The SeychellesNothing prepares you for the beauty of this archipelago Its easy to see why, the term “unspoilt tropical paradise” is over used, but is is hard to find any other way of describing this archipelago of islands scattered across the Indian Ocean. The wildlife is truly outstanding, the Valley De Mai is now a Unesco world heritage site and home to the unique coco de mer palm who’s nut is the largest seed in the world. Vanilla, cinnamon, archids and hibiscus abound. Exotic fauna ranges from the worlds smallest tree frog to its heaviest living tortoise. Every summer the aptly names Bird Island plays host to more than a million sooty turns, as well as noddies, fodies, plovers and whimbrel and almost every island teams with Avian life. Offshore, hundreds of species of fish and a hundred more of coral make the clear waters of the Seychelles coves and reefs a divers and snorkelers paradise. Other popular sports include sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, paragliding, waterskiing and fishing for the marlin, barracuda, tuna and other sought after angling prizes. The hundreds of white-sand beaches are among the worlds finest, yet many are virtually deserted, and with almost the whole archipelago lying less than 10 degrees from the Equator, the temperature is usually between 75-90F (24-32C). However you work up an appetite, you’ll enjoy the Seychelles Creole cuisine , which fuses elements of French, Indian and Oriental cooking to create unique and piquant dishes. Seafood and rice predominate, with local favourites such as coconut milk curries and grilled octopus with chilli, ginger and garlic. You’ll also like the Seychellois, a friendly and prosperous people who – despite the islands French nomenclature – speak good English - The Daily Telegraph, January 2009 The beauty of the Seychelles
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