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The next best thing to
getting married in the stunning Seychelles islands is to honeymoon here. This oasis in the
Indian Ocean is a smattering of coral atolls, at least a thousand miles away from any
other vestige of civilization. Although Victoria is the capital, the island of Mahé is
the pulsating heart of the archipelago. Mahé has dramatic tropical vegetation against a
backdrop of towering mountains. Tall palm fronds silhouetted against sparkling deep blue
seas line the beaches. You will love walking over the soft, powdery sands, basking in the
sun and gorging on Creole cuisine - instant gustatory salvation! For energetic moments,
dive or snorkel in the crystal waters that reveal a fabulous marine world of sea turtles,
reef fish and brilliantly hued corals. |
Enjoy the nightlife,
the casinos, nightclubs, the wandering minstrels and beach bands. Well, just enjoy
yourself; this is the honeymoon of a lifetime, after all!
Travel Docs
No visas are required to visit Seychelles and visitors are granted a 30-day permit on
entry. You need a passport, an onward ticket, booked accommodation and proof of sufficient
funds for the length of your stay. Permits to stay in the country can be extended from the
Immigration Office, Independence House, Victoria.
Getting there
A number of international airlines operate flights to Seychelles, landing at Victoria,
which has the only international airport in the country. Cruises pass through Victoria,
but direct passenger services are not available. From Victoria you can get to the other
islands of Mahé, Praslin, Frégate, Desroches, Bird and Denis Island, on the domestic
airline, Air Seychelles, or on chartered helicopters, yachts, schooners and ferries.
Within the islands, jeeps called mini-mokes are available for hire and buses ply
regularly.
Best season
The Seychelles is a year-round destination,
which enjoys a warm tropical climate. The weather is more comfortable from May to
September and the threat of a tropical downpour is also less during this period. Room
rates are highest in the busy season of December-January and July-August. The average
temperature is 29°C.
Accommodation
The Seychelles is equipped to deal with accommodation requirements throughout the year,
but the norm is for expensive hotels rather than budget accommodation. It is advisable to
book well in advance if one is looking for moderately priced accommodation. During
Christmas, New Year, Easter and July-August, high-season rates (a hike of 15%) apply.
Also, please note that from 1st May 1999 onwards, all visitors are required to pay their
hotel accounts in foreign currency, either with travellers’ cheques, cash or credit
cards. Tariffs start in the vicinity of US$50-100 upwards.
For detailed country and visitor information, see Seychelles. |
