6 reasons why Seychelles is worth the distance

If you’ve ever scrolled Instagram looking for travel inspiration, you’ve probably seen images of a far off island with clear waters, vibrant blue skies and fluffy clouds, and wished you could be there. Well, that picture-perfect paradise is a reality in Seychelles, an archipelago of 115 islands off the coast of East Africa, and it’s just as gorgeous and romantic as it seems. And what’s even better is that it’s quite a bit more accessible than most people imagine. Here are six great reasons to go and see for yourself.

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Get there faster than you might think

Seychelles’ location, way out in the Indian Ocean, would make it seem hard—and expensive—to get to. While that was true in the past, it’s not so much anymore. You can reach Seychelles from major North American gateways via several different airlines—and ticket prices are reasonable. For instance: The cost of an average roundtrip flight on Ethiopian Airlines from Washington D.C. to Seychelles costs about $1,306 in Economy (and $5,300 in their Cloud 9 Business Class, if you really want to splurge).

Splurge (or save) at local hotels

As the primary island of Seychelles, Mahé Island is where practically all inbound visitors make their arrival. The city of Victoria is fashionably cosmopolitan, and a center of art and culture. Fortunately, the island also has a range of different accommodation options catering to various budgets. On the high end, you’ll find Savoy Resort & Spa, a 160-room, 5-star oceanfront resort on Beau Vallon Beach. This resort comes replete with wood accents and modern amenities, making each guest room a welcoming retreat from a day of exploration on the island. The Savoy also boasts the largest swimming pool in Seychelles. For a more intimate stay, consider the Doubletree by Hilton Seychelles Allamanda Resort & Spa. With its 30 rooms, this 4-star oceanfront property on Anse Forbans Beach is the definition of affordable luxury. And many of the oceanfront accommodations include a private outdoor whirlpool tub! 

View from budget-friendly Seashells Beach Villas

Meanwhile, on Praslin Island, the second largest island in Seychelles, you’ll enjoy a natural and rustic atmosphere with lush foliage and breathtaking white sand beaches. This is the island where you can truly get away from it all, without sacrificing a single comfort. If you’re set on gorgeous views and are comfortable with a splurge, consider Constance Lemuria Resort, where each of the sumptuously appointed suites and villas offers dream-like vistas. The resort also features an 18-hole golf course, spa, diving and various culinary offerings. Meanwhile, on the budget side, you’ll find the four-star Seashell Beach Villa, with prices starting at just $133. It’s located right on Anse Beach and each of its eight suites includes a balcony or patio, dining area and kitchen, so you can save even more by cooking in-house. For the best possible savings on all of these properties and more, be sure to sign up for Orbitz Insider Prices and then book your trip on the app for additional savings.

Explore the many picture perfect beaches

The beaches of Seychelles are idyllic in so many ways. From the remote environs of Baie Laraie off the northern coast of Praslin Island to the hustle and bustle of Beau Vallon on Mahé Island, there’s something for everyone. If you’re seeking a gorgeous beach experience, Anse Georgette on Praslin Island is the place to be—but this beach is private, and only guests of the Constance Lemuria Resort have immediate access to tit. However, if a perfect snorkeling experience is more to your liking, Anse Lazio on Praslin island will truly satisfy. It is considered by many to be the best beach in Seychelles as the waters are crystal clear and loaded with fascinating sea life (including the Seychelles Bubul).

Tour and taste at a local rum distillery

A visit to the Takamaka Rum Distillery in Victoria will give you the opportunity to experience Takamaka’s distinctive rum-making process, from pressing the raw Seychellois sugar cane on-site to the final step of distilling. You will also have a chance to sample some of Takamaka’s selection of premium rums after the tour. Purchase specially blended drinks (for on-site consumption) as well as bottles of the rum to take home to friends and family.

Seychelles

Island hop without going broke

If you find that staying on Mahé Island is more a more cost-effective option for your budget, you can always experience some of the other islands by taking day trips. Ferry sailings with Cat Cocos from Victoria (Mahé Island) will take you to the islands of Praslin or La Digue. Book at least 14 days in advance and you’ll receive a discount, so you can experience a round-trip journey between Mahé and Praslin at an average cost (including taxes) of $106 per person.

Indulge in authentic local cuisine for less

To experience something that is truly a favorite with locals, head to Marie-Antoinette Restaurant, which is housed in a stately manor from the 1800s. With their fixed priced menu, you can enjoy wonderful Seychellois Creole delights such as eggplant fritters, chicken curry, fish stew and more—all for about $20.

Hone your Seychellois cooking skills

Thailand-based AVANI Hotels has a 4-star property in Victoria, the AVANI Barbarons Seychelles Resort, which has become quite popular thanks to its cooking classes. The detailed course teaches visitors about the various elements of Seychellois Creole and Thai cuisines, starting with a visit to a local market to select fruits, vegetables and meats. Guests then return to the resort to create a culinary masterpiece with the assistance of one of their chefs.

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