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PARADISE ON EARTH – DISCOVERING THE DREAM WORLD OF THE SEYCHELLES

Photos by Viktoria Gruber

Turquoise sea, lush vegetation, the sound of birds singing a thousand melodies, the sweet scents of cinnamon, vanilla, and tropical plants in the gentle breeze. 

Laughing and joking fruit vendors, smiling communities, the masterpieces of Creole cuisine, and beautiful white sandy beaches. 

This is the Seychelles, an earthly paradise…

The Seychelles are located in the western part of the Indian Ocean, 1,600 km from Kenya’s eastern coast and 1,100 km from the island of Madagascar. 

As one of the smallest countries in the world, the islands are composed of two main island groups. 

The Mahé group consists of more than 40 central, mountainous granite islands, while the second group encompasses more than 70 outer, flat coral islands. 

The islands of the Mahé group are rocky, typically with a narrow coastal strip and central ridge. 

These islands, with their lush tropical vegetation, are generally characterized by tall gardens overlooking silver-white beaches and clear lagoons. 

Here, specifically on Mahé Island, is the highest point in the Seychelles, Morne Seychellois (905 meters). 

The coral islands, which rise only a few meters above sea level, are flat and have high coral reefs. 

These islands are mostly waterless and very few of them are inhabited. 

The climate of the Seychelles is tropical oceanic, with small temperature fluctuations throughout the year. 

Daytime temperatures rise to around 30°C in the afternoons, dropping below 20°C at night.

Of the approximately 200 plant species found in the Seychelles, about 80 are unique to the islands, such as certain pines, palm trees, and the famous coco de mer

The coco de mer, found on just two islands, bears fruit that is one of the largest and heaviest known fruits, highly valued in many Asian cultures for its aphrodisiac, medicinal, mystical, and other properties. 

The wildlife and marine life include an extremely diverse range of species, with over 900 identified fish species, and also include sea turtles and giant tortoises.

It is assumed that East African and Arab traders knew of the Seychelles earlier, but the first landing was made in 1502 by the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. 

The original French colonizers, along with their slaves, were later joined in the 19th century by deportees from France. 

Later, smaller numbers of Asians from China, India, and the Malay Peninsula arrived. 

The Republic of Seychelles gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1976. 

The official languages are Creole, English, and French. Religiously, more than three-quarters of the population are Roman Catholic. 

There are also Anglicans, other Christian denominations, Hindus, and Muslims.

Music and dance hold a particularly important place in the culture, creating an interesting atmosphere and authentically reflecting the spirit of the place. 

One famous dance is the sega, performed in colorful costumes.

The famous local Creole cuisine has been shaped by Indian, African, English, French, Spanish, and Chinese influences. 

The most basic food is fish, supplied by sea fishing, along with crabs, shellfish, and other seafood. 

Important ingredients include lemongrass, ginger, coriander, and tamarind, with curry being a significant spice as well.

In addition to agriculture, the economy of the Seychelles mainly relies on tourism. 

Most tourists come from Europe, especially Germany and France.

The capital, Victoria, is located on the main island, Mahé. 

The city’s attractions include a clock tower modeled after Little Ben in London, the courthouse, the botanical garden, the National History Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Victoria Market.

Among the attractions, it is also worth mentioning the Vallée de Mai (May Valley) nature reserve and national park. 

This UNESCO World Heritage site is located on Praslin, the second-largest island in the Seychelles. 

It is covered by palm forests and is home to many endemic plant and animal species in the spirit of biodiversity.

Also on Praslin’s northern coast is Anse Lazio, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles. 

This stunning white sandy beach, bordered by granite rocks, is a perfect place for travelers to relax in the shade of takamaka trees and coconut palms.

The Silhouette Island marine park, located 30 kilometers off Mahé’s western coast, is also famous for its rich biodiversity. 

The third largest of the granite islands, the island’s uneven terrain has helped preserve its natural beauty. 

The park protects over 2,000 species, including birds, geckos, chameleons, and tortoises.

The fourth largest island in the archipelago, La Digue, is a haven for nature lovers. 

It is also a great place to visit for those wanting to experience traditional island life and explore the small island by bicycle. 

Stunning white sandy beaches and granite rocks border the coast, and beach lovers will find one of the world’s most picturesque sandy and sea areas here: the Anse Source D’Argent beach, which is also a popular wedding venue.

Diving and rock climbing are also popular activities on the island, and hiking is possible on the Grand Anse Trail, which leads through the jungle and marshes to the beautiful Grand Anse beach, passing by French colonial houses.

One thing is certain: if someone visits this beautiful country, whether relaxing in the embrace of nature or actively exploring the islands and immersing themselves in the customs of an interesting culture, they will gain an experience of a lifetime!