Goway Expert Returns from the Seychelles
Michelle Culham, a Goway Islands Expert has just returned from a FAM trip to the beautiful islands of Seychelles sponsored by Seychelles Tourism and Ethiopian Airlines. Michelle had the opportunity to visit a variety of resorts on the Islands of Mahe and Praslin. Here, Michelle shares with you her memorable experiences, tips and reasons why you should recommend the Seychelles to your travellers.
How did you get to the Seychelles?
I flew with Ethiopian Airlines into Mahe, Seychelles. This airline has a number of gateways from North America, including Toronto, Washington D.C, and New York. The flight connections and arrival times were great.
Which islands did you see in the Seychelles?
The first stop on my journey was the main island of Mahe. It is the largest island in Seychelles and is the hub for international flight arrivals and departures. This island is known for its beautiful beaches, large granite peaks and is home to rare endemic plants only found in the Seychelles. The island is also home to Victoria, Seychelles’ capital, known for Creole architecture and a colorful market.
The second stop on my trip itinerary was the beautiful (and less developed) island of Praslin, located one hour by ferry from Mahe. This romantic island is known for its outstanding white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush tropical forest. It also has a very laid-back vibe, perfect for relaxing. This is a great island for honeymoon clients.
What were some top resorts you saw?
It’s hard to choose a favourite as there are a lot of great properties! Most of the properties here are smaller, often villa style, and you’re not going to find large 300+ room hotels. The Four Seasons Resort Seychelles, in Mahe was particularly beautiful. It is a boutique property with just 67 villas scattered throughout the coastline or nestled amidst the greenery. It had a very relaxing atmosphere perfect for those seeking total solitude and serenity. I’d also name the Constance Lemuria Resort on Praslin. It has an ideal location on the northwest coast of the island, just 5 minutes from the Praslin airstrip. The suites are set steps from the shore line, discreetly nestled among the natural gardens. It also offers guests a sprawling 18-hole golf course throughout the entire resort.
What were some of your highlights and why?
One of my highlights was swimming at Anse Lazio beach in Praslin. This beach is out of this world! It is exactly what you think of when you imagine the ‘perfect beach’ and it is voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world by the likes of Conde Nast and Trip Advisor. I never thought I would get to visit such a pristine and truly stunning spot like this!
What interesting excursion would you recommend?
Visiting the Vallee de Mai on the island of Praslin. This Nature Park and UNESCO Heritage Site is home to the Coco De Mer, the largest nut in the world. Here you will some other unique wildlife, including the Seychelles Black Parrot, the Seychelles national bird.
What’s your top tip for agents selling Seychelles?
The Seychelles is the perfect destination for a wide variety of clients, but is especially wonderful for nature lovers and birders (who can visit Bird Island or see the giant tortoises).
I would also highly recommend this destination for your honeymoon clients! The resorts offer great discounts (such as 25% off) and amenities (starlight dinners or champagne) just for newlyweds. Couples usually have to travel within 9-12 months of their wedding and need to bring their wedding certificate with them.
It’s a great choice for clients who want to ‘island hop’ and not sit in one place the entire time. The ferry transfers (‘Cat Cocos’) and domestic flights in between islands are quick and easy. You could also consider combining the Seychelles with another destination, such as Paris, Dubai or Mauritius.
If you can go back, what would you like to see/do?
The Seychelles is an island-hopping destination, so I would love to cruise the outer islands on a luxury yacht like the MY Pegasus which Goway offers as either a 5-day or 8-day itinerary. I would also really like to see the island of La Digue which is famous for its ox carts as a mode of transport around the tiny island!
Please feel free to contact me for any questions or assistance you may need to help create the perfect vacation package for your clients.
Michelle Culham
Phone: 1 800 667 6601 ex 5690
Email: [email protected]