Nothing helps reignite the flame of love more than putting in leave and hopping on a plane with your partner to find new adventures in dreamy locations around the world. And while there are many destinations to choose from, some stand out more than others.
In this article, we shine the spotlight on the beautiful archipelago of the Seychelles which is now officially open to travellers from South Africa! All you need to enter the Seychelles is a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure for the island (vaccination not mandatory, although it is encouraged) and to complete a Health Travel Authorisation at https://seychelles.govtas.com/.
Did you know: The Seychelles is just under a five-hour direct flight from Johannesburg with Air Seychelles, and South Africans don’t need a visa to visit this island paradise, making planning a romantic trip away a breeze.
Here are 5 more reasons why the Seychelles should be at the very top of your romantic travel bucket list.
Wake up to tropical sunrises and find your love in paradise
Nothing says romance like a private island getaway that has you waking up to tropical sunrises and walking hand in hand on powdery white sands – all surrounded by incredible azure waters. There are no better beaches to experience this than the ones found in the Seychelles! This archipelago is home to world-famous beaches whose sparkling waters, soft sands and incredibly lush backdrops of forests and boulders will have you falling in love with nature – and each other – again.
Adventure awaits
With 115 islands making up the Seychelles you don’t have to spend your entire holiday in one spot. If you are up for adventure, hop on over to some of the top islands and explore the different vibes. In Mahe, where 90% of the people reside, immerse yourself in the rich diverse culture of the Seychelles. In Praslin, other than breath-taking scenery, visit the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to the famous Coco de Mer. La Digue island will have you going back in time as you take a romantic cycle around the little sleepy town.
Treat yourself to all-inclusive luxury
If you are on a romantic getaway, one of the best things to indulge in is a little bit of luxury and pampering with your other half, and the Seychelles hosts many resorts to pick from. Exclusive resorts like the new all-inclusive eco-chic Club Med Seychelles which launched in 2021, are best for when you want a hassle-free holiday where everything is taken care of for you. Nestled on a private island with exclusive intimate villas, personal butlers plus a world-class spa on site, a stay at Club Med Seychelles will have you and your partner returning home loved up and rested. Being on an all-inclusive break also allows you to focus on your romantic holiday and indulge in first-class cuisine and countless activities without worrying about your wallet! The resort’s Safe Together protocol, coupled with the expansiveness of the resort and the many land and water activities (all included, of course) all make social distancing a breeze. This all works toward ensuring a safe and pleasant stay for you.
Eat. Play. Love
Food. Glorious food! There is something intimate about sharing a meal with someone. And to be able to do it in a foreign country as you sample and enjoy exotic gourmet cuisine makes it even more special. The authentic Seychellois cuisine is a delightful fusion of Indian, French and Chinese influences that will give seven-colour-Sunday lunch a run for its money.
Diving haven
Yes, holidays are for rest, but not all couples are happy to spend their holiday having cocktails on the beach. The Seychelles caters to active couples by offering the best tropical climate and crystal-clear waters for snorkelling and diving. Picture taking to the warm Indian Ocean with your partner to spend magical moments surrounded by marine life – all set against a backdrop of bright coral. If you have never snorkelled or gone diving before, worry not! The archipelago is perfect for beginners and many resorts offer lessons to get you in the water in no time.
After the stress of 2020 which continued well into 2021, you and your loved one deserve a little romance and fun away from day-to-day stress and responsibilities. Whether it’s on a last-minute spontaneous summer break or to celebrate the year-end, get that bucket list updated and start planning your next great love adventure – starting with the Seychelles.
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