The Sensational Seychelles

I was incredibly lucky to be invited on a trip to the Seychelles to experience the islands and visit some of the fabulous hotels we work with there. We departed from Heathrow and flew with BA to the main island of Mahe. Our first stop was the Constance Ephelia and upon arrival we enjoyed the most welcome cold towels. We arrived early in the morning so had a bit of a wait for our rooms, so we had a look around the beautiful hotel. Everyone was so welcoming. Our luggage was taken directly to our room. We stayed in the entry level rooms and these were quite impressive. A large bedroom led into a very spacious bathroom with twin sinks, a large walk in shower, a bath, separate toilet and plenty of wardrobe space. We couldn’t wait to take a dip in the amazing swimming pool. I have to say that the hotel was faultless, the food was all fresh and well-presented and very tasty. The buffet had so much choice there was definitely something to suit everyone. Even various cooking stations. The spa was so tranquil and I enjoyed a relaxing massage. The prices were very reasonable too. The beach, what can I say? This was out of this world with white sand and blue water. My daughter said looking at the photos it was so blue she was blue blind! We enjoyed a tour of the main town of Victoria, taking in the atmosphere and the local market. There is a rum produced on Mahe called Takamaka and it has a unique blend of spices and the spring water gives it its own unique taste. I am a rum lover, so this was heaven to me. For the adventurous amongst you there is a zip line at the Constance Ephelia, what a fantastic experience. After a short climb through the jungle we reached the top and then flew down stage by stage. It was absolutely amazing and exhilarating. I would highly recommend doing this. Even the kids can take part. The highlight of our stay at Constance Ephelia was an early pick up from our rooms for dinner. We were taken by golf buggies and had no idea what was waiting for us. We went up to the outer area of the resort on the hillside overlooking the bay and were greeted by waiters serving champagne. We had arrived at the Presidential Villa and you could see why it was named this. This was amazing with 2 infinity pools, 2 very spacious suites with large bedrooms and bathrooms, and a stunning outdoor seating area with plenty of space to relax and enjoy the most perfect of views. We were here to see the sunset over the bay. I have to say I think this has had to be one of the most spectacular sunsets I have ever seen. We enjoyed drinks and canapes before enjoying a fabulous dinner. For the next part of our adventure we took a short 20 minute inter island flight to Praslin. This in itself was quite an experience. Praslin felt quite different to Mahe, more relaxed, less busy and if it is possible even more beautiful. Here we visited a few hotels including the Parsadise Sun, Coco De Mer, Raffles and stayed at the Constance Le Muria. Each of the hotels were very different to the next and so there is something to suit everyone. I particularly liked the Coco De Mer which was a small boutique hotel, the staff were exceptionally friendly, and nothing was too much trouble. The rooms were spacious with a contemporary feel. One of the amazing features is an over water platform with areas for lounging and relaxing. We enjoyed the most delicious lunch here. You’ve heard of Raffles in Singapore; well they have a hotel in the Seychelles. This is the definition of luxury; all of the accommodations are villas and have their own infinity pool. We had the use of a 2-bedroom villa for the day and it was fabulous with lots of space and comfortable outdoor seating area, 2 large bathrooms and a very spacious sitting area. The bedrooms were very large. Again, we enjoyed a very lovely lunch. The highlight was paddle boarding and snorkelling on the beach, followed by a cocktail making lesson by the in-house mixologist. Of course, it was only fitting that we made a Singapore Sling which Raffles is famous for. The Constance Le Muria is a leading hotel of the world and we were lucky enough to stay here for 2 nights. The entrance and reception area are at an elevated point and so when you walk through, the hotel lies below with impressive views out to sea and overlooking the stunning beach it feels like a little piece of luxurious heaven. The staff here were amazing, so welcoming and nothing was any trouble. We enjoyed the most amazing BBQ on the beach in the evening. This was not just any BBQ, we had cocktails before dinner with fairy lights in the trees and the sound of the waves in the background it was the perfect setting. Lamb cutlets, the best Rib Eye I have ever tasted, and lobster were on the menu. Of course, I had to try all 3. The Seychelles is known for its beautiful beaches and I thought I could not see one more beautiful than I had already enjoyed but Anse Georgette surprised me again. There are no words to describe how perfect this spot is. When we thought it could not get any better, we were whisked away in golf buggies to the 15th tee on the golf course just before 6pm. This was the perfect spot to witness the spectacular sunset. The tee is on the top of a cliff overlooking the green far below. We had champagne and tried our luck at hitting the green. Some of us were better than others and we will leave it there. The sunset did not disappoint, I will remember this view forever. Sadly, our amazing trip had to come to an end and none of us wanted to leave this paradise on earth. The Seychelles is a destination suited to everyone and all the hotels provide lots for families, however in all honesty I would suggest that it is more suited to couples and not just honeymoon couples. I would very much recommend visiting and staying on more than one island as well. We were there for 8 nights and this was fine for a twin centre. I would suggest the perfect duration would be 10-14 nights only because of the long-haul flight. I was pleasantly surprised that I did not suffer jet lag at all, and this is a major advantage of the Indian Ocean vs the Caribbean. The Seychelles was certainly memorable. This is a once in a lifetime destination and I can ensure we choose the perfect holiday for you. I can also advise on lots of things to do whilst you are there and at the end of the day it is experiences that create the most fabulous memories that last a lifetime. This really is a little piece of paradise on earth.