The Seychelles has long been on my bucket list and when I got the opportunity to go in October I could hardly contain my excitement.
My itinerary was busy but it all adds to the experience and great to see the diversity the island has to offer.
Slightly blurry eyed after an overnight flight via Abu Dhabi there was no doubting the wow factor when coming into land certainly got my attention the green of the foliage the azure blue sea and the white sand that fringes the island I knew then I wasn’t going to be disappointed.
Disembarking the aircraft we were greeted airside and fast-tracked through security to collect our luggage where we met our guide/driver for the week Ted! He was a charming local happy to point out places of interest along the way to our first hotel Carana Beach…
Feeling a little peckish we decided on a quick change and to head down to the pool/beach area for a snack and to relax…lovely double loungers facing out to sea with comfy cushions actually felt like a perfect place for a late lunch, the food was delicious and followed by a little paddle we felt instantly relaxed.
Not wanting the venture too far we decided to book a table for dinner, the bar looked lovely by night and with a local band playing some well-known songs there was a lovely ambiance.
Day 2 – Ted picked us up early for an island tour firstly visiting the capital Victoria is was a buzing with life a Saturday morning with people going about their daily business looking around the market all the fresh fish and wonderful colours of the fruit and veg…
Ted then took us up the spice garden what a magnificent view, the food was delicious as we were treated to some local favourites.
Returning to the hotel we decided it would be nice to experience an evening out and took the opportunity to visit Eden Island a purpose built marina housing some bars and restaurants.
Day 3 – This morning we were collected in time for our flight over to Denis Island, I must admit I am not a fan of small aircraft although it was certainly worth the journey…landing on grass you automatically feel like you’re in paradise…taken by golf carts to the main house you are casually sat down (no formal check in desk) the first thing you reach for is your camera, a welcome drink and sushi is brought and the formality is quickly done before showing you to your room, the rooms are rustic and beautiful with direct access to the beach from your very own garden featuring a huge day bed.
Lunch is served buffet style with a wonderful selection almost all of their food is produced on or from the sea around the island.
Walking the short distance to the house you really have that feeling of barefoot luxury, dinner is a choice of amazing dishes…Seafood plater, local dishes and yummy deserts…Low key and quiet.
Day 4 – Today we decided to explore the island hiring bike loading the basket up with snorkelling gear. Heading off with a map bound for an area known for seeing turtles, passing the runway along past the farm we find the secluded beach and instantly saw the turtles pottering around in the shallow waters. Creeping into the water trying not to disturb…
Following the woods around taking in the views from various parts of the island as we get closer to the main house thought quickly turn to lunch and what delighted will be on offer today.
Day 5 – Today we are leaving paradise and as I’m sat there waiting for my taxi (golf cart) to the least crowned departure lounge I have ever seen I am looking forward to experiencing a larger resort.
Four seasons never fails to impresses, having seen the beaming smile at check in when she said there has been an upgrade to a serenity villa I knew instantly this was going to be amazing!
I cannot even think of a word to describe the view we felt on top of the world looking down from the this gorgeous villa onto the resort and beach. You hardly want to leave the room, although it is nice to experience lunch the place has an holiday feel a great mix of couple families groups of friends.
Day 5 – Not deterred by the threat of rain we decided to hire some snorkelling gear and head to beach – good viewing and some time to relax, before dinner tasting local flavours and enjoying the entertainment of local dancers and singers
Day 6 – All too soon it was time to leave for Maia, with its more rustic feel and beautiful views…this place is stunning.
Our butlers kindly set the scene with a wonderful lunch to experience the in villa dining. Followed by a relaxing massage what a way to end our visit to the Seychelles.
Next stop Emirates Place Abu Dhabi
Polar opposite to the Seychelles however equally as interesting, I have visited Dubai in the past and was expecting pretty much the same and yes flamboyant buildings and excellent service awaits…
My stay wasn’t long enough to fully explore however an afternoon by the wonderful pool and a visit to the gold souk was enough to encourage me to return again even if only for another stopover on route to a further afield destination.