Seychelles

Lush vegetation, pristine white and gold sand beaches, an archipelago of 115 tropical islands and the azure waters of the Indian Ocean combine to produce the stunning canvas of the Seychelles; a living paradise that has appositely been dubbed ‘another world' by the islands' tourist office. Holidaying in the Seychelles is all about luxury, nature and relaxation. Exclusive resorts ease holidaymakers into an enchanting world inhabited by roaming tortoises, marine turtles, nesting sea birds and hundreds of species of tropical fish. An idyllic retreat where the stresses of everyday life dissolve as you sunbathe on a secluded beach, explore nature trails, cycle through coconut groves, or discover an underwater wonderland as you snorkel or scuba-dive. Island marinas, sailing dinghies, windsurfs, pedalos and canoes also mean that visitors can get active on the captivating turquoise lagoons.

With average daytime temperatures of around 28ºC (82.5 ºF) the Seychelles attract well-heeled visitors from around the world all year round. The exclusive nature of the resorts means that the islands never feel crowded and depending on which you choose your fellow holidaymakers could be honeymooning couples, families or dive enthusiasts.

The Seychelles archipelago lies in the Western Indian Ocean just south of the equator. The islands lie east of Tanzania and Kenya and north of Madagascar and Mauritius. Overlooking tranquil lagoons, neighbouring islands and the deep blue expanse of the Indian Ocean, the islands boast lush tropical vegetation and sandy beaches; some are flat while others boast steep granite hills.

Exquisite fluffy white or gold sand beaches, fringed by palm trees and caressed by the warm turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean are the signature of the Seychelles' resorts. Sun loungers, parasols and a host of watersports, that run the gamut from canoeing and snorkelling to windsurfing and scuba diving, transform the beaches into luxurious playgrounds for holidaymakers.

Most resorts organise deep-sea fishing trips. Experienced anglers can enjoy the thrill of catching a diverse range of big game fish like swordfish, marlin, barracuda and wahoo, while novices are given expert tuition and advice. Bird watching, glass bottom boat trips in the Mahe Marine national Park and luxurious spas are other distractions for holidaymakers away from the beach.

Many of the hotels and resorts in the Seychelles have been built with families in mind, with kids clubs complementing a broad range of land and sea based activities. Child-friendly restaurants and doorstep beaches complete the appeal.

For many holidaymakers resort boutiques (good for forgotten essentials, souvenirs and special mementos) are the only retail outlets that they will encounter on these tranquil islands. Even in the capital, Victoria (located on the main island of Mahe) shopping is pleasantly low key, with keepsakes and handicrafts on sale alongside everyday items like clothing and food.

Taking a holiday in the Seychelles is all about serenity, and the islands are pleasantly free from raucous clubs pumping out the latest techno beats. Instead after dark activities take place in the bars and restaurants of the resort hotels. Here holidaymakers while away the evenings with an enjoyable blend of fine wines, exotic cocktails and stunning sea views. In some resorts the entertainment may even stretch to live music or a small casino.

Universally high standards of service and food, combined with the island fabric of the Seychelles, mean that holidaymakers typically dine in their hotel restaurants. Most resorts have at least two restaurants where the choice of cuisine ranges from elaborate buffets to fine-dining Italian and Japanese restaurants or those specialising in seafood and Creole cuisine. Pool bars and resort cafes sell snacks throughout the day.

Many of the Seychelles are traffic free, which means the only way to get around the resorts is often on foot, on a bicycle or by golf buggy. Seaplanes, helicopter and boats transfer holidaymakers who are not staying on Mahe between the airport and their resort. Even Victoria can be explored by foot. Chauffer driven cars or hire cars are another way of exploring Mahe.

Victoria on the island of Mahe is one of smallest capital cities in the world. This compact conurbation, dramatically set between the mountains and the sea, is best explored on foot. This gives holidaymakers a chance to mingle with the locals at the daily market. The Victoria Clock Tower (which looks like a miniature Big Ben) and the botanical gardens are also highlights. Take a trip around the resort island to really appreciate Mahe's stunning natural environment.

Make the most of the facilities at your resort and take a certified PADI diving course. Angel Fish Dive Centre on Mahe (Roche Caiman) offers courses for beginners (website: tel: 248 344 133; website: www.dive-angelfish.com). Alternatively, catch tropical game fish on a deep-sea fishing trip, indulge in a relaxing massage, or enjoy a no-expense spared meal and make a romantic candlelit dinner truly memorable.

Seychelles International Airport (SEZ)