Seychelles
Soulful Seychelles
Seychelles biggest attractions are its beaches. White-sand, gentle waves of turquoise waters and rolling hills as the backdrop is perfection. But there are some hidden gems to this relaxed island country.
Seychellois people are melodic people. African slave music has intertwined with Blues. Perhaps the most historically significant music styles is Sega. Originating in Mauritius and Reunion Islands, before making its way to Seychelles. Planted feet, with only the body producing movement to the sounds of rattles and hand drums. Sega lyrics tell tales of slavery and freedom.
http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/3170/Going+back+in+time+to+create+a+modern+fish+trap+New+restaurant+with+a+seafood+touch+opens+on+Seychelles+island+of+La+Digue – Image 01 (The Fish Trap Bar and Restaurant)
Seychellois food is a culmination of African, European, Chinese and Indian cuisines. Spices such as coriander, tamarind and lemongrass are found in many delicious dishes. Seafood and fish feature prominently in main meals and are often served steamed in banana leaves, with rice or grilled. Curries are also quite popular on the islands, tempered down with the popular coconut milk. As you island hop your way through Seychelles, stop at The Fish Trap Bar & Restaurant in La Digue, which opens into the ocean. Enjoy grilled fresh prawns and the popular take on Creole dishes. And on a summery day in Praslin, do try the creamy treats at Gelateria de Luca.
https://gauthierjulie.wordpress.com/2013/06/01/top-5-seychelles-gourmet-hotels/ – Image 02 (Seychellois prawns)
While in Praslin, take a stroll through the Vallée de Mai, a national park. It is a famous birdwatching spot, has the rare coco de mer palm trees and has a few hiking trails to explore the park. You can walk through the park alone, but take a private guide that knows the area. This way you can spot elusive birds and learn more about the vegetation. This is an ideal day trip, stock up on water and don’t forget your camera for this exotic forest. A café and shop on site is ideal for lunch midway your trek through discovering Vallée de Mai.
http://www.luxuryholidaysdirect.com/blog/index.php/outstanding-seychelles/ – Image 03 (Coco de mer)
Thirty minutes from the Victoria lies the Takamaka Rum Distillery. Organise a tour with local tour guides to the distillery and learn all about the rum-making process in Seychelles. The tour is around 50 minutes and includes a presentation, tasting and you can then purchase bottles of rum. There is a small forest walk on site and a stand selling sugar cane. There is also a bar and restaurant available, so plan to visit the distillery late afternoon for an early supper.
http://www.seychellesnewsagency.com/articles/3962/Three+decades+of+upholding+and+promoting+the+Creole+culture+-+Seychelles+launches+th+Festival+Kreol – Image 04 (Seychellois women)
Dress in Seychelles has been heavily influenced by French wear in the style of their garments. Seychellois wear long dresses that almost resemble Portuguese bombas. There are lots of ruffles on these dresses and many come in brightly coloured prints. Women also wear loose ankle-length skirts and toned down blouses or pareos (sarongs), with headwraps. Men wear cotton shirts and trousers, often with a straw hat to protect them from the sun. Try the market in central Victoria to pick up a few Seychellois pieces to add to your collection of travels. You can find some tropical pareos, wood carvings and even some fresh fruit to indulge in on your day around the market.
As you sip on your coconut filled with refreshing coconut water, you will enjoy the simplicity of the island. A mix of luxury and austerity, that blends well. A nation with a vibrant soul. You would never know from these humble Island people that greet everyone with the same cheery Bonzour, common sava?
