Welcome to Seychellesbookings.com! Dive into a world of sun-drenched beaches, thrilling adventures, and vibrant culture on our island travel blog. Uncover hidden gems, indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities, savor local cuisine, and find exclusive retreats. Let us be your guide to the ultimate tropical escape – where paradise awaits! 2026-05-01T15:35:17+04:00 Zend_Feed_Writer https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com

2021-12-16T00:00:00+04:00 2021-12-16T22:17:36+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/christmas-in-seychelles Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Christmas in Seychelles If you’re looking for somewhere to be warm this Christmas, your fireplace might not be the only option! Ever dreamed of a white-sanded Christmas? If so, then Seychelles could be the perfect holiday-season getaway.   A Tropical Wonderland Christmas in Seychelles is all about family, food... and beach parties!   Like many places around the globe, celebrating a Seychelles Christmas includes decorating homes, malls, restaurants and bars, and other buildings, both inside and out. The island is transformed into a winter wonderland... just minus the snow.   The capital Victoria, on Mahe, is decorated with bright lights and colourful ornaments. Strolling its streets and admiring the decorations is a popular holiday pastime with families. It is also the place-to-be for those searching for a special Christmas gift. Victoria is full of small boutiques and local shops offering great discounts at this time of the year. Take the opportunity to find some great deals while experiencing Christmas in a unique way     When it comes to the iconic Christmas Tree, Seychellois are no different and often have one in their living room. However, the traditional pine tree is often replaced by a tropical Casurina tree, a local evergreen conifer.   If corona measures permit, you could maybe join their Christmas midnight mass at Anse Royale. Most of Seychelles’ population is Roman Catholic, so churches are usually packed. Before the pandemic, the churches were so busy that some even attended the services from outside!   The season’s celebrations also include lying under the sun, walking alongside the crystal blue waters, enjoying water sports, going fishing or snorkelling, and making sandcastles!     This time of the year is also perfect for visiting some of the most popular island’s locations! This includes Anse Lazio and Vallee de Mai on Praslin, Beau Vallon and Victoria on Mahe and Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue. You can find a travel guide here.     Seychelles Christmas Feast In Seychelles, Christmas Dinners are replaced with barbecues and picnics on the beach. And the delicious food is complemented by flavourful local beers and rum.     During this period, most hotels and restaurants offer special Christmas menus that often include turkey, ham, and roasted vegetables. However, you should also expect a little Creole twist! To top it off, it's not rare to have live bands present for the occasion.    Christmas Beach Parties  Seychellois also like to party! If you feel adventurous, and if the pandemic allows it, you should definitely join one of their beach parties. There will be plenty of drinks and loud music!     Even if the vibe might feel different, the spirit of Christmas remains the same. It is a time of celebration with family, festive decoration, great food and lots of parties! A sunny Seychellois Christmas is definitely something to experience at least once in a lifetime!  About the author  Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com Learn more about Seychelles in our Travel Tips Check out all of our exciting Seychelles Activities

2021-12-08T00:00:00+04:00 2025-04-11T15:16:59+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/perfect-ladigue-daytrip Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com The Perfect La Digue Day Trip If you plan to visit Seychelles, visiting La Digue is a must! The island offers stunning palm-fringed beaches, rare wildlife, and an off-the-beaten-track feel. This is a practical guide for your perfect La Digue day trip!   Getting to La Digue  The island is easily accessible from Praslin or Mahe. It is only a 15-minute ferry crossing from Praslin and between 75 - 120 minutes from Mahe (route dependant).   When travelling from Praslin to La Digue, I recommend Cat Rose (Inter Island Ferry). They have multiple daily departures, including morning crossings at 07:00 and 09:30, perfect for a day trip. Round trip ferry tickets cost €28.00 per person.   Cat Cocos is the recommended ferry operator when travelling from Mahe to La Digue. With up to three departures a day and a fleet of modern, high-speed catamarans, round trip fares start at €120.00 per person.       Ferry tickets to La Digue, from either Praslin or Mahe, can be booked on Seychellesbookings.com.    All ferries arrive in La Passe - a small village which is the centre of activity on La Digue.    Getting around La Digue  Undoubtedly, the best way to get around La Digue is by bicycle, even for the not too adventurous! Bike rental is about €10.00 a day, and you can find many bike rental vendors near the jetty.      Cycling from La Passe down south towards the famous Anse Source d'Argent beach is relatively easy as the roads are mostly flat. However, accessing the beaches to the east will require navigating some steep hills!   TIP: To save money, why not book a package from Mahe or Praslin. Self-guided packages include hotel pick-up/drop-off (on Praslin or Mahe), round trip ferry tickets, bicycle rental and entrance tickets to L'Union Estate! Mahe packages can be booked here. From Praslin, book your package here.    Since car hire is not an option (motorised vehicles are limited on the island), taxis are available for the less adventurous.   Explore La Digue Start your day with a tasty breakfast at Glorious Bakery in La Passe, nearby the jetty. They offer a wide variety of high-quality, well priced, freshly-baked goods, including croissants, brownies, muffins, and pastries. You could even grab some samosas and big sandwiches to take away for lunch on the beach later!   After a satisfying breakfast, head to L'Union Estate. This World Heritage site is one of the most visited places on the island! It boasts a French colonial-style Plantation House and a traditional Copra Mill - one of the last working examples in Seychelles. Time your visit right, and you can catch a demonstration of how coconut oil is extracted.     The estate is also home to the original settlers of La Digue, who now occupy the estate's cemetery. After learning more about La Digue history, you'll also get to meet some of La Digue's other settlers - Giant Aldabra Tortoises. Watch in awe as these prehistoric beasts slowly roam around their purpose-built enclosure. Truly an experience to be remembered!     An entrance fee of SCR 100 (approx. €7) is charged per person (non-resident) per day to enter the estate, allowing access to probably the island's most important attraction... Anse Source d'Argent.   ASDA (as it's locally known) is considered amongst the world's best beaches and is one of the main reasons visitors come to La Digue. It boasts soft white sand, calm turquoise waters and spectacular granite boulders. Take the time for some snorkelling, sunbathing, and relaxing on the beach! And don't forget your camera, as there are endless postcard-perfect picture opportunities to be had!     If you are getting hungry, I recommend taking lunch at Lanboursir Restaurant, the last restaurant you will see before reaching ASDA. They offer some of the best Creole food on the island. Sit with your feet in the sand while you tuck into fresh fish, seafood, and other local delicacies. And if you enjoy a bit of spice, I recommend the curry!     If you're still up for another adventure after all this and would like to see more beaches, head southeast about 5-6 km to Grand Anse, Petit Anse and Anse Coco. Along the way, stop at Simon's Fruit Shop to get one of his famous fresh fruit juices or smoothies!   Starting at Grand Anse, this series of three adjoining bays are home to picturesque beaches, granite boulders and lush tropical forest. Take some time to wander along the golden sands and take in the stunning surroundings. The waves here often attract surfers but are not ideal for swimming. Even so, the views are breathtaking!       Alternatively, you could visit Veuve Nature Reserve if you prefer not to stray so far from La Passe. This charming park is the last refuge to the rare Black Paradise Flycatcher, known to locals as Veuve (widow). Entry is free, and there are several hiking trails throughout the reserve.   When you're done exploring La Digue, head back to La Passe to pick-up some souvenirs. You will find many local shops with handmade items, jewellery, and crafts.   Make sure to be at the jetty at least 30 minutes before the ferry departure time! And while the ferry makes its way back towards Praslin or Mahe, take in the panoramic views of the islands. You might even spot some dolphins along the way!     About the author  Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com Learn more about Seychelles in our Travel Tips Check out all of our exciting Seychelles Activities  

2021-03-11T00:00:00+04:00 2024-03-01T15:59:45+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/seychelles-open-to-everyone Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Seychelles open to everyone Great news! From 25th March 2021, Seychelles will reopen its borders to all visitors regardless of their vaccination status (except for South Africa).   The Seychelles Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism delivered the long-awaited announcement on 4th March 2021, making Seychelles one of the first countries to open its borders to visitors from all around the world.   Relaxed travel requirements Mandatory quarantines and restrictions on movements will no longer apply. There will also be no minimum required stay in hotels upon arrival. Even better, visitors will now have access to all communal areas within hotel premises, including bars, swimming pools, spas and Kid’s clubs!   All that is needed is a negative PCR test taken 72 hours before departure. Health measures should still be observed, such as the wearing of face masks, social distancing, and regular hand-washing.     Successful vaccination campaign  Seychelles’ economy is almost entirely reliant on tourism. So it comes as no surprise that the country worked hard to become the first African nation to roll-out the COVID-19 vaccine. As part of their vaccination campaign, Seychelles aimed to be the first country in the world to vaccinate 70% of their population. It seems clear the campaign has done what it set out to do.   Minister Radegonde said:   “The vaccination campaign has been quite successful. The government has done everything in its power to make sure that the population is protected. We have now arrived at the point where opening our borders further is the next step to allow for our economic recovery. The measures announced broadly reflect the recommendation of our tourism partners and in full consultation with, and the endorsement of, our health authorities.” The government has done everything in its power to protect Seychelles’ population and to make the archipelago a safe place for visitors from around the globe.        Time to plan your trip Airlines are resuming flights to Seychelles! We can now finally start to get out of our COVID-bubbles and turn our travel dreams into a reality.   Emirates is increasing the number of flights to the Seychelles with the coming UAE spring break. They will operate seven weekly flights to Mahe, until 30th October 2021. Air Seychelles will reinstate its routes from Dubai and Tel Aviv later this month, and Qatar Airways is increasing its availability. Since Seychelles is considered a leisure route, flight schedules have been adjusted, allowing tourists to check-in to their hotels straight away and optimize their time. Visitors from the UK will need to be a bit more patient, as it seems overseas holidays will only be allowed starting mid-May.   Activity and tour companies are planning on introducing more excursions. And ferry companies are expected to operate more trips to accommodate the increasing number of tourists. You can already book your ferry tickets between Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.       Our advice would be not to wait too long to visit Seychelles. While the world pressed the pause button, nature was able to recover. The islands are now more pristine than ever. And the icing on the cake: April and May are ideal months to travel due to the excellent weather conditions.  So what are you waiting for?        About the author  Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com Learn more about Seychelles in our Travel Tips Check out all of our exciting Seychelles Activities

2021-01-19T00:00:00+04:00 2025-04-11T15:06:47+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/seychelles-vaccine Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Seychelles - Light at the end of the tunnel Since re-opening to international visitors back in August 2020, the Seychelles government - in a bid to support its tourism industry while still trying to keep its population safe from the global pandemic - placed restrictions on travellers to the archipelago, limiting the number of countries from which visitors were welcome. As could be expected, these restrictions, along with global travel bans, stopped many from visiting Seychelles this past year, which in turn has had a devastating impact on the Seychelles tourism industry. But now, with the roll-out of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide, there may be light at the end of the tunnel! In the last few days, Seychelles opened its doors to visitors from all countries... they just need to prove they have been given both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine. Cannot wait to visit Seychelles? Just present evidence that you have been fully vaccinated - through an authenticated certificate - and show proof of a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival. You could be in Paradise sooner than you think! Who will be returning to Seychelles There are some countries for who the number of COVID-19 vaccinations already distributed far surpasses the rest of the world. So is the case for Israel, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Israel wants to become the first country in the world to inoculate its entire population against Covid-19, with over 20% already vaccinated! The United Kingdom, which became the first nation to start inoculating its citizens with a fully-trialled and tested COVID-19 vaccine, is also high on the list. So it would be no surprise to see visitors from these three countries amongst the first to head back to Seychelles. Seychelles will open to all starting mid-March Not getting vaccinated any time soon? Not to worry: once most of the Seychelles adult population is vaccinated, the country will open up to all visitors, vaccinated or not! At that point, visitors will only need a negative PCR test, obtained less than 72 hours before travel, to be allowed entry. Seychelles has become the first African country to administer the COVID-19 vaccine. As part of their vaccination campaign, Seychelles aims to be the first country in the world to vaccinate 70% of its population, over the age of 18, with the hope of achieving collective immunity. Seychelles now has 9 teams, targeting in total 1800 vaccines per day. So at this pace - with a population of roughly 98000 inhabitants - they could achieve their goal by mid-March! President Wavel Ramkalawan affirmed:  “From there, we will be able to declare the Seychelles 'safe' with regard to Covid (...)  The Covid-19 vaccination campaign is an important step in restarting our tourism industry as the country balances efforts to maintain tourism activities and protect its population from the spread of the virus.” Following the same thought, the Minister for Tourism - Sylvestre Radegonde - said:  “We hope that this will open up the tourism industry for the locals, primarily for the small hotels who are struggling on La Digue, Praslin and also on Mahe. And also provide the kick that our economy desperately needs.” Seychelles will, without doubt, certainly be among the first countries to open its borders to visitors from all around the world. This not only brings hope to the tourism industry but anyone wishing to travel to a tropical heaven this year! Will you be there? If yes, we invite you to book your ferry transfers between Mahe, Praslin and La Digue with us. And if you need help with planning your trip, do not hesitate to contact us! About the author Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com   Learn more about Seychelles in our Travel Tips     Check out all of our exciting Seychelles Activities      

2020-12-22T00:00:00+04:00 2024-03-01T15:08:31+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/seychelles-is-alive Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Seychelles is alive once again Despite the worldwide health crisis, with nations enforcing even more stringent lockdowns and travel restrictions, Seychelles still remains an escape for thousands of tourists. Seychelles managed to prevent the virus from spreading by taking quick and drastic measures back in March, putting the island nation into lockdown for almost three months. The archipelago now seems well ahead on the path of recovery and remains steadfast. Seychelles offers visitors a unique experience. Its blend of tropical scenery, flavours and scents, will help you forget for a moment the raging global pandemic without deviating from the very crucial goal of keeping people safe. The Seychelles Travel Board Chief Executive affirmed:   “Safe tourism is not an option for Seychelles but rather a must. Not only for the safety of our people but also especially for the restart of our industry, which was until we were hit by the pandemic, a flourishing one. Our commitments for safe tourism have been ably supported by the various partners on the tourism task force” To learn more about how Seychelles made safety central to its recovery strategy, I would suggest checking our blog blog on the subject as well as our News Page. Tourists from all over the world are flying to Seychelles  Lately, the islands have seen an influx of Israelis arrive at its shores*. After all, it is one of the few safe destinations (no quarantine restrictions) they can currently fly to! Air Seychelles was the first to launch direct flights from Israel to the islands with the offer of discounted flights. As other airlines followed, more and more Israelis are taking this rare opportunity to visit paradise. And for now, with many nations still unable to travel internationally, they essentially have islands to themselves. SCAA (Seychelles Cyvil Aviation Authority) said that:   Since November, the airport of Seychelles ""... has been quite vibrant with the arrival of chartered flights from Tel Aviv, Israel. These flights have been conducted by Arkia and El Al, both of which are Israeli national airlines. Air Seychelles has also resumed its scheduled flights to Israel since last month. In total, over 5,000 Israeli tourists have been able to visit the archipelago." The United Kingdom has also eased travel restrictions to several destinations, including Seychelles. And with British Airways resuming weekly flights to Mahe, visitors from the UK can exchange the winter blues for an endless summer.Tourists from Germany, Switzerland, South Africa, Australia and France are also finding their way back to the archipelago. The islands are springing back to life! This is the result of the efforts being made by the local tourism industry, international partners and airlines who are all pushing for Seychelles to remain visible, accessible and entertaining.   Seychelles has plenty to offer  Seychelles is 115 small islands in the Indian Ocean, with one more beautiful than the other. While most of the Islands are inhabited, Mahé, Praslin and La Digue are home to most of the local population. The easiest way to travel the islands is by ferry, with regular (almost) daily services running all year-round.  Given the popularity of island hopping, it is recommended to book your ferry tickets! You can check our travel tips for more information on the best things to see and do in Mahe, La Digue and Praslin.     For anyone planning a visit, many popular resorts across the islands now promote all-inclusive packages. These offer the ultimate in rest and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the islands and their many stunning, turquoise-water fringed beaches. On Mahe, why not book a romantic stay at Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa. They offer a full-service spa and an infinity pool set among tropical palm trees. They also grant you access to a PADI diving centre from where you can explore the many colourful reefs.  Just a short 1-hour ferry journey from Mahe will see you arrive in Praslin, where the luxurious Constance Lemuria resort awaits you. And aside from its sumptuous suites and villas, it boasts an 18-hole championship golf course and secluded white-sand beaches.  Another short 15-minute ferry ride will take you to the paradise island of La Digue, perfect for a family getaway. A stay in Le Nautique Waterfront Hotel is the ideal base from which to explore La Digue and enjoy one of the many activities on offer, including kayaking, hiking, snorkelling and cycling. For more ideas of where to stay, please take a look at our News page where you will find an extensive list of COVID-19-approved accommodations.   Current health and safety guidelines make it difficult to conduct group excursions but private, guided tours are currently available to those wanting a more personal experience. Creole Travel Services are experts in organizing a variety of private tours around Mahe and Praslin. Admire the raw beauty of the island with a VIP tour of Mahe, including a visit to the capital, Victoria. Or perhaps a glass-bottom boat excursion around the Marine Park. For the more adventurous, why not join a guided nature hike through the mysterious realm of the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve.   You could also book a ferry to La Digue and rent bikes to cycle around the island. Bicycles are easily rented near the jetty. We would also recommend going diving! While the world pressed the pause button, nature has been recovering, and the reefs are now healthier and full of life. This is your chance to visit Seychelles waters at their best!   Restaurants are open! So do not miss the opportunity to taste some delectable Creole food: fresh grilled fish, coconut curry, sausage Rougay, lentils, smoked fish salad and more!   In short, Seychelles has bounced back to life! And if you are planning on travelling to paradise, there are plenty of things to see and do. And the good news is: the Seychelles Tourism Board found that 100% of respondents said they felt safe in Seychelles during the pandemic.  So do not wait any longer... book your next trip to Seychelles now! *NOTE: According to the last update we received on the 21/12/2020, it seems like tourists from Israel and the United Kingdom will need to wait a bit longer before visiting paradise! About the author  Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com     Learn more about Seychelles in our Travel Tips     Check out all of our exciting Seychelles Activities  

2020-09-30T00:00:00+04:00 2024-03-01T15:43:22+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/special-status-seychelles Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Seychelles is determined to stay open! Like many other countries relying heavily on the tourism industry, Seychelles and its economy has been hard-hit by COVID-19. While many island destinations are either still in lockdown, or on the verge of reclosing their borders, the Seychelles government has taken a different approach. In an effort to combat the uncertainties brought about by the current pandemic, and to keep businesses and job alive, Seychelles is doing everything it can to attract visitors back to their safe paradise. Keeping Seychelles tourism alive “The Canary Islands, the Balearics, seven Greek islands, Trinidad, Bali, the BVI and many more have all closed their borders to international tourism. However, in the middle of the Indian Ocean, the small island nation of Seychelles is doing its best to entice visitors to its beautiful archipelago.” The country came out of lockdown back in June 2020, and two months later reopened the airport to commercial flights. Until now, only passengers arriving from a list of Permitted Countries (periodically reviewed by the Public Health Authority) have been allowed into Seychelles under strict health and safety protocols, which include a negative PCR test and mandatory Health Travel Authorisation. You can take a look at our Corona News page for more detailed information.   Seychelles is one of the few island nations to have reopened for international travel and is determined to stay open! While an increasing number of countries are deciding to close their borders again, Seychelles is going the other way, taking measures to ensure they can continue welcoming even more travellers to its sun-kissed shores.     In an attempt to stimulate tourism and provide visitors with more confidence, the Seychelles authorities have decided to provide Special Status to the following countries: United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria, and the UAE.   This means that as per 1st October 2020, anyone travelling from one of these countries – even if it does not appear on the approved list – will still be allowed to enter Seychelles, albeit under stricter measures. So for example, travellers arriving from the United Kingdom who have, until now, been prohibited from entering Seychelles – the UK is not a Permitted Country – will soon be able to visit once again! And while some of the measures might seem overly restrictive, at the end of the day, it is a small price to pay for a taste of paradise.   Stringent measures for Special Status countries Passengers arriving from a Special Status country that is not on the list of Permitted Countries will be required to spend the first 5 days of their visit in a designated establishment and will not be allowed to leave the premises. On the 5th day, a PCR test will be administered (free of charge). If the test result is negative, the visitor will be free to continue their holiday as planned, exploring the lush islands, and discovering the many gems Seychelles has to offer. You can already book your ferry transfers between Mahe, Praslin and La Digue and start planning your Seychelles island-hopping adventure today!   For more on the stringent measures being introduced, take a look at our Corona News page.     Experience Seychelles; our home, your sanctuary Thanks to this Seychelles government initiative, a positive impact is already being felt with several hotels - closed since the lockdown – announcing reopening dates. Additionally, the Seychelles Tourism Board (STB) is also fighting to save the tourism industry. On 22nd September 2020, they launched their new campaign: 'Experience Seychelles; our home, your sanctuary'. They aim to boost visitor confidence in the island nation as being a safe destination.   During a press conference, STB chief executive Sherin Francis expressed:   "After much preparation with the help of our government and local industry partners, we have seen that the destination is ready to welcome visitors to our islands. Whilst the campaign's main aim is to remind visitors that there is a secluded paradise awaiting their arrival, it also highlights the safety measures and procedures were taken by tourism establishments to ensure travellers can experience Seychelles without worries."   It is refreshing and encouraging to see that the Seychelles authorities are doing everything they can to help the locals who are under incredible strain during this crisis. I sincerely hope that visitors take advantage of this unique opportunity and book a trip to Seychelles soon. By doing so, they will experience Seychelles at its most pristine, travel as safely as possible, and support the local communities. About the author  Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com Learn more about Seychelles in our Travel Tips Check out all of our exciting Seychelles Activities

2020-08-12T00:00:00+04:00 2024-03-01T15:42:53+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/feast-of-assumption Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Feast of Assumption 2020 Every year, on 15th August, Seychellois come together to celebrate the 'Feast of Assumption'. The celebrations, which often attract many tourists, is known to locals as 'Lafet La Digue'. It is a time for open-air mass, processions, street parties, live music shows and food stalls. Lafet is a true showcase of the traditional Seychellois lifestyle. This year, however, due to the Corona outbreak and the announcement from The Seychelles Department of Health that large public gatherings are not allowed,  the celebrations will be a little different… Lafet La Digue, a showcase of Seychelles Culture Traditionally, the Feast of Assumption is dedicated to St Mary, La Digue’s patron saint. This Roman Catholic religious celebration is a must-attend event from among several religious festivals held each year in the country. The celebrations usually start with the alfresco mass at “La Grotto” and is followed by a procession, often carrying an effigy of the Virgin Mary. A traditional mass at St Mary’s Church is then given by the bishop of Seychelles who preaches in Creole for the congregation and welcomes foreign visitors in English.    Religious celebrations are followed by cultural activities such as climbing a greased tree-trunk to reach a cash prize, a duck race, a beach party, a bike tour, various sporting events, dance competitions, a Miss Fun Park pageant and even a yacht race! The streets become more alive than ever with many street parties and live music shows.     Food stalls pop-up throughout the street of La Passe, offering a variety of culinary delights, including of course traditional Creole dishes. The program is jam-packed, and the festivities are spread over several days.     La Digue Feast's popularity attracts many locals and tourists every year. Those wishing to be there usually have to plan their trip well in advance, as accommodations get full quickly! It is usually the most productive time for the tourism industry in Seychelles. However, this year, festivities are facing a major stumbling block with the Coronavirus outbreak and the social distancing measures put in place to combat it. This year Assumption Day will be quiet  The Seychelles Government, together with the Public Health Organisation, have announced that large public gatherings are currently forbidden. It is therefore highly unlikely that any Assumption Day activities will take place on La Digue this year. Usually, by now, the program of activities would have already been published. So far, this year, no announcement has been made... However, if you are planning on heading over to La Digue this Assumption Day weekend, whether to visit family or friends or just to spend time on the island, Inter Island Ferry will have additional ferry crossings between Praslin and La Digue on the 14th & 15th August 2020! Cat Cocos has also announced additional ferry services on the 15th August 2020 between Mahe, Praslin and La Digue! Feel free to use the Search Box on our website for timings, availability or to make a booking! Let this Assumption weekend be a time to enjoy precious moments with family and friends in a smaller, more intimate setting!   About the author Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com   More about Seychelles in our Travel Tips     Check out our Seychelles Activities  

2020-07-31T00:00:00+04:00 2025-06-03T15:36:33+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/seychelles-are-open Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Seychelles are open! Finally, as per 1st August 2020, after almost 4 months of lockdown, Seychelles officially announced the re-opening of its border to international visitors. So, if like me, you’ve been dreaming of visiting the East African paradise, now is your chance! The Islands are more pristine than ever!   "The Islands are quiet. Tranquil bays and deserted deserted beaches are waiting, just for you!"   Airlines are starting commercial flights to Seychelles again! Etihad Airways, Emirates and Ethiopian Airlines have resumed their Seychelles operations as soon as the country re-opens its border. Air Seychelles – the national carrier – will also be flying to Dubai, initially twice a week, from 1st August 2020 onwards. And Swiss airline, Edelweiss, has expressed its intentions to fly to Seychelles as from September this year. It finally seems like we can seriously think about travelling to Seychelles again.      Access to paradise - Seychelles travel restrictions Travel to Seychelles is not yet available to all. The island nation, in a bid to control the spread of the current pandemic, only opened its borders to visitors arriving from lower-risk countries. The list of currently approved countries can be found on our  Corona News page.   Assuming you are one of the lucky ones, there are still certain travel guidelines you will need to follow. You will need to submit to a negative Corona PCR test within 72 hours of travel. Entry screening will be done upon your arrival, and you will be required to wear a face mask at the airport. You will only be allowed to stay in establishments (or liveaboards) that have been certified by the Public Health Authority. You will not be allowed to stay in more than two accommodations (liveaboards) for the first 7 days. Over 100 hotels have already been certified, with more being added to the list as and when they receive their certifications. For more information about these travel requirements, you can check our Corona News page. All of these measures are there to protect you and to ensure you will be kept as safe as possible, allowing you to enjoy your time in paradise worry-free.   An amazing opportunity to discover or re-discover Seychelles After 4 months of lockdown, the Islands have had the time to recover and replenish. The flora and fauna are now more stunning than ever. The Islands are quiet. Tranquil bays and deserted beaches are waiting just for you!     Another big plus is that many resorts, hotels and restaurants are currently offering quite generous discounts and special offers to encourage visitors back to the Islands, making Seychelles more affordable than ever! Also, public shows, bars, casinos, tours, excursions and marine leisure crafts are all permitted again. So there is no doubt you’ll have plenty of options to keep busy and entertained. It is also reassuring to know that all organisers of these activities must first receive permission to operate from the Department of Health in Seychelles; so you can be sure your security is being taken seriously.   More good news is that transportation between Seychelles' Inner Islands has resumed. You will now be able to take the ferry from Mahe and explore the magical islands of Praslin and La Digue. Timetables have been revised. You can check timings, availability and book your inter-island ferry transfers on Seychellesbookings.com. It is mandatory to wear a face mask on all ferries and transfers, so make sure to have some with you.     Seychelles remain one of the world’s safest travel destinations. Mrs Sherin Francis - Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Tourism Board - has affirmed:   “Seychelles has fared very well with the number of cases we had and the country was quick to react with bold and necessary measures. We are now ready to start welcoming back our visitors and we look forward to hosting them in a safe and very flexible environment.”   The reality is, most of us feel an urge to start exploring the world again, and Seychelles offers “the same sense of adventure, though in a slightly adapted environment”.  We’ve all been through some stressful times these past months, with many uncertainties on when we’ll get to travel again and where we’ll be allowed to go. Now that Seychelles is open again, perhaps now is the perfect time to plan a visit…. an amazing opportunity to discover, or re-discover Seychelles… time to unwind and relax.   About the author   Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com     More about Seychelles in our Travel Tips     Check out our Seychelles Activities    

2020-06-11T00:00:00+04:00 2024-03-01T15:10:30+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/when-can-i-travel-to-seychelles Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com When can I travel to Seychelles again? The good news, for some, is now! For others, it may require a bit more patience. While the Seychelles has officially reopened its borders to tourism, the reality is that international travel will only be possible when governments - both foreign and domestic - revoke travel bans, when the right transportation options are made available and, most importantly, when we feel safe to travel again.    To see what is already possible, I have sifted through the information currently available and summarized it as best I can to help you decide when to travel and how to plan your next trip to Seychelles.   Seychelles is open!   Seychelles has handled the COVID-19 situation efficiently, with an initial wave of just 11 cases and no deaths. The country moved fast and both the cruise ships port and international airport were shut down in mid-March. They went into full lockdown on 9th April 2020 for 21 days. Thanks to cautious measures, The Seychelles is now Corona free and preparing to welcome back international tourism.   “There is light at the end of the tunnel… some approved countries are already permitted to enter Seychelles.” The Seychelles is among some of the first nations to re-open its borders to international tourism. There is light at the end of the tunnel. A phase of reopening started on 4th May 2020.   The Seychelles International Airport resumed operations on 1st June 2020. Chartered flights, carrying passengers from some approved countries*, are already permitted to enter Seychelles. Allowing entry for more countries could be considered with effect from mid-July 2020. Updates on this developing situation can be found on our Corona news page.    It is a very encouraging sign. Activities and hotels are all preparing for visitors to gradually return. Seychelles is ready, and the local Seychellois are waiting with open arms. There is now more hope as things are moving in the right direction.   Going through the formalities has its rewards Anyone wishing to visit Seychelles right now is sure to be rewarded with a priceless experience. One of the (few) positive effects of this global pandemic is it has given Seychelles’ incredible nature and wildlife the time to rejuvenate and flourish. The islands are now more beautiful than ever! You might want to check my other blog on the topic.   But for those willing to take the initiative there are, however, a number of formalities to go through. You first need to apply for entry to Seychelles, through a designated form, which will be processed as per Public Health orders. I was able to find the form on the Seychelles Department of Health website, under their COVID-19 Legal Documents section.   You will also need to find a flight. From what I have seen, scheduled flights – with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Air France, and Kenya Airways - will be available from July 2020 onwards.   Once your application has been approved and you manage to book flights, you are then required to have a negative COVID-19 PCR Test (48 hrs or less before boarding the flight to Seychelles). It seems the best way to go about this is to check your own government’s website for the conditions and possibilities of getting such a test. Some countries, like France (for the time being), only offer tests for people presenting symptoms, for people identified as having been in contact with a person infected, or as part of specific screening campaigns.    Some airlines have taken it upon themselves to implement COVID-19 tests. Emirates, for example, together with the Dubai Health Authority, is conducting rapid COVID-19 testing at the airport for departing travellers.    Exit and entry screening at airports will also be required (completion of a health check form, symptomatic check, temperature scanning). So be prepared to arrive earlier than usual at the airport and ensure you give yourself sufficient time between any onward travel upon arrival.   You will also need to provide proof of accommodation, in an approved establishment, for the entire period of your stay. You will need to show any vouchers/documents at Immigration upon entry. About 60% of Seychelles hotels will reopen for July 2020 and are already accepting new bookings. For up-to-date accommodation information, you can simply check availability on websites like Booking.com.   All these formalities might cast some doubt as to whether you should travel now or wait a bit longer. While this is perfectly understandable, it is those ‘early travellers’ who will reap the rewards of deserted beaches, blossoming nature and a pristine Seychelles.   When will travel be back to normal? The truth is… nobody really knows. It is a guessing game. Policies and protocols are continuously changing as the situation develops. We stand at the mercy of governments and airlines. It seems like everyone is waiting to see what everybody else will do next.   “The exciting part about uncertainty is… what is not possible today, might be tomorrow.” My advice would be to keep yourself updated on your government’s latest travel restrictions. You can also check our Corona News page for the latest developments in Seychelles. And when you’re ready to take the next steps, we would love to help you plan your trip as soon as possible. In these times of uncertainty, more than ever, engaging the assistance of a reliable travel company, with expert knowledge of your destination, will help ease any concerns you may have. And don’t forget, the exciting part about uncertainty is… what is not possible today, might be tomorrow.   Feel free to contact us with your questions or any booking enquiries.   *Approved countries as per 3rd June 2020: Australia, Austria, Botswana, China, Croatia, Greece, Hungary, Israel, Japan, Luxembourg, Mauritius, Monaco, Namibia, New Zealand, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Thailand About the author Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com   More about Seychelles in our Travel Tips Check out our Seychelles Activities

2020-05-18T00:00:00+04:00 2025-04-11T15:23:29+04:00 https://www.seychellesbookings.com/blog/dream-now-experience-seychelles-later Seychellesbookings.com office@seychellesbookings.com https://www.seychellesbookings.com Dream Now, Visit Seychelles Soon! The Seychelles Tourism Board initiated a new campaign called “Dream Now, Experience Seychelles Later”, designed to keep Seychelles at the top of people’s must-visit lists. So in this time of global-pandemic, I would like to take you on a virtual tour of the Seychelles and maybe inspire you to dream now with a view to experience later. "Those who return to visit Seychelles first, within say the next 12 months, will be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Seychelles at its most pristine!" A window of unprecedented opportunity With travel restrictions still in place, all we can do right now is dream. But at the same time, in my opinion, we should not wait too long to visit Seychelles. While the world pressed the pause button, nature is recovering, dolphins are swimming closer to the shore, and the wildlife seems more abundant. The islands are now quiet. Beau Vallon has become a private beach, and the reef is for you alone to explore. Those who return to visit Seychelles first, within say the next 12 months, will be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience Seychelles at its most pristine. Find out how to make your Seychelles dreams come true soon at the bottom of this page.   A virtual tour of Seychelles Discovered in the 7th Century, the islands remained uninhabited until the 18th Century. Once a haven for seafaring bandits, the archipelago was first a French colony before being taken over by the British. Along with the early settlers, numerous slaves, from various parts of Africa, also arrived on the islands. And it is this mix of races and nationalities that bore the foundation of this incredible multicultural nation.   Let us start the tour on Mahe, by far the most developed island of Seychelles. It is home to the capital, Victoria, as well as 90% of the Seychellois population. The island’s interior is dominated by mountains covered with lush, tropical forest, while the coast offers white sand beaches that gently fade into the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Take a stroll through the streets of Victoria with its famous Clock Tower, colourful market, and colonial architecture. Visit the Botanical Gardens to admire its endemic plants and to meet the giant tortoises or join a guided tour of Mahe’s ‘Wild South’. As the largest of the three main islands, where both the International Airport and Cruise Ship Terminal are located, Mahe is also the main hub for Island Hopping!     Which leads us nicely on to Praslin, just an hour ferry ride from Mahe. Once a pirate hideaway, Praslin is now considered as the more relaxed, peaceful paradise of the archipelago. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island’s picture-perfect beaches are excellent for scuba diving and snorkelling. At the island’s centre, the Vallée de Mai National Park is home to countless varieties of flora and fauna, as well as Seychelles’ famous double-lobed nut the Coco de Mer. If you are short on time, a guided day trip taking in this wondrous site, along with Praslin’s most famous beach - Anse Lazio - is a great way to take in the island’s highlights.     A short hop from Praslin is laid-back La Digue. Smaller but not to be missed, it boasts unspoilt beaches dotted with granite boulders; the world-famous Anse Source D’Argent being its best example. Taking to the sea, a Glass Kayak adventure along this magical coastline is a must. You could even end up exploring hidden caves or meeting some stingrays in the lagoon.     Exotic smells and savoury tastes At Victoria’s Sir Selwyn-Clarke Market, stalls display everything from fresh parrotfish and lobster to exotic fruits and island spices. Imagine yourself wandering around the colourful and perfumed stalls. It is a sensory and vibrant experience for both locals and tourists alike.     If you have already been to Seychelles, you can probably still relate to the taste of the traditional Creole cuisine. Grilled fresh fish, locally grown fruit, spicy curries, fried bananas, lentils, and Rougay Sosis are just some of the more popular local dishes.   The musical sound of Seychelles The Four Seasons Resorts Seychelles recently published a video of their beachfront, commenting:   “It's said that the sound of the ocean waves helps soothe and relax our minds. Imagine yourself on Petite Anse Beach...taking a stroll on this beautiful strip of turquoise blue water and white sand” So for some well-earned relief from all the stresses of the past weeks, why not take a moment to sit, relax and allow yourself to be transported to one of Seychelles’ idyllic beaches while you listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean. Dreaming about your next trip to the islands just got easier. Seychelles is also music and dance! Its unique sound and style reflect the island’s multicultural heritage. An African sound with influences drawn from its European, Indian, Chinese, and Arabic background. To get an impression, try listening to some Seggae - a blend of sega and reggae from Mauritius. Or perhaps some local Kanmtole percussion music. However, it is Creole pop and folk music that is by far the most popular genre, with songs from the likes of Patrick Victor and Jean-Marc Volcy - two of Seychelles' best-known musicians – playing on people’s radios and stereos throughout the islands.   Make your dreams come true Travelling to the islands will soon be possible. As per 1st June, Seychelles airport will reopen to commercial flights. It is then just a matter of time before airlines resume services. As of this date, leisure boats and yachts will also be able to re-enter the region, making Seychelles accessible to all but cruise ships for the time being. Domestic ferry services between the islands have continued to operate throughout the crisis and are steadily increasing their number of daily crossings.   A large number of hotels and resorts are set to reopen in June and July. Many villas and apartments are already available for stay. Local businesses have resumed trading. Most restaurants are already open. Bars and casinos are due to reopen their doors next month. All establishments have been told to observe consistent hand-hygiene, as well as practice suitable social distancing in respect of both staff and customers. Tours, excursions, and a variety of tourism activities will again be available, with operators ensuring proper safety and social distancing practices are being adhered to at all times. So it seems the islands are doing whatever is necessary to ensure that, once tourists return, they will be ready to welcome them back!   And while a visit to Seychelles might - for now - still be just a dream, you should not leave it too long to make your dreams come true!   About the author Hi! I'm Axelle, the Seychellesbookings.com writer of this blog post. If you have questions or feedback, feel free to contact me on: axelle@island-bookings.com   More about Seychelles in our Travel Tips Check out our Seychelles Activities