Seychelles Newsletter

Vacations – Travel magazine by ICICI Bank – January 2025

Seychelles

Month’s Theme Introduction

Start your year in paradise

As the year begins, imagine this is where you are: amid the soft whisper of waves, sun-kissed sands beneath your feet and the scent of the ocean filling the air.

Seychelles, a shimmering jewel in the Indian Ocean, invites you to begin your year in a haven of pure tranquillity. Far from the chaos of everyday life, this paradise offers a fresh start, where time slows down and nature takes centre stage. With 115 islands surrounded by clear waters and endless skies, Seychelles feels like stepping into a dream. January, with its balmy weather and gentle sea breezes, is the perfect time to visit. It’s when the islands truly come alive, offering golden sunrises, lush greenery and warm seas that beckon you to dive in.

Start your mornings with a peaceful walk on the Beau Vallon Beach, where the golden sunrise lights up the clear waters. Spend your days snorkelling in vibrant coral reefs, exploring hidden coves or hiking through lush forests in Morne Seychellois National Park. The famous Anse Lazio Beach on Praslin Island, often ranked among the world's best, is a must-see. Its soft sands and turquoise waters are straight out of a postcard.

Food lovers will adore the Creole cuisine. Enjoy freshly caught fish grilled with island spices or sweet tropical fruits like papaya and starfruit. Seychelles offers a slice of heaven for every traveller—romantics, families or solo adventurers.

Spend your evenings watching the sun melt into the ocean, painting the skies in hues of orange and pink. It’s a moment of peace that feels like pure magic.

This January, leave the hustle behind. Start your year in Seychelles—a paradise waiting to embrace you. It’s not just a holiday; it’s a chance to reset, recharge and reconnect with the beauty of the world. Other resolutions can wait. Goal No. 1: To travel more and see this beautiful planet.

Soul Trip

Calming effects of blue and green

Travel has a unique way of stirring the soul especially when it immerses you in the colours of nature. The soothing blue of the ocean and the renewing green of lush landscapes are more than sights—they are experiences that calm the mind and awaken the spirit.

Blue, with its vast expanse, invites introspection. Sitting by the ocean, watching its rhythmic waves, you feel an effortless stillness. It’s as though the water carries your worries away, leaving you lighter and more in tune with yourself. The vastness reminds you of life’s possibilities and the beauty of simply being present.

Green, on the other hand is grounding. Surrounded by dense foliage, your senses sharpen—the rustle of leaves, the earthy scent of soil and the sunlight filtering through branches. In these moments, you reconnect with the natural world and with parts of yourself often lost in the rush of daily life.

And then, there’s the way travel deepens connections. Time spent surrounded by nature with loved ones becomes more meaningful. Sharing quiet moments by the water or laughter on forest trails creates memories that anchor you. The blues and greens of nature don’t just transform you—they bring you closer to those you hold dear, strengthening bonds in ways words never can.

Travel is not just an escape; it’s an opportunity to reset and grow. When the colours of nature wrap around you, they do more than refresh—they transform. You return not just rested but renewed, carrying a deeper sense of connection and purpose back into your life.

Destination

Seychelles - where it’s always summertime

Nestled in the heart of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is a group of 115 islands that promises an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking a blend of natural beauty, adventure and cultural richness. When half of India is blanketed under a cold sweep of peak winters, a destination such as Seychelles seems to be the exact place where we want to be.

A Tropical Paradise Awaits

Seychelles has some of the world's most beautiful beaches such as Anse Source d'Argent on La Digue and Beau Vallon on Mahé. These beaches are perfect for families to relax, swim and enjoy water sports. The warm tropical climate during January and February makes it an ideal time to visit, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C.

Rich History

The history of Seychelles is as captivating as its landscapes. The islands were first sighted by the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama in 1503 but it wasn't until 1609 that the British East India Company made the first recorded landing. The French later claimed the islands in 1756, naming them after Jean Moreau de Séchelles, the French Minister of Finance. Seychelles remained under French control until the British took over in 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars. The islands gained independence from British rule in 1976, becoming a republic within the Commonwealth.
So, you can see some common connections between India and Seychelles. And the fact that the currency of Seychelles is Rupee (Seychellois Rupee) will keep reminding you of this shared bond.

Family-Friendly Activities

Seychelles offers a range of activities that cater to all age groups, ensuring that every family member has a memorable experience. Here are some must-do activities:

• Snorkelling and Diving: The vibrant coral reefs surrounding the islands are home to a diverse range of marine life, making snorkelling and diving a must. Explore the underwater world at sites like Sainte Anne Marine National Park and Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Island Hopping: Explore the unique charm of each island by embarking on an island-hopping adventure. Visit Praslin, home to the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can see the famous coco de mer palm trees. This fruit, known as Sea Coconut, is the world’s largest and heaviest fruit.

• Nature Trails and Hikes: For families who love the outdoors, Seychelles offers numerous nature trails and hikes. The Morne Seychellois National Park on Mahé provides stunning views and a chance to spot endemic wildlife.

• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting the Seychelles National Museum and the vibrant markets in Victoria, the capital city. Don't miss the chance to try Creole cuisine, which is a delightful fusion of African, French and Indian flavours.

Seychelles is a treasure trove of natural resources that contribute to its unique biodiversity. The islands are home to over 1,000 species of fish, making fishing a significant industry. The lush forests are rich with endemic plant species including the jellyfish tree and Wright's gardenia. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to encounter the Aldabra giant tortoises and the Seychelles black parrot, both of which are protected species.

Special Events and Festivals

Visiting Seychelles in January and February 2025 offers the opportunity to participate in some exciting events and festivals:

• Seychelles Sailing Cup: Held at the end of January on Praslin, this event features catamarans, yachts and traditional pirogues competing in regattas. There is also a deep-sea fishing competition, making it a thrilling experience for spectators.

• Seychelles Eco-Friendly Marathon: Taking place in February on the northern peninsula of Mahé, this marathon attracts participants from around the world. It's a great way to stay active while enjoying the scenic beauty of the islands.

For Indian travellers, Seychelles offers a visa-free entry, making it a hassle-free destination. The direct flights from major Indian cities to Mahé ensure a convenient journey. The cultural similarities such as the influence of Indian cuisine and festivals, make Indian travellers feel at home while exploring a new and exotic destination.

Seychelles is more than just a beach destination; it's a place where families can bond over shared adventures, explore unique natural wonders and immerse themselves in a rich cultural tapestry. Whether you are snorkelling, hiking or participating in vibrant festivals, Seychelles promises an unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and get ready to create lasting memories in this tropical paradise.

Travel Smart

How to choose and use a sunscreen

When exploring the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life of Seychelles, protecting your skin from the tropical sun is a must. Choosing the right sunscreen isn’t just about SPF; it’s about understanding your destination’s unique needs and your skin’s health.

Opt for Reef-Safe Sunscreens: Seychelles is home to delicate coral reefs. Standard sunscreens often contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage marine life. Look for products labelled ‘reef-safe’ or ‘eco-friendly’ to ensure your adventures leave no negative impact.

Choose the Right SPF: For the intense Seychelles sun, a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is non-negotiable. If you have fair or sensitive skin, SPF 50 is a better choice. Ensure your sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Waterproof Formulas: With plenty of snorkelling, swimming and island-hopping on your itinerary, invest in a water-resistant sunscreen to avoid constant reapplication.

Apply and Reapply Smartly: Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before sun exposure and use enough—most people underapply. Reapply every two hours and immediately after swimming or heavy sweating.

Don’t Forget the Details: Cover easy-to-miss spots like your ears, feet and the back of your neck. Consider lip balms with SPF to protect your lips from drying out.

A little sunscreen ensures that your Seychelles memories are free of sunburn woes so you can focus on basking in the beauty of this island paradise.

Sustainable Travel Tip of the Month

Our oceans are sustaining life on Earth

Seychelles showcases the undeniable importance of oceans to life on Earth. Its crystal-clear waters are home to vibrant coral reefs, endangered hawksbill turtles and diverse marine species that thrive in this paradise. Oceans regulate the global climate, produce over half the oxygen we breathe and provide food and livelihood for millions. Yet, human activity is threatening this delicate balance.

If you are visiting Seychelles, here are ways to travel sustainably and protect its rich marine ecosystems:

• Respect Marine Sanctuaries: Seychelles has several marine protected areas like Aldabra Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sanctuary for giant tortoises. Follow guidelines when exploring such areas and avoid disturbing wildlife.

• Ditch Plastics: Seychelles banned single-use plastics in 2019 so pack reusable water bottles, bags and straws to align with the eco-conscious efforts.

• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect coral reefs around islands like Sainte Anne Marine National Park by using mineral-based sunscreens free from harmful chemicals like oxybenzone.

• Stay at Eco-Friendly Resorts: For accommodations, choose Seychelles Sustainable Tourism-certified properties, which prioritise reef restoration, renewable energy and sustainable practices.

• Participate in Conservation: Join coral planting or beach cleanups organised by groups like the Marine Conservation Society Seychelles.

By embracing these practices, you contribute to preserving the pristine marine environment of Seychelles, ensuring that its oceans remain a haven for life—for locals, travellers, our kids and the planet alike.

Vacations travel question of the month

Which fruit is famous as a unique feature of Seychelles?

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