Seychelles

By VI | Disclosure: I use affiliate links

Courtesy of Jenny Sturm - Fotolia.com

I always tell friends who crave a dreamy tropical escape: you should head to Seychelles. I still gasp at the crystal-clear turquoise water and powdery white-sand beaches. You can wander through lush jungles alive with rare wildlife that I never tire of spotting. I love that you can laze on a secluded shore one hour, then hike dramatic granite peaks the next. You will feel as though every moment belongs on a postcard.

Best Time to Visit

I recommend you plan for the transition months of April, May, October, and November. I find the seas calm then, and you will enjoy superb visibility for diving and snorkeling. I relish the warm, pleasant weather, while you avoid the heavier December-to-March rains. You also sidestep the stronger winds that I often battle from June through September.

How to Get There

By Air: I usually fly into Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) on Mahé, and you can catch direct routes from Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.
By Ferry: I love hopping the inter-island ferries that link Mahé, Praslin, and La Digue; you will feel the ocean breeze right away.
By Small Plane: When time is tight, I book quick Air Seychelles hops between islands like Mahé and Praslin so you squeeze in more beach time.

Where to Stay

Constance Ephelia – I indulge here when you want a luxury base on Mahé; you step straight onto the sand, and I melt into the spa amid tropical gardens.
Le Domaine de L'Orangeraie – I suggest this romantic La Digue hideaway when you crave hillside villas; you will toast the sunset from your deck.
Raffles Seychelles – I reserve this ultra-luxurious Praslin retreat when you dream of a private pool and fine dining steps from the surf.