The Seychelles is situated in the heart of the Indian Ocean between the African East Coast and India. Closer to Africa geographically but culturally an amalgam of European, African , Indian, and Chinese cultures can be found in the language Creole based on French. The cuisine is mainly French with Indian spices and the Chinese way of cooking. The music, predominantly from African roots mixed with European country dance which has given rise to the Sega beat unique to the Indian ocean region. The Seychelles are the only Granitic islands in the world (all the others are volcanic or biological in origin) which accounts for its unusual rock formations. The islands were "left behind" as the Indian sub-continent moved northward on its way to collide with Asia.
Mahe, the biggest island is dominated by a mountain range that forms the backbone of the island with the highest peak, Morne Seychellois, reaching a height of 905 meters providing a perfect backdrop to the capital city Victoria. Nearby is the beautiful Ste Anne Marine National Park
La Digue has been described as the most beautiful island. An aura of charm and tranquility surrounds La Digue. The island is only accessible by boat and helicopter; by boat it is about one and a half hours from Mahé and thirty minutes from Praslin. The way of life on La Digue has remained unchanged for numerous years; transport is mainly by ox-cart or bicycle. Time has truly stood still on La Digue.
The island can be visited on a day excursion; the islands rare calm and friendliness of its people are too precious to be passed by in haste. Wide deserted beaches are perfect for long walks, safe swimming, snorkeling and fishing. The rare black paradise flycatcher can be found in the woods of La Digue, although this bird was once thought to be extinct, recent estimates suggest that there may be as many as one hundred on the island. Cycads, one of the oldest and most primitive of plants, are to be seen growing above the quiet roads of the island.
La Digue measures five kilometers by three, and is part of the granitic group. It lies 43 kilometers from Mahé and six and a half from Praslin. The island has no natural harbour and is protected by the coral reefs which circle it, together with masses of pink granite rocks which seem to have exploded around the coastline. The hotels on La Digue are mostly situated along the west coast, between La Passe, LUnion and Anse Reunion. The east coast is far wider.
SEYCHELLES
