Indian Ocean Supplement DWHA Special Edition | Page 10

TROPICAL
Ahoy There!
Pirates used to
seek the islands
of the Seychelles
as a hideout
HEAVEN
Stumble across a paradise on earth. The Seychelles islands
possess some of the world’s most stunning shores, idyllic
waters and luscious landscapes
R
enowned for its tranquility, timeless beauty and
striking emerald green rainforests, the Seychelles
islands are truly stunning. Boasting world-famous
beaches, vibrant coral reefs and a blissfully warm
climate throughout the year, it’s the perfect backdrop for the
wedding of your dreams. Located in the western Indian Ocean,
the Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands, which cluster
around the main island of Mahé. The peaceful and harmonious
atmosphere ensures for an intimately romantic escape for you
and your loved one — you’ll never want to leave.
DINING AND DELICACIES
The Seychelles retains a rich and diverse culture that is equally
reflected in the cuisine. A fusion of many nationalities, dishes
range from spicy concoctions to meals bursting with sweet
flavours. Overall, the two main ingredients used are breadfruit
and coconuts, and you’ll be sure to see them gracing the menus
of many restaurants across the islands. Bananas are also in
abundance, thriving off the tropical climate, and are typically
eaten as a dessert. The most popular banana combination is
with coconut milk and sugar — so be sure to try it if you want to
sample a taste of the local culture. As goods are easily sourced,
ingredients are often super fresh and directly transported from
local gardens or fishing boats.
EXCITING EXCURSIONS
Although many honeymooners travel to the Seychelles solely for
the paradisiacal setting of turquoise waters and sandy beaches,
the islands also have many sightseeing attractions and activities
to put on your to-do list. Due to the vast amount of water
surrounding the Seychelles, water sports are in abundance. Choose
from diving, snorkelling or surfing amongst others. If you’re keen
on snorkelling, head to St. Pierre, one of several islands in the
bay of Côte d’Or on Praslin. Interspersed with coconut palms, the
island provides the ideal backdrop of a sensational sunset.
If you’d rather your feet stay firmly on land, photograph some of
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the rarest species of flora and
fauna on earth. A must-see is
the unique coco-de-mer, renowned
as the largest seed in the world. It can be
found naturally in only two places in the world — one of these
being the gorgeous World Heritage-listed site of Vallée de Mai.
Astoundingly beautiful, it was once believed to be the original
location of the Garden of Eden. Stroll hand-in-hand on one of the
three hiking trails and gaze upon the exquisiteness of the forest.
CULTURAL ROOTS
As a melting pot of diverse nationalities, the Seychelles is
brimming with fascinating traditions. Creole music and dance is
still popular with the locals as ninety-five percent of the archipelago
speaks the Creole language. If you visit the islands around October
then you might witness the ‘Festival Kreol’. In celebration of Creolo
and Seychellois identity, festivities are done through music, dance,
arts, crafts and cuisine. The festival offers a great opportunity to
experience various aspects of the local culture.