Seychelles

Discover a different world, as beautiful below the water as above

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The Seychelles is as close to natural visual paradise as you can ever hope to see. A thousand miles from anywhere, the archipelago of 115 islands lies off the coast of mainland Africa, close to the equator. Its people are a multi-ethnic blend of settlers from Europe, Africa and Asia who have assimilated different traditions and religions into the relaxed Seychellois culture.

The islands offer lots of contrasts; some are like tiny emeralds dropped in the azure ocean, home only to birds and indolent holiday-makers. Others have rainforest ridges and waterfalls to beckon you away from the white powder beaches. Searching for the perfect viewpoint becomes as addictive as the hunt for the perfect undiscovered cove.

The Seychelles appeal is more to the nature-lover than the glamour-puss. Its a place to see things rather than to be seen, yet it is also fast becoming a hot-ticket for the cognoscenti. Sports fisherman, birders, celebrities and families alike enjoy the ultimate escape from lifes pressures on one of several private islands. And of course, the seclusion, pampering and delicious seafood appeals to lovers, romantics and honeymooners.

Unlike many a tropical destination, the Seychelles presents few dangers. There is no malaria or serious diseases and the local wildlife is neither poisonous nor intent upon chasing or eating you. Indeed, it seems that the local fauna is as relaxed and happy in outlook as the local Seychellois. And no wonder; when they live in one of the most beguiling and hospitable places on earth.