455.3 sq km (176 sq miles).
Population:91,650 (2014).
Population density:201.4 per sq km.
Capital:Victoria.
Government:Republic.
Head of state:President James Michel since 2004.
Head of government:President James Michel since 2004.
Electricity:240 volts AC, 50Hz. British-style plugs with three square pins are standard.
Clichéd or not, the Seychelles are about as close to paradise as you can get: once you’ve felt the sand between your toes here, beach holidays will never be the same again.
Made up of 115 topical islands in all, the Seychelles archipelago is a destination where white, sandy beaches are as pure as the driven snow; where frothy turquoise waters harbour colourful coral reefs and bountiful marine life; where secret coves allow you to have your very own Robinson Crusoe moment with only birds and tortoises for company.
Mahé may be the biggest – and the busiest – of the islands, but it has its fair share of secluded bays, which are accessible only by yacht, motorboat or on foot. Together with its sisters Praslin and La Digue, it attracts the lion’s share of tourists.
More adventurous travellers, on the other hand, may prefer to take a flying boat to more remote islands such as Fregate or Bird Island and enjoy secluded beaches all to themselves. These islands are especially popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers, due to their abundance of wildlife.
The absence of people on many of the islands means that rare plant life has thrived on this Indian Ocean archipelago. Tropical life abounds below the waves, too. This is best viewed by going scuba diving or snorkelling, experiences which are made all the more memorable here thanks to the crystalline seas.
It’s not all about nature, though. The Seychelles are a veritable melting pot of cultures: its inhabitants descend from African, Asian and European immigrants, who have brought their customs and traditions with them to the islands. This heady mix is particularly pleasing on the palate thanks to the archipelago's fabulous fusion food.
The Seychelles is a seductive destination all right, and one that’s guaranteed to whet your appetite for a return trip – assuming your bank balance can handle it.
