Having recently visited the Seychelles on a research trip, I can definitely agree with all those beach addicts out there who say the sandy stretches in the Seychelles are among the best in the world.
Picture Perfect
I don't think I've ever seen beaches this beautiful. Fringed by picture-perfect swaying palm trees, the sand is so fine and white it could be talcum powder. The colour of the sand, I am told, is all thanks to the Parrot fish; they eat the coral and what they pass through their systems is what ends up as white sand on the beach... charming. But it works. The water is such a piercing blue colour that it's easy to just stand and stare gormlessly into its depths; the phrase 'heaven on earth' springs to mind. The beaches of the Seychelles are also famed for the huge and dramatic granite boulders that emerge from the water. Fun fact alert: the Seychelles are the only oceanic granite islands on the planet!
Island Hopping in the Seychelles
Five days in the Seychelles took me to four different islands and how different they all are. Whatever your preferred style of hotel is, there's something for you. The two largest islands of Mahe and Praslin are home to some lovely hotels, like Constance Lemuria and Maia Resort and Spa. Then there's the private island option; pretty much the pinnacle of luxury. Denis Island is not only very luxurious but is also at the forefront of sustainable tourism (something the Seychelles in general does very well) - it is completely self sufficient. Then there's the laid-back island of La Digue which, by the way, boasts some of the Seychelles' finest beaches. Bicycles or Ox and cart are the main forms of transport here so don't expect air-conditioned private cars. Do expect the aforementioned wondrous beaches, great food and exploration though.
Delectable delights
I have to give a quick mention to the food (no trip is complete without some gourmet cuisine, after all) and in particular the Breadfruit, a starchy vegetable similar to a potato in that it comes in a variety of delectable forms. They say if you eat it in the Seychelles, you are destined to return. Upon hearing this, there was only one thing to do - eat as much of it as humanly possible!
So there you have it, if you're looking for the ultimate luxury beach holiday, the Seychelles should be at the very top of your list.
