
Treasure islands: the natural wonders of the Seychelles
The Seychelles is a beautiful place to go and explore, but what makes it so special is the natural wonders it has to offer. Some of these are beaches, mountains, and cliffs. Others are rich in culture and history. Read on to learn more about some of these great destinations.
Praslin Island
Praslin Island is the second largest island in Seychelles. It’s located 45 kilometers north east of Mahe.
It is a granitic island, which has different flora and fauna to coral islands. In fact, Praslin is home to the endemic Coco de mer palm tree.
Praslin Island is home to several pristine beaches. One of them is Anse Lazio Beach. The water is turquoise blue, and the sand is fine and white.
Another famous beach on Praslin is Cote D’Or Beach. This beach is surrounded by luxurious resorts, and has a soft, white sand.
Besides beaches, Praslin also boasts a number of natural attractions. These include the Vallee de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Also on the island is the National Botanical Gardens.
Bird Island
Bird Island is a paradise for nature lovers. The island is home to thousands of birds and marine life. There are several conservation programs at the island.
Bird Island is a tropical island with white sandy beaches. It is situated in the north of the Seychelles Archipelago. The island is also home to endemic species, including a giant tortoise.
To access the island, you can take a thirty-minute flight from the main island of Mahe. You can also opt for an organised excursion.
The island is a great place for scuba diving and snorkelling. The seabed of the island is rich in marine life and coral.
Catalina Island
If you haven’t been to Catalina Island, you’ve probably seen pictures of the island in Los Angeles Public Library’s photo collection. These photos show the island as a fisherman’s paradise, an archeological treasure trove, and a seaside resort.
Catalina Island was once a secluded and isolated island. It was used as a gold digging and smuggling place. The area was also used for cattle and sheep ranching. As early as the 1500s, Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo claimed the island for Spain.
However, the United States took over territorial claims to the island in 1846. In the 1920s, chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. developed Catalina Island as a tourist destination. He also built a casino on the island and oversaw the construction of his personal residence.
Beau Vallon beach
Beau Vallon Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Seychelles. It’s a 3-kilometer long stretch of white sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is surrounded by a lush green environment, making it the ideal place for picnics.
With a host of interesting activities to do, it’s no wonder that this is one of the most popular beach destinations in the Seychelles. Visitors can enjoy water skiing, snorkeling, and paddleboarding, to name just a few. There are also many resorts and hotels to choose from.
If you’re looking for a secluded and serene setting, look no further than Beau Vallon. This stunning beach is located in the northwest coast of Mahe. Away from the hustle and bustle of the capital Victoria, it is a great place to relax.
Multiculturalism
The Seychelles are an island nation in the Indian Ocean. This small archipelago consists of 115 islands. It is a diverse region with several national parks and nature reserves.
The population of the Seychelles is comprised of a variety of ethnic groups, mainly Asian and African. Many religions are practiced in the country, including Hinduism, Islam and Christianity.
A majority of the people in the Seychelles are English speakers, although French is also an official language. However, the local culture reflects the influences of various ethnic groups.
The Seychellois have a strong Creole heritage. This culture consists of a mix of European, African and Asian influences. They have adopted many aspects of other cultures and are becoming more adept at assimilating them into their own.
Shopping
Shopping in the Seychelles is a wonderful experience. You’ll find lots of things to buy, including jewelry, souvenirs, and art. Some of the best places to shop in the Seychelles are on Mahe and Victoria. The islands have small shops and markets where you can get the perfect souvenir.
When visiting the Seychelles, you may want to take a break from souvenir shopping and go hiking. You’ll also want to pack a few comfortable walking shoes. It’s important to remember to bring along some sun protection and tropical hats.
Seychelles offers a great selection of souvenirs, including beautiful wood carvings and sea shells. Local tea is another popular souvenir.