A current campaign by the Seychelles Tourism Board in the UK highlights the fact that, though long-haul from the UK and Europe, the islands represent a diverse and affordable holiday option. Called "Affordable Seychelles", the campaign highlights the fact that the Seychelles currency has been realigned, and now more than ever, the islands provide an opportunity for a holiday of a lifetime.
The Seychelles is a year-round holiday destination, located outside of the Indian Ocean cyclone belt. No foreigners require a visa to enter Seychelles. A one-month visitor's permit is issued on arrival and may be extended on application. The Seychelles 115 islands have a number of beaches which are consistently ranked as the worlds best, but are never overcrowded. The islands lend themselves to the idea of a multi-centred stay, and also can form part of a multi-centred holiday with other Indian Ocean locations.
The islands occupy nearly one million square kilometres of the Indian Ocean east of Kenya. Only a few of the 115 islands are inhabited, with most of most of the local population on the main island, Mahé and the capital city of Victoria.
Though Mahé itself is very populated and well-developed, there are still many beaches, fine peaks and plenty if stunning mountain scenery ideal for walking and hiking. The peak season is April to October, between the trade winds. These are great months for swimming, diving and snorkelling, with water temperatures reaching an extraordinary 30 degrees Celsius and underwater visibility is 30 metres or more.
But the islands are not only about sea and sand. The Seychelles offers a measured, peaceful way of life and offers a sanctuary from the pressures of modern city life, with its people live close to their roots and offer a warm welcome. The Seychelles also has half its area set aside as natural reserves, including 2 UNESCO heritage sites. These are Aldabra, the world's largest raised coral atoll, and Praslin's Valee de Mai where the Coco-de-Mer grows in a primeval valley.
For active holidays, there is deep-sea, fly and bottom fishing in pristine blue seas, and sailing around many uninhabitable, isolated islands with rare and unique species of flowers and animals.
The island of Praslin, about 20 miles north east of Mahé, is a popular stop for cruise ships, and is ideal for honeymoon couples and beach connoisseurs.
Even in recession-hit times, the Seychelles Tourism Board is keen to promote the affordability of a holiday in the Seychelles, and is working with hoteliers and accommodation providers to ensure a good supply of accommodation across a broad price spectrum. Now is the time to consider that Seychelles holiday of a lifetime.
Author Resource:
Jimi St. Pierre writes for several Travel Companies in the UK, including Country Connect, a publisher of a daily news feed to the UK travel industry. Country Connect has a UK Tourist Office Directory, cheap flights and airport parking at http://www.countryconnect.co.uk
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