Equity Mag Sep_17 Book Folder

TRAVEL
When you hear of the tropical Seychelles, you
imagine sun, sand and sea. Lush green hills
definitely don’t spring to mind, let alone
mingling with the locals to get an
understanding of the cuisine and culture. However, the
verdant islands of Seychelles are filled with fresh crisp air that
touches your skin upon arrival. To briefly paint a portrait of
the country, Seychelles was initially a French colonisation,
and even though the British rule was in power for over 150
years, the French influence never managed to dispel. The
country got its independence only recently, in 1976, and has
since developed the economy through tourism, processing
of vanilla, coconut fibre, and trade – the country exports
over 50 per cent of tuna from the Indian Ocean, to France
and the United Kingdom.
Mahé, the country’s largest and main island, is the most
inhabited city in the country and from here, you can take a flight
or boat to your island destination. Seychelles is also home to the
smallest capital city in the world, Victoria, which oozes charm
from its little Big Ben landmark to the colourful temple and Sir
Selwyn Clarke Market where locals sell everything from fish and
fruit and vegetables, to spices and souvenirs. To best discover
Seychelles, spend time at one of the island resorts when you
first arrive. Picking one can be a tough choice though. Praslin is a
hotspot for the Garden of Eden – where the world’s largest nut
in the world, coco de mer, can be found – while La Digue is
renowned for its boulders and beaches. North Island is the
honeymoon destination of choice – Prince William and Duchess
Kate Middleton vacationed here – whereas Silhouette is
favoured for adventure and absolute serenity.
PERFECT SILHOUETTE
Each island is steeped in history and this one is no
different. Nestled just 20 kilometers away from the
northwest of Mahé – the third largest archipelago in
Seychelles – is Silhouette, home to the sprawling familyfriendly
Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa and the first
leg of our trip.
The island can be seen from a distance and as you
gradually get into holiday mode on your 45-minute sea
journey, you will begin to conjure up images of days
spent lazing by the white sandy beach. That isn’t all
there is on offer though. Most countries are best
experienced through their culinary offerings, so it’s
best to begin your holiday on Silhouette at Grann Kaz,
to tempt your taste buds with authentic Creole cuisine,
which heavily boasts French and Indian influences.
Once you’ve enjoyed a tangy and fresh fish salad,
octopus coconut curry and a comforting warm banana
dessert, it’s time to explore the premises. Grann Kaz,
within the Village of La Passe, is perhaps the best
starting point to get an idea of the island’s historical
origins. Once home to Henri Dauban – owner of the
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EQUITY