granite ‘inner’ islands and 72 coralline ‘outer’ islands; Seychelles is unique in being the only location in the world where you can experience both granite and coralline islands together in one place.
The smaller island resorts are a popular way of enjoying this fascinating country. They are mostly exclusive, self-contained hideaways, usually accommodating no more than 40 guests. Picture yourself on a private island 6 km long and 1 km wide, with acres of coconut palms fringed by the purest white sandy beaches and sheltered by an encircling reef. The private islands are typically accessed by boat or short flight from the main island of Mahé.
Island hopping is therefore a major attraction. The main island of Mahé is the gateway, from where you can head for the 2nd island of Praslin, boasting some of the best lodges, resorts and scenery. Also home to Vallee du Mai where you will find the wondrous double coconut of the Coco de Mer and can explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site, reputed to be the site of Garden of Eden. Ask us for the correct side of Praslin to stay on to best
avoid the seaweed issues that do seasonally affect parts of Praslin.
01403 256655 africacollection.com
After Praslin, perhaps catch the ferry and step back in time to La Digue where you’ll discover transport is mainly in the form of bicycles and oxcarts and the beaches are proper powder. Then perhaps wing your way across to one of the coral islands like the sanctuary of Bird Island or one of the other exclusive island resorts, some of which can be booked for private use.
The temperature rarely drops below 24oC, so Seychelles really is a year-round destination. There are daily flights (via the Middle East), and regular direct flights from the UK. There are also good connections from Johannesburg, Nairobi, Mauritius, Reunion and Addis Ababa, so there are plenty of exciting combinations possible.
Many of the properties we feature offer spectacular weddings or blessings, so let us advise you on how hassle-free and memorable we can make this. Please also ask us about combining your Seychelles stay with South Africa, Kenya, Mauritius or the UAE for some really contrasting options.
114