Beyond the Maldives: 5 Reasons the Seychelles Should Be Your Next Escape

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At Boutique Travel Advisors, we pride ourselves on working with trusted partners who know their destinations inside and out. That’s why we’re excited to share this firsthand account from one of our valued travel partners, Jack Mace, Strategic Director at Hummingbird Travel. Jack recently returned from an in-depth trip to the Seychelles, and his experience offers invaluable insights for anyone considering this stunning island destination. From resort highlights to hidden gems, this is a personal and professional take on why the Seychelles deserves a spot on your travel radar. Read on for Jack’s top five reasons to visit—and let your wanderlust begin!

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Last week I returned from an unforgettable trip to the Seychelles where I spent ten days exploring this breathtakingly beautiful country. I have to admit, with my Maldives-tinted glasses on, I was a little dubious about how it would stack up against our most popular destination. But I was mightily impressed! From the moment I landed, the sheer natural beauty, the warm and welcoming people, and the diversity of experiences completely won me over.

The Seychelles is often spoken about in the same breath as other tropical island getaways, but it truly offers something different. It’s not just about luxury resorts and turquoise water (though it certainly has plenty of both). It’s about the feeling of complete escapism, the raw natural landscapes, and the genuine warmth of the Seychellois culture. This trip has completely shifted my perspective, and I now consider the Seychelles one of the top destinations for clients looking for a unique, luxurious, and enriching getaway.

As I reflected on my journey while flying home, I came up with five key reasons why the Seychelles should be at the top of your travel wish list:

1. Ultimate Island Hopping Destination

If your clients have the time, I highly recommend doing at least a twin-centre trip—or even better, a multi-island itinerary. The contrast between the lush, mountainous interiors and granite peaks of the main islands (Mahe, Praslin, La Digue) and the remote, untouched nature of the outer islands is extraordinary. They offer two completely different experiences that complement each other beautifully. The inter-island transfers by boat, plane, or even helicopter are part of the fun and make the adventure feel even more special.

2. World-Class Resorts

Six Senses, Four Seasons, Cheval Blanc, Waldorf Astoria… need I say more? The Seychelles is home to some of the most exceptional resorts in the world, each offering its own unique sense of place. Whether you’re seeking barefoot luxury, sleek sophistication, or something more intimate and boutique, there’s a property to match. The service is top-tier, the villas are stunning, and the food—oh, the food!—is fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. I’ve shared more detailed thoughts on the properties I stayed at below, so keep reading!

3. Diverse Experiences

One of the biggest surprises of my trip was just how much there is to do. The Seychelles isn’t just for lounging on the beach (though that’s certainly a tempting option). Think lush rainforest hikes, visits to colonial landmarks and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters, surfing, cycling through quaint island villages, rum distillery tours, private yacht charters, and world-class deep-sea fishing. For active travelers, adventure seekers, and culture lovers alike, there’s no shortage of options. We’ve compiled a document with a full list of experiences—reach out if you’d like a copy!

4. Unique Wildlife & Sealife

The Seychelles is a paradise for nature lovers. From spotting Aldabra giant tortoises lumbering through the forests to watching vibrant fish and manta rays glide through coral reefs, the biodiversity here is astounding. On land, you’ll find rare bird species like the Seychelles black parrot, while underwater is a kaleidoscope of marine life, including turtles, whale sharks, and colorful coral gardens. Conservation is a big part of the story here too, with several islands dedicated to eco-tourism and sustainability.

5. Local Culture & Food

What really stood out to me was the rich cultural tapestry of the Seychelles—a unique blend of African, French, and Indian influences. This mix is reflected in everything from the local moutya music to the architecture and, of course, the cuisine. Creole food is full of bold flavors, with fresh seafood, tropical fruits, aromatic spices, and fragrant curries. Every meal was a delicious adventure, and I’d encourage visitors to dine outside the resorts when possible for a more authentic taste of island life.

Property Highlights – My Personal Takeaways

Waldorf Astoria Platte Island: A stunning new private island escape. The villas are expansive and beautifully designed, the facilities are state-of-the-art, and the spa is an absolute sanctuary. A perfect retreat for those looking for ultimate seclusion and luxury.

Four Seasons Mahe: An oldie but a goodie! This resort still delivers. Probably the best beach I visited on the trip—white sand, turquoise waters, and excellent service. The hilltop villas offer jaw-dropping views, and the food was consistently excellent.

Four Seasons Desroches: Wow, wow, wow! This was hands-down one of my favorite stops. The island itself is magical, with so much to explore. The staff went above and beyond, and the surfing break here is fantastic for active travelers.

Mango House: A stylish and sophisticated option, perfect for those with a slightly lower budget but who still want a luxurious and well-located base. Great dining and a cool, laid-back vibe.

Cheval Blanc Seychelles: A showstopper. Ultra-luxurious, with exquisite dining, palatial villas, a phenomenal kids club, and design that blends beautifully into the surrounding landscape. This property is going to be a game-changer in the region.

Whether it’s a post-safari wind-down, a twin-centre adventure with the UAE, or a standalone luxury island getaway, we are here to help you craft the perfect Seychelles escape. Our expert team has firsthand knowledge of the destination, access to amazing rates and exclusive perks, and trusted local partners to ensure your clients have an unforgettable experience from start to finish.

If the Seychelles wasn’t on your radar before… it absolutely should be now. Let’s make it happen!

About the Author

Jack Mace
Strategic Director at Hummingbird Travel

With over a decade of experience in luxury travel across the Indian Ocean, Jack brings unmatched passion and expertise to his role at Hummingbird Travel. Specializing in curating bespoke journeys to the region’s most breathtaking destinations, he regularly travels to uncover hidden gems, evaluate top-tier resorts, and ensures trips planned by Hummingbird is nothing short of extraordinary.

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