Seychelles: Why This Indian Ocean Paradise Should Be Next On Your Wishlist

There are some destinations that look almost too perfect in photos: powder‑soft beaches, jungle‑covered peaks and impossibly turquoise water. The Seychelles is one of those places. The difference is that, when you arrive, it really does look like that.

I returned in June, from an incredible trip taking in Abu Dhabi, Mahé, Praslin and the beautiful Silhouette Island, and I wanted to share a little behind the scenes of the journey, the hotels and why I think the Seychelles deserves a place on your holiday list.

Flying with Etihad: A Seamless Start

Our adventure began with Etihad Airways. At the time of our outbound flight, FCDO advice meant we knew we were insured for our main trip, but not for the transit. While we were actually away, the advice changed and our return journey became fully covered again, which was a huge relief.

Our first snapshot of the trip is one of my favourites: sitting in Abu Dhabi airport at sunrise, tucking into a dosa and watching the sky slowly lighten before our onward connection. The flight was full, the service was excellent and I am genuinely delighted that everyone can now fly with Etihad again without restrictions tied to that previous advice.

On our second leg from Abu Dhabi to Mahé, the crew were so warm and friendly. When they discovered that we work in travel, they insisted on a photo with us. It set the tone for the whole trip: relaxed, welcoming and full of those little “pinch me” moments that make a journey special.

Praslin & Constance Lémuria: Indian Ocean Perfection

Our first stop in the Seychelles was the island of Praslin, where we stayed at the stunning Constance Lémuria. To get there, we opted for the tiny propeller plane from Mahé. The flight is just 20 minutes and can be booked very close to departure, with the most laid‑back check‑in procedures you can imagine. The airports on both Mahé and Praslin are small, with check‑in available just 20 minutes before departure and regular flights throughout the day. It all feels wonderfully easy, in that unhurried island way.

The plane itself is tiny, and we could not resist a selfie with the pilots. It is the kind of journey that will have you grinning from ear to ear before you have even landed.

And then there is Constance Lémuria. This hotel feels like another world altogether: lush tropical gardens, sweeping white‑sand beaches and elegant suites that blend into the landscape. If you choose the half‑board option, as we did, do not miss the speciality restaurants. Think carefully crafted tasting menus, exquisite presentation and the freshest ingredients, often with a strong local influence. Dinner felt like an occasion every night.

The beaches around Lémuria are truly spectacular: picture granite boulders, soft sand and warm water in shades of blue you did not know existed. Combine that with one of the best year‑round climates in the Indian Ocean, and it becomes very clear why the Seychelles is such a dream destination for both relaxation and romance.

Silhouette Island & Niva Labriz: Our Gold Conference Retreat

For the Gold Conference itself, we moved on to Silhouette Island to stay at the wonderful Niva Labriz. Around 30 of us, including fellow Travel Counsellors, partners, head office colleagues, directors and fantastic supplier partners, enjoyed four magical nights here.

Reaching Silhouette is part of the adventure. From Mahé airport it is around 25 minutes by road to the Labriz port, followed by a 45‑minute ferry ride. As you approach the island, you are greeted by towering green peaks and a fringe of white sand: it feels like you are sailing into a nature documentary.

Niva Labriz is set on one of the most beautiful beaches I have ever seen, with villas that open out to sea views and the sound of waves as your constant soundtrack. We were very spoilt, with a villa each, incredible food and a programme that cleverly balanced time together with time to simply soak up our surroundings.

If you would like to see some real footage and behind‑the‑scenes clips, I have shared videos and photos on my Instagram stories atinstagram.com/michelle_murraytc

Beyond the Beach: What Surprised Me About the Seychelles

Many people imagine the Seychelles as somewhere you simply lie on a lounger and switch off. You can absolutely do that, but what surprised me most is just how much there is to see and do:

Hiking and nature: There are pockets of pristine rainforest, ideal for guided hikes with the chance to learn about endemic plants and rare birdlife. Silhouette Island in particular feels beautifully wild and untouched once you step beyond the resort.

Catamaran cruises: We enjoyed a fabulous catamaran cruise from the mainland out to nature reserves. Gliding between islands, stopping to swim and snorkel, and seeing the coastline from the water is an unforgettable way to experience the archipelago.

Island‑hopping: Each island has its own personality. You might combine Mahé for a taste of local life, Praslin for world‑class beaches and Silhouette or La Digue for that “castaway” feeling.

Snorkelling and sailing: The waters around the Seychelles are rich in marine life. It is a paradise for snorkellers and those who love being out on the water, whether that is sailing, paddleboarding or sea kayaking.

Local life and culture: Away from the resorts you will find friendly, welcoming towns and villages, colourful markets and a laid‑back Creole culture that mixes African, European and Asian influences.

And of course, if your perfect holiday is simply to do very little, read your book, dip in and out of the sea and enjoy long, lazy dinners, the Seychelles delivers that in spades.

Is the Seychelles Right For You?

From my experience, the Seychelles is ideal if you are looking for:

A special occasion trip such as a honeymoon, anniversary or big birthday.

A luxury beach escape with the option to be as active or as relaxed as you feel.

Island‑hopping that feels adventurous yet still very comfortable and safe.

A destination with a genuine sense of exclusivity and untouched beauty.

It works particularly well for couples and friends, but with the right choice of islands and resorts it can be fantastic for families too.

Ready To Start Planning Your Own Seychelles Escape?

If the idea of tiny planes, island‑hopping ferries, world‑class beaches and unforgettable food is calling to you, I would love to help you design your own Seychelles itinerary.

I can tailor the trip around how you like to travel, how many islands you want to visit, and whether you would prefer pure relaxation, a little soft adventure, or a mix of both.

Contact me today to start planning your Seychelles escape and I will take care of every detail for you, from flights to ferries, transfers and handpicked resorts, so all you have to do is turn up and enjoy.