Seychelles is a group of 115 islands. It lies in the Indian Ocean, northeast of the island of Madagascar. Seychelles is called the island of love. The islands have a tropical climate and invite the tourists to be in peace and serenity on them. Only a few of these islands are inhabited.
The ‘Subious Underwater Festival’ is held in Seychelles and also the ‘Festival Kreol’ held each year in October to showcase the traditions and heritage of Creole. You also have an international sailing event in January. The international fishing competition is held in November.
Sightseeing in Seychelles
Victoria
Victoria is the capital city of the Seychelles group of islands. It is on the northeastern side of Mahe Island. Victoria is the port of Seychelles. It is one of the smallest capital cities in the world. Victoria is the city where most of Mahe’s population is settled. The tourists can buy some classy traditional souvenirs like sea shells, textiles, straw hats, pearl jewelry, woodwork, needlework, crochet items and paintings made by the locals. Coconut products are abundant in Victoria. So do pick up some items when in this city. There are a number of markets, shops, art galleries where you can shop for the local produce in the city of Victoria. Internally, the visitor can take a bus, taxi or like the locals bicycle around in the city of Victoria.
Victoria Botanical Garden
In these botanical gardens, the visitors will find a number of indigenous and exotic plants along with birds, giant tortoises and fruit bats. The total area is 15 acres. Here, you will find the famous CoCo de Mer palm, which has twin nuts and grows only in Seychelles.
Museum of Natural History
This museum has a collection of Seychelles’ unique geological forms and its flora and fauna. Several exhibits show that the government keenly protects the islands’ natural environment. The museum is not big, and an hour or two is enough to come to know about Seychelles’ hidden natural treasures.
Le Jardin du Roi
Drive down 20 minutes from Victoria and you will come to the 18th century plantations. As you walk down, you see gardens of nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and citronella. You also get to visit the planter’s house. You are free to munch on the tree fallen fruits. To satisfy your hunger, wait till you reach the open-air restaurant and have a sumptuous helping of grated green papaya, tropical salads and star fruit. You see tortoises freely roaming around the gardens.
St. Anne Marine Park
This marine park is best visited from Victoria. Islands of St. Anne, Cerf, Long, Round and Moyenne islands surround this park. The traveler here can learn a lot about undersea life by taking a day tour. This marine park is a favorite for snorkeling.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Victoria should not be missed by the tourists. Visit some of its night clubs and have a blast of a time. There are theatres, discos, cinemas and trendy restaurant to add a zing to the nightlife. One of the theatres show Hollywood blockbusters. Tourists all through the night enjoy the music and dance shows while sipping beer.