If patriarchy isn’t your thing, fly to the Seychelles! This incredible archipelago, both in its beauty and its contradictions, is in fact a matriarchal society. Here, not only do women rule, but the figure of “single mothers” is the normal basis of the family, while men are literally “used” only for the purposes of reproduction and sustenance! This is just one of the curiosities surrounding the islands, which for a long time were exclusively a “tourist destination for the rich.” There are many myths to debunk about the Seychelles and at the Seychelles. And what better way to… go and see for yourself?
Getting to the Seychelles
The Seychelles Islands can be reached via direct flights from Europe, for example from Paris-De Gaulle (CDG) and London-Heathrow (LHR) airports, or via Dubai Airport (DXB), which connect to the archipelago’s international airport: Mahé (SEZ). To get around the islands, you can use taxis and local buses, as well as ferries. Alternatively, many prefer to travel by bicycle or private transport with a driver. The ideal time to book here is spring (April-May) or autumn.
Welcome to Paradise!
A vast archipelago (155 islands, of which “only” 115 are the major ones) located between Africa and Asia, with a colorful and diverse population, the Seychelles are often mentioned due to the luxury tourism that characterizes them at alternating times. Indeed, depending on the trends, millionaires return to their love for them and boost the archipelago economy—otherwise based on fishing and agriculture.
The largest and most important island is Mahé, home to 22 of the 25 districts into which this small nation is divided. Mahé is home to a the only mountain (just 905 meters high), the capital Port Victoria-Mahé, and the university. Most of the population lives here, and tourism is concentrated there. But the Seychelles boast hundreds, if not thousands, of beauties. It’s impossible to enjoy them all; you have to choose, because even “Paradise” should be taken in moderation!
What to see
The typical locations on your Seychelles tourist itinerary are also the most easily accessible and best connected. Many other fabulous corners of this archipelago are unknown or reserved for adventure enthusiasts.
The tourist who loves comfort will base himself in Port Victoria-Mahé, a small capital rich in historical and artistic treasures. The Clock Tower, a mocking imitation of London’s Big Ben, is the main monument; the Botanical Gardens and the Market are two other popular tourist destinations; don’t overlook the local museums, all very interesting. The capital’s beaches offer excellent services at affordable prices.
Mahé Island boasts some of the most beautiful and famous beaches, such as Takamaka, Sainte-Anne Marine (in the Sainte-Anne Marine National Park), the beaches of Runde and Moyenne Islands, the coasts and forests of Morne National Park, Thérèse Island, and Anse Royale Bay.
The second largest island is Praslin. If you find yourself there, you shall enjoy sun and sea on the beaches of Anse Lazio, in the north, or along the golden sands of Grand’Anse and Anse Volbert. At the center of all these little paradises lies the vast forest of Vallée de Mai.
La Digue is the tourist island par excellence. Dreamy beaches—Source d’Argent, Patates, Coco, Union Estate—and places to have fun and relax make it a highly sought-after destination for the masses who can afford it.
Nature and adventure enthusiasts should visit Curieuse Island, home to giant tortoises, and Ave Marie Island, whose seabed is a unique spectacle.
Debunking myths and fun facts
To fully understand the Seychelles, you really need to go there, and not rely solely on rumors and gossip. You’ll discover useful and interesting things. For example, that… no, this archipelago isn’t “just for the rich”. By researching ahead of time and through the right agencies, you’ll discover that there are plenty of accommodation options even for those on a budget.
The Seychelles aren’t just sea and beaches. The interior of each island is a world waiting to be discovered, and local guides are always happy to lead you on the trail of mysterious pirate treasures, legends of sorcerers, and other fantastic (or real?) stories – not necessarily related to the ocean.
The Seychelles are safe islands but they lack some important services, for example: there is no beach lifeguard. So, do respect signs when they say swimming, diving, or touching certain plants is prohibited. In the event of an accident, no one will come to your aid.
In some highly populated areas, pollution is not lacking (mostly dried algae and plastic); for this reason, you better seek out corners less frequented by mass tourism to find the paradise you’re looking for. But always rely on a local guide, as you move, and bring copies of your travel documents. Insurance is strongly recommended.
