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Dear Guest,Welcome on board!I’m delighted to mark a major milestone in our carrier’s development with the attainment of a four-star Skytrax rating.

The award signifies the achievement of a recognised standard of high quality performance across a broad range of product and service benchmarks, and is a thrilling endorsement of the success of our turnaround strategy, as well as the synergies derived from working with our equity partner, Etihad Airways.

We have come a long way in two years to rank among the very best airlines in the world, capping a remarkable year for Air Seychelles and 35 years in the industry.

I wish to thank our 600 staff members, all of whom have had a role in achieving this accolade. I’m proud of their dedication, professionalism and commitment to deliver service with Creole warmth and hospitality that is unique to the Seychelles.

We will continue to invest in our people and our product to deliver a high quality Seychelles experience.

On the subject of investment, I am pleased to report that we have signed an order to purchase three brand new Twin Otter DHC6-400 aircraft, which will join our fleet in the summer of 2015. It is our largest ever domestic fleet order. The new aircraft will replace our three existing DHC-6 Series 300 Twin Otters and will offer enhanced levels of comfort on your journeys between the islands. We offer more than 30 flights a day between Mahe and Praslin and other islands of the Seychelles, providing a fast, efficient, scenic and comfortable trip. Seeing our beautiful islands by the air is a unique experience, and if you haven’t yet had the pleasure, I suggest you try it.

I am also delighted to report the launch of Air Seychelles VIP, Seychelles’ first Fixed Base Operation (FBO) facility, in collaboration with Royal Jet, the award-winning luxury flight services provider. With Air Seychelles VIP, we enter the luxury travel market, providing premium lounge facilities as well as a comprehensive range of support services for the private jet market, putting Seychelles clearly on the map for a new class of clientele.

We have also been busy expanding the reach of Air Seychelles through new airline partnerships.

I am pleased to welcome Cathay Pacific Airways, one of the world’s premier airlines, as a new codeshare partner. With this agreement, we extend our reach further into Asia and Australasia, enhancing our connections in Hong Kong, one of the world’s great aviation hubs. In subsequent phases of the cooperation, we plan to expand the partnership and offer reciprocal frequent flyer benefits.

We have also made South Africa more accessible than ever by extending our codeshare agreement with South African Airways to Durban, Cape Town, East London and Port Elizabeth.

And in November, we expanded our codeshare agreement with Etihad Airways to add Ho Chi Minh City to our network.

Air Seychelles now seamlessly connects Seychelles to 13 cities in Europe, 26 cities in Asia, 26 cities in Africa, and four cities in Australia.

We will continue to expand our network, organically and in cooperation with new and existing partners, bringing more opportunities for global travellers to experience the beauty and culture of our home, the Seychelles, and for our residents to visit the world.

Thank you for flying with Air Seychelles. We hope you enjoy your flight

today and we look forward to welcoming you on board again soon.

Cher client,Bienvenue à bord!Je suis très ravi du nouveau classement 4-étoiles de notre compagnie par Skytrax, ce qui représente une étape importante dans notre développement.

Ce classement signifie que nous avons atteint un niveau de performance de haute qualité reconnue à travers un large éventail de produits et de services de référence. Il reconnait aussi la formidable réussite de notre politique de redressement, ainsi que les synergies qui se dégagent de notre collaboration avec notre partenaire Etihad Airways.

Nous avons parcouru un long chemin en deux ans: nous sommes aujourd’hui parmi les meilleures compagnies aériennes dans le monde, et cette performance marque le couronnement d’une année remarquable pour Air Seychelles qui fête ses 35 ans.

Je tiens à remercier l’ensemble de nos 600 employés, qui partagent cette récompense. Je suis fier de leur dévouement, de leur professionnalisme et de leur engagement pour offrir un service avec l’accueil et l’hospitalité créole qui sont caractéristiques des Seychelles.

Nous allons continuer à investir dans nos employés et nos produits pour offrir à nos clients une expérience seychelloise de haute qualité.

En ce qui concerne l’investissement, je suis heureux d’annoncer que nous avons signé une commande pour l’achat de trois nouveau Twin Otter DHC6-400, qui s’ajouteront à notre flotte en été 2015. C’est la plus importante commande jamais faite pour la flotte domestique. Le modèle qui a été récemment amélioré remplacera nos trois séries DHC- 6 Twin Otter 300 existant et offrira un niveau de confort accru sur les trajets inter-îles. Nous offrons plus de 30 vols par jour entre Mahé et Praslin et les autres îles des Seychelles, avec un voyage rapide, efficace, pittoresque et confortable. Une vue aérienne de nos belles îles constitue une expérience unique, et si vous n’avez pas encore eu ce plaisir, je vous suggère de l’essayer.

Je suis également ravi d’annoncer le lancement d’Air Seychelles VIP, la première base d’opérations fixe des Seychelles (FBO) en collaboration avec Royal Jet, le fournisseur primé de services de vol de luxe. Avec Air Seychelles VIP, nous entrons dans le marché du voyage de luxe avec un salon haut de gamme ainsi qu’une offre complète de services de soutien pour le marché de jet privé, en mettant Seychelles clairement sur la carte de cette nouvelle classe de clientèle .

Nous avons également été très occupés à étendre le réseau d’Air Seychelles à travers de nouveaux partenariats avec d’autres compagnies aériennes.

Je suis heureux d’accueillir Cathay Pacific Airways, l’une des meilleures compagnies aériennes dans le monde, comme un nouveau partenaire en partage de code. Avec cet accord, nous étendons notre portée vers l’Asie et l’Australasie tout en améliorant nos connexions à Hong Kong, l’un des grands centres de l’aviation dans le monde. Dans les phases ultérieures de cette coopération, nous prévoyons d’étendre le partenariat avec une réciprocité de nos programmes de fidélisation.

Nous avons également rendu l’Afrique du Sud plus que jamais accessible pour vous avec l’extension de notre accord de partage de code avec la South African Airways à Durban, Cape Town, East London et Port Elizabeth.

Et en novembre, nous avons étendu notre accord de partage de code avec Etihad Airways pour ajouter Ho Chi Minh Ville à notre réseau.

Air Seychelles relie maintenant les Seychelles de façon continue à 13 villes en Europe, 26 villes en Asie, 26 villes en Afrique, et quatre villes en Australie.

Nous allons continuer à développer notre réseau, d’une façon organique et en coopération avec nos partenaires actuels et de nouveaux, offrant ainsi davantage de possibilités pour les voyageurs internationaux à découvrir la beauté et la culture de notre pays, les Seychelles, et aussi permettre à nos résidents de visiter le monde.

Merci de voyager avec Air Seychelles. Nous espérons que vous apprécierez ce vol aujourd’hui et nous serons très heureux de vous accueillir à bord pour un autre voyage avec nous.

Cramer Ball

Chief Executive Officer

Directeur Général

Bon Voyage

Founding Publisher: Mohamed Amin

Editorial Director: Rukhsana Haq

Editor: Roger Barnard

Editorial Assistant: Cecilia Wanjiku

Creative Designer: Charles Kamau

Production Manager: Azra Chaudhry, London

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Editorial Board: Rukhsana Haq

Adrian Skerrett

Silhouette is published

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PO Box 386, Mahé, Seychelles

Telephone: (+248) 4391000

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Co ve rKing of Aldabra, Giant Tortoise

C o n t e n t sPho

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38 Aldabra and its Extended Family Visiting Aldabra is a lifetime’s ambition for some, but it is not everyone’s cup of tea. Astove and Cosmoledo are even more remote, and have been uninhabited for decades, but have tremendous potential to be future Aldabras.

44 The Business of Formula One A prelude to the 2014 Formula One season from behind the scenes.

50 Dublin, the Fair City One of the top city break destinations in Europe, steeped in history and buzzing with youthful energy, the Irish capital is at the very heart of Irish culture.

• 1 CEO Foreword • 4 Welcome Aboard • 8 News

• 14 Discover Seychelles • 69 Map of Mahé • 70 International Route Map

• 72 Worldwide Offices • 74 Travel Facts • 76 Dining Out

• 78 English - Creole • 79 Crossword • 80 Silhouette News

© 2014 CAMERAPIX MAGAZINES LTD.

All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced by any means without permission in writing from the publisher.

Re g u l a r s

54 The Little Circus with a Big Heart Now in its 10th year, the Magic Circus of Samoa is unique, making a point of not so much visiting towns and cities but instead performing on remote islands of the South Pacific, bringing its special brand of magic to children of all ages with little opportunity otherwise to enjoy a show.

58 Stress Busters Fifteen tips to achieve physical and mental relaxation in two days.

60 The Forest of Capucin Explore the Forest of Capucin, one of Seychelles’ most precious secrets, situated on the south coast of Mahe.

63 Sustainable shark fishing in the Seychelles Over the years, intensive fishing has decimated shark stocks. To combat this, Seychelles has introduced a National Plan of Action for Conservation and Management of Sharks aimed to ensure that the sharks are harvested sustainably.

Air Seychelles is pleased to welcome you aboard this flight and hopes that you will enjoy our services. Your cabin crew will do everything possible to make your journey pleasant. Should you need any assistance or information, please do not hesitate to call the cabin crew by pressing the call button located on the armrest of your seat.

ImportantFor your information, use of the following equipment on board is strictly prohibited under any circumstances:• FM/AM/TV transmitters or receivers• Citizens Band Transceivers• Full size Computer Printers• Portable Telephones, (not part of the approved aircraft installation)• Remote Control Toys• Satellite Receivers• Scanners• Walkie Talkies• Wireless Microphones

There is growing evidence that the above devices generate interference that could directly affect aircraft navigation and control systems.

Hand BaggagePlease note that one piece of hand baggage, in addition to a handbag and small camera, may be taken on board. For your own safety, you must place your hand baggage either in the overhead storage compartment or under the seat in front of you. The Cabin Crew will remove hand baggage from passengers seated in exit row areas and this will be returned after take-off should it be required in-flight. Please ensure that the contents do not include any prohibited goods and also ensure contents do not spill out, to avoid injuries to you and your fellow passengers.

Infants and ChildrenCabin Crew will assist in preparing baby foods. When possible, baby cots are available for infants.

Special Meals Air Seychelles offers a selection of special meals to suit the dietary and religious needs of passengers provided they are requested prior to the flight, preferably at the time of booking. If you wish to order a special meal for your return flight, please make your request when you re-confirm your flight. Special meals are also available for children, if requested in the same way.

SmokingSmoking is not permitted on all Air Seychelles flights.

SafetySafety is our first priority. Please watch attentively the safety video or safety demonstration given by the flight attendants and read the Safety Instruction Card located in the seat pocket in front of you. Seat belts must be fastened for takeoff and landing and when the seat belt sign is illuminated during the flight.

UNRULY/DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOUR ONBOARD AIR SEYCHELLES’ OWNED/OPERATED AIRCRAFT

In terms of International Civil Aviation legislation and regulations, it is an offence for any person to:

• Constitute any action that jeopardises or may jeopardise the safety of an aircraft, passenger and/or crew

• Disobey valid instruction from a crew member (safety officer)*

• Interfere with the normal operation of the aircraft

• Assault or wilfully interfere with any member of the crew of the aircraft in the performance of his/her duties

• Ignore warning signs and/or safety signs within the cabin of the aircraft

• Wilfully cause damage to an aircraft which renders it incapable of flight or which is likely to endanger its safety in flight

• Communicate any information which he/she knows to be false, thereby endangering the safety of an aircraft in service

• Commit any nuisance or any disorderly or indecent act or to be in a state of intoxication or behave in a violent or offensive manner to the annoyance of any other person on the aircraft, or use abusive, indecent or offensive language.

In terms of Seychelles legislation it is an offence to smoke on any Seychelles registered aircraft. Smoking in the toilet compartments of an aircraft is deemed a safety risk and is lawfully punishable.

Any person committing any of these offences while on board an Air Seychelles flight may be arrested at his/her point of arrival and prosecuted in accordance with the applicable Civil Aviation legislation. Such prosecution may result in the imposition of a fine and/or imprisonment.

It is the policy of Air Seychelles, in the interest of the safety of the travelling public and our employees, to lay the necessary criminal charges against unruly passengers and to aggressively pursue the successful prosecution of such persons.

We now invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy the Air Seychelles in-flight service.

We l c o m e A b o a rd

ComfortFor your comfort, blankets, pillows, socks and eyeshades are available on all overnight flights.

Personal BelongingsBefore leaving the aircraft, please ensure that you have all your personal belongings with you, remembering to check the overhead lockers as well as the seating areas.

Laboutik Duty Free Sales:Sales of duty free goods are conducted on all international flights, time permitting. Please consult the Laboutik Duty Free Brochure in the seat pocket in front of you. This brochure details the range available and the currencies and credit cards that are accepted.

Electronic EquipmentPassengers are requested not to make use of any electronic equipment that could interfere with the navigational equipment on board the aircraft. Please ask the Cabin Crew for assistance.

SprayingHealth regulations at Seychelles International Airport require that the aircraft must be sprayed. The spray used conforms to international regulations and presents no danger to your health. However, we suggest you cover your nose and mouth should you feel you may be inconvenienced by the spray.

In-flight ServiceOur menus are designed to include the wide range of flavours from the Seychelles. Depending on the duration of your flight, one or two meals are served. We offer free drinks on all our flights.

Please note:In terms of International Civil Aviation legislation, the Commander (Captain) of the aircraft is authorised/empowered to take any action deemed necessary, including restraint, of any person who jeopardises the safety of the aircraft or of persons or property on board. In terms of this authority the commander may request and/or authorise any member of the crew to render assistance in terms of restraint or action against such offenders.

In terms of Air Seychelles’ right of refusal of carriage, Air Seychelles reserves the right to refuse boarding to any person who is intoxicated or who, under reasonable grounds, is believed to pose a potential danger to the safety and/or good order and discipline on board its aircraft.

The primary function of a crew member is to act as a safety officer on board an aircraft. All Air Seychelles crew members are trained and licensed as safety officers in terms of International Civil Aviation regulations.

SeatingWhilst your seat is adjustable, it has to be in the upright position, with the foot-rest and tray table stowed, for take-off and landing. Each seat has an individual reading light, enabling you to read at night without disturbing your neighbour.

Air Seychelles est heureuse de vous accueillir à bord et espère que vous serez satisfaits de nos services. Notre équipage de bord fera son possible pour rendre votre voyage agréa-

ble. Pour tout renseignement ou aide, n’hésitez pas à appeler les membres de l’équipage en pressant le bouton situé sur l’accoudoir de votre siège.

ImportantPour votre information, l’usage des équipements suivants est formellement interdit à bord sous aucun prétexte:• Emetteurs ou récepteurs FM/AM/TV• Emetteur-récepteur de la citizen band• Imprimantes• Téléphone mobile• Jouets télécommandés• Récepteurs satellitaires• Scanneurs• Talkies-walkies• Micro sans fil

Il devient de plus en plus évident que ces appareils créent des interférences qui peuvent atteindre les réseaux de navigation et de contrôle de l’avion.

Bagage en cabineUn seul bagage à main, en plus d’un sac à main et un petit appareil photo, est autorisé à bord. Pour votre confort et votre sécurité, il doit être placé soit dans le compartiment à bagages soit sous le siège juste en face de vous. Les membres de l’équipage s’occuperont des bagages des passagers assis près des portes de sorties. Ils leur seront restitués après le décollage ou pendant le vol en cas de besoin. Veuillez vous assurer que votre bagage à main ne contient pas de marchandises interdites susceptibles de présenter un danger pour vous ou les autres passagers.

Bébés et enfants en bas âgeUne hôtesse vous assiste pour la préparation des repas pour bébé et installe un berceau selon la disponibilité à bord.

RepasAir Seychelles vous propose une sélection de menus convenant à votre régime alimentaire (ex. régime végétarien) à condition que vous en fassiez la demande lors de la réservation de votre billet. Si vous désirez un menu spécial ou un menu enfant, veuillez informer votre compagnie aérienne ou votre agent de voyage lorsque vous confirmez votre voyage.

Interdiction de fumer Tous les vols Air Seychelles sont non-fumeurs.

Mesures de sûretéVotre sûreté est notre priorité. Nous vous conseillons de suivre bien attentivement la vidéo sur nos écrans ainsi la démonstration de sécurité effectuée par notre personnel de bord avant le décollage. Il vous est également conseillé de lire les consignes de sécurité sur la fiche rangée dans la poche du siège situé en face de vous. Votre ceinture de sécurité doit être obligatoirement bouclée lors du décollage et de l’atterrissage ou pendant le vol, lorsque le petit voyant, situé au-dessus de votre siège, est allumé.

B i e nv e n u e á b o rd

ConfortPour votre confort, une couverture, un oreiller, des chaussettes et un masque sont mis à votre disposition.

Effets personnelsAvant de débarquer, assurez-vous que vous êtes bien en possession de tous vos effets personnels en vérifiant notamment le compartiment à bagages et votre siège.

Les boutiques de vente hors taxes : Les marchandises exemptes de droits existent sur tous les vols internationaux, si le temps le permet. Consultez, s’il vous plait, la brochure concernée qui se trouve dans la pochette du siège qui vous fait face. Cette brochure donne des détails sur le choix des produits disponibles, les devises et les cartes de crédit qui sont acceptées.

Utilisation d’appareils électroniquesLes passagers sont priés de ne pas utiliser d’appareils électroniques susceptibles d’interférer avec les appareils de navigation aérienne à bord. Pour tout renseignement, veuillez vous adresser au personnel de cabine.

DésinsectisationLe règlement sanitaire de l’Aéroport de Mahé exige que l’appareil soit désinsectisé. Le produit utilisé est conforme aux normes internationales et ne présente aucun danger pour la santé ; cependant, si vous pensez qu’il peut vous incommoder, nous vous prions de bien vouloir vous couvrir la bouche et le nez avec un mouchoir.

A bordNos menus vous feront découvrir en avant-garde les saveurs uniques des îles Seychelles. Selon la durée de vol, un ou deux repas seront servis à bord. Pendant toute la durée du vol, le service bar vous propose gratuitement des boissons fraîches.

Veuillez également noter que: D’après les règles de l’Aviation Civile Internationale (OACI), le Commandant de Bord est habilité et a le pouvoir de prendre toutes les mesures nécessaires pour assurer la sécurité des personnes et de leurs biens ainsi que celle de l’appareil, y compris la privation de mouvement pour quiconque pourrait menacer cette sécurité. Dans le cadre de ses fonctions, le Commandant de Bord peut demander à un ou plusieurs membres d’équipage de l’assister dans cette tâche, voire la déléguer pour neutraliser ceux qui commettraient des infractions.

Air Seychelles s’octroie également le droit, conformément à ses conditions générales de transport de refuser l’embarquement à toute personne qui serait sous l’emprise de la drogue et/ou de l’alcool, ou qui représente un danger pour la sécurité, l’ordre et la discipline à bord.

La première fonction des navigants est d’agir comme «officier de sécurité» à bord. Tous les membres d’ équipages d’Air Seychelles sont formés et certifiés «officier de sécurité» au sens des règlements de l’Organisation Internationale e l’Aviation Civile.

SiègesVous pouvez ajuster la position de votre siège en appuyant sur le bouton situé sur l’accoudoir. Cependant, lors du décollage et de l’atterrissage, votre siège doit être obligatoirement redressé, le repose-pieds et la tablette en face de vous, relevés. Chaque siège est pourvu d’un éclairage individuel qui vous permet de lire la nuit sans déranger votre voisin.

P RÉ VE NTIO N D ES CO MPO RTEMEN T S PERTURBATEURS ET DES INDISCIPLINES À BORD DES AÉRONEFS APPARTENANT À AIR SEYCHELLES OU EXPLOITÉS PAR AIR SEYCHELLES.

D’après les règlements de l’Aviation Civile Internationale (OACI), toute personne qui:

• Entreprend une action qui met ou est susceptible de mettre en danger les passagers, l’équipage et/ou l’appareil

• Refuse de se conformer à une injonction d’un membre de l’équipage (officier de sécurité)

• Perturbe le déroulement normal du vol

• Agresse un membre d’équipage

• Perturbe sciemment le travail de l’équipage

• Ne tient pas compte des consignes de sécurité, des signaux lumineux en cabine ou des instructions verbales de l’équipage

• Cause volontairement des dommages à l’appareil qui le rendent inexploitable ou qui mettent à risque la sécurité du vol

• Communique sciemment des informations fausses, mettant ainsi en danger un vol, son équipage et ses passagers.

• A un comportement gênant, perturbateur, indécent, fait preuve de violence à l’égard d’autres personnes, profère des insultes ou des obscénités.

Commet une infraction passible de poursuites. Le règlement de l’Aviation Civile Seychelloise stipule qu’il est interdit de fumer à bord de tout avion immatriculé aux Seychelles. Fumer dans les toilettes constitue un risque pour la sécurité et est puni par la loi.

Quiconque commettra l’une ou plusieurs de ces infractions sera arrêté à destination et poursuivi en vertu des règles de l’aviation civile concernée et du règlement du transporteur. Ces poursuites peuvent conduire à une amende ou une peine de prison, voire les deux.

La politique d’Air Seychelles, dans l’intérêt de ses passagers et de ses employés est de porter systématiquement devant la justice les cas de passagers perturbateurs et d’obtenir leur condamnation.

Nous vous invitons à vous installer confortablement, Vous détendre et profiter du service à bord d’Air Seychelles.

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Codeshare Deal with Cathay PacificAir Seychelles is significantly expanding its reach into Asia and

Australia, thanks to a codeshare agreement with Cathay Pacific Airways,

Hong Kong’s flagship carrier, which allows the airlines to introduce a

comprehensive range of codeshare and interline air services.

With this agreement, Air Seychelles places its ‘HM’ code on five Cathay

Pacific flights per week between Hong Kong and Perth, six flights per

week each between Hong Kong and Melbourne, Seoul, and three flights

per week from Hong Kong to Johannesburg.

Cathay Pacific codeshares on six flights per week between Hong Kong

and Seychelles, and two flights per week from Seychelles to Abu Dhabi.

Subsequent phases of the agreement will explore codesharing to

additional points in Asia and the Seychelles archipelago, and will

include guest benefits such as airport lounge access and frequent flyer

programme reciprocity, including priority check-in, and excess baggage

allowances for top tier programme members.

N e w s

Air Seychelles Registers Solid PerformanceAir Seychelles achieved a strong second quarter and half-year financial

performance, reflecting continued solid growth and success in its

turnaround strategy.

In the second quarter, it posted a significant increase of 139% in total

revenues. Total revenues for the first half of 2013 were up by 124%.

Passenger numbers on the airline’s domestic and international services

in the second quarter 2013 grew 56 per cent, rising to 82,893 from

53,066. In the first half of 2013, passenger numbers grew by 44 per cent

to 146,980 (2012: 101,977).

Air Seychelles’ Chief Executive Officer, Cramer Ball, attributed the results

to the airline’s ongoing turnaround strategy, which included significant

expansion of international services following the addition of a second

Airbus A330-200, and greater revenue contributions from its equity

partner Etihad Airways and codeshare partners.

Air Seychelles Expands Codeshare to VietnamAir Seychelles has expanded its codeshare agreement with Etihad

Airways for travel to Vietnam over Abu Dhabi.

The expanded agreement sees Air Seychelles place its ‘HM’ code on

Etihad Airways’ daily service to Ho Chi Minh City, offering a total of 17

connections between Mahé and Ho Chi Minh City on the combined

Air Seychelles and Etihad Airways network between Abu Dhabi and

Seychelles.

Air Seychelles to Replace its Domestic Fleet Air Seychelles have agreed the

purchase of three Viking Air DHC-6

Twin Otter Series 400 aircraft from

Viking Air of Canada which will see

the airline renew its domestic fleet

by mid-2015. The new aircraft will

be used for services between Mahé

and Praslin, as well as other islands in

the archipelago, including Bird, Denis

and Frégate.

Once delivered, the new aircraft will

replace the three existing DHC-6 Series

300 Twin Otters, forming the backbone

of a younger Air Seychelles domestic

fleet. The airline currently operates one

Viking Air DHC-6 Twin Otter Series 400

and three Series 300 aircraft.

• Silhouette • Vol 25 No 1 •

Above: (from left to right) Mr. David C. Curtis, Viking Air President and Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Joël Morgan the Chairman of Air Seychelles and Seychelles’ Minister for Home Affairs and Transport with Air Seychelles Chief Executive Officer,

Mr. Cramer Ball, exchange models of the new Twin Otter at a press conference held at the Seychelles International airport.

Above: Air Seychelles Chief Executive Officer, Cramer Ball and Cathay Pacific General Manager Revenue Management, James Tong, signed the codeshare agreement.

International Schedule Expands to include ParisAir Seychelles has announced new flights to Paris as part of a significant expansion of its international schedule.

The airline will operate two return services per week between Seychelles and Paris-Orly airport via Abu Dhabi from February 2014, using an

Airbus A330-200 aircraft, configured with 18 flat-bed Business class seats and 236 Economy seats.

The new Paris-Orly services complement the existing double-daily services to Paris-Charles De Gaulle operated by our equity alliance partner

Etihad Airways, giving travellers between the French capital and Abu Dhabi a choice of more flights per week and new convenient connections to key

destinations on the Etihad Airways network. The new flights will increase the connections to 18 per week to Paris-Charles De Gaulle airport.

In addition, the airline has announced plans to develop its regional network to introduce several new routes in 2014. Subject to approvals, this will mean

significant expansion of its operations in the Indian Ocean in the fourth quarter 2014, following the delivery of an Airbus A319.

Highlights of the plan include the launch of regional services to Antananarivo, Reunion, and Mumbai, an increase in services to Abu Dhabi, offering a

double daily service with Etihad Airways, and maximised connectivity through the Seychelles, with two-way connectivity throughout the region with

Mumbai and Abu Dhabi and beyond.

The new regional schedule will see Air Seychelles operate three return flights per week to Mauritius and Mumbai, two return flights per week to

Antananarivo and Reunion, and 11 return flights per week to Abu Dhabi. It will also offer three return flights per week to Hong Kong, three return flights

per week to Johannesburg, and two flights per week to Paris-Orly, nearly doubling our international services from 16 to 29 flights per week.

Two new Seychellois captains for Air Seychelles First Officers Archille Young (below) and Shiv Padayachy (below right), two Domestic Pilots, have been promoted to Captain and received their

commander’s bar from the airline’s Chief Executive Officer, Cramer Ball.

The new Twin Otter Commanders successfully completed the rigorous Company Command Upgrade Programme, which includes refresher training

on aircraft technical elements, Crew Resource Management (CRM), leadership, decision-making and emergency procedures.

Air Seychelles Partners with the Seychelles Institute of Technology (SIT) Air Seychelles’ Chief Executive Officer, Cramer Ball and Jean Rassool, Director of SIT, have signed a partnership agreement to facilitate the identification,

training and recruitment of talented technicians of SIT for employment at the national airline.

Under the terms of the partnership, Air Seychelles will provide support and opportunities for SIT students to actively participate in work attachment

programmes in various ground services areas of the national airline under the supervision of Air Seychelles engineers and artisans who will identify

potential for their further development within the airline.


‘Air Seychelles VIP’ Launched to Target High-end Tourism

Air Seychelles, in partnership with Royal Jet, an international luxury flight

services provider from Abu Dhabi, celebrated the launch of Air Seychelles

VIP on 25 October 2013. This marks Seychelles’ first Fixed Base Operation

(FBO) in a bid to attract growing numbers of private aviation tourists to

Seychelles.

Air Seychelles VIP provides a range of aviation services for private flights

at the Seychelles International Airport. The services include assistance for

landing permits, red carpet at aircraft steps, meet and assist at the aircraft,

communication of weather situation/NOTAM, arrival and departure

movement messages, coordination with fuel suppliers and arrangements

for fuelling and engineering services. Air Seychelles VIP is also the official

FBO for welcoming all Heads of State, diplomatic flights and military

aircraft. Discreet and secure airside transfers to and from the aircraft and

between the VIP facility and the domestic or international terminals, are

also provided.

For VIP commercial passengers, an exceptional level of service is provided

through the VIP lounge. This is located airside, guaranteeing maximum

discretion by avoiding the usual paths through the terminal. VIP clients

can disembark in total privacy and complete security, guided by one of

our highly experienced VIP hostesses, and straight into a waiting limousine.

All post and preflight formalities are available in the VIP Lounge, including

baggage claims, customs and immigration, check-in for commercial flights

and security screening formalities prior to boarding aircraft. Transfer to and

from the aircraft from certain parking bays will be provided by dedicated

buggies.

For more informationor to book your VIP experience, please visit

www.airseychelles.com or your nearest agent.


Seychelles is winning plaudits for its annual carnival, writes Glynn Burridge.

The ‘Carnaval International de Victoria’ or, as it is becoming more widely known, ‘Carnival of Carnivals’ is increasingly attracting top-notch representatives from the international carnival community. Performers from Rio, Dusseldorf and Notting Hill, among many others, are coming to Seychelles to participate in a three-day melting pot of cultures from across the globe.

Seychelles’ first carnival took place in 1972 to mark the opening of the international airport. The second was in 1976 during the Independence celebrations, so the idea of a carnival is not alien to the Seychellois. On the contrary, it falls very much in line with the islanders’ natural joie de vivre and irrepressible love of a good time.

Perhaps this is what has made the previous editions of the carnival a success; that, or the way it has captured the imagination of many people who view it as an encouraging sign of what can be achieved by fostering international goodwill and understanding at a time of international tension and insecurity.

Whatever is the driving force behind Seychelles’ very own and increasingly popular carnival, its magic seems to work. It never fails to attract a large cohort of international press into the country to cover three days of live music shows and acts, carnival-style entertainment, international food stalls and the famous carnival parade which takes the capital Victoria by storm and draws massive crowds into the streets of one of the tiniest capitals in the world.

The 2014 edition of the Carnaval International de Victoria, of which the national carrier, Air Seychelles, is a major sponsor, is shaping up to be yet another show-stopper with a formula which seems to hit the sweet spot. Its many enthusiastic followers are eagerly awaiting the weekend of 25th-27th April to participate in one of the most exciting and vibrant cultural happenings in the western Indian Ocean.

Air Seychelles to Support Carnaval de Victorial 2014

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Discover Seychelles The Islands14

Discover Seychelles

Far from any continental land mass, the islands of Seychelles have long been likened to a string of pearls set in the azure

waters of the Indian Ocean. No wonder that the slogan of this proud nation, one of the world’s prime holiday destinations,

is ‘Not just another place, another world ‘. And it is delivered with an invitation that no normal person can resist, an

invitation to ‘Discover the Islands’, which lie just four degrees south of the Equator and are literally 1,000 miles from anywhere.

As the world becomes ever smaller, Seychelles is becoming increasingly accessible to holiday-makers from around the globe.

With the greatest of ease, Air Seychelles whisks an ever increasing number of visitors from Europe, Africa, the Far East and the

Middle East to sample the many and varied delights of the islands. Within these few square kilometres is a land of colourful

contrasts; the bleached granite rocks, thrusting up from the sea like the peaks of a sunken mountain range lie in the shadow of

lush tropical vegetation clinging to steep mountain sides. In the middle of a beach of white coral sand, a sudden upthrust of

granite resembles a scene from the film 2001: A Space Odyssey.

The people of the islands reflect these same dramatic contrasts. A description of a typical Seychellois is impossible; their

ancestors include British and French seamen, freed African slaves, and Indian and Chinese merchants. Their skin tone can be fair or

dark, their hair blonde or black, their eyes blue or brown. But they all share a gentle and cheerful character, combined with a nature

as warm and welcoming as their island home.

15Discover Seychelles The Islands Discover Seychelles Les Îles

A la Découverte des les

Eloignées de toute masse continentale, les îles Seychelles ont longtemps été comparées à un chapelet de perles dans les eaux bleues

de l’océan indien. Pas étonnant que le slogan de cette fière nation, dont le pays est l’une des destinations de vacances les plus prisées

dans le monde, soit ‘Pas juste un autre endroit, un autre monde’. Et celui-ci s’accompagne d’une invitation à laquelle aucune personne

normalement constituée ne peut résister, une invitation ‘à la découverte des îles’, situées à seulement quatre degrés de latitude en dessous de

l’équateur et littéralement à mille lieues de tout autre endroit.

Au fur et à mesure que le monde rétrécit, les Seychelles deviennent de plus en plus accessibles aux agences de voyage et aux tours opérateurs

du monde entier. Air Seychelles emmène ainsi chaque année avec la plus grande facilité un nombre croissant de visiteurs d’Europe, d’Afrique, du

Proche Orient et de l’extrême Orient pour goûter aux délices nombreux et variés de ces îles. Parmi ces quelques kilomètres carrés de terres se

trouve un pays de contrastes colorés: les rochers de granite , surgissant de la mer comme les pics d’une chaîne de montagnes engloutie, gisent

dans l’ombre d’une végétation tropicale luxuriante s’accrochant jusqu’aux versants abrupts des montagnes. Au milieu d’une plage de sable

corallien blanc, la présence d’un monolithe de granite fait penser à une scène du célèbre film: 2001, Odyssée de l’Espace.

Les gens qui peuplent ces îles montrent un contraste tout aussi saisissant. Décrire un Seychellois typique est ainsi impossible, car leurs

ancêtres sont des marins français et britanniques, des esclaves africains affranchis, des marchands indiens et chinois. Le teint de peau des

Seychellois peut être aussi bien clair que foncé, leurs cheveux blonds ou bruns, leurs yeux bleus ou marrons. Mais ils partagent tous un même

caractère doux et gai, ainsi qu’une façon d’être aussi chaleureuse et accueillante que leurs îles natales.


in 1794. During the long revolutionary wars between Britain and France,

several British men-of-war called at Seychelles. Having no means of defence,

Quincy was forced to capitulate to the British seven times. These capitulations

were a form of ‘temporary surrender with honour’, with favourable terms for

Seychelles skillfully negotiated by Quincy.

At the end of the war Mauritius and Seychelles were ceded to the British

under the Treaty of Paris. The British recognised Quincy’s abilities and kept him

on as juge de paix of the colony until his death in 1827. He is buried in the

grounds of State House.

In 1903 Seychelles became a crown colony in its own right, detached from

Mauritius. From 1861, slaves liberated from Arab dhows off East Africa were

brought to Seychelles to begin new lives, swelling the population by nearly 3,000.

Two world wars during the 20th century touched Seychelles only lightly, but

times were changing fast. The embryo of the first political party, the Taxpayers’

Association, was formed in 1939.

In March 1975, a new constitution was drawn up and a coalition government

established ready for independence in June 1976, when James Mancham

became President and Albert René Prime Minister. Following a coup d’état

in 1977, Seychelles became a one-party state, with Albert René as president

and the Seychelles’ People’s Progressive Front as the ruling party. Multi-party

elections were restored in 1993, when René was again returned as President, with

Mancham (Democratic Party) leader of the opposition. René was re-elected in

1998, and also at the early elections called in 2001, where the opposition, led by

Wavel Ramkalawan (Seychelles National Party), obtained a high percentage. René

retired in April 2004 and handed over the presidency to his Vice President, James

Michel, who was re-elected in July 2006.

Seychelles has a population of about 85,000. Its people are descended from

the original French settlers, their African slaves, the liberated slaves rescued

from slavers in the 19th century, and some British settlers. This melting pot has

been enriched by traders from India and China, intermingling to produce an

almost unparalleled and multifaceted community, yet one that is completely

integrated.

The Seychelles’ rich racial blend is reflected in its varied culture and food.

Music brought to the islands by the European settlers and played on violins or

accordions has blended with the beat of the tomtom, the makalapo (a stringed

instrument with a tin for a sound box), the bom (a bowed instrument), and

the sez (a monochord sitar). A typical Seychelles dance is the moutias which

blends African and Malagasy rhythms in a popular communal dance usually

staged at night around a fire. European influences can be seen in the contre-

danse, which has its roots in the court of Louis XIV of France, the Sun King, and

the mazok and kosez, which are reminiscent of the waltz and the quadrille.

The main language of the islands is Creole, but most people speak English

and some French. Creole is a phonetic language, similar to that found in other

territories where there has been French influence, such as Mauritius and New

Orleans.

French words were given a harder pronunciation and syllables which were

not pronounced were dropped altogether. Thus Bonjour (Good morning)

becomes Bonzour and s’il vous plait (please) becomes sivouple.

The spiritual life of the Seychellois ranges from the centuries-old local

magic, called gris-gris, to the far reaching influence of the Roman Catholic

Church. Often these beliefs run alongside each other. Many local people still

consult their bonnomn dibwa, or medicine man, seeking spells or potions for

love, luck or revenge. However, the Seychellois are also avid church-goers and

consider church a particularly social occasion.

The Seychellois are never in a hurry. There is always time for a chat or a

smile. Their lifestyle is characterised by a warm, happy-go-lucky attitude that

foreign influences have been unable to dampen or disturb.

The history of Seychelles could have come straight out of a story

book: a tale of intrepid explorers, fearsome pirates and brutal battles

for the islands’ bountiful treasures. The first serious exploration took

place only in 1742, but early navigators, such as the Indonesians and Arabs,

probably arrived before this time in search of fresh water and food. These

visitors did not leave physical evidence of their passing, unless it was they

who introduced the casuarina tree and coconut palm. It is possible that Arab

merchants knew Seychelles as the source of the rare and valuable coco de

mer nuts and came here to collect them, keeping the location secret so that

they could sell them at inflated prices.

Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, sailed through the Amirantes

group in 1503, en route from India, and might also have sighted the granitic

islands. In 1506 another Portuguese navigator, Fernao Soares, recorded the

islands, which appear regularly on charts after this date as the ‘Seven Sisters’.

The British made their first appearance on Seychelles in 1609 when the

ships Ascension and Good Hope arrived at Mahé during an expedition for

the British East India Company. They made no claim to the islands, which

remained uninhabited, although they might have been used as a secret refuge

by pirates, who add a touch of drama and mystery to their story.

In 1742 the Frenchman, Lazare Picault, landed on Mahé at Anse Boileau

(not Baie Lazare, which now bears his name). He named the islands after

Mahé de Labourdonnais, the governor of Mauritius, who had sent him.

Fourteen years later, Mahé and the inner islands were formally claimed in

the name of the King of France. Mahé was named Isle Séchelles, which later

became the name of the group. The origin of the name is unclear; it might

have been in honour of Moreau de Séchelles, a former controller-general of

finance in France, but, as he was disgraced at the time, it seems more likely

to have been a tribute to members of his family who were related through

marriage to the governor of Mauritius. The Stone of Possession, which was set

above the entrance to the port, is now in the National Museum.

In 1768, the French also claimed Praslin, named after their marine

minister, the Duke of Praslin. La Digue and Curieuse were named after the

ships which visited the islands at this time. In 1770 settlers arrived on

St Anne from Mauritius. They later abandoned this settlement and moved

across to Mahé.

In 1772, Pierre Poivre sent spice plants to Seychelles, hoping to establish

them there and allow France to compete with the Dutch in the valuable spice

trade. Chevalier Quéau de Quincy was appointed administrator of Seychelles

History of Seychelles

Discover Seychelles The Islands

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23214 Air Seychelles ad prod_28MY.indd 1 23/07/2012 17:25


L’histoire des Seychelles pourrait sortir tout droit d’un livre de contes:

un récit d’explorateurs intrépides, de pirates n’ayant peur de rien, et

de brutales batailles pour les nombreux trésors de ces îles. La première

exploration sérieuse prit place en 1742, mais des navigateurs anciens tels que

les Indonésiens ou les Arabes visitèrent probablement les Seychelles bien avant

en quête de nourriture et d’eau douce. Ces visiteurs ne laissèrent pas de traces

de leur passage, bien qu’on leur attribue l’introduction du Casuarina et du

Cocotier. Il est possible que les marchands arabes aient visité régulièrement

ces îles pour y récolter les rares et précieux Coco-de-mer, et qu’ils aient

tenu leur emplacement secret afin de pouvoir vendre ces noix encore plus cher.

Vasco de Gama, l’explorateur portugais qui navigua à travers l’archipel des

Amirantes en 1503 sur sa route vers l’Inde, a peut-être lui-aussi pu voir les

îles granitiques. En 1506, un autre navigateur portugais, Fernao Soares, nota

la présence de ces îles qui, après son passage, figurèrent régulièrement sur les

cartes comme ‘Les Sept Sœurs’.

Les Britanniques firent leur première apparition aux Seychelles en 1609,

lorsque les bateaux Ascension et Good Hope (Bonne Espérance) arrivèrent à

Mahé au cours d’une expédition de la British East India Company (Compagnie

britannique des Indes orientales). Ils ne revendiquèrent pas la propriété de ces

îles, qui restèrent inhabitées, bien qu’elles aient pu être utilisées comme refuge

secret par certains pirates, ce qui rajoute une touche de drame et de mystère

à leur histoire.

En 1742, le Français Lazare Picault débarqua à Mahé à Anse Boileau (et non

pas Baie Lazare, qui aujourd’hui porte son nom). Il nomma l’île d’après Mahé

de Labourdonnais, gouverneur de l’Ile Maurice, qui l’avait envoyé. Quatorze

années plus tard, Mahé et les îles proches furent officiellement revendiquées

par le roi de France. Mahé fut nommée Isle Séchelles, nom qui par la suite fut

donné à l’archipel en entier. L’origine de ce nom n’est pas claire. Il est possible

qu’il ait été donné en honneur de Moreau de Séchelles, un ancien contrôleur

général des Finances en France, mais vu que celui-ci était déjà tombé en

disgrâce à cette époque, il semble plus probable qu’il s’agisse d’un hommage

à des membres de sa famille devenus parents par mariage avec le gouverneur

de Maurice.

La Pierre de Possession, qui fut érigée à l’entrée du port, est maintenant

exposée au Musée d’Histoire. En 1768, les Français revendiquèrent aussi

Praslin, nommée d’après le ministre de la marine de l’époque, le Duc de Praslin.

La Digue et Curieuse furent nommées d’après des navires de l’époque qui

visitèrent les îles. En 1770, les premiers colons en provenance de l’Ile de France

(aujourd’hui Maurice) débarquèrent à Sainte Anne. Ils abandonnèrent ensuite

ce premier établissement et s’installèrent en face sur Mahé.

En 1772, Pierre Poivre envoya des plants d’épices aux Seychelles, avec l’espoir

de pouvoir les y faire pousser et faire ainsi la concurrence aux Hollandais dans

le commerce lucratif des épices. Le Chevalier Quéau de Quincy fut nommé

Administrateur des Seychelles en 1794. Pendant les longues années de guerre

de la période révolutionnaire entre la Grande Bretagne et la France, plusieurs

hommes de guerre britanniques se présentèrent aux Seychelles. N’ayant

aucun moyen de défense, Quincy fut forcé de capituler devant les Anglais

plusieurs fois. Ces capitulations étaient une forme de ‘reddition temporaire

avec honneur’, et s’accompagnaient de conditions favorables aux Seychelles

habilement négociées par Quincy. A la fin de la guerre, les Seychelles et Maurice

furent cédées aux Britanniques par le Traité de Paris. Ces derniers reconnurent

les capacités de Quincy et le gardèrent comme juge de paix de la colonie,

jusqu’à sa mort en 1827. A partir de 1861, des esclaves libérés des marchands

arabes au large des côtes d’Afrique de l’Est furent amenés aux Seychelles pour

y commencer de nouvelles vies, grossissant la population d’environ 3,000

personnes. Les deux guerres mondiales du 20ème siècle n’affectèrent que peu

les Seychelles, mais les temps changeaient rapidement. Ainsi l’embryon du

premier parti politique, l’Association des Contribuables’, fut formé en 1939.

En mars 1975, une nouvelle constitution fut établie et un gouvernement de

coalition constitué afin de préparer l’indépendance en 1976; James Mancham

devint Président de la République et France Albert René le Premier ministre.

A la suite d’un coup d’Etat en 1977, les Seychelles adoptèrent un système à

parti unique avec Albert René comme Président et le Front Progressiste du

Peuple Seychellois comme parti dirigeant. Le multipartisme fut ré-introduit

avec les élections de 1993, où René fut élu président et Mancham devint

chef de l’opposition. René fut à nouveau réélu en 1998 ainsi qu’aux élections

anticipées de 2001, où l’opposition conduite par Wavel Ramkalawan (Parti

National Seychellois) obtint un score élevé. René se retira en Avril 2004 et

passa le pouvoir à son vice-Président, James Michel, qui fut ensuite réélu en

Juillet 2006.

Les Seychelles ont une population d’environ 85,000 habitants, qui sont

les descendants des premiers colons français, de leurs esclaves africains, des

esclaves libérés des trafiquants au cours du 19ème siècle, et de quelques colons

britanniques. Ce creuset racial et culturel s’est ensuite enrichi avec les apports

de marchands venus d’Inde et de Chine, le tout se mélangeant pour produire

une communauté à multiples facettes quasiment inégalée et complètement

harmonieuse. Le riche mélange racial des Seychelles est reflété par sa culture

et sa cuisine diversifiée. La musique amenée par les colons européens, jouée

sur des violons ou des accordéons s’est mêlée aux sons des tam-tams, du

‘makalapo’ (un instrument à cordes utilisant une boite de conserve comme

caisse de résonance), le ‘bom’ (un instrument arqué), et le ‘sez’ (une cithare

monocorde). La ‘Moutia’ est une danse typique des Seychelles, qui mêle les

rythmes africains et malgaches en une danse populaire de groupe normalement

pratiquée la nuit autour d’un feu. On ressent les influences européennes dans

la contredanse, qui puise ses racines à la cour du roi français Louis XIV, le Roi

Soleil, et dans le ‘mazok’ et la ‘kosez’, qui rappellent la valse et le quadrille.

Le principal langage parlé dans les îles est le Créole, mais la plupart des

gens parlent aussi l’anglais et le français. Le Créole est une langue phonétique,

similaire à celle rencontré dans les autres territoires jadis sous influence

française, comme Maurice ou la Nouvelle-Orléans.

On a donné aux mots français une prononciation plus simplifiée et on a

laissé tomber les syllabes qui ne se prononçaient pas.

Ainsi Bonjour devient ‘Bonzour’ en Créole, et s’il vous plait ‘sivouple’.

La vie spirituelle des Seychellois s’étend de la magie locale séculaire,

appelée ‘gris-gris’, à l’influence dominante de l’Eglise Catholique. Souvent

ces croyances se côtoient. Beaucoup de personnes consultent encore leur

‘Bonnonm dibwa’, ou sorcier, à la recherche de potions ou de sorts pour

l’amour, la chance ou la revanche. Cependant, les Seychellois fréquentent

assidûment les églises et considèrent le fait d’y aller comme un évènement

social important.

Les Seychellois ne sont jamais pressés. Il y a toujours du temps pour

parler ou pour un sourire. Leur style de vie est caractérisé par une attitude

insouciante et chaleureuse que les influences extérieures ont été incapables

d’abattre ou d’altérer.

L’histoire des Seychelles


Takamakarized**taka - maka - rized vt. hypnotise:(loosely) fascination. Capture interestA: Common occurrence when drinking Takamaka Bay Rum. B: An influence orprocess producing this. C: Feeling or showing of pleasure & contentment.3 colloq characterized by happinessevoked by place of pleasure, beautyi.e. the Seychelles






www.takamakabay.com


MahéThe main island of Seychelles is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and impressive in the world. Each of its 70 beaches has a different character; the rock formations behind them are a dramatic contrast and a beautiful backdrop for the architectural elegance of the hotels.

Mahé covers roughly 150 square kilometres and is 27 kilometres long and seven kilometres wide. Considering its mountainous interior, covered with lush vegetation, it is small wonder that the island’s original name was Ile d’Abondance.

The highest point, Morne Seychellois, is 930 metres above sea level. Even high up in the interior the roads are good. There are plenty of opportunities for walks through winding paths to appreciate the lush flora and fauna at close quarters, especially in the Morne Seychellois National Park.

The airport, south of Victoria, is built on reclaimed land. Landing there is an interesting experience – offering stunning views of the verdant island and its coastline.

Victoria, the national capital with a population of some 20,000, is spread around a large bay at the foot of Morne Seychellois and the Trois Frères. This small town is the islands’ economic and administrative hub, as well as their only international port.

The clock tower in the city centre is a replica of the clock that stands at the junction of Victoria street and Vauxhall Bridge Road in central London. Erected as a memorial to Queen Victoria in 1903, the Seychelles clock tower is today more readily associated with the declaration that year of Seychelles as a Crown colony.

A more modern structure, just outside the old town centre, is a huge sculpture by Lorenzo Appiani – the Bicentennial Monument – representing the three continents from which the Seychelles people originate. If you want to arrange a meeting place, however, the locals tend to use the Pirate’s Arms on Independence Avenue, where one can have a drink or a meal. The first hotel in Seychelles was built not far away, at the intersection of Poudrière street and Francis Rachel street. While no one street is best for souvenir shopping, there are clusters of shops and boutiques near the

traffic lights and the taxi rank, and in the arcade on Francis Rachel street. There are also boutiques in the Temooljee building in the same street, near the Pirate’s Arms and at the foot of Independence Avenue. Local crafts can also be purchased at the kiosks on Francis Rachel street and on Market street. The new Sir Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market, which was opened in 1999, is noted for its noisy and colourful atmosphere, especially on Saturday mornings. Red chillies, flavoured with garlic and ginger (mazavarou) will give a special ‘Creole touch’ to your dishes. There are two national museums in Victoria – the Natural History Museum, ‘guarded’ by a large cement crocodile and a dugong, on Independence Avenue, and the National History Museum, together with the National Library and Archives are located near Le Chantier roundabout while the Botanical Gardens are on the Mont Fleuri Road, next to the Hospital. Departure point for many of the island excursions is the Marine Charter Association wharf, next to the Yacht Club. There are two cathedrals (one Roman Catholic and one Anglican), one Hindu temple and a Mosque in Victoria.

Then there are the beaches, the glory of Seychelles. The east coast, on which the airport is situated, has long beaches such as Anse Marie-Louise, but there are also many small beaches, some of which you can call your own at times.

Those wishing to avoid crowds will also like Anse Intendance on the south coast, but caution should be observed here and at several other beaches because of strong currents. It is advisable to check on local conditions before swimming or snorkelling. Most beaches, however, are perfectly safe, such as Anse à la Mouche, a large palm-fringed bay with shallow waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. There are more interesting beaches, such as Barbarons and Port Glaud, Ile Thérèse, Port Launay Marine National Park or Anse Major (in the National Park near Bel Ombre). Care should be taken with strong currents when snorkelling off nearby Anse Takamaka. Slightly north is Baie Lazare, with its dramatic granite backdrop.

To many, the king of beaches is Beau Vallon, in the north of the island – a huge three kilometres (two miles) long curve of white sand with crystal- clear water that is especially calm and welcoming. Several hotels on Beau Vallon offer excellent watersports and diving facilities.

From its prime beach-facing location on the South East coast of Mahe, Seychelles largest and best known island, DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles - Allamanda Resort & Spa is a true paradise escape. Surrounded by 2.5 hectares of picturesque, indigenous landscaped gardens and boasting breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean, the hotel is an enchanting island resort of barefoot indulgence located 20 minutes from the Pointe Larue International airport.

Nestled against a spectacular backdrop of mountains and ocean, DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort & Spa features a tempting array of amenities and facilities. Guests will appreciate the complimentary wifi access from the internet lounge, the newly installed Technogym together with the refined simplicity and quality of the ocean-facing resort restaurant and separate bar.

Begin your stay at the DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles - Allamanda Resort & Spa with a warm welcome. We will greet you with our delicious freshly baked cookie upon arrival. The 30 spacious rooms and suites all enjoy superb ocean views and, for total relaxation, guests can luxuriate in the hotel’s signature spa, uniquely perched on a large granite boulder and surrounded by tropical foliage.

The more energetic can enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving or work out at the fitness centre while nature lovers can discover Seychelles’ mountain treasure by exploring the many nearby nature walks. The charm and intimacy of DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles-Allamanda Resort & Spa has also proven the property’s romantic credentials with many couples already seeking the hotel’s exclusive paradise setting as the idyllic wedding destination.

Hilton Worldwide Opens DoubleTree by Hilton Seychelles – Allamanda Resort & SpaThird Hilton Worldwide Resort in the Seychelles


There's a new cookie in town.

Mahé has a whole lot to celebrate. DoubleTree by Hilton™ has a new hotel in Anse Forbans that's been fully refurbished and freshly updated. We want you to be one of the first to enjoy

everything we have to o�er from the well appointed seafacing rooms, beachfront bar and restaurant to our exclusive Duniye Spa, so we're o�ering a special grand opening rate

of only Euro 260 per night on Bed and Breakfast. �ere's Sweet Dreams™ bedding, our caring service, and a cookie here with your name on it.

DoubleTree by Hilton. Where the little things mean everything.™

Visit our mobile website

Anse Forbans, Mahé, Seychelles, E: [email protected] | T :+248 438 8800 | F :+248 438 8801

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MahéL’île principale des Seychelles est, sans aucun doute, l’une des plus belles îles du

monde avec ses 70 plages au caractère particulier. Les magnifiques formations

rocheuses, qui séparent les plages de l’intérieur de l’île, resemblent à un décor

de théâtre dans lequel se fond l’élégante architecture des hôtels.

Mahé couvre environ 150 kilomètres carrés, mesurant 27 kilomètres de

long et 7 kilomètres de large. L’abondante végétation qui recouvre son relief

montagneux lui a valu autrefois le nom d’Ile d’Abondance. Le point culminant

de cette île s’élève à 930 mètres au-dessus du niveau de la mer. Le réseau

routier est carrossable jusque dans les coins les plus reculés de l’intérieur. De

nombreux chemins de promenades à pied permettent d’admirer de près la flore

et la faune de l’île, en particulier dans le Parc National du Morne Seychellois.

Au sud de Victoria, la capitale, se trouve l’aéroport de Mahé. Le seul fait d’y

atterrir est une expérience inoubliable à cause de la vue magnifique que l’on a

de l’île verdoyante et de sa côte.

Victoria, avec sa population d’environ 20,000 habitants, s’étend le long d’une

baie au pied du Morne Seychellois et des Trois Frères. Cette ville minuscule est

le centre administratif et financier des Seychelles ainsi que le seul port de l’île.

La tour de l’horloge est une copie miniature de celle située à l’intersection de

Victoria Street et Vauxhall Bridge Road près de la gare Victoria à Londres. Elle fût

édifiée en 1903 en hommage à la reine Victoria. Mais aujourd’hui, elle est plutôt

considérée comme un symbole de l’élévation des Seychelles au rang de colonie

de la Couronne, indépendante de l’Ile Maurice.

La monumentale sculpture du bicentenaire de Lorenzo Appiani au centre de

la ville, représente les trois continents dont le peuple Seychellois est originaire:

l’Europe, l’Afrique et l’Asie. Le Pirates Arms, sur la place de l’Indépendance, est

un lieu de rencontre populaire où l’on peut boire et se restaurer. Bien qu’aucune

rue en particulier ne soit la meilleure pour l’achat de souvenirs il y a bon

nombre de boutiques au voisinage des uniques feux de circulation de l’île, près

de la station de taxis, et dans la rue Francis Rachel. Il y a aussi des boutiques

intéressantes dans l’édifice Temooljee situé dans la même rue, près du Pirates

Arms, et au début de l’avenue de l’Indépendance.

Le site du premier hôtel qui fut construit aux Seychelles se trouve à l’intersection

de la rue de la Poudrière et de la rue Francis Rachel.

Le “Marine Charter Association”, proche du cercle nautique, est le point de départ

de nombreuses excursions. La rue du Marché est fascinante avec ses étalages de

produits locaux et de souvenirs, son ambiance bruyante et colorée, en particulier les

samedis matins. Les piments rouges, assaisonnés d’ail et de gingembre (mazavarou),

en vente au marché (entièrement rénové en 1999), ne manqueront pas de relever

votre cuisine d’une touche créole. On trouve à Victoria deux cathédrales (une

catholique et une anglicane), un temple hindou et une mosquée.

Le Musée d’Histoire Naturelle, gardé par son crocodile et son Dugong en ciment,

se trouve dans l’avenue de l’Indépendance, tandis que le Musée National d’Histoire,

où est exposée la Pierre de Possession française, la Bibliothèque et les Archives

Nationales se situent dans la rue Francis Rachel, et le Jardin Botanique sur la route

de Mont-Fleuri, près de l’Hôpital.

Et puis, bien sûr, il y a les plages, la fierté de l’île. Sur la côte est, au Sud de

l’aéroport, s’étendent de grandes plages telle que l’Anse Marie Louise ainsi que

de plus petites plages souvent désertes. L’Anse Intendance, sur la côte sud, fait

parfaitement l’affaire de ceux qui préfèrent se tenir à l’écart des foules, quoique les

baignades y soient quelque peu dangereuses de mai à septembre. De même, il faut

être prudent lorsque l’on fait de la plongée ou du P.M.T. (Palme-Masque-Tuba) au

large de l’Anse Takamaka et plus généralement tout le long de la côte sud et ouest

de l’île, en raison des courants qui peuvent y être dangereux. Un peu plus au Nord, se

trouve Baie Lazare, avec son arrière-plan de granite tout à fait spectaculaire.

En remontant la côte ouest, il est conseillé d’accéder à la plage suivante, la

merveilleuse Anse Soleil, par un chemin pédestre, avant de se diriger vers Anse à

la Mouche, une grande plage bordée de palmiers dont l’eau peu profonde en fait

un lieu idéal pour la baignade ou le P.M.T. Il y a bien d’autres magnifiques plages,

dont Barbarons, Port Glaud, et l’Ile Thérèse, Port Launay ou Anse Major (à laquelle

on accède via Bel Ombre) qui sont des Parcs nationaux. La reine des plages, pour

beaucoup de personnes, c’est celle de Beau Vallon, au Nord de l’île. Celle-ci se

présente comme une longue promenade de trois kilomètres de sable blanc, caressée

par une eau claire particulièrement accueillante et calme. On trouvera là plusieurs

hôtels offrant tout l’équipement nécessaire aux sports nautiques.


resort experience in Seychelles

A MAGICAL PLACE TO REVIVE THE SENSES

Imagine a natural paradise of lush tropical vegetation, pure white sand beaches, brilliant turquoise seas and space aplenty. Situated on 2 of the most breathtaking beaches on the island of Mahé, and overlooking the marine national park of Port Launay, this beautiful landscape is the stunning backdrop for Constance Ephelia.

Begin the U-experience: call (230) 402 2772/73 or visit us at www.constancehotels.com

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L’île aux CerfsCette île luxuriante se situe à 15 minutes de Mahé par bateau. Sa côte nord s’étend

le long du Parc Marin National de Ste Anne; elle est bordée d’un superbe récif de

corail, et est donc un endroit idéal pour la plongée sous-marine. L’intérieur de l’île

est le domicile de tortues et de roussettes (chauve-souris) géantes. Les restaurants

y servent une excellente cuisine créole.

Moyenne Island Parc NationalGrande de seulement 9 hectares, l’île Moyenne est un des plus petits parcs

nationaux. C’est une île privée, dans le parc national de St Anne, mais elle

demeure facilement accessible au public. Malgré sa petite taille, c’est un

véritable trésor. Plus de la moitie des plantes endémiques et uniques aux îles

granitiques y est présente. Moyenne est le seul endroit au monde en dehors

de la Vallée de Mai où poussent les six palmes uniques aux Seychelles.

Moyenne a une population de plus de 100 tortues géantes et environ

une vingtaine de tortues marines imbriquées qui viennent pondre sur ses

plages. Les premiers habitants de l’île étaient sans doute des pirates, ce

qui expliquerait les tombeaux qui s’y trouvent. Et aussi, il y a les fameuses

histoires de fantômes qui s’aventurent depuis lecimetière a minuit,

frappant aux portes et fenêtres, comme si bien raconté dans le livre ‘Un Grain

de Sable’!

CerfThis lush island is 15 minutes by boat from Mahé. Its north coast, which lies at the

edge of the marine park, has a superb coral reef, ideal for snorkelling or scuba-diving.

The interior is home to giant tortoises and flying foxes. Restaurants serve excellent

Créole food.

Moyenne Island National Park

At just nine hectares, Moyenne Island may be the world’s smallest National Park.

Owned by Moyenne Foundation, a private NGO, it lies within the St Anne Marine

National Park and is the only island of the group open to day visitors. Despite its

diminutive size, it is an environmental treasure trove. Some 40 endemic plants are

represented, more than half of those unique to the granitic islands. Moyenne is the

only place on earth other than Vallée de Mai where all six of the palms unique to

Seychelles can be seen.

Moyenne also has a population of more than 2,000 birds, 100 giant tortoises

and about 20 hawksbill turtles haul themselves ashore at Pirate Cove each

year. Perhaps pirates were the earliest human inhabitants and graves of

mysterious origin may date from this era. There are also tales of ghosts that

bang on windows and doors or trudge from the cemetery around midnight,

eloquently told in the book A Grain of Sand.

Eden IslandEden Island is a private residential marina development situated just off the

coast of Mahé. Featuring a range of 580 freehold title luxury apartments,

spacious maisons and private villas, each with its own mooring, it also offers

owners the opportunity to qualify for residency of the Seychelles.

The over 56 hectares of land and private waterways will host a myriad

of upmarket facilities. These include an international marina capable of

handling super-yachts up to 100 metres in size, a commercial precinct

as well as a clubhouse hosting a gym and a tennis court.

The overall style of the island is distinctly rooted in the Seychelles

vernacular, drawing inspiration from the islands’ French, Victorian and

Indian ancestry. For more information, contact Christopher Nel on

+248 43 46 000, visit the island yourself or visit www.edenisland.sc

Eden IslandEden Island est une marina résidentielle située proche de Mahé. Elle propose,

en pleine propriété, 580 appartements luxueux, maisons spacieuses et villas

de rêve indépendantes.

Chaque unité dispose de son propre point de mouillage et les propriétaires.

Eden Island développe 56 hectares de terrain et de voies navigables. Elle abrite

une marina internationale capable d’accueillir les Yachts jusqu’à 100 mètres et

bientôt un centre commercial ainsi qu’un club house avec salle de fitness et cours

de tennis.

L’architecture et le design de l’île s’inspirent des influences historiques

françaises, anglaises et indiennes dans le plus pur style seychellois. Pour plus

d’informations, contactez aux Seychelles Sandra Colas au +248 43 46 000

et en France la société Ter Cognita Jean-Philippe Aubert au +33 (0)1 48 25 93 33

ou visitez notre site internet www.edenisland.sc

25 Discover Seychelles Les Îles


Round Island Praslin Round Island Praslin lies just a short distance off Baie Ste Anne, Praslin. There is one beautiful sandy cove facing towards the main island with a beach bar and restaurant. The smallest resort in the Indian Ocean merges with the forest and the hillside, comprising just one large main house and three villas. A board walk skirts the edge of the hill and climbs to the summit where there is a spectacular view of the islands.

Ste Anne and its Marine National ParkThe smaller islands that are most accessible from Mahé for half-day or full-day trips are Cerf, Moyenne, Round and Ste Anne. The best way to appreciate the wonders of the ocean is to make the trip by glass-bottomed boat, through which you can see shoals of colourful fish. Unfortunately large sections of coral have suffered from a rise in sea temperatures (attributed to climate change), although some are showing signs of recovery.

Constituted in 1973, the Ste Anne Marine National Park was one of the first Marine National Parks in the Indian Ocean. It now protects over 150 types of fish. Naturally, fishing is forbidden, as is collecting shells and coral. As the notice says, “Take away nothing but photographs and memories.”

With the new five-star hotel, Sainte Anne Resort, (managed by the International Company Beachcomber) the island is now a holiday paradise for visitors.

Sainte Anne et le Parc Marin NationalDes excursions d’une journée ou d’une demi-journée peuvent être facilement organisées sur les îles Cerf, Moyenne, Ronde, et Sainte Anne, au large de Mahé. Le meilleur moyen d’apprécier les merveilles de l’océan est de s’offrir une traversée en bateau à fond de verre vers l’une de ces îles. Car cela permet d’admirer les innombrables bancs de poissons. Malheureusement, les formations coralliennes ont souffert du réchauffement de l’eau, phénomène attribué au changement du climat, mais montrent des signes de récupération.

Le Parc Marin National de Ste Anne, qui fut constitué en 1973, est l’un des premiers de l’océan indien. Il abrite aujourd’hui plus de 150 espèces de poissons. La pêche et le ramassage du corail y sont strictement interdits. Comme le dit si bien la brochure touristique: “N’emportez rien sauf des photos, ne laissez rien sauf des traces de pas.”

Avec le nouveau complexe hôtelier cinq étoiles de Sainte-Anne, (géré par la compagnie internationale Beachcomber) l’île est maintenant devenue une destination touristique paradisiaque.

Ronde de PraslinRonde de Praslin est une île située non loin de Baie Sainte Anne. On y trouve une belle anse sableuse faisant face à Praslin avec un bar de plage et un restaurant. Avec une grande maison principale et trois villas, bien intégrées avec la forêt et la colline, c’est probablement le plus petit établissement hôtelier de l’Oocéan indien,. Un sentier longe le bord de la colline et grimpe vers le sommet qui offre une vue spectaculaire sur ldes autres îles.

CousinCousin Island, has been a nature reserve since 1968, when it was bought by the Royal Society for Nature Conservation and held in trust for the International Council for Bird Preservation as a haven for all types of birds including endangered species. It is a place of pilgrimage for dedicated ornithologists: there they can find the Seychelles warbler, Seychelles magpie-robin and Seychelles fody, which are found elsewhere only on a handful of rat-free islands. Madagascar turtle doves (possibly including the endemic form with the red head) and Seychelles sunbirds are also present. Seabirds abound on Cousin, with more than 250,000 birds coming to nest every year. These are brown noddies, lesser noddies, wedge-tailed shearwaters, Audubon’s shearwaters, bridled terns, as well as fairy terns, one of the symbols of Seychelles, seen on the livery of Air Seychelles. There are also interesting geckos, giant tortoises introduced from Aldabra, and hawksbill turtles which lay their eggs above the tideline of the beach. The reserve is open on certain days. Check with your hotel or tour operator.

The Seychelles government declared Cousin a Special Reserve in 1975. It is managed by Nature Seychelles. Visitors may not have picnics or collect shells. Even smoking is forbidden. A popular day trip leaves Praslin around 0900 hours from Maison des Palmes, taking in Curieuse as well, with time for a barbecue there, and later some snorkelling at St Pierre, arriving back at Praslin at around 1600 hours.

CousinCousin est une réserve naturelle depuis 1968, date à laquelle cette île fut achetée par la Royal Society for Nature Conservation pour le compte du et le Conseil International pour la Protection des Oiseaux qui en fît un refuge pour oiseaux de toutes espèces mais particulièrement pour les espèces menacées d’extinction. Ces dernières étant particulièrement rares, Cousin est devenu un lieu de pèlerinage pour ornithologues. Ils trouvent là la Rousserole des Seychelles, le Fody (Tok-Tok en Créole) des Seychelles et la Pie chanteuse des Seychelles, espèces survivant seulement sur quelques îles sans rats. Des Tourterelles de Madagascar (dont la forme endémique des Seychelles à tête rouge) et des Souimangas des Seychelles s’y trouvent également. Les oiseaux marins y sont quant-à-eux très nombreux, avec plus de 250,000 d’entre eux qui viennent y nicher chaque année. Il y a là des Noddis bruns, des Noddis à bec grêle, des Puffins du Pacifique et des Puffins d’Audubon, des Sternes bridées, ainsi que des Sternes Blanches, un des symboles des Seychelles qui fut incorporé dans le logotype d’Air Seychelles.

On y trouve également beaucoup de reptiles intéressants, tels que des geckos, des tortues géantes qui furent importées de l’île d’Aldabra, et des tortues marines qui viennent pondre sur les plages, au-dessus de la ligne de marée haute. La réserve n’est pas ouverte au public tous les jours; il est donc prudent de s’informer auprès de votre hôtel ou tour opérateur avant d’y projeter une visite. En 1975, le gouvernement Seychellois classa Cousin «Réserve Spéciale». L’île éstt aujourd’hui gérée par Nature Seychelles, représentant local de BirdLife International. Le ramassage des coquillages et les pique-niques sont interdits à Cousin et les visiteurs ne sont pas non plus autorisés à fumer. Une excursion intéressante part le matin de Praslin vers 09h00, visite ensuite Curieuse, où est organisé un barbecue sur la plage, avant de reprendre la mer pour St Pierre pour un P.M.T. et de rentrer ensuite à Praslin vers 16h00.


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PraslinThe second-largest granite island of Seychelles is Praslin, about 40 kilometres from Mahé. It is 15 minutes by Air Seychelles service, which offers many scheduled flights a day. By boat, it takes about one hour with the powerful catamarans that make 3 to 4 round trips rotations per day. The island has a population of about 7,000. There are several excellent hotels, including the Lemuria Resort and Château de Feuilles. Praslin is not as mountainous as Mahé – the highest point being 330 metres – but it has similarly great granite outcrops surrounded by beautiful beaches, and a coral reef enclosing the crystal-clear waters which are so typical of Seychelles.

The majestic bays and beaches alternate with smaller ones on which, even in the busy season, you could believe you were the only person on the island.

Anse Volbert, or Côte d’Or, to the east of the island, is particularly beautiful, with its pure white sand. Hotels such as Berjaya Praslin Beach offer a wide variety of watersports facilities.

Fantastic granite masses form striking backgrounds to the beaches of Anse Bois de Rose, Anse Boudin and Anse Kerlan, where the five-star Lemuria Resort has an 18-hole championship golf course. At the northernmost tip of the island, Anse Lazio is excellent for both swimming and snorkelling. Grand Anse, on the west coast, has an equally beautiful beach for lazing about, but the waters are sometimes heavy with seaweed and, because it is very shallow over the coral, swimming is difficult at low tide.

Baie Pasquière and Anse Volbert to the north and Baie St. Anne to the south have natural harbours which are best appreciated if you opt to make your trip from Mahé to Praslin by boat; the view as you sail in is striking. In Baie St. Anne, you will see Baie St Anne village, where there is a bank, shops and a church, same as at Grande Anse village on the opposite side of the island.

One of the eternal symbols of Seychelles, the huge coco de mer nut, grows in the Vallée de Mai forest of Praslin, also home to one of the world’s rarest birds, the black parrot. The Vallée, a World Heritage Site, is open from 0830 to 1630 hours and the entrance can be found on the road from Grand Anse to Baie St Anne. This area is heavily protected and is being allowed to return to its natural state following ill-founded attempts to introduce non-native plants there in the 1930s and 1940s.

Paths are well-maintained and clearly marked, and a nature trail leads you to all the interesting botanical species. You can find leaflets and information at the entrance of the reserve, managed by the Seychelles Islands Foundation. To walk through the Vallée is to step back in time into a primeval forest, canopied by thick palm fronds that block out the sun. The silence is broken only by the call of the black parrot and the clatter of huge sturdy leaves as the wind blows through the trees.

In streams, freshwater crayfish and crabs can be seen, and the plants around you include the coco de mer, bois rouge, ferns, lataniers, coco marron, screwpines and orchids, all growing around the granite mass. Fruit bats, blue pigeons, bulbuls, lizards, geckos, chameleons, snails and insects can also be observed in the Vallée de Mai. Praslin is perfect to explore on foot and is covered by a network of walkways. There is no danger of getting lost as the island is so small that one needs only an hour or less to cross it width wise.

There is only a limited number of cars for hire, so if you wish to drive it is wise to book ahead, particularly during the busy seasons from December to January and July to August. Petrol stations can be found at Grand Anse and Baie St Anne. There are taxi ranks at the airport. Taxis can be called by telephone from most hotels and the airport (tel: 4284666). Fares increase slightly at night.

A bus service runs between 0530 and 1900 hours, with a special Sunday service. You can also take a bus that passes the Vallée de Mai entrance. For souvenir shopping, there are boutiques in all the main hotels. Barclays Bank is at Baie St Anne (tel: 4232218), with a branch at Grande Anse open Mondays to Fridays from 0830 to1230 hours.

There are regular boat excursions to smaller islands such as St. Pierre, a tiny rock island that is popular for its rich coral reef. The area is particularly favourable for underwater photography. You can organise a boat from Praslin to take you out in the morning and pick you up again in the evening. Coco is also another attractive destination for tourists; it is a deserted tiny island of rocks and boulders with a few palm trees and an exceptional marine life.

There are good restaurants on Praslin if you wish to have a meal away from your hotel.

PraslinSituée à 40 kilomètres à l’Est de Mahé, Praslin est la deuxième plus grande île des Seychelles. Elle a une population d’environ 7,000 habitants. Les deux îles sont reliées par un service régulier d’Air Seychelles qui assure beaucoup de une quinzaine devols journaliers d’une durée de 15 minutes chacun. Le trajet par bateau (trois ou quatre aller-retours par jour) dure environ une heure .

Plusieurs hôtels de grande qualité sont installés à Praslin, parmi lesquels le Lémuria et le Château de Feuilles.

Le relief de Praslin, dont le sommet le plus haut n’atteint que 330 mètres, n’est pas aussi accidenté que celui de Mahé mais il comporte des formations granitiques semblables, entourées de plages merveilleuses et d’une barrière de corail aux eaux cristallines qui font la gloire des Seychelles.

Baies et plages majestueuses alternent avec de plus petites baies dans lesquelles, même en pleine saison touristique, on a l’impression d’être seul.

L’Anse Volbert, ou Côte d’or, sur la côte est, est particulièrement belle avec ses plages d’une blancheur éclatante. Les hôtels, tels que le Berjaya Praslin Beach offrent une grande variété de sports nautiques.

Des masses granitiques spectaculaires forment un arrière-plan qui contraste avec les plages de l’Anse Bois de Rose, l’Anse Boudin et l’Anse Kerlan où se trouve le nouvel Hôtel cinq étoiles Lémuria. Un golf de 18 trous y a également été construit. Au point le plus septentrional de l’île se trouve Anse Lazio, une magnifique plage excellente pour la baignade et le P.M.T. Sur la côte ouest, la plage de Grand Anse est parfaite pour les bains de soleil matinaux; cependant, la baignade y est difficile à marée basse en raison d’une eau peu profonde au-dessus des bancs de corail, parfois recouverts d’algues jusqu’au bord du rivage.

La Baie Pasquière et l’Anse Volbert au Nord, et la Baie Ste Anne au sud sont des ports naturels qui offrent un spectacle pittoresque à ceux qui ont opté pour la traversée en bateau depuis Mahé. On peut apercevoir de cette baie le village principal avec son monument au coco de mer, la banque, les kiosques et l’église. Banques, boutiques et église sont aussi présentes à Grand Anse Village, de l’autre coté de l’île. Le coco de mer (vulgairement appelé Coco-fesses) est le symbole éternel des Seychelles. Il croît dans les forêts de la Vallée de Mai, à Praslin, où niche l’un des oiseaux les plus rares au monde: le Perroquet noir des Seychelles.

Cette vallée, qui fait partie du Patrimoine Mondialde l’humanité, est ouverte de 8h30 à 16h30 aux visiteurs qui peuvent la traverser en voiture sur la seule route goudronnée de l’île. C’est un site protégé que l’on espère voir retourner à son état primitif, malheureusement bouleversé dans les années trente et quarante par des tentatives mal fondées d’y introduire des plantes exotiques.

Les sentiers, qui serpentent à travers une nature bien fournie en espèces botaniques intéressantes, sont régulièrement entretenus et clairement indiqués. Une brochure est mise à la disposition du public à l’entrée de la réserve, gérée par la Fondation des Iles Seychelles.

Se promener dans cette vallée équivaut à remonter le temps dans un décor de forêt vierge au toit formé d’épaisses feuilles de palmier qui empêchent le soleil de pénétrer. Le silence est y impressionnant, interrompu seulement par les cris du Perroquet noir et le bruissement des palmes agitées par le vent. Ecrevisses et crabes d’eau douce vivent paisiblement dans tous les ruisseaux, et parmi les plantes environnantes figurent Cocos-de-mer, fougères, lataniers, Bois rouge, vacoas, Cocos marrons et orchidées, qui poussent entre les masses de granit. Roussettes, Pigeons bleus, bulbuls, lézards, geckos, caméléons, escargots et insectes divers peuvent aussi être observés dans la Vallée de Mai.

L’île de Praslin se prête parfaitement à l’exploration pédestre avec un réseau de sentiers et de chemins agréables. Pas de crainte de se perdre car l’île est si petite qu’il faut moins d’une heure pour la traverser dans sa largeur. Mais si vous préférez vous déplacer en voiture, il vaut mieux faire des réservations à l’avance car le nombre de véhicules de location est limité, surtout pendant les hautes saisons de décembre-janvier et de juillet-août. Les deux stations-service se trouvent à Grand Anse et à Baie Ste Anne. Il existe une station de taxis en face de l’aéroport. Ceux-ci peuvent être appelés par téléphone depuis l’aéroport (tel: 4284666) ou depuis les différents hôtels de l’île.

Le prix des courses est légèrement majoré la nuit. Il existe aussi un service de bus entre 5h30 et 19h00 sur les quatre routes principales avec service spécial le dimanche. On peut ainsi se rendre à la Vallée de mai en bus.

Vous trouverez des souvenirs dans toutes les boutiques d’hôtels. La banque Barclays est à Baie Ste Anne (tel: 4232218) avec une succursale à Grand Anse, ouverte du lundi au vendredi, de 8h30 à 12h30.

Des excursions partent régulièrement par bateau de Praslin à destination des petites îles avoisinantes, telles que St Pierre, un îlot rocheux très connu pour sa barrière de corail fourmillant d’une vie marine multicolore. Il est possible de s’arranger pour qu’une embarcation vous dépose le matin avec un panier pique-nique, et vienne vous rechercher le soir. L’Ile Coco est une autre destination très prisée des touristes; il s’agit d’une petite île déserte et rocheuse sur laquelle poussent quelques palmiers, et où la vie sous-marine est exceptionnelle. Les amateurs de photos sous-marines y trouveront un cadre idéal.

Plusieurs restaurants permettent de déjeuner ou de dîner hors de l’hôtel.



CurieuseLying about two kilometres (one mile) to the north-east of Praslin, this island of about three kilometres (two miles) long was first given the name Ile Rouge on account of its red earth. As part of the Marine Park the island is strictly protected and only a few families live there. Like Praslin, Curieuse is home to the Coco- de-mer palm. The island has a wild population of about 250 giant tortoises, brought over from Aldabra in the 1980s and a breeding scheme has been in place there for several years. Curieuse was once a leper colony, and the ruins of the houses can still be seen. There is also a large, restored colonial villa, known as the Doctor’s House, where the island doctor lived in the 1870s. Nature trails wind their way across the island, notably through the extensive swamps, home to eight different species of mangrove. Excursions to Curieuse normally include a barbecue and often a visit to Cousin island as well.

CurieuseSituée à un kilomètre au Nord-Est de Praslin, cette île de moins de trois kilomètres de long présente des coteaux dénudés couverts de la terre rouge qui avait donné à l’île son nom d’origine, Ile Rouge. Partie intégrale du Parc marin de Curieuse, l’île est strictement protégée. Comme Praslin, Curieuse abrite des boisements de Coco-de-mer. Peuplée seulement de quelques familles, cette île est le domaine de près de 250 tortues géantes importées d’Aldabra dans les années 1980. Non loin des ruines d’une ancienne léproserie s’élève une vieille villa coloniale, la maison du Docteur qui servait de résidence au médecin lors de ses visites aux malades. Un sentier à travers bois permet au visiteur d’admirer les huit différentes sortes de palétuviers qui poussent sur l’île. Les excursions à Curieuse incluent souvent une halte sur la plage pour permettre aux visiteurs de déguster une grillade.

Cousine IslandCousine is no ordinary resort. Guests arrive by helicopter and are accommodated in just four villas to minimise the human impact on the island. There are very few islands anywhere in the world that have survived intact as Cousine has done, with such a profusion of wildlife and almost none where it is possible to stay overnight and soak up the atmosphere. There may be a small resort here but unquestionably, the island still belongs to nature. A systematic rehabilitation programme to restore the island includes the planting of thousands of native trees, the protection of the huge seabird colonies and the reintroduction of endemic birds.

Cousine IslandCousine n’est pas un établissement hôtelier ordinaire. Les visiteurs y parviennent par hélicoptère et sont hébergés dans seulement quatre villas afin de minimiser l’impact de l’homme sur l’île. Il y a peu d’îles dans le monde qui sont demeurées aussi intactes que Cousine, avec une telle profusion de vie sauvage, et presque aucune où il est possible de passer la nuit et de s’imprégner de la sorte de l’atmosphère ambiante. Même s’il y a un petit établissement hôtelier, il est indéniable que l’île appartient à la nature. Un programme visant à restaurer l’île comprend la plantation de milliers d’arbres indigènes, la protection des importantes colonies d’oiseaux marins et la réintroduction d’espèces d’oiseaux endémiques.

Bird IslandA 30 minutes flight from Mahé by light aircraft gives the first stunning impressions of this 70 hectares (170 acres) coral cay. Bird Island is the most northerly island of the Seychelles Archipelago and is a nature lover’s paradise. Bird Island has just one hotel which offers guests a choice of 24 comfortable and spacious bungalows. A true haven from today’s busy world, there are no telephones or televisions and the emphasis is very much on relaxation and being at one with the nature around you. The east and south sides of the island are surrounded by a protective barrier reef which is home to many varieties of colourful fish and the rest is an open beach which offers superb safe swimming. Situated on the northern edge of the Seychelles Plateau, where the sea floor drops 2,000 metres, the island offers some of the best game fishing in the country. During the North West monsoon (October to April), dolphins are regularly observed in the surrounding waters. This is also the best time to witness the magical sight of Hawksbill turtles nesting, and from December onwards the tiny hatchlings can be seen emerging and embarking on their journey down to the sea. The South East Monsoon (May to September) also offers an amazing avian spectacle. With over 750,000 pairs of Sooty Terns coming to the northern end of the island to breed, and a resident population of Noddy and Fairy Terns, the island is an ornithologists dream. Bird Island is also home to Guinness World Record holder Esmeralda, said to be the largest free ranging tortoise in the world and estimated to be over 230 years old.

Bird IslandDepuis Mahé, un vol de 30 minutes vous donnera les premières impressions de cet atoll corallien de 70 hectares. Bird Island est l’île la plus septentrionalede l’Archipel des Seychelles et un paradis pour les amoureux de la nature. L’unique hôtel offre à ses hôtes le choix de 24 bungalows confortables et spacieux, une authentique retraite dans le monde actuel si bousculé – ni TV, ni telephone – ou l’accent est mis sur la relaxation et la communion avec la nature environnante. Les côtes Est et Sud de l’île sont protégés par une barrière de corail, refuge de nombreuses variétés de poissons multicolores. Le reste est une plage immense où la baignade est superbe et sûre. Proche de l’extrémité Nord du plateau sous-marin des Seychelles, là où les fonds atteignent 2000m, l’île présente une situation exceptionnelle pour les amateurs de pêche. D’octobre à avril, les dauphins s’y observent régulièrement – c’est aussi la meilleure période pour voir pondre les tortues marines et dès décembre assister a l’éclosion des oeufs et la ruée des petits vers la mer. De mai à septembre; vous pouvez admirer un étonnant ballet aérien – plus de 750,000 couples de Sternes Fuligineuses colonisent la partie Nord de l’île pour s’y reproduire. Avec la population sédentaire de Noddies et de Sternes Blanches, c’est le rêve pour tout ami des oiseaux. C’est aussi à Bird Island que vit Esmeralda, inscrite au Guiness Book pour être, à 230 ans, la plus grosse tortue terrestre en liberté.


Discover Seychelles The IslandsDiscover Seychelles The Islands


La DigueThis is the third largest granite island in Seychelles in terms of population, housing about 2,500 people. It is a half-hour trip from Praslin, or three hours by schooner from Mahé. However, visitors with a tight schedule may prefer to take the 20-minute flight with Helicopter Seychelles (tel: 4385858).

The pace of life is slow, about the same speed as its traditional way of transport – the ox cart. Very few cars are allowed on the island and bicycles are popular. They can be hired from various bicycle rentals at Anse Réunion or La Passe harbour on arrival. At l’Union a fine old traditional planter’s house has been carefully restored. It used to be the centre of a vanilla plantation of which the treatment factory can still be seen. Further inland, Château Saint Cloud, built under Napoleon’s regime, is another impressive restored plantation house. On the agricultural estate, you can see furnace-dried coconuts, or copra, being turned into oil. Also of historical interest, at Pointe Cap Barbi, there are graves of early colonists from Bourbon Island (today’s Réunion). The old cemetery at l’Union is also an attraction.

La Digue is noted for its superb beaches, and snorkelling (particularly in front of La Digue Island Lodge).

There are more spectacular granite formations which have been shaped by wind and sea over millions of years. Eagle’s Nest Mountain rises dramatically to 300 metres, taking up most of the island. Beaches at Pointe Cap Barbi have, like so many other beaches, a dramatic granite backdrop. The remote beaches at Grande Anse, Petite Anse and Anse Cocos with pink-tinged sand are beautiful, but beware of dangerous undercurrents.

Most parts of the island can be reached in under an hour. Among the birds you will encounter is the unique Seychelles paradise Flycatcher, one of the rarest birds in the world (less than 300 birds), the symbol of this island. In the distance, Praslin can be seen, completing a pattern of islands.

La DigueLa Digue, avec une population de 2,500 habitants, est la quatrième île des Seychelles par sa taille. La traversée depuis Praslin se fait en une demi-heure, et celle depuis Mahé en trois heures. Les visiteurs ayant un emploi du temps serré préfèreront s’y rendre par le vol de 20 minutes d’Helicopter Seychelles (tel: 4385858). Le rythme de vie ici est aussi lent que le moyen de transport traditionnel: le char à bœufs. Très peu de voitures sont autorisées sur l’île, par conséquent les vélos ont beaucoup de succès, et peuvent se louer à Anse Réunion ou au débarcadère du port de La Passe.

Une belle maison traditionnelle de planteurs a été restaurée à l’Union, celle-çi a servi au tournage du film ‘Emmanuelle aux Seychelles’. Elle est située au centre d’une plantation de vanille dont on peut visiter l’usine de traitement. L’usine d’huile de copra (noix de coco séchées) peut être aussi visitée sur ce domaine. Plus à l’intérieur, se trouve l’impressionnant Château St. Cloud, une autre maison de planteur qui fût construite au temps des conquêtes napoléoniennes. Les tombes des premiers colons venus de l’Ile Bourbon (aujourd’hui l’Ile de la Réunion) s’élèvent au nord de l’île, à la Pointe Cap Barbi, ainsi qu’au vieux cimetière à l’Union.

La Digue est renommée pour ses plages superbes et ses sites spectaculaires pour le P.M.T (snorkelling) et la plongée sous-marine (en particulier en face de La Digue Island Lodge). On peut y admirer les formations granitiques sculptées par le vent et la mer au cours de millions d’années.

La montagne dite Nid d’Aigle s’élève à 300 mètres au-dessus du niveau de la mer et occupe une grande partie de l’île. A Pointe Cap Barbi les plages sont, comme dans beaucoup d’autres endroits, entourées d’un merveilleux décor de granit. Les plages les plus isolées de Grande Anse, Petite Anse et d‘Anse Coco sont d’une très grande beauté avec leur sable aux reflets rosés. Mais gare aux dangereux courants!

Il est possible d’atteindre n’importe quel point de l’île en moins d’une heure. Parmi les oiseaux que vous rencontrerez figure le Gobemouche de paradis, appelé localement ‘La Veuve’, une des espèces les plus rares de la planète (moins de 300 oiseaux) qui n’existe qu’à La Digue, et dont elle est le symbole.



DenisDiscovered in 1773, this croissant shaped coral hideaway of 152 hectares (375 acres) is a small green jewel perched on the north easterly edge of the Seychelles bank, idyllic white beaches surround the island; its sheltered lagoon provides unrivalled swimming opportunities and the crystal-clear waters harbour turtles and exotic marine life, the house reef is perfect for snorkelling. The deep waters outside the reef allow for excellent diving, game, bottom and fly fishing.

Denis is undertaking unprecedented conservation and sustainable development projects. Over 50 hectares of woodland have been rehabilitated and the dense forested interior is a haven for the recently introduced endemic endangered avian species such as the Seychelles Fody, the brush warbler, the Seychelles magpie robin and most recently the Paradise Fly-Catcher previously only found on La Digue. Other endemic species such as Seychelles blue pigeon abound. The island’s vegetable and livestock farm and surrounding seas supply the hotel’s kitchen’s requirements.

The island is accessible by a 30-minute flight. Twenty-five tasteful, elegant and secluded cottages each with its own private beachfront provide comfort and laid-back luxury.

Contact details : Earnie Jones Mobile: +2776 331 4509 Marie- France St Jorre Mobile: +2784 990 5861 Marise Jones Mobile: +2772 692 9925 Website: www.blackparrot.co.za Email: [email protected]

Registered in South Africa and located in Ballito KZN

Ile Denis3°48’ Sud – 55°40’ Est, une perle corallienne au nord de Mahé. Bercée par le flot des vagues, Denis Island trône sereinement au bord des grandes profondeurs de l’Océan Indien. Havre de paix et de sérénité, « l’Ile des gens heureux » découverte par Denis de Trobiant en 1773 à bord de son bateau l’Etoile, semble n’avoir jamais cédé à l’empreinte de l’homme. Protégées par une longue barrière de corail, l’île de 152 hectares et sa plage de sable blanc bordent un extraordinaire lagon bleu turquoise où se côtoient d’infinies variétés de poissons, coquillages, coraux, tortues… Sur terre, la nature préservée et exubérante laisse échapper une symphonie douce et mélodieuse d’oiseaux marins, que seul peut interrompre le mouvement saccadé des crabes ou celui plus langoureux des tortues géantes.

Depuis plusieurs années, un important programme de conservation mobilise les énergies. Sur 50 hectares de forêt, des scientifiques travaillent à la réhabilitation de l’habitat originel afin d’introduire des espèces menacées d’oiseaux endémiques à l’archipel. Un pari sur le futur qui renforce chaque jour le caractère unique de l’Ile. Enfin, au fil des sentiers, Denis Island dévoile progressivement ses richesses, un vieux cimetière marin, son phare, sa chapelle œcuménique, sa ferme, ses projets de développement de tourisme durable.…

Familiale, romantique et amicale, Denis Island est avant tout une expérience unique, une symphonie harmonieuse entre luxe, calme et volupté. L’hôtel s’étend sur la pointe nord-ouest de l’île, les 25 villas et cottages sont dispersés le long de la plage.

Alphonse & St Francois AtollAlphonse is the most remote island with a hotel, 400 kilometres southwest of Mahé. Its attractions include some of the best diving in the Indian Ocean, with forests of Gorgonian fan corals, huge schools of pelagic fish and many colourful reef fish. Once a productive coconut plantation, little remains as a reminder of these days save for a few old buildings and the island’s cemetery near to Pointe Huto. Conservation is a high priority and a team of full time scientists and rangers from the Island Conservation Society are employed on rehabilitation and monitoring programmes

A short stretch of ocean, ominously named as Canal de Mort, separates Alphonse from picture perfect Bijoutier and the lagoon of St. Francois, world famous for its fly-fishing, opportunities. A feature of St. Francois is the number of shipwrecks, standing as grim reminders of the perils of the sea.

Les atolls d’Alphonse et de St FrançoisSituée à 400 km au sud-ouest de Mahé, Alphonse est l’île la plus éloignée avec un hôtel. On y trouve quelques-uns uns des meilleurs sites de plongée de l’océan indien, avec des forêts de Gorgones éventail géantes, d’immenses bancs de poissons pélagiques et beaucoup de poissons de récifs colorés. Jadis une plantation de cocotiers productive, peu de choses sont restées de ce temps révolu à l’exception de quelques vieux bâtiments et le cimetière de l’île près de la Pointe Huto. La conservation de la nature est une priorité et plusieurs scientifiques et gardes de la Fondation pour la Conservation des Iles (Island Conservation Society) y sont employés à plein temps sur des programmes de suivi et de réhabilitation de l’écosystème.

Un bras de mer étroit, dont le nom (de mauvaise augure) est ‘Canal de Mort’ sépare Alphonse de l’îlot de carte postale Bijoutier, et du lagon de St François mondialement célèbre pour la pêche à la mouche. Une caractéristique de St François est le nombre d’épaves de bateaux naufragés, dressés comme des sinistres rappels des périls de la mer.



SilhouetteSilhouette lies 20 km northwest of Mahé. It is the third largest granitic island, yet the human impact is minimal. Mount Dauban rises to 740 metres and is the second highest summit in Seychelles. Though superficially similar to neighbouring islands, much of Silhouette is made up of younger rock called syenite and dated from 63 million years ago. Between Point Ramasse Tout and Point Zeng Zeng lies the only surface volcanic ash in Seychelles. Silhouette was named for Etienne de Silhouette (1709-1767) who was the Controller General of Finances in France in the reign of Louis XV. His watchword was austerity and wags of the day commented that his financial strictures had reduced them to mere ‘silhouettes’ of themselves.

In 1987 a Marine National Park was declared around the island and in 2010, Silhouette National Park was created protecting 93 per cent of the landmass. About 2,000 species of plants and animals have been recorded on Silhouette, including the Critically Endangered sheath-tailed bat, possibly the rarest mammal on earth. Most of the 75 or so endemic plants of the granitic islands are found on Silhouette. The Island Conservation Society runs a centre on the island, protecting the flora and fauna and conducting nature tours.

The crew of an English East India Company vessel, the Ascension were the first to step ashore on Silhouette in 1609. Graves discovered at Anse Lascars were thought to be those from an earlier Arab settlement but date to around 1800, possibly those of slaves who escaped the plantations of their owners on Mahé and created a new life for themselves on Silhouette, becoming the island’s first permanent inhabitants.

The first landowner about whom we have any background was Jean-Francois Hodoul, a French corsair in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries. He is rumoured to have buried his fortune somewhere in the dark mountain forest. The Daubans bought the island in 1860 and owned it for a hundred years. They were plantation owners of French extraction and made real efforts towards profitable farming, clearing forest on the flat land in order to plant coconut palms and fruit trees, and building the necessary supporting infrastructure. The Dauban era came to an end when Henri Dauban sold the island to a French group, and it was acquired by the government in 1983, when management of the island passed to the Island Development Company. Nowadays Silhouette Island is home to 5 star resort Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, the only hotel on the island.

DesrochesDesroches is the largest island of the Amirantes, 45 minutes by air from Mahé. Swimming is excellent, unlike most atolls where waters over the surrounding reef are very shallow. The beaches are also excellent. There is a hotel, where guests enjoy sailing, cycling, canoeing, windsurfing, snorkelling deep-sea fishing and diving. Desroches is famous for the Desroches Drop with its fantastic caves, which may be explored under the supervision of a PADI dive-master. There is also a small settlement, with its copra drier, oil press and lock up, a reminder of the old plantation days.

Since 2009, a full time team of scientists and rangers from the Island Conservation Society is employed to monitor and protect the terrestrial and marine life.

SilhouetteSilhouette se trouve à 20 km au nord-ouest de Mahé. Il s’agit de la troisième plus grande île granitique, mais l’impact de l’activité humaine est minime. Le Mont Dauban se dresse à 740 mètres, soit le deuxième plus haut sommet des Seychelles. Bien que superficiellement semblable aux îles voisines, Silhouette est essentiellement composée d’un jeune rocher appelé syénite et daté de 63 millions d’années. Entre la Pointe Ramasse Tout et la Pointe Zeng Zeng se trouvent les seuls cendres volcaniques de surface aux Seychelles. Silhouette doit son appellation à Étienne de Silhouette (1709-1767) qui était contrôleur général des finances en France sous le règne de Louis XV. Son maitre mot était l’austérité et les commentateurs de cette époque disaient que ses mesures financières contraignantes les avaient réduits à de simples «silhouettes» d’eux-mêmes.

En 1987, un parc national marin a été déclaré autour de l’île et, en 2010, le parc national de Silhouette a été créé, protégeant 93% de la masse terrestre. Environ 2.000 espèces de plantes et d’animaux ont été enregistrées à Silhouette, y compris la chauve-souris à queue en fourreau gravement menacée d’extinction, probablement le mammifère le plus rare sur terre. La plupart des quelques 75 espèces de plantes endémiques des îles granitiques se trouvent à Silhouette. La Société pour la conservation des iles gère un centre sur l’île en vue de la protection de la flore et de la faune, et l’organisation des excursions dans la nature.

Les membres d’équipage d’un navire de la British East India Company, Ascension, ont été les premiers à débarquer à Silhouette en 1609. On pensait que les tombes découvertes à Anse Lascars étaient celles des habitants arabes qui occupaient l’ île avant, mais elles datent de 1800 environ, et pourraient être celles des esclaves qui s’étaient échappés des plantations de leurs propriétaires à Mahé pour commencer une nouvelle vie à Silhouette, devenant ainsi les premiers habitants permanents de l’île.

Le premier propriétaire foncier pour qui nous disposons des informations est Jean-François Hodoul, un corsaire français de la fin du XVIIIème et début du XIXème siècle. Il semblerait qu’il aurait enterré sa fortune quelque part dans la forêt de montagne sombre. Les Dauban ont acheté l’île en 1860 et l’ont détenue pendant une centaine d’années. D’origine française, ils étaient propriétaires de plantations et se sont réellement efforcés à entreprendre une agriculture rentable en défrichant la forêt sur les terres plates pour planter des cocotiers et des arbres fruitiers, et construire les infrastructures nécessaires d’appui. L’ère Dauban prit fin lorsqu’Henri Dauban vendit l’île à un groupe français. Elle fut reprise par le gouvernement en 1983, sa direction passant à la Islands Development Company. Aujourd’hui, l’ile Silhouette abrite l’hôtel à 5 étoiles Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa, le seul établissement hôtelier sur l’île.

DesrochesDesroches est la plus grande île des Amirantes, à 45 minutes d’avion de Mahé.La baignade y est excellente, contrairement à la plupart des atolls où les eaux sont très peu profondes au-dessus des récifs ou du platier. Les plages sont également excellentes. Il y a un hôtel où les visiteurs peuvent profiter de la voile, du vélo, du canöé, de la planche à voile, du Palmes-Masque-Tuba, de la pêche en eau profonde, et de la plongée sous-marine. Desroches est célèbre pour son fameux ‘Mur tombant’ avec ses grottes fantastiques, qui peuvent être explorées sous la supervision d’un instructeur de plongée PADI. Il y a aussi un petit village, avec son four à copra, sa presse à huile, et son cachot, un souvenir de l’ancien temps lors de la plantation.

Depuis 2009, une équipe de scientifiques et de gardes de la Fondation pour la Conservation des Iles (Island Conservation Society) y est employée à plein temps pour assurer le suivi et la protection des espèces et des écosystèmes terrestres et marins.


Discover Seychelles The IslandsDiscover Seychelles The Islands


FrégateThis, the most isolated of the granite islands, is only 12 minutes from Mahé by Air Seychelles. Of all the islands, it has the most romantic associations with the world of pirates and hidden treasure. Some relics on the island suggest that it was a refuge for pirates in the 17th and 18th centuries. Ian Fleming, who created James Bond, was persuaded from ancient maps he discovered here, that a treasure was hidden somewhere on the island.

More obvious treasures are the abundant flora and fauna. Frégate is the stronghold of the critically endangered Seychelles magpie-robin (less than 200 birds in the world), saved from extinction by the intervention of BirdLife International. Recently the Ministry of Environment established successfully on Frégate another highly threatened endemic bird, the Seychelles white-eye (500 individuals in the world). The island boasts the world’s only population of giant tenebrionid beetle, as well as numerous giant tortoises. Despite the abundance of exotic vegetation and planted coconut palms, tens of thousands of native trees have been propagated and replanted since 1995, totaling several dozens of hectares restored. There are superb beaches, such as Anse Victorin, which some say is the prettiest in Seychelles. It is also a walker’s paradise, with wooded paths leading through plantations and groves. With the five-star Frégate Island Private Resort, the island is a holiday preserve for guests.

ArideThis is the most northerly island of the granitic Seychelles. It was bought by the Royal Society for Nature Conservation in 1973 and today is owned and managed by the Island Conservation Society. It is second only to Aldabra in importance as a nature reserve in Seychelles. On Aride there are more breeding species of sea birds than on any other island in the region, together with the only breeding sites in the granitic islands for red-tailed tropicbirds, roseate terns and the world’s only sooty tern colony in tall woodland.

The island’s warden will guide you to the breathtaking clifftops, where hundreds of huge frigatebirds soar above the turquoise sea. If you are lucky, you will glimpse hawksbill turtles and dolphins in the waters below. Seychelles warblers, 29 of which were introduced from Cousin in September 1988, have multiplied to more than 2,000.

Aride is also a botanical treasure house, being the world’s only site for the beautiful Wright’s Gardenia, or bwa sitron, and a species of ‘peponium’ that might also be endemic to the island. Visits can be arranged from most Praslin hotels, but landings can sometimes be difficult during the south-east monsoon.

The world’s largest colony of lesser noddies and tropical shearwaters further enhance Aride’s reputation as the seabird citadel of the Indian Ocean. Aride is also home to five endemic land birds including the Seychelles magpie-robin, Seychelles warbler and Seychelles fody, each found only on a few other islands.

FrégateFrégate, la plus isolée des îles granitiques est à 12 minutes de Mahé par un vol Air Seychelles. De toutes les îles, c’est celle qui est le plus souvent associée au monde des pirates et des trésors cachés au cours des dix-septième et dix-huitième siècles. Ian Fleming, le créateur de James Bond, était convaincu, au vu d’anciennes cartes qu’il avait découvertes ici, que l’île cachait un trésor quelque part.

Mais les trésors visibles à l’œil nu sont la flore et la faune de l’île. Frégate est le bastion du Dyal ou Pie chanteuse des Seychelles (environ 200 individus dans le monde), qui après avoir frôlé l’extinction se multiplie grâce aux efforts de BirdLife International. Récemment, le ministère de l’Environnement y a implanté avec succès une autre espèce gravement menacée, l’Oiseau-lunettes des Seychelles (environ 500 individus dans le monde). Frégate abrite également toute la population mondiale d’un scarabée ténébrionide endémique, et possède de nombreuses Tortues géantes à l’état sauvage. Malgré une abondante végétation exotique et la persistance d’une vaste cocoteraie, des dizaines de milliers d’arbres natives y ont été multipliés et replantés depuis 1995, totalisant plusieurs dizaines d’hectares restaurés. Il y a de superbes plages, comme Anse Victorin, considérée par certains comme la plus belle du pays. C’est aussi le paradis du promeneur, avec un réseau de sentiers traversant forêts, cultures et vergers. L’île est réservée depuis 1999 aux clients de Frégate Island Private, un luxueux hôtel 5 étoiles.

ArideAride, la plus septentrionale des îles granitiques seychelloises, fut achetée en 1973 par la Royal Society for Nature Conservation et appartient aujourd’hui à la Fondation pour la Conservation de Iles (Island Conservation Society) qui la gère. Elle constitue la deuxième réserve naturelle la plus importante du pays après Aldabra. Il y a plus d’espèces d’oiseaux marins qui se reproduisent sur Aride que sur n’importe quelle autre île de la région. Outre toutes les espèces qu’on trouve sur Cousin, Aride héberge les seuls sites de reproduction des îles granitiques du Paille-en-queue à brins rouges et de la Sterne de Dougall, ainsi que la seule colonie au monde de sternes fuligineuses sous une forêt.

Là, un gardien-guide vous emmènera au bord des falaises époustouflantes d’où l’on peut voir des centaines d’immenses frégates planant au-dessus d’une mer bleu turquoise. Avec un peu de chance, il est possible d’apercevoir les tortues marines et les dauphins qui vivent dans les eaux environnantes. Les 29 Rousserolles des Seychelles qui furent importées de Cousin en septembre 1988 se sont reproduites et leur nombre a déjà dépassé deux milliers. La réputation de citadelle des oiseaux marins de l’océan indien que possède Aride est attestée par la présence de la plus grande colonie au monde de Noddis marianne, et peut-être de Puffins d’Audubon.

Aride est aussi un trésor sur le plan botanique, et le seul endroit au monde où poussent les magnifiques Gardénias de Wright, ou ‘Bois citron’, ainsi qu’une espèce de concombre sauvage qui pourrait être elle aussi endémique de cette île.

Aride abrite les plus grandes colonies du monde de Noddis Marianne et de Puffins de Baillon, ce qui renforce sa renommée de bastion des oiseaux marins de l’océan indien. Aride accueille aussi cinq espèces d’oiseaux terrestres endémiques dont la pie chanteuse ou dyal, la Rousserolle et le Foudi des Seychelles, qui n’existent que sur une poignée d’îles.



38

There is only one Aldabra – well, at least for now there is

only one, but to the east of Aldabra there are two atolls

of similar structure. Astove and Cosmoledo are even

more remote, even less visited than Aldabra. They have

been uninhabited for decades and have tremendous

potential to be future ‘Aldabras’. In November 2013,

I joined an excursion to all three of these atolls,

organised by Islands Development Company (IDC) who

administer those far-flung corners of Seychelles on

behalf of the Government of Seychelles.

Adrian Skerrett visits the remote Aldabra group of islands. its Extended Family

Visiting Aldabra is a lifetime’s ambition for some, but

it is not everyone’s cup of tea. Captain Wharton, who

visited in August 1878, was not a fan. He wrote to

Dr. Albert Günther, Assistant Keeper of the zoological

department of the British Museum: “...the surface of the

island, which is an up-heaved atoll, is coral rock, jagged

and rough to a degree that makes it most laborious to

get about even were it not for a most stubborn and

tangled brushwood which covers it and tears one’s

clothes and person to pieces”.

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Mushroom islets of raised coral within the vast lagoon of Aldabra.


39

Poor old Wharton had been sent to the atoll to find

giant tortoises and he was not having much luck.

The animals were a source of meat and had been

hugely reduced in number. Wharton was unhappy and

frustrated as he thrashed about on Aldabra ruining his

footwear. “Beyond a land rail there is nothing except

mosquitoes” he grumbles. “I am sure I am safe in saying

that Aldabra will never be inhabited regularly...” He was

obviously confident that nobody in their right mind

would ever settle on Aldabra.

Now imagine we have a time machine and bring the

good captain forward to our time. Wharton sits at his

laptop in his air-conditioned office at Aldabra Research

Station. He idly chinks ice cubes against the sides of

his glass of cold water and presses the ‘Send’ button.

Instantly, his email bounces off a satellite and travels

halfway around the world to arrive in Dr. Günther’s

inbox complete with attachments showing large

numbers of tortoises, rails galore and much more.

Günther reads the email with interest and cannot help

but envy Wharton, who signs off: “Having barbequed

tuna tonight, washed down with a nice cool Seybrew.

Aldabra is great. Think I might apply for the manager’s

job when it comes up next”.

Time machines being sadly unavailable at present,

this is an unlikely scenario and Captain Wharton can

never know how other advances in technology, equally

unimaginable to him, have made life on Aldabra not

just possible but rather pleasant. He knew nothing of

refrigerators, satellite communications and solar panels.

He just knew he was glad to see the back of Aldabra.

“A more un-inviting place I never saw”, he declared as

he sailed over the horizon, vowing never to return.

We can’t really blame Captain Wharton for his negative

view of Aldabra. It is a harsh landscape: a jagged desert

of fossilised coral intolerant of human frailties, a dry

punishing wilderness devoid of fresh water or fertile soil.

Yet it is also one of the most wonderful places on earth

– to some an inspiration, a tantalising mystery. Pearson

Phillips called it “a place reminiscent of those stories in

schoolboy annuals about miraculous territories beyond

inaccessible mountain ranges peopled by dinosaurs.”

Sir David Attenborough reflected, “if you wanted to

find the loneliest island in the world... you might well

choose Aldabra”.

Loneliness is part of the allure of Aldabra, but its

remoteness makes management of this vitally

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important UNESCO World Heritage Site a huge

logistical challenge. For example, using diesel generators

for electricity resulted in high fuel and transport costs,

and was environmentally unsustainable. In 2008,

Seychelles Islands Foundation, the custodians of

Aldabra, investigated ways to increase energy efficiency,

develop a renewable energy system and reduce costs.

Renewable energy options were assessed, alongside

energy efficient measures. Findings were subsequently

implemented, and a hybrid photovoltaic-diesel energy

system was set up. Energy efficient measures reduced

electricity demand by 57 per cent. In the first year,

solar electricity provided 94 per cent of the Research

Station’s demand. This avoids almost 100 tonnes of

CO2 emissions per year. Since implementation of the

photovoltaic system, diesel demand has decreased by

97 per cent and operational savings of up to €68,000

have been achieved.

Under the guidance of Seychelles Islands Foundation

(SIF), Aldabra has gone from strength to strength on all

fronts. 2012 was the 30th anniversary of Aldabra’s being

made a World Heritage Site and in the same year the

last feral goat was eradicated from the atoll, rendering

it free of this alien competitor to giant tortoises for

the first time in more than a century. Meanwhile,

following a series of sporadic sightings, the presence

of a healthy population of up to 25 dugong has been

confirmed by aerial surveys. The Aldabra Rail – the

last surviving flightless bird of the Indian Ocean – has

been translocated to Picard Island where there are now

more than 2,000 birds and the atoll-wide population

is estimated at around 10,000 breeding pairs. With

protection, numbers of frigatebirds and boobies in

the spectacular seabird colonies of Aldabra have also

increased. The Board of SIF have also focused on an

Aldabra House project. Announced by the chairman,

Maurice Loustau-Lalanne, during the 30th anniversary

celebrations, the project is designed to bring part of

the Aldabra experience to Mahe. The SIF headquarters

will serve as a visitor attraction featuring outdoor and

indoor exhibits, displays and activities designed to

recreate the magic of Aldabra on Mahé.

FeatureNature

Aldabra has an excellent team on the ground, comprising

young Seychellois, expatriate scientists and volunteers

with a variety of skills working under the cool, calm

authority of manager Joel Souyave. I took a bird walk

with Senior Ranger Catherina Onezia, described on

the Seychelles Bird Records Committee website as the

number one contributor of bird sightings in the country.

“People think I’m crazy,” says Catherina, “spending hours

looking for birds but when I find a new vagrant I am so

excited.” Her enthusiasm is infectious.

The next morning, I accompanied Scientific Coordinator

Heather Richards and new recruit Sheril de Commarmond

on a routine patrol to check for fresh turtle tracks in the

sand. Returning to the Research Station Heather spotted

a newly hatched tortoise and Sheril’s sharp eyes quickly

located the nest where another baby tortoise slowly

emerges, the newest resident of an ancient landscape,

the world stronghold of this ancient race.

Soon it is time to sail for new horizons. Cosmoledo,

an overnight sail from Aldabra, is undoubtedly the

most important unprotected site in Seychelles. It has

spectacular seabird colonies: the largest Red-footed

Booby colony in the western Indian Ocean and the only

breeding population of Brown Booby in Seychelles. There

is also a race of white-eye so rare it is entirely confined

Bottom middle: Solar energy now supplies practically all the needs of Aldabra.

Bottom right: The harsh terrain of all the islands in the group can make walking difficult.

Below inset: Aldabra Rails now thriving at Aldabra may be reintroduced to Cosmoledo and Astove one day.

Right: A monument at La Gigi commemorate the inscription of Aldabra as a World Heritage Site.

Bottom left: Aldabra Research Station on the atoll’s main island of Picard.

Opposite page inset: Brown Boobies have disappeared from all Seychelles islands except Cosmoledo.


41

to Menai, the largest of the 19 islands of this roughly

circular atoll. On the second largest island, Grand Ile,

we find seven active nests of Masked Booby, some with

eggs, some with chicks. This is the first known breeding

record since 1968, subsequent to which they had

disappeared, probably due to the presence of rats. In

2007, the Island Conservation Society (ICS) eradicated

rats from Grande Ile. This was a major logistical exercise

funded under a Fonds Français pour l’Environnement

Mondial project with support from IDC. Getting

a helicopter, all the materials and personnel to

Cosmoledo took many months of planning and so

this latest news is extremely rewarding: the crowning

glory for an ambitious and ultimately successful

project. During this visit, time and tide permitted only

a limited search over a small area of the island and

it is probable the actual population is much higher.

On Grand Polyte, where rats were also eradicated by

ICS, Masked Boobies were found to be doing well with

50-100 pairs present. No Masked Boobies were found

on Grand Polyte during thorough searches in

1996 and 2002, but the species was

breeding when the eradication

process began, despite the

presence of rats. Even so,

it is beyond question

that rats have a serious

impact on the species.

The world’s largest

colony of Masked Booby

breeds at Clipperton Island

in the Pacific Ocean, where

112,000 pairs were counted in

2003; in 1958, before rats were eradicated,

there were just 150 pairs.

Sadly, not all the news from Cosmoledo is good. Sea

cucumbers were once very common in the waters of the

lagoon but today they are rare. Sharks, too, appear to

be uncommon. Clearly poachers have been busy, despite

the threat from pirates operating in the area. Due to the

absence of a regular human presence on the atoll, we

can only speculate on the scale of poaching and the

origin of the poachers, though there is certainly evidence

of incursion from Madagascar. Hopefully in the not too

distant future, Cosmoledo will receive the attention it

merits and there will be full-time conservation staff

based here, as on Aldabra. There are several unique races

of land bird which were wiped out from Cosmoledo but

still survive on Aldabra. Hopefully one day they will be

reintroduced to their former home.

We travelled on to Astove, which was abandoned in the

1980s and is uncompromisingly remote. This is a most

peculiar raised coral atoll. It consists of a single ring

of land which almost entirely encloses a very shallow

lagoon, interrupted by just one narrow, winding passage

in the southwest corner; the Gueule Bras Channel. The

coral wall at the reef edge is said to be one of the finest

in the world. At the deserted settlement the calls of

sunbirds and white-eyes broke the eerie silence, though

even they seemed subdued as they flitted through

the bushes between the ruins where once a small

community struggled to survive on this remote outpost.

The survival of the buildings testifies to the seriousness

of their endeavour; a church and a remarkable house,

with archways and cloisters surrounding a courtyard,

reminiscent of a Spanish hacienda, still stand.

A short distance north of the settlement there is

cemetery. Most of the graves are unmarked, but that

of Otto Olsen has an inscription which is still legible.

Olsen was a Norwegian mariner who drowned at

Astove in 1929 and it is noted that he was “sadly

missed” by his companions. His ship was not the first

to meet an untimely end on reefs of Astove. In 1760,

the Portuguese ship Le Dom Royal, bound

from the coast of Africa for America

with 300 slaves on board,

was wrecked on Astove.

The crew and slaves

got ashore in safety

but the European

crew sailed off in the

long-boat in search

of help. According to

some accounts they were

never heard of again; others

say they were picked up by an

English vessel. Whatever the truth, word

reached Ile de France (now Mauritius) and Bourbon

(Reunion) that a rich cargo of slaves was there on Astove

for the taking. The Jardinier sailed to try to bring them

away but having succeeded in taking a great many of

the slaves on board they drifted onto the reef in the

night and the ship was wrecked: everyone perished. In

due course another ship was fitted out to go in search

of the Jardinier and met a similar fate. On her arrival

at Astove she drifted onto the reef and was wrecked.

Some 20 years later another small vessel touched at

Astove and to their surprise the crew found it inhabited

by free slaves who, on their approach to the shore, set

up wild shouts of defiance and placed themselves in

an attitude of defence. Intimidated, the crew gave up

on the enterprise, sailing away empty-handed. Arriving

at Bourbon they reported what they had seen and yet

another vessel was sent to try and capture the slaves.

History repeated itself: upon her arrival at Astove she ran

onto the reef and was lost.

In the meantime the former slaves were creating what

might arguably be the first black republic, but sadly they

Under the guidance of Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF), Aldabra has gone from strength to strength on all fronts.

FeatureNature


42

He found “…many tropic birds under the bushes; they

are of a satiny white, with one long red feather in the

tail, some of the other feathers being also slightly

tinged with red, sometimes with black”, clearly these

were Red-tailed Tropicbirds now long gone. Stirling

gives an excellent description of a flightless rail and

mentions pigeons and doves, also now extinct, though

they survive on Aldabra. Ominously he mentions rats

on the shore of the island, possibly recent arrivals and

no doubt responsible for much of the devastation of

Astove which was to follow.

Today, Astove no longer has great seabird colonies.

The rich guano has been mostly removed and a

hollow shell was left behind. Most of the land birds

have vanished too. But all is not lost. The lesson of

Aldabra is that with the right vision and management

and given room to breathe, nature will respond. To

that end, Seychelles Islands Foundation and Island

Conservation Society and Islands Development

Company are working closely together and also

collaborating for example to remove two invasive

bird species from Assumption, the islands through

which all three atolls are accessed. Frauke Dogley

(CEO of SIF), Glenny Savy (CEO of IDC) and myself

as Chairman of ICS – all participants in this recent

voyage, – are in agreement that with joint efforts the

Aldabra success story can one day in not too distant

future be a universal one extended to the boundaries

of the whole Aldabra Group.

Perhaps one day the success that Aldabra has enjoyed

will be repeated on Cosmoledo and Astove. Alien

predators might be removed, endemic birds might be

transferred, tortoises and turtles may multiply and

the island will be restored to something Major Stirling

would recognise: if only we had that time machine…

were not left in peace. In 1796, a Mr. Savy sailed from

Seychelles to try and bring the slaves off. He sent a black

man called Paul ashore in the hope he could to reassure

the slaves, but meanwhile the ship was swept away by

currents, leaving Paul stranded. Before Mr. Savy could

get back to Astove, two more ships had arrived; one

from Mauritius and one from Mahé. They did, finally,

succeed in recapturing the slaves, but only by the use

of extreme force and there was considerable loss of

life on both sides. Paul was killed by the slaves who

believed that he was in league with the Europeans and

had betrayed them.

In 1799, a vessel sailing from Mauritius to Mozambique

reported that they had found Astove uninhabited.

It was assumed the remaining inhabitants had been

taken away by a Portuguese ship leaving Astove, once

again, desolate and silent.

The silence did not last for long. “On 3rd May 1836,”

wrote Major William Stirling, “the beautiful new Ship,

Tiger, of 375 tonnes, carrying, including the Captain,

in all 21 souls, sailed from Liverpool, for Bombay”.

They never made it. The Tiger was wrecked at Astove

three months later. Major Stirling, found the island “…

strewn with pieces of vessels, of different countries and

materials and a cannon and two anchors of ancient

manufacture… on the reefs… There were the remains

of about a dozen huts and benches, and many marks

of the saw and axe on the trees. Several hundreds of

turtle shells were piled and arranged in regular order,

at small distances from the encampment; which, with

the path cut in the neighbourhood through the jungle,

looked as if the people who had been there were in

good discipline, or much at their ease”.

The major kept a diary which gives us a wonderful

insight into what the island was like at this time.

Above: The abandoned settlement on Astove may soon see new life.

Below: Graves of islanders and seafarers on Cosmoledo.

FeatureNature

On the occasion of our 35th anniversarywe wish to thank the people of Seychelles and all our

esteemed guests for their loyalty and continued support.

1 9 7 8 - 2 0 1 3

proudlyF lying the Creole Spirit

35yearsHM_Sihouette + 6mm bleed.jpg 1 11/28/2013 9:52:25 AM


44

Tony Smart looks behind the scenes as a prelude to the 2014 Formula One season

The Business of

DestinationAbu Dhabi44


45Destination

Abu Dhabi 45

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Those who

watched the 2013

Etihad Airways Abu

Dhabi Grand Prix in

November would

have enjoyed a

thrilling race where

Sebastian Vettel

won his seventh

successive GP

and his 11th of

the season under

the Yas Marina

floodlights.


Thus you have a situation whereby the only financial

return for the owners and sponsors of any GP is from

the sale of tickets for the race and the two preceding

practice days. Money from merchandise, F&B and any

other on-site sales goes straight back to Ecclestone

and his companies.

Of course it isn’t quite as simple as that, otherwise why

would Abu Dhabi (the newest F1 circuit) spend US$250

million (all figures in this feature provided by Christian

Sylt of www.formulamoney.com except where stated)

to build a stadium just to hold one GP a year and then

a further US$30 million just for the right to host that

GP, the Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, each year.

For one thing, with an estimated 527 million people

watching F1 each year, that makes around 24 million

people around the globe watching each GP and with

each GP receiving 10-15 hours of global TV (including

practice days, recorded highlights and news broadcasts)

that’s a lot of free publicity for Abu Dhabi and every other

GP host city/country.

It’s also a lot of publicity for advertisers and title sponsors,

like Etihad Airways in Abu Dhabi and Yas Island, Abu

Dhabi’s new purpose built holiday island where the GP

is held, though this is not free. Advertisers pay Ecclestone

US$2-3 million for a package of several trackside

hoardings. Title sponsors pay US$5 million per race.

And, of course, building a US$250 million circuit creates

a lot of jobs as does staffing the circuit for the GP and for

the other events held there throughout the year. The Yas

Marina circuit in Abu Dhabi holds year-round V8 supercar,

go-kart, and drag races, as well as hosting numerous

corporate events and motorsport schools. And it keeps

all the revenue from these events. As it does everywhere

it goes, the F1 magic has provided a significant economic

stimulus to the Middle East.

Ultra-loud revving engines, the high-pitched whine

of supercars racing around specially built circuits at

speeds of up to 220 miles per hour, the odd, possibly

fatal mega crash, glamorous girls everywhere in exotic

locations like Monaco, and billions of dollars spent. It

can only be Formula 1 motor racing gearing up the

2014 season which starts with the Australian Grand

Prix in Melbourne on 16th March.

Formula One motor racing consists of men driving

the fastest cars in the world around purpose built

circuits (in most cases) or street circuits in Monaco,

Singapore or Australia. Races are called Grand Prix

(GP), usually cover a distance of approximately 190

miles and last for just under two hours. The 190 miles

is achieved by laps of the circuit, from just 44 laps at

Spa-Francorchamps for the Belgian GP to 78 laps at

Monaco.

Drivers don’t win any prize money, just points for

themselves in the Drivers World Championship and for

their teams in the Constructors World Championship.

The first World Championship race was held at

Silverstone in the UK in 1950 and since then the

Formula One (F1) season has expanded to 22 races

this year.

F1 is big, big business and the business of F1 is

dominated by one man: Bernie Ecclestone. This 83-year-

old UK billionaire, usually described in the tabloids as

“F1 Supremo”, has a stranglehold on the sport. Starting

out as a drivers’ manager, Ecclestone then bought the

Brabham F1 team in 1972. This made him a member

of the Formula One Constructors Association and, by

pioneering the sale of TV rights in the late 1970s, he

was able to gain financial control of the sport and

his companies now also control the administration,

organisation and logistics of every F1 GP.

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With an estimated

527 million people

watching F1 each

year, that makes

around 24 million

people around the

globe watching each

GP and with each

GP receiving 10-15

hours of global TV

(including practice

days, recorded

highlights and news

broadcasts) that’s a

lot of free publicity

for Abu Dhabi and

every other GP host

city/country.

Finally, as far as the host circuit goes in Abu Dhabi,

there is the revenue from GP ticket sales which,

with an average 90,000 fans attending each GP and

approximately 200,000 people attending all three days

of the event, can total well in excess of US$100 million.

Prices for a Saturday and Sunday ticket (second practice

day and race day) in Abu Dhabi cost around US$108 to

US$600. A weekend pass to the Al Jood or Al Dhiyafa

grandstands which included excellent views, reserved

grandstand seats, free all day hot and cold snacks and

non-alcoholic drinks, access to private air-conditioned

suites, and VIP access to the Pit area (where the drivers

and cars are fixed, tuned and maintained before and

during the race) on practice days would have cost you

just over US$1,200.

Those who watched the 2013 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi

Grand Prix in November would have enjoyed a thrilling

race where Sebastian Vettel won his seventh successive

GP and his 11th of the season under the Yas Marina

floodlights. Having already won his fourth consecutive

drivers’ championship the week before in India, Vettel

now managed to equal Michael Schumacher’s 2004

record for most consecutive GPs won in one year in

Abu Dhabi. Summing up his victory after the race Vettel

said “I think today was incredible, the pace we had was

scary at some points.”

That takes care of the circuit side of the business which

is only part of the multi-billion dollar F1 industry.

There’s still the teams, cars and drivers which generate

billions of dollars of business themselves. In March

2007 (the last year for which figures are available),

F1 Racing magazine published its estimates of spending

by Formula One teams. The total spending of all

eleven teams in 2006 was estimated at US$2.9 billion.

This was broken down as follows; Toyota US$418.5

million, Ferrari US$406.5 million, McLaren US$402

million, Honda US$380.5 million, BMW Sauber US$355

million, Renault US$324 million, Red Bull US$252

million, Williams US$195.5 million, Midland F1/Spyker-

MF1 US$120 million, Toro Rosso $75 million, and Super

Aguri US$57 million.

Much of the team spending goes on developing the best

engine possible with Honda, Toyota, McLaren-Mercedes,

and Ferrari estimated to have spent approximately

$200 million on engines in 2006 whilst Renault spent

approximately US$125 million. But, as one F1 journalist

told me “everything in F1 is done behind the scenes.

The vast majority of financial details are not made

available to the public.” And so it has proved impossible

to find exact figures on what the teams are spending

and what they’re spending it on.

However we do know that some teams spend a lot on

drivers, with top racers like Fernando Alonso receiving

a reputed US$40 million a year to drive for Ferrari.

At the other end of the scale, such is the allure of the

sport, that “Narain Karthekeyan reportedly brought

a sponsorship package with him to race with HRT

in 2011, while Pastor Maldonado reportedly brought

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10 million Euros with him in sponsorship in replacing

Nico Hulkenberg at Williams at the end of 2010” said

a F1 journalist who wished to remain anonymous.

In other words unknown drivers need to bring big

money with them to get a drive for a F1 team.

The teams get much of their money from sponsorship by

international companies like Red Bull or Virgin. In January

2011 Marlboro amazingly signed a reputed US$100

million a year contract to continue to sponsor Ferrari until

the end of 2014 even though, due to the ban on cigarette

advertising, they receive no apparent benefit from this

deal. Teams also get a share of the TV rights money and

of the prize money according to how well they do in

the Constructors and Drivers Championships each year.

Bernie Ecclestone is not forthcoming when it comes to

financial details though, to be fair, he is widely credited

with transforming F1 into the multi-billion dollar

business it is today. And he has also moved the sport

from a European based one into the truly global World

Championship that it is now, with GPs in the Middle East,

China, Japan, Malaysia, India, Korea, Australia, Canada

and Brazil.

And there are no shortage of venues queueing up to be

added to the circuit with the United States GP having

returned in 2012 and a Russian GP scheduled to start

in October 2014. There are also proposals for races to

be held in Vietnam and the Ukraine.

It seems as though everyone wants to be in the business

of F1, and media tycoon Rupert Murdoch is said to be

keen to own the rights, but the F1 teams themselves

are also keen to own their sport. However my money’s

on Ecclestone to stay in control. He made the sport

what it is today and he’s unlikely to relinquish control

without a serious fight. Still, whoever’s in control, F1 is

now very big business and a very popular sport.

“I think today was incredible, the pace we had was scary at some points.”


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This year Camerapix Magazines Limited celebrates a quarter century of promoting Seychelles through Silhouette, the in-fl ight magazine of Air Seychelles.

As publishers of Silhouette, Camerapix Magazines Limited is proud to have been associated with Air Seychelles for the past 25 years.

We would like to thank the airline for putting their trust in us, and our readers, writers and particularly all those who have supported us over the years.

Camerapix Magazines Limited, PO Box 45048, 00100, GPO Nairobi, Kenya

Tel: +254 (20) 4448923/4/5 • Fax: +254 (20) 4448818 • E-mail: [email protected]

Editorial and Advertising Offi ce:

Camerapix Magazines (UK) Limited, 32 Friars Walk, Southgate, London N14 5LP

Tel: +44 (20) 8361 2942 • Mobile: +44 79411 21458 • E-mail: [email protected]

of Silhouette

Camerapix Magazines

celebrates

The editorial policy for Silhouette has always included a varietyof timely feature articles and high-quality illustrations of our beautiful islands, backed up by good design standards. The aim has been to produce a magazine that is attractive, informativeand interesting to readers of all ages and backgrounds. We hope we have been successful in that aim and will continue to maintain the highest possible standards in the future.

Thank you all!


50

Now that Air Seychelles has expanded its codeshare

agreement with Etihad Airways’ to include Ireland, this

is one of Europe’s oldest and greatest cities, one that

retains its historical and cultural charms. But it is also a

wonderful cosmopolitan city that offers an abundance

of trendy bars, elegant restaurants and stylish shops

and hotels. One of the top city break destinations in

Europe, steeped in history and buzzing with youthful

energy, the Irish capital is at the very heart of Irish

culture.

Dublin embodies two very distinctly different features

– its rich and varied history and cultural life which

coexists happily with the ever changing, vibrant beat

of contemporary life. Whether you are travelling in a

group, with family, individually or on business you will

find that there is something for everyone in Dublin.

The city has an irresistible vibe and is bursting with

colours, music, sights and scenes which provide the

perfect backdrop for exploring the magic that is Dublin

City and its beautiful surrounding County.

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The Celtic Tiger, the economic engine that roared throughout Ireland in the 1990s, continues to purr today as Dublin basks in a new found prosperity. The city’s compact centre, at the mouth of the River Liffey, has become a magnet for tourists throughout the world, imbuing the Irish capital with a modern and international veneer, says Rosemary Holthusen.

Dublin The Fair City

DestinationDublin50

Above: An iconic landmark in the centre of the city, the Ha’penny Bridge is Dublin’s oldest pedestrian crossing over the River Liffey. It was erected in 1816 as the Wellington Bridge and acquired its better known nickname from the halfpenny toll levied on all users of the bridge up to 1919.

It’s official: Dublin is also home to the friendliest people

in the world. Add to this live music, packed pubs, hip

clubs, great shopping and plenty of culture plus a real

passion for sport and you have everything you need

for a memorable time in this vibrant city.

Dublin is known throughout the world for its music,

from The Dubliners and The Chieftains to U2. Be sure

to check out the comprehensive events listings on the

Visit Dublin website before you travel to find out what’s

on when you’re in town.

The National Concert Hall has an all-inclusive and

diverse programme of events that caters for children as

well as the classically informed. Free lunchtime concerts

are a wonderful way to pass your lunch hour. On the

traditional front several pubs, such as The Cobblestone

and O’Donoghue’s, hold free sessions where you’ll

be mesmerised by the sheer talent of fiddle, bodhrán

and mandolin virtuosos.


51DestinationDublin 51

It’s no secret that Dubliners love to party. Dublin’s

unique spirit of fun and entertainment is evident in the

host of festivals and events organised throughout the

year. Whether you’re a film buff or a culture vulture,

Dublin has a festival to match. The Temple Bar TradFest

always jigs a post-Christmas lift in a celebration of

traditional Irish music and culture.

The Dublin Writers Festival never fails to attract

heavyweights from the world of literature. Small wonder

in 2010, the Irish capital was named a UNESCO City of

Literature – there are only four others in the world. The

Bloomsday Festival and Dublin Shakespeare Festival

celebrate two other literary heavyweights. Three unique

theatre festivals, the Dublin Fringe Festival, Dublin

Theatre Festival and the International Dublin Gay

Theatre Festival all tread the boards in their various

guises. Culture Night is a one-night-only cultural

immersion when the city’s museums, galleries and

historic houses open their doors until late.

Cobbled alleys, Viking remains, Georgian squares, Gothic

spires – Dublin’s history goes back over a thousand

years. Monuments in literature and stone mark the

history, writers, poets, scientists and people of Dublin.

Medieval, Georgian and Modern architecture provide a

backdrop to a city on a bay where fine museums and

world-class attractions chronicle Dublin’s long and

colourful past.

Visitors can follow Dublin’s fascinating history by a

sightseeing bus tour, a guided walking tour and a DIY

tour of Dublin with a free iWalk podcast from Visit

Dublin or a tour of one of the city’s many excellent

museums and art galleries.

The easiest way to explore the region is to purchase a

‘Dublin Pass’. Available in 1,2,3 and 6 Day formats, the

Dublin Pass is the official sightseeing card for Dublin

and provides great value for money starting at €35 for

a 1 Day Adult Dublin Pass. The only problem is fitting

it all in of course!

For ancient treasures, visit the National Museum of

Ireland on Kildare Street. Home to over two million

artefacts including the priceless Ardagh Chalice, the

Tara Brooch and the Derrynaflan hoard, the National

Museum takes you all the way back in time to 7,000BC.

Fast forward to the Middle Ages with a visit to Dublinia

and the Viking World, a positively unique interactive

exhibition tracing the history of Dublin from the

capture of the city by the infamous Strongbow

(Richard de Clare) and his knights in 1170 up to the

dramatic closure of the monasteries under Henry VIII

in the 16th century.

The Little Museum of Dublin is the people’s museum

and tells the story of the modern city. Significantly,

the exhibits have all been donated by Dubliners

themselves. The lectern US President John F. Kennedy

used to address the Oireachtas (National Parliament

of Ireland) in 1963, among other intriguing artefacts, is

displayed in the museum.

Visit one of Dublin’s magnificent cathedrals. Christ

Church Cathedral, one of Dublin’s oldest and most

recognized landmarks, was founded circa 1030 by

Sitriuc Silkenbeard, King of the Dublin Norsemen. The

world-famous ‘Treasures of Christ Church’ collection

reflects nearly 1,000 years of history at the cathedral.

Delve into Dublin’s republican history with a visit to

Kilmainham Gaol. Dating from 1796, the gaol was

Above: To visit Ireland’s capital city is to visit a place rich in history and culture and one which prides itself with a long tradition in music, theatre, dance and literature.

collection of European works from the Renaissance

to the 20th century and the Dublin City Gallery, The

Hugh Lane houses the foremost collection of Irish and

International modern and contemporary art in Ireland.

The Irish Museum of Modern Art is housed in The

Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, one of the finest 17th

century buildings in Ireland and home to the National

collection of modern and contemporary art.

You’ve marvelled at the museums and shopped ‘til

you drop’. It’s time for a drink. Where better to go

when in the home of Guinness than to the Guinness

Storehouse. Located alongside the world famous St.

James’ Gate Brewery, the Guinness Storehouse is a

bastion to the ‘Black Stuff’. Learn how the famous

stout is made, discover the history of the man behind

the Guinness brand, Arthur Guinness and sample

a pint for yourself while admiring the view at the

Gravity Bar.

Dublin’s pubs are slices of its living culture. They are

the famous haunts of its literary set, politicians, rock

stars and of course, Dubliners! Ireland’s capital city is

home to some 1,000 pubs and no visit to Dublin would

be complete without sampling a local brew and great

‘craic’ in a real Dublin pub!

If Irish whiskey is your tipple, visit the Old Jameson

Distillery in Smithfield and relive the story of John

Jameson & Son through the history, the atmosphere

and above all the taste.

Dublin is ideally situated on the east coast of Ireland

and just a 20 minute journey on the DART, the coastline

train, will bring you from the bustling city centre to

the charming coastal towns and villages of the County

which dot the sometimes rugged, sometimes sandy

coastline and which provide boundless opportunities

for artisanal shopping, golf, water sports, mouth-

watering seafood, fine dining and picturesque walks

against the spectacular backdrop of Dublin Bay.

Highlights along Dublin’s north coast include Howth,

a peninsula populated with fantastic seafood

restaurants for all price ranges, cosy Irish pubs, great

walks and the pretty seaside town of Malahide.

On Dublin’s south coast, visitors can explore Ireland’s

medieval heritage at Dalkey Castle and dine on superb

fresh fish and shellfish in the many great restaurants

along the coast. The brave can take a dip in the

infamous ‘Forty Foot’ bathing area in Sandycove.

Further inland the Dublin Mountains provide ample

opportunities for walkers. To visit Dublin is an

experience to behold. The welcome is always warm,

but then this is Ireland, after all!

Opposite page: Ireland’s capital city is home to some 1,000 pubs and no visit to Dublin would be complete without sampling a local brew and great ‘craic’ in a real Dublin pub!

Above: Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland and on its 40-acre site retains some of its ancient seclusion of cobbled squares, perfectly manicured gardens and parks.

DestinationDublin52

To visit Dublin is an experience to behold. The welcome is always warm, but then this is Ireland, after all!

famous (or perhaps infamous!) as “a machine for

grinding rogues honest”. The building stands empty

today, but its thick walls, grim graffiti and foreboding

atmosphere still evoke a shiver. Watch out for the

striking Victorian wing, where scenes from ‘Michael

Collins’ and ‘The Name of the Father’ were filmed; an

audio-visual presentation and guided tour further tease

out the gaol’s place in Irish political and penal history.

Robert Emmet, Charles Stuart Parnell and Eamonn de

Valera were all imprisoned at Kilmainham, and the

leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed by

firing squad in the stone-breaker’s yard.

Dublin truly is Europe’s city of living culture and as a

UNESCO City of Literature, visitors can step back in

time in this city full of literary landmarks: from the

James Joyce Tower by the sea in Sandycove to Trinity

College, alma mater of many of Ireland’s greatest

writers and home of the Book of Kells.

The Irish literary tradition is one of the most illustrious

in the world and Dublin’s native sons include: Shaw,

Yeats, Wilde, Joyce and Beckett. Visit the Dublin

Writers Museum on Parnell Square, one of Dublin’s

finest Georgian squares. The Dublin Writers Museum

houses a history and celebration of literary Dublin and

features the lives and works of the city’s many literary

celebrities. Look out for the lunchtime readings.

Dublin loves drama and Dublin’s playwrights are

known throughout the world; a night out at the

theatre is very popular among locals and visitors alike.

Many of the city’s restaurants and gastropubs offer

great pre-theatre menus so it needn’t cost you the

world.

If art is your thing, be warned: you will have a very

hard time getting around to all of Dublin’s art galleries!

The National Gallery of Ireland houses a prestigious

Visit Dublin: Fåilte Ireland:Dublin Pass: Location:

Land Area:

Population:

Language:

Time:

OfficialCurrency:

Entry Requirements:

Religion:

When To Go:

Not To Be Missed:

Best Meal:

Dublin: Ireland

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www.visitdublin.comwww.failteireland.iewww.dublinpass.ie

Dublin is the capital and most populous city of Ireland. It is situated in the Province of Leinster on the east coast, at the mouth of the River Liffey and the centre of Dublin County.

With a total land area of 114.99 square kilometres (44.40 square miles), Dublin is the largest city in Ireland.

1.5 million (2013)

The language spoken in Dublin is English. Street signs and official buildings are signposted in both English and Gaelic, the indigenous Irish language.

UTC/GMT

The official currency is the Euro. Cash machines (ATMs) are widely available throughout the city.

Passports for all visitors must be valid for at least 6 months. Certain nationals outside of Europe require a valid Irish entry visa, which can be obtained either on arrival or prior to departure.

The overwhelming majority of the Irish population follow Roman Catholicism, although many other religions are practised in this multicultural society.

May/June and September are usually the best months to travel on either end of the peak July/August holiday season. The city will be less crowded, slightly cheaper and you should get reasonable weather most days.

Ireland celebrates its patron saint St. Patrick on the 17th March each year, and Dublin stages the biggest and most extravagantSt. Patrick’s Day Parade outside New York.

Dublin Lawyer, a luxurious dish for two, is reputedly named after the city’s wealthy lawyers and their liking for copious amounts of whiskey. The dish is usually made with crab or lobster, which are plentiful in Ireland.

Air Seychelles flies seven times a week to Etihad Airways’ Abu Dhabi hub, with onward connections to Ireland on most days. In total the two carriers offer 10 return flights per week to the Island archipelago. The combined schedules allow extensive onward connectivity to destinations across Europe and the rest of the world.


54

by Glynn Burridge

The Little CirCus

with a BiG Heart

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55

facial expressions makes him one of the most

articulate members of the troupe. Throughout

the show, he appears in a variety of disguises,

ranging from a mischevious boxer pitted against

a much taller opponent and determined to level

the odds; a miniature Elvis Presley; the energetic

conductor of a cow-bell orchestra and a match-

maker between members of the audience

whom he coaxes with his whistle into a number

of intimate embraces. He is clearly a favourite

with the kids who later queue up to have

their pictures taken with him in his trademark

‘thumbs up’ pose.

Each new act carries all before it, transporting

the audience to a place where laughter, oohs

and aahs resonate, boys and girls scream with

pleasure and adults guffaw. Bruno weaves a

magic thread between acts with his powerful

performance as master of ceremonies –

every inch the flamboyant circus maestro of

yesteryear and most definitely in command.

He says just enough as he introduces each new

performer, retreating instantly into the shadows

as the show begins and some new display of

circus magic is born somewhere in the tunnel.

This time, it’s a pretty ‘Princess’ from India who

nimbly climbs a rope to the very roof of the tent

and then performs a series of elegant passes,

suspended upside-down from a length of

white tissue, body arced over itself, toes lightly

touching her forehead, arms spread wide. Soon

it’s the turn of an unlikely bunch of gymnasts

dressed as a baby, a buxom nurse, a construction

worker and a transvestite who proceed to trip

over each other and a ‘blind’ spectator in a

series of cleverly choreographed moves which

leave the audience in stitches.

Founded by a Samoan, Bruno Loyale, the

Magic Circus has travelled to almost all of

the South Pacific Islands including the most

isolated ones like Tonga, New Caledonia and

the Marshalls & Solomons as well as the better

known destinations of Tahiti and Fiji. Today, it

is spreading its wings further afield to include,

Seychelles, Mauritius, La Reunion and Mayotte,

with plans to travel to the Caribbean before

long.

After an eloquent introduction by Bruno, a

spectacle in himself, his mighty torso etched

in tattoos, a spotlight from somewhere in the

roof of the tent captures the svelte forms of two

tightrope walkers as they tip-toe impossibly up

and down the wire, vaulting in turn each other’s

quivering frames. Glistening from the effort,

their bodies shine in the bright light, each face

a mask of concentration as they defy gravity on

the thin wire. The young boy beside me claps

energetically.

The next act involves a hapless young man

from the audience who is handcuffed to a long

wooden board before a pretty knife thrower

armed with a cluster of wicked-looking knives.

Solemnly, he is presented as her target but,

through clever sleight of hand, he is blindfolded

just before each throw as each knife is planted

noisily into the board behind him by the hand of

a stage assistant. For the life of me, I can’t work

out who looks more perplexed, the victim from

the audience, or my young neighbour. Either

way, they both seem mighty impressed.

Humour is injected into proceedings via the

clown – a magnificent midget who ‘talks’ by

blowing a whistle but whose wide range of

Feature 55

An orange sun sets, its rays caressing the taut

fabric of a dark blue tent set at one end of

Freedom Square in central Victoria where a

phalanx of cars has formed, passengers slowly

snaking into a line heading for the vestibule.

In the soft twilight of the interior, young men

and women with dark, exotic features are

ushering the crowd past candy floss, toffee apple

and soft drink stalls into the giant tent’s inner

sanctum, inviting them to sit in tidy lines before

a central stage while a film plays on a screen in

the background. The crowd is swelling now and

with each new arrival, so is the atmosphere: all

eyes on the mouth of a tunnel leading to the

stage where dark shapes flit busily to and fro.

A sudden rustle from within the tunnel draws

a gasp from the crowd, heightening the level of

expectation now swirling about the tent in an

almost tangible cloud.

I do not know the little boy who is sitting next

to me, whose age I guess to be around eight. His

eyeballs have already swelled to a point where

they dwarf the other features of his young face,

his spear-like gaze scanning the name above the

tunnel: The Magic Circus of Samoa.

As the crowd settles down with popcorn, soft

drinks and coloured light sabres, the music

changes tempo and, suddenly, the circus bursts

to life with the grand entrance of Bruno Loyale,

the circus’ founder, striding into the ring with

the practiced, springy gait of a professional

wrestler, his massive frame pounding the floor.

The expression on the face of the little boy to

my right tells me we’re on!

Now in its 10th year, the Magic Circus of Samoa

is unique, making a point of not so much visiting

towns and cities but instead performing on

remote islands of the South Pacific, bringing its

special brand of magic to children of all ages

with little opportunity otherwise to enjoy a

show.

Created to enable South Pacific islanders to

share in the delights of an old-fashioned circus,

the Magic Circus’ real home is in Pago Pago,

American Samoa, and while it may lack the

spectacle and big-ring glamour of a large circus

like Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey, it most

certainly succeeds in presenting a thrilling

variety of quality circus acts, albeit on a more

modest stage.


56

They are left breathless at the spectacle of the ‘rubber

man’ from Ethiopia as he contorts his body in a way

that defies the possible, threading it through the

string-less head of a tennis racket, locking his shoulder

blades and pushing his joints inside out to achieve one

amazing feat after another. The boy next to me drops

his candy floss onto the floor and, spellbound, does not

seem to mind in the least that his pink feast is now

melting at his feet.

As the interval comes around, it’s anyone’s guess who

is most in need of the break; the performers after

their constant supply of miracles or the bleary-eyed

spectators from watching them. As the circus gathers

momentum for the second half of the show, a steady

stream of onlookers climbs onto the stage to have

their picture taken with the clown and then receive a

memento of the occasion mounted onto a key ring for

posterity.

We’ve barely caught our breath when the Samoan show

is off again at a gallop: the human fountain from India

first consumes vast quantities of water and then turns

into a one-woman waterspout before swallowing no

less than four live gold fish which she then regurgitates,

alive and kicking, into a bowl; a young man with a body

that would do a Michael Angelo model proud ascends

a wobbly tower of stacked chairs almost to the roof of

the tent before dismantling it again as he struggles to

keep his balance.

Bruno makes an entrance and invites an onlooker to

defy the sharp blade of a guillotine, silencing the crowd

as he holds the blade by a string before letting it fall

onto, and right through, the young man’s neck, who

walks away unscathed. In an ecstasy of excitement my

young friend has just trampled the candy floss into the

grass beneath his feet.

One young lady dancer catches two torches burning at

both ends and proceeds to wield them in a fire dance,

twirling them around her as she leaps wildly about the

stage while a contortionist from Nepal holds burning

candles with both arms and feet (and even on her

forehead) as she rolls from one incredible posture into

another.

Hello, Bruno’s back! This time with some cunning feats

of magic, pulling lighted cigars from a young boy’s ear

before the show makes way for the one-wheeled cycle

riders, including one act on a crazy, zig-zag bike and

another on the world’s tallest monocycle as the crowd

bellows its approval.

Almost mercifully, the tempo slows with some

traditional Samoan dances, but that just proves to be

the calm before the storm which takes the form of

some insane motorcycle riding inside ‘the dome’ where

two riders hurtle past, beneath and over the top of one

another at close to full throttle. By now, my young

friend has grabbed my hand and is squeezing it like a

lemon, his jaw somewhere down near his fallen candy

floss.

Bruno springs to the stage to bring the show to an end

and to invite all the performers to take a final bow.

As the cheers finally subside and we wend our way

outside, we are all left with the indelible memories

of a magnificent performance by a team of true

professionals and, although night has by now fallen,

many I’m sure will have joined me in hoping that it will

be a very long time indeed before the sun sets on the

remarkable feats of the Magic Circus of Samoa.

Feature56

As the cheers finally subside and we wend our way outside, we are all left with the indelible memories of a magnificent performance by a team of true professional.

A small hotel with a big heart

The Coco D’or Hotel, is built on 3 hectares of lush tropical land, on the north west coast of Mahé. The hotel is a mere four minutes walk from Beau Vallon, one of the island’s most beautiful beaches. The Coco D’or sets itself apart from other hotels in Seychelles by virtue of its location, amenities and unparalled service philosophy.

27 appointed rooms and suites, each with a private bath, balcony, terrace and/or living room are divided into two categories:-

Standard room 24 rooms with a verandah and tropical garden, 6 rooms with a terrace and 2 with a lounge.Deluxe suites 3 rooms with a private patio terrace and mountain and garden view, two bathrooms, a kitchen- ette and a separate living room.

Coco D’or Hotel & Restaurant • T/A Nalini R. Properties (Pty) LtdBeau Vallon, Mahé, Seychelles • P.O. Box 526 Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles

Phone: +248 4247331 • Fax: +248 4247454 • E-mail: [email protected]


58

e all know those mid-week blues, when we’re ready to punch the boss or scream at our kids. Yet when the

weekend arrives, it never seems long enough to properly unwind, leaving us starting another Monday almost as tense

as we were on Friday afternoon. But follow these eight steps and you’ll find two days is quite enough to achieve physical and mental relaxation and have you prepared for another round of mid-week madness.

Health58

Had a super-stressful week and need to chill out? Brian Johnston has some 15 top tips for weekend relaxation.

Bustersstress

1. Take a hikeThink lounging on the sofa is the best way to relax? Wrong. Exercise is the

best tension buster, and nothing is easier than walking. “Going for a walk

after a long week to clear your head is a great way to de-stress and stay

mentally healthy,” says Simone Comtesse, a mental health expert from

Curtin University in Australia. “Engaging in physical activity, either on your

own or with a friend, is also a great way to sort through problems.”

2. Eat upBut only the right food. The body’s stocks of zinc and vitamin B get used up

when stressed, so recharge by eating wholegrain breads and cereals, red meat

and shellfish. A glass of milk is calming. “An amino acid called tryptophan

is used by the body to make serotonin, a calming neurotransmitter, and

melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone,” explains dietician Clare Evangelista.

“Foods high in tryptophan include milk and other dairy foods, oats, dates,

chickpeas and chicken.”

3. Buzz offGetting away for the weekend can recharge your internal batteries.

Scientists at Rutgers University in the USA have proved that a change

really is as good as a holiday. They report that a change of scenery and

novel experiences boost dopamine in the brain, which activates the brain’s

pleasure centres. So getaway to somewhere new at the weekend or, at the

very least, venture into a new neighbourhood or restaurant and give your

dopamine a well-needed boost.

4. Hit somethingAs long as it isn’t a person or a wall, punching something is a fine way to get

rid of stress or anger. Use a punching bag but, if you don’t have one, an old

pillow will do. Thinking about the things that stress you and ‘transferring’

them into the punching bag can be an effective stress reliever. As an added

bonus, punching bags can improve confidence and mental focus, as well as

provide a good workout that burns up the calories.

5. Have a massageA good massage can make a big health difference, which is why it is

increasingly offered in workplaces and hospitals. Studies show massages

reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increase the feel-good

hormones dopamine and serotonin. If you can’t afford a spa treatment,

massage your own ears by rubbing the earlobes between index finger and

thumb and squeezing the edges of your ears from top to bottom, as done

in Chinese acupuncture and Ayurvedic treatments for centuries.

6. Have a bathA warm bath calms the nervous system yet stimulates the circulation and

promotes sleep. Often, it simply provides tranquil downtime away from

children, phones and chores. And don’t forget the bath oils. Something

as simple as a few drops of your favourite oil in a warm bath can be

wonderfully relaxing. Low lighting and low music can create a stress-free

ambiance similar to a spa – but without the hefty price tag.


59

7. Sleep‘Nature’s soft nurse’, as Shakespeare put it,

is crucial to our emotional and physical

wellbeing, yet most of us just don’t get

enough of it. The solution, however,

is not to lie in at weekends, as that

disrupts regular sleeping cycles. Instead,

maintain a consistent sleeping pattern

by going to bed and getting up at the

same time very day of the week. Sleep in

a cool, dark room and avoid bright lights,

television, heavy or spicy meals, alcohol

and smoking before bedtime.

8. Have a cuppaThose Brits know a thing or two:

researchers at King’s College in London have

found tea a more efficient hydrator than water.

The caffeine content of coffee or the sugar in soft

drinks won’t help your stress, but a nice cup of tea

might. Ensure that you’re adequately hydrated.

Plenty of evidence suggests dehydration impacts

mental and physical performance and can lead to

stress.

9. Have some scentsAromatherapy has a physical effect on our

wellbeing and can actively change our

mood. Burn a candle or fragrant oil, or use

herbs to perfume your pillow. The sense of

smell is poorly understood, but we do know

that it is linked to the oldest, most primitive

part of our brain and seems to have a direct

link to our emotions. Lavender is the most

soothing aroma, but chamomile, ylang-

ylang, bergamot and sandalwood also have

relaxing properties.

10. Play golfA study of 300,000 regular Swedish golfers

shows they have a 40 per cent lower

mortality rate than similar non-golfers. Of

course, that is likely because of the exercise

regular golfers get, so don’t despair if

you’re no good with the nine-iron. Just

keep active on the weekends. Take a

walk, ride a bike, dance a little, dig the

garden and it will do you the world of

good.

11. Join a clubMentally healthy people tend to surround themselves with other people

and are involved in lots of different activities, even on the weekends.

Being socially active and having good friends and people to talk to

are the fundamental factors for good mental wellbeing. Go along to a

community event, take an art class or join a book club: it can be the

perfect weekend de-stressor.

12. Banish clutterLiving surrounded by clutter is a reminder of all the things we think we

ought to be doing: your subconscious is always aware of that pile of

laundry or paperwork. You’ll feel much better if you get organised

and store belongings in a tidy manner or out of sight, since tidy

spaces are more calming. “Remove your physical clutter and you’ll

eradicate your mental clutter, plus you’ll feel energised,” says Dr.

Bruce McEwen, author of The End of Stress as we Know it.

13. Imagine itJohn Lennon sang about it and psychologists recommend

it. Replacing stressful thoughts with relaxing ones might

not be easy, but can do a world of good. Leading Australian

children’s charity Novita suggests sitting in a quiet place

and picturing something relaxing in your mind. ‘This may

be something like walking on the beach or laying in a field

on a warm, sunny day. With practice, you should find it easier to

stick with this thought and you will end up feeling much more

relaxed.’

14. Repeat yourselfAncient practices such as tai chi, prayer and meditation know the

value of repetitive movements or repeated words in preventing

the mind from wandering to stressful thoughts. Similarly, many

writers swear by seemingly mindless, repetitive activities

in focusing their mental processes. It might be knitting,

solitaire, Tetris, puzzle-making or bouncing a ball. “Repetition

can change the physical and emotional responses to stress

and decrease heart rate, blood pressure, breathing and muscle

tension,” says Dr. Herbert Benson, author of The Relaxation

Response.

15. Have a laughLaughter is a quick and easy way to relax, and humour can relieve

stress. We all know the power of laughter, so take time to indulge

in a funny movie or a few You Tube clips. Not in the mood? Fake it.

“Research proves that 10 to 20 minutes of laughter, whether fake or real,

has a profound benefit on the body,” says Dr. Madan Kataria, founder of

Laughter Yoga International. “It energizes and recharges the metabolism,

making us feel fresh again.”

Research proves that 10 to 20 minutes of laughter,

whether fake or real, has a profound benefit on the body.

Health 59


60

In an isolated corner on the south of Mahé lie the remnants of a settlement that was created during the last decade of the 18th century. Tony Mathiot goes on a romantic exploration…

CapucinThe Forest of

Capucin is one of the Seychelles’ most precious

secrets. Not many inhabitants of Mahé have ever

been there and few foreign visitors have been lucky

enough to discover it. Situated on the southwest

coast of Mahé, the forest of Capucin covers 160 acres

that extend from Anse Marie Louise in the north, to

Petit Boileau in the south and Intendance in the west.

Spreading from the beach plateau up to the highlands

of Beau Séjour, the forest of Capucin does not contain

the hard wood timber trees, northea Seychellana,

after which the place is named. In fact, you can hardly

see a single specimen of this endemic botanical

beauty which was named after an English lady

painter, Marianne North who visited the Seychelles

in 1883. That’s because capucin wood was largely

used in the construction of houses and even, yes even,

for the making of charcoal. The forest of Capucin is

actually the only remnant of a coconut and cinnamon

plantation left on Mahé – among the many that

were established in the late 1790s when French

settlers from Reunion arrived in the Seychelles to

avail themselves of allocations of land that had been

stipulated by commandant Jean-Baptiste Philogène

de Malavois in 1787. François Philogène Mondon was

among the early settlers who came to take advantage

of that scheme – and how blessedly lucky he must

have been to have chosen this part of Mahé to make

his settlement, because, he got a magnificent beach,

an awesome granite coastline and an enchanting

forest that conceals the remnants and the ruins of

a bygone era.

FeatureHistory

Phot

os ©

Ton

y M

athi

ot


61

Here, nearly all coconut palms have sprouted from

the nuts of the first generation of palms that were

planted by the descendants of François Mondon in

the 1870s and which provided millions of nuts for the

copra industry during the first few decades of the 20th

century. Cinnamon trees that were once harvested for

their bark and whose leaves were distilled for oil have

now attained an unprecedented height and a thickness

of girth that they were not allowed before. Some have

their branches entwined with tendrils of wild vanilla

vine. Others have sprouted on the surface of granite

boulders where they have developed into mighty trees

as their intersecting roots crawled across the boulders

forming a mesh, in search of nutrients from the soil.

Here and there, as you wander through the woods,

you occasionally come across little circular enclosures

of stones. These were built around the base of some

coconut palms that grew on steep slopes or on the edge

of banks of earth besides the footpath. Higher, as you

proceed upwards

above the plateau,

there is a large

towering badamier

tree, a cashew tree

and a tamarind

tree. Breadfruit

trees are not scarce

here. They were

planted especially

as a source of

food. Breadfruit

cooked whole over

an open fire or

boiled in coconut

milk was part of the labourers’ meal. There are dozens

of breadfruit trees in the forest of Capucin whose

fruits, when ripe, are devoured by bats, splattering

the squashy pulp on the carpet of dead leaves.

Clumps of bamboo are also common features.

They have served their important uses for almost a

century. The inhabitants of Capucin used bamboo

strips to make traditional fish traps, known as kazye.

Bamboo cylinders were used by toddy tappers as

containers and by plantation workers to make rat traps

known as lasomwar.

Somewhere, behind the clumps of bamboo, a chuckling

stream flows out from among the rocks, winding its

way across the forest before disappearing underground.

This was a precious source of water for not less than

four generations of the Mondon family here at Capucin.

One can assume that this charming rivulet must have

been the reason why François Mondon created the first

settlement here. It certainly must have been a major

factor in his decision.

As you penetrate deeper into the forest, you will come

up against a massive overhanging face of granite with

tufts of ferns growing in its furrows. A beautiful sight

indeed but one that might fill you with dread if you

were lost in these woods at dusk and were trying to

find your way out…

There is a sinister beauty to this forest that tugs at

the heart. The late afternoon sunshine that filters

prismatically through the treetops creates a mournful

kind of muted gloom that can easily lure you into a

reverie of eerie happiness, or worse, into melancholy

contemplation. It’s that kind of place: poignantly

evocative. It makes you nostalgic about… what might

have been.

Once upon a time,

labourers toiled from

dawn to dusk here.

With their machetes

in their hands and

burlap sacks thrown

over their shoulders

they roved the woods

collecting coconuts that

had fallen the previous

night and piled them

up in heaps for husking.

Thousands of coconuts

have been harvested

and transformed into

copra here. Indeed, so many tonnes of copra and

cinnamon from the forest of Capucin ended up in the

pharmaceuticals and confectioneries of Europe during

the early 19th century.

There are the ruins of the house which the owner of

the estate and his family occupied for many decades.

The masonry plinths and the quadrilateral shape of

the foundation work attest to the somewhat modest

size of the Mondon residence. Shrubs of vari-coloured

foliage grow near the flight of steps at the entrance.

Half a century ago these plants would have been

lovingly watered by a housewife with water from the

dalo, and children would have played in these woods.

Nearby is a huge rock, underneath which empty

bottles and broken chinaware were discarded.

Among the broken glass one can find little inkwells.

These were quite common during those days, when

FeatureHistory

Capucin is one of the

Seychelles’ most

precious secrets.


62

Such a fascinating spectacle can be almost petrifying.

The explosion of water happens in the blink of an eye.

The sound of thunder seems to reverberate inside the

core of the granite itself as the mighty spray forms

into a curling cloud overhead, and then collapses into

a shower of water. As the sea retreats back into a mass

of swirling waters, further out the bluish green surface

begins to bulge, and a curving swell is formed, gradually

looming, inexorably approaching, for the next savage

onslaught.

The rocky coast leads to another secret of Capucin: a

veritable marvel. Situated between a cliff and a tumble

of boulders, the beach is strewn with granite rocks of

various sizes like gemstones that have been purposefully

scattered for mermaids to come and rest upon. This is

tropical enchantment in its most mesmerizing state.

During these last hundred years, thousands of turtles

have chosen this place to lay their eggs. It’s a burning

beach where the scorching sunshine and the sweltering

heat never seems to subside.

And here the sea has an intimidating attraction. It is

as if the waters of the Indian Ocean have found the

perfect place to vent their wrath. The waves crash upon

the shore and the foaming surf maps out and then

recedes, swirling and seething – water flowing down

the rocks like miniature waterfalls: a spectacle that

lasts just the span of a breath.

And that sound can be heard all the way up, deep in the

forest of Capucin.

a pen had to be dipped in ink nearly as often as the

writer’s respiration.

Here, one sweeping gaze one can take in the ruins

and rubble of the establishment once known as

Mondonville. Besides the main family house, there

were various outbuildings and infrastructure that

constituted the homestead of that epoch. Surely, the

vestiges of other structures must have been obliterated

by the ravages of time and water during the heavy rainy

seasons when rivulets coursed down the mountain

slopes.

There are a few places in this forest where you have to

traverse the woods over outcrops of rock, for granite

abounds here. There are rocks of various sizes and shapes.

Indeed, François Philogène Mondon could have built a

small castle of granite in this forest.

In 1931, the colonial government decided to place a

lighthouse on a rock at Petit Boileau. Consequently,

an Agreement was signed between the governor,

Gordon James Lethem, and the Mondon family on

the 2nd August 1935 which gave a right of way to

the lighthouse keeper over the Mondon property “for

the purpose of going to and from the lighthouse” As a

matter of fact, one of the heirs, Etienne Mondon, was

appointed lighthouse keeper.

The copra kiln is a few yards away from the beach and

it is one of the very few that remains in the Indian

Ocean. With its chimney and chamber still intact, it

is a valuable specimen of the hundred or so kilns that

burned and smoked during the 1930s. A kiln was an

indispensable component of the coconut industry and

an essential aspect of the coconut estate. It was the

factory that generated revenue for the coconut estate

and determined the fortune of its owner. The Capucin

kiln now stands where it was erected like a monument

to the settlement that existed here a century ago. A

relic. A souvenir. An enigma.

The coast of Capucin is incontrovertibly one that

epitomizes tropical resplendence in its most awesome

incarnation. The curving coastline of granite boulders

forms a bulwark against the crashing waves that hurl

themselves over the rocks, leaving behind overflowing

pools of seawater in the depressions. Crusts of salt have

formed in little basins on the surface of many boulders.

Above, casuarinas trees grow along the sloping ground

with coconut palms filling the rest of the space,

stretching upwards towards the top of the ridge.

FeatureHistory

Green Corner

In a landmark decision to save sharks from extinction,

countries from around the world voted at the 16th meeting

of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered

Species (CITES) to regulate international trade in the Oceanic

whitetip, Hammerhead and several other shark species.

While this decision helps regulate imports to consuming

market countries, sustainable use will not be achieved unless

shark exporting countries improve their regulatory controls.

Sharks play a critical role in maintaining a balanced food

chain in marine ecosystems, yet this role is being undermined

as sharks have become one of the most exploited species

on the planet. It is estimated that 100 million sharks are

killed every year to supply growing demand for shark fins,

meat and gills, resulting in a 97 per cent drop in shark

populations over the last two centuries.

In the Seychelles, the waters once teemed with Great

White, Hammerhead and Tiger sharks. Yet, over the years,

intensive fishing has decimated shark stocks. To combat

this, Seychelles has introduced a National Plan of Action

for Conservation and Management of Sharks aimed to

ensure that the sharks are harvested sustainably by both

commercial and artisanal fishers.

MFF (Magroves for the Future) supported the National

Action Plan by working with artisanal shark fishers in the

Seychelles to ensure that sound fisheries methods are

practiced, the rights of the fishers are protected and their

livelihoods are improved. To ensure formal representation in

the national process an Artisanal Shark Fishers’ Association

was registered. To help monitor the sharks they catch, a

creole language shark identification key, data collection

equipment, and standardized collection forms were

distributed to fishers. The information they collect is then

compiled by the Seychelles fisheries authorities and used

for shark stock management. These are small but significant

steps to ensure the conservation, management and long

term sustainable use of sharks in the Seychelles. This

model can be applied in artisanal shark fishing communities

around the world.

seychellessustainable

Shark fishing in the

Phot

os ©

Josi

e M

icha

ud


64

Tips for Visitors to Seychelles


65

Seychelles is renowned for its natural beauty and unique geology and biodiversity.

This tiny island paradise has set aside almost 50 per cent of its 455 square kilometres

as national parks and nature reserves, more than any other country on earth.

Islands like Seychelles make great holiday destinations, but behind the scenes

small island states have an uphill struggle in their journey towards environmental

sustainability as they try to grapple with issues like energy security, waste and pollution,

habitat loss, poaching, water shortages, food security and climate change.

For instance, although Seychelles now boasts a small wind farm, the islands are still

95 per cent reliant on imported fossil fuels to generate electricity. Solar energy seems

like the obvious solution but the technology is still prohibitively expensive for a small

island and most of its inhabitants.

Water is another critical issue. The main islands of Seychelles receive more than two

metres of rainfall each year but the country’s storage capacity is so limited that most

of it runs off into the sea! There is no land to spare for the construction of large dams

and reservoirs. During the months when rainfall is scarce, water is produced through

the energy-intensive desalination process and water rationing is the norm for residents

and businesses alike.

In terms of waste, Seychelles has very limited space for landfills, but with increased

development and tourism, the mountains of waste produced are increasing. Some

items like scrap metal, PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) plastic and aluminium cans

are now exported for recycling but this is not feasible for many other waste forms due

to the economies of scale and Seychelles’ distance from potential recycling markets.

Food security is another key issue for the islands. Land in Seychelles is always at a

premium and the flat coastal strip around the main islands is juggled between the

demands of housing, farming, industrial and tourism sectors. Over the last 20 years

much of Seychelles’ agricultural land has been converted to tourism establishments

and housing estates, making it tough for the country to produce all of the food needed

by the local population and tourism sector. Relying on imported foods makes the

islands vulnerable to fluctuations in prices and foreign exchange rates, and the quality

of imported items is not as fresh as local produce.

Climate change is a major challenge for all small island developing states (SIDS).

Seychelles has a small population and its carbon footprint is relatively tiny compared

to larger industrialised countries. Furthermore, the vegetation on land and in the sea

throughout the 1.14 million square kilometres exclusive economic zone, acts as a

significant sink or absorber of carbon dioxide. However, like other SIDS, Seychelles is

extremely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change which, for islands, include issues

such as sea level rise, coastal erosion, coral bleaching, changing migration patterns of

tuna and other pelagic fish stocks, heavy rains and flooding contrasted by periods of

drought.

Given all these challenges, it is remarkable that Seychelles is still as beautiful as it is!

This is not an accident but a result of a longstanding government commitment to

environmental protection coupled with the active engagement of many environmental

NGOs and, increasingly, the private sector.

Even tourists can lend a hand! While on holiday, there

are a number of things our guests can do to help island

states like Seychelles become more sustainable. Take

note of the eco-tips below and see how many of them

you can put into action during your stay …

1. Be energy wise – Try to conserve energy when possible – turning off lights and air conditioners when you leave your hotel room is a great way of making a difference.

2. Be water wise – Use water carefully – take short showers and turn the taps off when not in use. Use your towel for a few days to cut down on laundry use.

3. Watch your waste – Recycle your plastic bottles and drink cans. Buy a reusable bag to cut down on plastic bags. Take your batteries home with you. Ask your hotel if they are participating in local recycling programmes.

4. Eat local – Instead of eating what you can eat at home, try some of the local cuisine, cooked with fresh local fish, meat, vegetables and fruits, available in restaurants and at take-aways. For a snack, try out some of the delicious local crisps made from organic breadfruit, cassava or plantain bananas.

5. Participate in conservation activities – Ask your hotel what they are doing for the environment – what are they doing to save water, save energy, reduce waste, reduce their climate footprint and help local communities? Pressure from tourists will help encourage our tourism industry to go greener!

6. Discover Seychelles – Get out and explore all that Seychelles has to offer – marine parks, nature reserves, gardens, mountain trails, beaches, museums. Try exploring by bus (it is more eco-friendly than renting your own car and can be an interesting cultural experience!).

7. Support the local economy – Buy locally made crafts, music CDs and other souvenirs. Avoid buying shells, corals, shark jaws or other souvenirs that degrade natural ecosystems.

Seychelles, as you will soon discover, is a fantastic place

to have a holiday. We wish you a happy and ‘green’

vacation, one that will give you great pleasure and

memories and ensure that the Seychelles environment

is protected for future generations to enjoy.

Contributed by Sustainability for Seychelles (S4S), a local NGO whose mission is to promote sustainable living in Seychelles. For more info about our work. Contact us on: Email: [email protected] Tel. 422-4072 / 251-9135. Address: Suite A9 Arpent Vert, Mont Fleuri. Website: www.s4seychelles.com or find us on Facebook.

We wish you a happy and ‘green’ vacation, one that will give you great pleasure and memories and ensure that the Seychelles environment is protected for future generations to enjoy.

Green Corner

Seychelles Plus Joins Etihad Guests Loyalty Programme

Air Seychelles Plus rejoint le programme de fidélisation Etihad Guest

We are pleased to announce improved benefits, services and flexibility for our valued and loyal travellers. Since 16 June 2012, the Air Seychelles Plus Programme has been fully integrated into Etihad Guests, the award winning loyalty programme of Etihad Airways.

All members of the Air Seychelles Plus Programme have automatically become new Etihad Guest members, earning eight Etihad Guest Miles for every Seychelles Plus point in their account as at 15 June 2012.

Their current Seychelles Plus tier level has been carried over to their new Etihad Guest membership. For example, Air Seychelles Plus Gold Members have automatically been enrolled as Etihad Guest Gold members.

On becoming an Etihad Guest member, they now enjoy more benefits and rewards, including:• Immediaterewards-withthe1MileRedemption

feature, fly once and enjoy instant rewards.• Noblackoutperiods-GuestSeatsareavailableon

all flights, and if a seat is available, the guests can bookit.

• Anytimeavailability-allseatsonaflight,includingthe very last seat, are available at any time. Redeemopenseatsatamileagecostequivalentto the commercial price of the seat on any Etihad flights.

• Thewidestchoice-redeemforflights,productsorservicesusingtheexclusiveEtihadGuestRewardShop.

Noussommesheureuxd’annonceruneaméliorationdeprestations,denosservicesetdelaflexibilitépour notre fidèle clientèle. Depuis le 16 Juin 2012, leprogrammeAirSeychellesPlusaétéentièrementintégrédansceluid’EtihadGuest,leprogrammedefidélisationpriméd’EtihadAirways.Touslesmembresduprogrammed’AirSeychelles

PlusdeviennentautomatiquementdesnouveauxmembresdEtihadGuest,obtenanthuitmilesd’EtihadGuestpourchaquepointsurleurcompteau15Juin2012.Lesmembresd’AirSeychellesPlusconserveront

lemêmestatutdanslenouveauprogrammed’EtihadGuest.Parexemple,lesmembresGoldd’AirSeychellesontétéautomatiquementinscritscommemembresd’EtihadGuestGold.Endevenantmembred’EtihadGuest,ilsvont

maintenantbénéficierdeplusd’avantagesetderécompenses,ycompris:• Desrécompensesimmédiates–aveclaformule

1MileRedemption,voyagezunefoisetdeprofitezdesrécompensesimmédiatement.

• Aucunepérioded’interdiction–lesGuestSeatssont disponibles sur tous les vols, et si un siège estdisponible,lesclientspourrontleréserver.

• Disponibilitéàtoutinstant-touslessiègessurunvol,ycomprisledernier,sontdisponiblesàtoutmoment.Échangezvosmilespourlesopenseatsàuncoûtequivalentauprixcommercialdusiegeparkilométriquesurn’importequelsvolsEtihadAirways.

John David Turner

1167 2695 6467

Valid Thru 05/2014

John David Turner

1167 2695 6467

Valid Thru 05/2014

John David Turner

1167 2695 6467

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John David Turner1167 2695 6467

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• Expandednetwork-redeemandearnpointsonover3000 routes worldwide, with Etihad Airways and its partner airlines, including Air Berlin, Virgin Australia and American Airlines.

• Also,asEtihadGuestmembers,ourGuestscanautomatically earn and redeem Etihad Guest Miles withtheentireEtihadGuestPartnernetworkworldwide, which includes international hotel chains, car hire companies and retailers as well as 1 5 airline partners.

Guest ProgrammeThis level enables the member to enjoy permanent membership to the programme after earning 500 miles.

Guest Enjoys• EarnEtihadGuestTierMilesforjourney• RedeemEtihadGuestMilesforjourney/Upgrades/

kilos• Seatselectionuponavailability• Redeemopenseatsatamileagecostequivalent

to the commercial price of the seat on any Etihad flights.

Silver TierGuest Enjoys• Waitlistpriority• Loungeaccess• 10kgexcessbaggage

For more information call us on +248 4391069 / 4381016 / 4391366 / www.airseychelles.com/guest

Pour plus d’informations appelez-nous au +248 4391069/4381016/4391366 / www.airseychelles.com/guest

• EarnEtihadGuestTierMilesforjourney• RedeemEtihadGuestMilesforjourney/Upgrades/kilos• Seatselectionuponavailability• 25%TierBonusMiles

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Gold Elite TierGuest Enjoys• 20kgexcessbaggage• PriorityCheck-in• LoungeAccess• PriorityBoarding• Fasttrackimmigration/baggage• 75%TierBonus• EarnEtihadGuestTierMilesforjourney• RedeemEtihadGuestMilesforjourney/Upgrades• Seatselectionuponavailability

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H e a l t hy Tra v e l l i n g

These gentle exercises, which you can carry out easily during your flight, will help blood circulation and reduce any tiredness

or stiffness that may result from sitting in one place for several hours. Check with your doctor first if you have any health

conditions which might be adversely affected by exercise.

Shoulder stretch: Reach right hand over left shoulder. Place left hand behind right elbow and gently press elbow toward shoulder. Hold stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

Arm curl: Start with arms held at a 90-degree angle: elbows down, hands out in front. Raise hands up to chest and back down, alternating hands. Do this exercise in 30-second intervals.

Shoulder roll: Hunch shoulders forward, then upward, then backward, then downward, using a gentle, circular motion.

Knee lifts: Lift leg with knees bent while contracting your thigh muscles. Alternate legs. Repeat 20 to 30 times for each leg.

Foot pumps: Start with both heels on the floor and point feet upward as high as you can. Then put both feet flat on the floor. Then lift heels high, keeping the balls of your feet on the floor. Continue cycle in 30-second intervals.

Ankle circles: Lift feet off the floor, draw a circle with the toes, simultaneously moving one foot clockwise and the other foot counterclockwise. Reverse circles. Do each direction for 15 seconds. Repeat if desired.

Knee to chest: Bend forward slightly. Clasp hands around the left knee and hug it to your chest. Hold stretch for 15 seconds. Keeping hands around knee, slowly let it down. Alternate legs. Repeat 10 times.

Forward flex: With both feet on the floor and stomach held in, slowly bend forward and walk your hands down the front of your legs towards your ankles. Hold the stretch for 15 seconds and slowly sit back up.

Overhead stretch: Raise both hands straight up over your head. With one hand, grasp the wrist of the opposite hand and gently pull to one side. Hold stretch for 15 seconds. Repeat on the other side.

OTHER TIPS FOR A COMFORTABLE FLIGHT

• For your own comfort try and travel light.

• Wear loose clothing and elasticated stockings made of natural fibre.

• Increase your normal intake of water and only if need be, drink alcohol but in moderation.

• Use moisturising cream to keep your skin from drying out.

• Take off shoes in the plane to prevent your feet from swelling up or wear shoes that will cope with expanding ankles.

• Avoid heavy meals during the flight.

• Short walks once every two hours are excellent for circulation.

• Try to touch your toes when waiting in the aisle to stretch your hamstrings.

• On arrival at your destination, have a hot shower or a relaxing bath.

• On arrival a quick jog, brisk walk, or a vigorous scrub will help stimulate your circulation.

Neck roll: With shoulders relaxed, drop ear to shoulder and gently roll neck forward and to the other side, holding each position about five seconds. Repeat five times.

Air Seychelles disclaim any responsibility in the unlikely event that you may suffer an injury as a direct result of these gently exercises.

Johannesburg

BahrainKuwait

Muscat

Mauritius

ColomboBangkok

ABU DHABI

London

ParisGeneva Milan

Manchester

Brussels

Düsseldor

Seoul

Perth

f

Munich

SEYCHELLES

Hong Kong

BerlinFrankfurt

Dublin

Melbourne

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CopenhagenStockholmNOTE: Graphics representation only. Not

International Route Map

Airbus A320 Wet-leased from Etihad AirwaysBusiness Class seats: 16Economy seats: 120

Mauritius route only

Airbus A330-200 (Vallée de Mai, Aldabra) Aircrafts: 2Cruise speed: 870 k/hrBusiness Class seats: 18Economy seats: 236Wing span: 197 ft 10 inches Length: 191ft 5.5 inchesMaximum range: 4200 nm at maximum payload

FleetMaximum Takeoff weight: 233,000 kgsMaximum Landing Weight: 182,000 kgsFuel Capacity: 139,000 ltsEngine thrust: 71,100 lbf

Two aisle passenger cabin Pearl class: 2-2-2 six abreastEconomy: 2-4-2 eight abreast

SHORTS 360-300Aircraft: 1 • Seat Capacity: Total 36Max. Gross Weight: Take Off, 12,292 kgsRange: 630 nautical miles (1,165.5 km)Engines: Pratt and Witney PT 6A-67RSea Level Thrust: SHP 1281

DHC-6 (TWIN OTTER)Aircraft: 4 • Seat Capacity: Total 19Max. Gross Weight: Take Off, 5,669 kgs;Range: 490 nautical miles ( 907.5 km) Engines: Pratt and Witney PT 6A-27Sea Level Thrust: SHP 680

Fregate Island

Bird Island

Mahé Island

Praslin Island

Desroches Island

Alphonse Island

D´Arros Island

Denis Island

Air SeychellesDomestic Route Network

Air Seychelles Destinations

MAP KEY

Air Seychelles & Etihad Airways Codeshare Destinations

Air Seychelles & South African Airways Codeshare Destinations

December 2013

Air Seychelles & Air Berlin Codeshare Destinations

Air Seychelles & Cathay Paci�c Codeshare Destinations

Johannesburg

BahrainKuwait

Muscat

Mauritius

ColomboBangkok

ABU DHABI

London

ParisGeneva Milan

Manchester

Brussels

Düsseldor

Seoul

Perth

f

Munich

SEYCHELLES

Hong Kong

BerlinFrankfurt

Dublin

Melbourne

Sydney

CopenhagenStockholmNOTE: Graphics representation only. Not

International Route Map

Airbus A320 Wet-leased from Etihad AirwaysBusiness Class seats: 16Economy seats: 120

Mauritius route only

Airbus A330-200 (Vallée de Mai, Aldabra) Aircrafts: 2Cruise speed: 870 k/hrBusiness Class seats: 18Economy seats: 236Wing span: 197 ft 10 inches Length: 191ft 5.5 inchesMaximum range: 4200 nm at maximum payload

FleetMaximum Takeoff weight: 233,000 kgsMaximum Landing Weight: 182,000 kgsFuel Capacity: 139,000 ltsEngine thrust: 71,100 lbf

Two aisle passenger cabin Pearl class: 2-2-2 six abreastEconomy: 2-4-2 eight abreast

SHORTS 360-300Aircraft: 1 • Seat Capacity: Total 36Max. Gross Weight: Take Off, 12,292 kgsRange: 630 nautical miles (1,165.5 km)Engines: Pratt and Witney PT 6A-67RSea Level Thrust: SHP 1281

DHC-6 (TWIN OTTER)Aircraft: 4 • Seat Capacity: Total 19Max. Gross Weight: Take Off, 5,669 kgs;Range: 490 nautical miles ( 907.5 km) Engines: Pratt and Witney PT 6A-27Sea Level Thrust: SHP 680

Fregate Island

Bird Island

Mahé Island

Praslin Island

Desroches Island

Alphonse Island

D´Arros Island

Denis Island

Air SeychellesDomestic Route Network

Air Seychelles Destinations

MAP KEY

Air Seychelles & Etihad Airways Codeshare Destinations

Air Seychelles & South African Airways Codeshare Destinations

December 2013

Air Seychelles & Air Berlin Codeshare Destinations

Air Seychelles & Cathay Paci�c Codeshare Destinations

O n l i n e O f f i c e s

Wo r l d w i d e O f f i c e s

South Africa

Mauritius

United Arab Emirates

HongKong

Capital: Port LouisLanguages: French, English, CreoleCurrency: RupeesArea: 2,040 km2

Population: 1,243,000Air Seychelles destination: Plaisance Airport

Capital: Abu DhabiLanguages: Arabic, EnglishCurrency: Emirati Dirham (AED)Area: 83,600 km2

Population: 8, 264,070 Air Seychelles destination: Abu Dhabi

Capital: HongkongLanguages: Cantonese, English Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) Area: 1,104 km2 Population: 7,173,900 Incola Air Services Ltd.Air Seychelles destination: Hongkong

Walshe Group Suite 906, Orient Tower 33 Lockhart RoadWan chai, Hong Kong Tel: 00852 3979 3488 or 00852 3979 3489 Email: [email protected]

Rogers & Company Ltd Rogers House 5 President John Kennedy Street PO Box 60, Port LouisTel: (00230) 202 6671Fax: (00230) 208 3540Email: [email protected]

Capital: PretoriaLanguages: English, AfrikaansCurrency: RandArea: 1,221,037 km2

Population: 45,919,000Air Seychelles destination: Johannesburg

Lu Dowell Representations Greenstone Hill Office ParkEmerald Boulevard, Building 1, Unit F4.Modderfontein, Edenvale South AfricaTel: (0027-11)-452-0244Fax: 0866578741 or (0027-11) 781-2144Email: [email protected]

Omeir Travel Agency, Shk. Khalifa Street PO Box 267, Abu DhabiTel: (00971 2) 612 3470 Fax: (00971 2) 622 6799Email: [email protected]

SeychellesAir Seychelles Ltd PO Box 386 Victoria, Mahé SeychellesTel: +248-439 10 00Fax: +248-439 1005Email: [email protected]: www.airseychelles.com

Abu Dhabi Omeir Travel Agency LLCAirlines Tower, Sh. Khalifa streetPO Box 267 Abu DhabiTel: +971-2 6118640 Fax: +971-2 6225653Email [email protected]: [email protected]

AustriaAviareps Airline Management Service GmbhArgentinierstrasse 2/4 A-1040 viennaTel: +43-1-581 89 22 80 Fax: +43-1 585 36 30 88Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

BahrainYusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo Wll Al khalifa roadBuilding #302, block 304PO Box 45 ManamaTel: +973-17 220 800Fax: +973-17 213 458Email : [email protected]

ComoresArio Ltd Route magoudjou Bp 1285 MoroniTel: +269-733 144Tel: +269-733 820- airportTel: +269-732 388- reservationsFax: +269-730 719Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

Czech RepublicAviareps Airline Management Na Rybnicku 5/1329120 00 Praha 2, Czech RepublicTel: +420 296 368 273Fax: +420 224 233 412Email: [email protected]

DubaiAsian Air Travel and TourismPO Box 65006 DubaiTel: +971-4 286 8008Fax: +971-4 283 2115Mobile: +971-50 2244713Email: [email protected]: [email protected]: [email protected]

FranceAir Seychelles Ltd11 rue du Colisée 75008 ParisTel: +33-1 42 89 86 83Fax: +33-1 45 63 85 12Sita: PARTOHMEmail: [email protected]: [email protected] Web: www.airseychelles.fr

Hungary AVIAREPS Magyarország Kft. (AVIAREPS Hungary Ltd.) Erkel utca 13, Budapest 1092, HungaryTel: +36 1 210 0067Email: [email protected]: www.aviareps.com

Wo r l d w i d e O f f i c e s

India Global Aviation Services Pvt Ltd733, Anna SalaiChennai 600006IndiaTel: +91 44 4295 9600, 4203 6220Tel: +91 44 4295 9696 extn: 632Fax: +91 44 42959656

IndonesiaAllianz Tower 27th Floor Unit CJl. HR Rasuna Said Super Blok 2Kawasan Kuningan PersadaJakarta 12980Tel: +6221 2907 9798-99Fax: +6221 2907 9699

IrelandAviareps plc Commercial Office Ireland 11 The Anchorage Charlotte Quay Dublin 4 IrelandTel: +353 1 6319604Fax: +353 1 6674228Website: www.aereps.ieEmail: [email protected]: www.airseychelles.co.uk

IsraelOpen Sky Limited23 Ben Yehuda Street Tel Aviv 63805Tel: +972-3 795 1333 Fax: +972-3 795 1330Email: [email protected]

ItalyRome, Air Seychelles LtdVia Pindaro 28 n int. 21 00125 RomeSita : ROMSZHMTel: +39-06 509 8413Fax: +39-06 509 159 17Email: [email protected]: www.airseychelles.it

MilanAir Seychelles Ltd c/o Via Pindaro 28 n int. 21 00125 RomeTel: +39 02 92870427Fax: +39 02 92870413Email: [email protected]

KoreaPacific Air Agency Group 12th Floor Donghwa Building 58-7 Seosomun DongChoong-Ku Seoul 100-110 Korea

KuwaitPan Arab Travels CoPO Box 2842 Safat pc 13029Tel: +965- 241 5554/241 5556Fax: +965- 241 0873Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

MalaysiaAviation Services co. LtdCp12, suite 1302, 13th floor, Central Plaza, 34 jalan sultan ismail, 50250 Kuala Lumpur Tel: 603-2143 3755 Fax: 603-2148 8499

Maldives Universal Travel Department39 Orchid MaguMale 20-02Republic of MaldivesTel: +960- 3334 004/3314910Fax: +960- 3316156Email: [email protected]

MauritiusRogers Aviation LtdRogers House 5, President John Kennedy St.PO Box 60 Port Louis MauritiusTel: +230- 202 6671Fax: +230- 212 96 63Sita: MRURRHMEmail: [email protected]

MayotteArio Mayotte21 place Mariage97600 MamoudzouMayotteTel: +269- 623 100Fax: +269- 623 118Email: [email protected] OmanUnited Travel LlcPO Box 599 Muttrah postal code 114Sultanate of omanTel: +968-24780057/24780061Fax: +968-24780094Email: [email protected]

PakistanSeypak Aviation (Pvt) Ltd4, j.c.h.s. Main Sharea FaisalKarachi 75350Tel: +92-21 454 5912, 453 6348/454 3044Fax: +92-21 454 5905, 454 8809Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

PolandAviareps Airline Management Group Ul. Sienna 72, Apt. 3 00-833 Warszawa Poland Tel: +48-22 632 3205 Fax: +48-22 632 4046 Email: [email protected]

QatarQatar ToursPO Box 1683 DohaTel: +974-4411414/ 4436002/ 4419753Fax: +974-4433 197/ 4351926Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

ReunionAir France 7 Avenue de la VictoireBp 845 F-97477 Saint Denis CedexTel: +262- 262 40 38 38Fax: +262- 262 40 38 40Sita: RUNRVAFEmail: [email protected]

RomaniaAVIAREPS Magyarország Kft.(AVIAREPS Hungary Ltd.)Erkel utca 13, Budapest 1092, HungaryTel: +36 1 210 0067Email: [email protected]: www.aviareps.com

Saudi ArabiaYusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo PO Box 37Dammam 31411 Eastern province Airline CentrePO Box 1878 Al khobar 31952Tel: +9663-8355832 Fax: +9663-835573Email: [email protected]

Western provinceKanoo Centre Kilo 7 Madinah roadPO Box 812 Jeddah 21421 Saudi arabia Tel: +9662-263 2959 ext.121/108Fax: +9662-263 2948Email: [email protected]

Central provinceKanoo Building One block off kingAbdul Aiz road PO Box 753 Riyadh 11421Tel: +966-11-4772228 ext. 288 Fax: +966-11-4789231Email: [email protected]: [email protected]

South Africat/a GSA Border Air 280 OAK AVENUERANDBURG JOHANNESBURG 2125 Tel: 011 326 4440/011 326 4443or 011 326 4388Fax: 011 781 2215 Email: [email protected]

Sri LankaNorth South Lines Pvt Ltd 400 Deans Road Colombo 10 Sri Lanka Tel: +94 11 4740760 Fax: +94 11 [email protected]

TaiwanAviation Travel Services Co Ltd8fl.-1 no. 146 Sung Chiang RoadTaipei Taiwan r.o.c.Tel: +886- 2 2567 8956Fax: +886- 2 2563 7596General email: [email protected]

UkraineAVIAREPS AG 9/2, Chervonoarmijska str. of. 4 01004 Kiev UkraineTel: +38 044 490 65 02 (ext. 1) Web: http://www.aviareps.com

United States of America and CanadaAviareps AG 1 Penn Plaza Suite 1416 New York, NY 10119 United StatesTel: +1-877 359 7392Email: [email protected]

LanguageCreole, English and French are the official languages of the Seychelles.

TippingRestaurant bills normally include a service charge. Although not widely expected, tips are warmly received for personal service.

ClothesVery casual. For men, shorts and T-shirts during the day, and slacks for evening. Jackets and ties are rarely worn. For women, cotton wrap-arounds or shorts for daytime, cool dresses for evening wear.

Transport:An efficient bus service operates on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue between 0530-1900. Taxis are available and cars can also be hired on Mahé and Praslin and bicycles on La Digue. A valid international license is required for self-driving. Air Seychelles operates flights between Mahé and Praslin throughout the day. Charter flights are also operated to other islands. An inter-island ferry service operates daily between the islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. L’Air Dezil operates a shuttle service between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and other islands.

Customs Duty Free items are permitted for up to:- 200 millilitres of Perfume and Eau de Toilette.- 2 litres of beverages with less than 16% alcohol i.e beer, wine.- 2 litres of beverages with more than 16% alcohol i.e whisky, gin, rum etc.- 250 grammes of tobacco or 200 cigarettes.- Personal goods worth SCR 5000 for adults and SCR 3000 for under 18 years.For more information visit www.src.gov.sc

AccommodationSeychelles offers a variety of accommodation, from international resorts and medium-sized hotels with all facilities to guest houses, lodges and chalets on the smaller islands. Camping is not allowed.

Sports and WatersportsMany hotels have excellent facilities for watersports centres offering a wide range of activities. Some also have dive centres and tennis courts. There is an 18-hole golf course at Lemuria Resort on Praslin and Seychelles Golf Course, a 9-hole golf course at Anse aux Pins, Mahé.

Museums and LibrariesThe History Museum is situated on Francis Rachel Street, Victoria in the National Library Building. The Natural History Museum is situated on Independence Avenue, Victoria near to the Post Office. Kenwyn House directly opposite the main entrance to the National Library on Francis Rachel Street is one of the best preserved 19th century buildings of Victoria, renovated in 2005.

ShoppingLocal handicrafts include basketware, table-mats, hats, jewellery and paintings. Shops are open from 0800-1700 hours Monday-Friday and 0800-1200 hours Saturday. Some open Sunday morning.

RestaurantsA range of cuisine is also available, from traditional Creole and French cuisine to Chinese. In addition to hotels and restaurants, several take-away outlets can be found in Victoria.

NightlifeMost hotels offer programmes for evening entertainment ranging from barbecues and dinner dances to folk singing. There are two cinemas in Victoria. Theatrical productions are sometimes staged in Creole, English and French.

CurrencyThe Seychelles Rupee (SCR1 = 100 cents). Notes SCR 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500. Coins SCR 1, 5 and Cents 1, 5, 10, 25. Most credit cards and travellers’ cheques are accepted. There is no restriction on the import and export of domestic and foreign currency in the country. Banks and Bureaux de Change are authorised dealers in foreign currency. For rates of exchange contact authorised dealers for which information can be otained on Central Bank’s website at www.cbs.sc

Credit CardsAmerican Express, Mastercard, Diners Club and Visa cards are widely accepted.

TimeSeychelles is four hours ahead of GMT and three hours ahead of Central European Time.

Public HolidaysNew Year January 1Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday April 18, 20 & 21Labour Day May 1Liberation Day June 5National Day June 18Corpus Christi June 19Independence Day June 29Assumption Day, (festival on La Digue) August 15All Saints Day November 1Immaculate Conception December 8Christmas December 25

Climate26°-29° C all year round. Annual rainfall totals approximately 90 inches, with heavy showers between November and February. As the Islands lie beyond the cyclone belt, high winds and thunderstorms are rare.

Electricity 240 volts AC 50 Hz. Adaptors are provided by hotels.

Tourist InformationThe Seychelles Tourist Office is located in Independence House, Victoria, Mahé.

Emergency ServicesThe Emergency number for fire, police or ambulance is 999. Victoria Hospital: 4388000.

Medical ServicesVictoria has a large and efficient hospital and most islands have health clinics. Some hotels provide duty nurses. Private doctors are available on call at all hotels – contact reception.

Post OfficeThe central office in Victoria is open from 0800-1600 Monday-Friday and 0800-1200 Saturday.

TelecommunicationsCable & Wireless Seychelles (CWS), the islands leading communications provider, is the operator of choice across mobile (3G+), broadband and fixed services. As a subsidiary of Cable & Wireless Communications PLC (listed on the LSE), the company delivers first rate business and consumer solutions including turnkey solutions for major international investors. CWS’ mission is “To provide world class communication services and solutions wherever and whenever people work, play and have fun”. No one knows Seychelles better.

Telecom (Sey) Ltd, AIRTEL. Provider of Mobile GSM Telecom Services with 3G & Edge Network, Mobile broadband Data Services for High Speed Internet Access. Roaming with over 200 operators worldwide. Prepaid starter kits & recharge options available at Airtel Centres in Victoria, Providence, Praslin & selected retail outlets on main islands. Coverage on Mahè, Praslin, La Digue, Inner Islands, Fregate & Coetivy.

Tra v e l Fa c t s

DeviseUne roupie seychelloise = 100 sous. Il existe des billets de 10, 25, 50 , 100 et 500. Il existe de la monnaie à 1 et 5 roupies, 1, 5, 10 et 25 sous. La majorité des cartes de crédit et des chèques de voyage sont acceptés. Il n’y a pas de restriction sur l’importation et l’exportation de devises étrangères et locales dans le pays. Les banques et les bureaux de change sont autorisés pour toutes les transactions en devises étrangères. En ce qui concerne les taux d’échange, prenez contact avec les courtiers autorisés qui obtiennent leurs informations de la Banque Centrale ; site web : www.cbs.sc

Cartes de créditLes cartes American Express, Mastercard, Diners Club et Visa sont généralement acceptées.

Décalage horaireLes Seychelles ont trois heures d’avance sur Paris.

Jours fériés Nouvel An 1 janvierVendredi saint, Dimanche de Pâques 18, 20 & 21 avrilFête du travail 1 maiJour de la Libération 5 juinFête Nationale 18 juinFête Dieu 19 juinFête de l’Indépendance 29 juinFête de l’Assomption (La Digue) 15 aoûtToussaint 1 novembreImmaculée Conception 8 décembreNoël 25 décembre

ClimatEntre 26 et 29 degrés Celcius, tout au long de l’année. Saison des pluies entre novembre et février (env. 200mm de précipitation). Les Seychelles étant hors de la zone des cyclones, les tempêtes sont rares.

ElectricitéCourant alternatif 240 volts. Les hôtels mettent des adaptateurs à disposition.

Information TouristiqueL’office du tourisme est situé à L’Independence House à Mahé.

UrgencesPour toutes urgences (ambulance, police, pompiers), il faut composer le 999. Victoria Hôpital: 4388000.

Services médicauxVictoria est dotée d’un hôpital tandis que la plupart des îles possèdent une clinique. Certains grands hôtels ont un service d’infirmerie.

Bureau de posteLes heures d’ouverture du bureau de poste à Victoria sont: de 8:00h à 16:00h, du lundi au vendredi et de 8:00h à 12:00h le samedi.

TélécommunicationsCable & Wireless Seychelles (CWS), le principal opérateur de télécommunications de l’archipel, propose des services de téléphonie fixe, mobile (3G+) et internet (ADSL). En tant que filiale du Groupe Cable & Wireless Communications PLC (coté à la bourse de Londres), la société offre des prestations innovantes pour les entreprises et les particuliers, ainsi que des solutions intégrées pour les grands comptes internationaux. Notre mission est “de fournir des solutions et services parmi les meilleurs au monde, partout et pour chaque instant de la vie”. Personne ne connaît mieux les Seychelles que nous.

Telecom (Sey) Ltd, Airtel propose des Réseaux GSM, 3G, et Edge avec couverture intérieure/extérieur dans les îles de Mahè, Praslin, La Digue, Frégate et Coetivy. Des cartes de téléphone cellulaires sont disponibles dans les bureaux d’Airtel et des locaux spécifiques. L’accès au réseau ‘roaming‘ avec plus de 200 opérateurs internationales.

I n fo r m a t i o n s U t i l e s

LanguesLe créole, l’anglais et le français sont les langues officielles des Seychelles.

PourboiresLe service est compris dans la plupart des restaurants. Bien qu’ils ne soient pas obligatoires, les pourboires sont toujours reçus avec un grand sourire.

Tenue vestimentaireDécontractée. Pour les hommes le port du short et du T-shirt la journée et du pantalon le soir. Pour les dames le port du short ou d’une jupe en coton la journée et robe légère le soir.

Transport :Un service de bus efficace fonctionne sur Mahé, Praslin et La Digue entre 5h.30 et 19 heures. Des taxis et des voitures en location sont aussi disponibles sur Mahé et sur Praslin et des bicyclettes peuvent être louées sur La Digue.Un permis valable de conduite international est exigé en cas de location de voiture sans chauffeur.

Air Seychelles fournit des vols entre Mahé et Praslin durant la journée. Des vols charter sont aussi organisés vers les autres îles. Un service de ferry inter-îles fonctionne aussi entre les îles de Mahé, Praslin et La Digue. L’ »Air Dezil » propose aussi une navette entre Mahé, Praslin, La Digue et d’autres îles.

Les produits hors-taxe sont limités à :- 200 ml de parfum et eau de toilette- 2 litres de boisson contenant moins de 16% d’alcool, par ex. la bière, le vin. - 2 litres de boisson contenant plus de 16% d’alcool, par ex. le whisky, le gin, le rhum etc.- 250 grammes de tabac ou 200 cigarettes.- des biens personnels pour une valeur de 5.000 Rs par adulte et de 3.000 Rs pour les jeunes de moins de 18 ans. Pour plus d’informations, visitez notre site: www.src.gov.sc

HébergementLes Seychelles disposent d’une grande diversité d’hébergement – allant des hôtels de grande, moyenne et petite capacité aux “lodges”, chalets et bungalows sur les plus petites îles.

Sports et sports nautiquesBeaucoup d’hôtels ont d’excellents centres de sports nautiques offrant une large gamme d’activités. Certains ont également des clubs de plongée et des courts de tennis. Il y a un golf de18 trous à l’hôtel Lémuria à Praslin, et le Seychelles Golf Course, un neuf trous à Anse aux Pins, à Mahé.

Museums et librairiesLe Musée d’Histoire est situé dans la rue Francis Rachel, à Victoria, dans le bâtiment de la Bibliothèque Nationale. Le Museum d’Histoire Naturelle est situé dans la rue de l’indépendance, à Victoria, près du bureau de Poste. Kenwyn House, en face de l’entrée principale de la Bibliothèque Nationale dans la rue Francis Rachel, est l’un des bâtiments du 19ème siècle les mieux préservés à Victoria. Il fut rénové en 2005.

ShoppingL’artisanat local offre des travaux en fibre (chapeaux, paniers etc.) en coquillages, en nacre ou encore en or (bijoux et objets décoratifs) ainsi que des œuvres d’artistes locaux. Les heures d’ouverture des magasins sont de 8:00h à 17:00h du lundi au vendredi et de 8:00h à 12:00h le samedi. Certains commerces restent ouverts le dimanche matin.

Restaurants Les Seychelles offrent une cuisine variée: créole et internationale. En dehors des établissements hôteliers et des restaurants, des services traiteurs sont à votre disposition à Mahé (Victoria) ainsi qu’à Praslin.

Vie nocturne La plupart des hôtels organisent des spectacles nocturnes: danses traditionnelles, dîners dansant ou barbecues sur la plage. Il y a deux cinémas à Victoria. Régulièrement, des pièces de théâtre en français, en anglais et en créole sont à l’affiche. Il existe aussi des boîtes de nuit à Victoria et Beau Vallon ainsi qu’à Praslin.

A LA CARTEAl Mare Restaurant Beau Vallon Tel: +248 462 02 40 / 251 21 17 / 251 21 13 Email: [email protected]

CREOLEAnse Soleil Cafe Anse Soleil, Mahé Tel: +248 436 17 00

Boat House Beau Vallon Mahé Tel: +248 424 78 98Mobile: +248 251 0898Email: [email protected]

Cap Lazare Tel: +248 428 01 00 / 252 46 42 Email: [email protected]

Chez Batista Restaurant Takamaka, Mahé Tel: +248 436 63 00 Email: [email protected]

Domaine Du Soleil Restaurant Tel: +248 428 55 55 Email: [email protected]

Katiolo Anse Faure Tel: +248 4375 453

Fishtail RestaurantTel: 4322214Email: [email protected]

Le Marinier Restaurant Inter Island Quay Victoria, Mahé Tel: +248 422 49 37

Le Reduit Restaurant Tel: +248 436 61 16 / 436 62 25 Email: [email protected]

Marie Antoinette Restaurant Serret Road St Louis Tel: +248 426 62 22

News Cafe 1st floor, Trinity House Victoria, Mahé Tel: +248 432 29 99

CHINESELe Canton Chinese Restaurant Berjaya Beau Vallon Tel: +248 428 72 87 Email: [email protected]

The Wok Chinese Restaurant Coco D’or Hotel Tel: +248 424 73 31 Email: [email protected]

GOURMETCyann “Signature Cousine” Constance Ephilia ResortTel: +248 4395 001

Maia Restaurant Luxury Resort SpaTel: +248 4390 000Email: [email protected]

Chilli Bar & Steakhouse La LouiseTel: +248 4344 155

Zez RestaurantFour Seasons Resort Tel: +248 4393 000 ext. 1902Email: [email protected]

INDIANMahék Indian Restaurant Coral Strand Hotel Tel: +248 462 10 00Email: [email protected]

Berjaya Beau Vallou Tel: +248 428 72 87

Maharajas RestaurantTel: +248 434 68 69Email: [email protected]

SOUTH ASIANKannel Four Seasons Resort Tel: +248 4393 000 ext. 1902Email: [email protected]

JAPANESETeppanyaki Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Beach Resort & Casino Tel: +248 428 72 87 Email: [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL/CREOLEAnchor Cafe Anse a la Mouche, Mahé Tel: +248 437 12 89Email: [email protected]

Au Jardin D’Epices Banyan Tree Seychelles Tel: +248 438 35 00Email: [email protected]

Aubergine Restaurant The Wharf Hotel & Marina Providence, Mahé Tel: +248 467 07 00 Email: [email protected]

Le Jardin des palmesTel: 248 438 91 00Email: [email protected]

Baobab Pizzeria Restaurant Beau Vallon, Mahé Tel: +248 424 71 67 / 258 38 68

Beach Side Bistro Coral Strand Hotel Tel: +248 429 10 00 Email: [email protected]

Bel Air Restaurant Tel: +248 422 44 16 /46 16Email: [email protected]

Bravo Eden IslandTel: +248 4346 020Email: [email protected]

BoardWalk Bar & GrillEden island MarinaTel: 248 251 57 86Email: [email protected]

Carefree Guesthouse & Restaurant Anse Aux Pins Mahé Tel: +248 437 52 37Email: [email protected]

Chez Plume ResturantTel: +248 435 50 50Email: [email protected]

Docklands Pizzeria New Port -Victoria Tel: +248 4610 888

Doubleclick Seychelles Maison La-Rosiere Palm Street Tel: +248 461 05 90 Email: [email protected]

Helios RestaurantConstance Ephelia ResortTel: +248 4395 140Email: [email protected]

Kaz ZananaRevolution AvenueTel: +248 4324150

Konoba Restaurant Bar LaungeAngel Fish Bayside MarinaTel: +248 4345 400, Email: [email protected]

La Scala Restaurant Tel: +248 424 75 35 Email: [email protected]

The Sea Shell Port LaunayTel: +248 4324026/2523968

Uncle Will’s Pizzeria Coco D’or Hotel Tel: +248 424 73 31 E-mail: [email protected]

Lounge 8Vista bay Glacis, MaheMobile: +248 2746808

Green Valley Anse aux Pins Tel: +248 437 1670

The Hilltop Restaurant Hilton Seychelles Tel: +248 429 90 00 Email: [email protected]

Jolie Rose 2 Restaurant Selwyn Selwyn Clarke Market Tel: +248 422 54 51

Kaz Kreol Restaurant Anse Royale Mahé Tel: +248 436 16 80 Email: [email protected]

La Belle epoqueEden Plaza Tel: +248 434 67 65 Email: [email protected]

La Cocoteraie Restaurant Le Meridien Barbarons Hotel Tel: +248 467 30 00 Email: [email protected]

La Palma Restaurant Coco D’or Hotel Tel: +248 424 73 31 Email: [email protected]

La Plaine St Andre Tel: +248 4372010 Email: [email protected]

La Plage Restaurant Beau Vallon BeachTel: +248 4620240Email: [email protected]

La Perle Noire Restaurant Beau Vallon Tel: +248 462 02 20 Email: [email protected]

La Voliere Mahé Beach Resort Tel: +248 438 53 85 Email: [email protected]

Lazare Picault Restaurant Lazare Picault Hotel Tel: +248 436 11 11 Email: [email protected]

Le Bourgeois Restaurant Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove Tel: +248 467 70 00 Email: [email protected]

Le Cardinal Restaurant Le Meridien Fisherman’s Cove Tel: +248 467 70 00 Email: [email protected]

Le Jardin du Roi Domaine de L’enfoncement Anse Royale Tel: +248 437 13 13 Email: [email protected]

Le Mangrovia Restaurant Le Meridien Barbarons Tel: +248 467 30 00 Email: [email protected]

Le Rendez Vous Restaurant Tel: +248 432 35 56 Email: [email protected]

Le Surmer Restaurant Le Surmer Hotel Pointe Conan, Mahé Tel: +248 424 18 11 Email: [email protected]

Les Cocotiers Restaurant Tel: +248 429 90 00 Email: [email protected]

Maia Luxury Resort & Spa Tel: +248 4390 000Email: [email protected]

Manresa Restaurant Manresa Small Hotel Tel: +248 424 13 88

Montezuma Restaurant Mahé Beach Resort Tel: +248 438 53 85 Email: [email protected]

The Parrot Berjaya Beau Vallon Tel: +248 428 72 87 Email: [email protected]

The Board Walk Lounge & Bar Eden IslandTel: +248 443 63 03

The HavanaEden Plaza Tel: +248 441 13 18 Email: [email protected]

Pirates Arms Tel: +248 422 50 01 Email: [email protected]

Pizzeria Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino Tel: +248 428 72 87 Email: [email protected]

Porto CervoEden Plaza Tel: +248 261 20 25Email: [email protected]

D i n i n g O u t

D i n e r a l E x t é r i e u r

Please send updated information to

[email protected]

Saffron Banyan Tree Seychelles Tel: +248 438 35 00 Email: [email protected]

Sam’s Pizzeria Tel: +248 432 24 99 / 32 34 95 Email: [email protected]

Seselwa Bar Constance Ephilia ResortTel: +248 4395182Email: [email protected]

Sea View Restaurant Coral StrandTel: 248 421000Email: [email protected]

Sey si bonEden Plaza Tel: +248 434 6833 / +248 251 5591Email: [email protected]

Silhouette Restaurant Sunset Beach Resort Tel: +248 426 11 11 Email: [email protected]

Skychef Ltd Seychelles International Airport Tel: +248 438 17 63 Email: [email protected]

Sundown Restaurant Port Glaud, Mahé Tel: +248 437 83 52/ 25 88 999

Surfers beach restaurantAnse Parnell Tel: +248 278 3703/ 437 11 00Email: [email protected]

Takamaka Restaurant Tel: +248 437 20 10 Email: [email protected]

The Sea ShellPort LaunayTel: +248 4324026/ 2523968

Tyfoo Restaurant La Plaine St. Andre Au cap, Mahé Tel: +248 437 14 85

Vye Marmit Domaine de Val de Pres Au Cap, Mahé Tel: +248 437 61 55 / 437 61 00

Zez Lounge Four Seasons Resort Tel: +248 4393222 Email: [email protected]

RESTAURANTS – PRASLIN CREOLECapricorn Restaurant Islanders Guesthouse Anse Kerlan, Praslin Tel: +248 423 32 24 Email: [email protected]

Coco Rouge Baie Ste Anne, Praslin Tel: +248 423 22 28

Le Chevalier Bay Restaurant Anse Lazio, Praslin Tel: +248 423 23 22 Email: [email protected]

Les Lauriers Restaurant Les Lauriers Petit HotelCote D’or, Praslin Tel: +248 423 22 41 Email: [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL/CREOLEAcajou Hotel Restaurant Cote D’or, Praslin Tel: +248 423 24 00 Email: [email protected]

Beach Bar and Grill Lemuria Resort Anse Kerlan, Praslin Tel: +248 428 10 91Email: [email protected]

Beach Bar Restaurant Acajou Hotel Cote D’or, Praslin Tel: +248 423 24 00Email: [email protected]

Black Parrot Restaurant Black Parrot Suites Tel: +248 429 05 55 Email: [email protected]

Bonbon Plume Anse Lazio, Praslin Tel: +248 423 21 36

Bonm Ange Hotel L’Archipel Anse Tel: +248 428 47 00Email: [email protected]

Britannia Restaurant Britannia Hotel Grand Anse, Praslin Tel: +248 423 32 15 / 423 39 15 Email: [email protected]

Chateau de Feuilles Pointe Cabris, Praslin Tel: +248 429 00 00Email: [email protected]

Feuille d’Or Hotel L’Archipel Anse Gouvernement, Praslin Tel: +248 428 47 00Email: [email protected]

The Fregate Berjaya Praslin Beach Tel: +248 428 62 86Email: [email protected]

The Britannia Grand AnseTel: +248 423 32 15Email: [email protected]

Hibiscus Restaurant Coco de Mer Hotel Tel: +248 429 05 55 Email: [email protected]

Indian Ocean Lodge Grand Anse, Praslin Tel: +248 423 33 24 / 23 34 57 Email: [email protected]

The Jetty Restaurant La Reserve Hotel Anse Petite Cour, Praslin Tel: +248 429 80 00Email: [email protected]

Kannel restaurant Four Seasons Resort Seychelles Tel: +248 4393222 Email: [email protected]

Le Beach Restaurant Paradise Sun Hotel Anse Volbert, Praslin Tel: +248 429 32 93Email: [email protected]

Le Dauphin Hotel Le Duc de Praslin Tel: +248 429 48 00 Email: [email protected]

Le Kato Noir Palm Beach Hotel Grande Anse, Praslin Tel: +248 429 02 90/429 02 92 Email: [email protected]

Legend Restaurant Lemuria Resort Anse Tel: +248 428 10 88Email: [email protected]

Octopus Diving CenterBerjaya Praslin Beach Hotel Anse Volbert, Praslin Tel: +248 423 22 22 Mobile: +248 271 54 41 Email: [email protected]

Pool Deck Restaurant Lemuria Resort Anse Tel: +248 428 10 88Email: [email protected]

Pool Grill Restaurant La Reserve Anse Petit Cour, Praslin Tel: +248 429 80 00 Email: [email protected]

Port Side Cafe Baie Ste. Anne Jetty, Praslin Tel: +248 277 35 18

Sea Horse Restaurant & Bar Lemuria Resort Anse Kerlan, Praslin Tel: +248 428 12 81Email: [email protected]

Tante Mimi Restaurant Cote D’or, Praslin Tel: +248 423 25 00 Email: [email protected]

Touchdown Restaurant Amitie Airport Praslin Tel: +248 423 36 55

Village de Pecheur Praslin Tel: +248 423 20 00

RESTAURANTS LA DIGUE CREOLEBernique Anse Reunion Tel: +248 423 42 29

Patatran Restaurant Patatran Village Anse Patates, La Digue Tel: +248 429 43 00Email: [email protected]

Tournesol Tournesol Guesthouse La Passe, La Digue Tel: +248 423 41 55 Email: [email protected]

Villa Authentique Restaurant & Bar Villa Authentique La Passe, La Digue Tel: +248 423 44 13

Villa Mon Reve Anse Reunion, La Digue Tel: +248 423 42 18 Email: [email protected]

Zerof Restaurant Anse Reunion, La Digue Tel: +248 423 44 39

INTERNATIONAL/CREOLECafe Le Monde Grand Anse Tel: +248 278 11 21/ 252 03 11

Cafe Le Monde Baie St Anne Tel: +248 423 21 11

Chateau St Cloud La Passe, La Digue Tel: +248 423 43 46 Email: [email protected]

La Vanille Anse La Blague Tel: +248 423 21 78

La Digue Island Lodge Anse Reunion Tel: +248 429 25 25

L’Ocean Anse Patates Tel: +248 423 43 33

Pool Side Restaurant La Digue Island Lodge Tel: +248 429 25 25Email: [email protected]

Pecheur Restaurant La Digue Island Lodge Tel: +248 429 25 25Email: [email protected]

Restaurant Le Dauphin C/o Le de Praslin Hotel Tel: +248 429 48 00

Restaurant Patatran Hotel L’Ocean Anse Patates, La Digue Tel: +248 429 43 00Email: [email protected]

Tarosa Restaurant La Passe, La Digue Tel: +248 423 44 07 Email: [email protected]

PIZZERIA/CAFE-BARGregoire’s comples Tel: +248 429 25 25

SEA FOODCafe Des Arts Cote D’or Tel: +248 429 48 00Email: café@seychelles.net

RESTAURANTS OTHER ISLANDS CREOLE Jolly Roger’s Moyenne Island Tel: +248 429 70 00Email: [email protected]

INTERNATIONAL/CREOLEL’habitation Restaurant Tel: +248 432 31 11 Email: [email protected]

Crossword & SudokuE n g l i s h - C r e o l e

Hello BonzourHow are you? Konman Sava?I am well Byen MersiThank you MersiVery much Mersi bokouGoodbye orevwarHotel LotelRoom LasanmBed LiliFood ManzeCoffee KafeBeer LabyerCold FreHot SoTea DiteMeat LavyanFish PwasonBread DipenButter DiberSugar DisikSalt DiselBad Pa bonToday OzordiTomorrow DemenNow KonmelaQuickly VitmanSlowly DousmanHospital LopitalPolice GardMr. MsyeMrs. MadanmMiss. Manmzel I Mon

You OuHe, She LiWe NouThey ZotWhat? Kwa? /Ki?Who? Ki? /Lekel?Where? Kote?When? Kan?How? Ki mannyer?Why? Akoz?Which? Lekel?Yes WiNo NonTo eat ManzeTo drink BwarTo sleep DormirTo bathe Bennyen/NazeTo come ViniTo go AleTo stop AreteTo buy AsteTo sell VannStreet/road Lari/SemenAirport ErportShop LaboutikMoney LarzanCent SouOne Enn Two DeThree TrwaFour Kat Five SenkSix Sis

Seven SetEight WitNine NefTen DisEleven OnzTwelve DouzThirteen TrezFourteen KatorzFifteen KenzSixteen SezSeventeen DisetEighteen DizwitNineteen DiznefTwenty VenTwenty-one VenteenTwenty-two VenndeTwenty-three VenntwaTwenty-four VennkatTwenty-five VennsenkThirty TrantForty KarantFifty SenkantSixty SwasantSeventy SwasanndisEighty KatrevenNinety KatrevendisOne hundred SanWhere is the hotel? Kote lotel i ete silvouple?Good morning BonzourGood afternoon BonnapremidiGood evening BonswarPlease come in Antre silvouplePlease sit down Asize silvouple

You’re welcome Pa dekwaWhere do you come from Kote ou sorti?I come from....... Mon sorti......What is your name? Ki mannyer ou apele?My name is.... Mon apel.....Can you speak Kreol? Ou kabab koz Kreol?Only a little Zis en peI would like to learn more Mon oule apran ankorHow do you find Seychelles? Ki mannyer ou war Sesel?I like it here Mon kontan isi SeselThe weather is hot, isn’t it? Letan i so, wi?Where are you going? Kote ou pe ale?I am going to... Mon pe al......Please stop here Aret isi silvoupleHow much? Konbyen?Wait a minute Esper mwan en pti momanI have to get change Fodre mon ganny larzan sanzeExcuse me EkskizeWhere is the toilet? Kote kabinen i ete sivouple?In the back Deryer lakourWhere may I get a drink? Kote mon kapab ganny en keksoz pou bwar?

How much does this cost? Konbyen i vann?That’s quite expensive I ase serHelp! Ed mwan! / O Sekour!No, thanks Non, mersiPlease SilvoupleYou’re welcome Pa-de-kwaNo problem Napa problenmOk okeThat’s right! Wi i bien!A little bit Piti pitiIs everything ok? Tou keksoz i oke?Not now Pa kounye-aAttention/watch out! Atansyon!We are looking for... Nou pe rodI’m very thirsty Mon swaf I am hungry Mon lafenWhere are we? Kote nou ete?How old are you? Ki laz ou anan?What do you need? Ki ou bezwen?What do they call that in Creole? Koman zot dir sa an Kreol?How do they say... in creole? Koman zot dir an Kreol ?

CLUES ACROSS1. Call off (6)

7. Everything’s ok (4,4)

8. Operatic lady (4)

10. Rubbed out (6)

11. Scratch (6)

14. ‘Game xxx and match’ (3)

16. Was unwell (5)

17. Requests (4)

19. UK unit of currency (5)

21. Grizzly, or polar, for instance (5)

22. Long for (5)

23. Market (4)

26. Taxes (5)

28. Buddy (3)

29. Representatives (6)

30. Dairy spread (6)

31. This German goes both ways! (4)

32. Person marooned on a desert island (8)

33. Dash (6)

CLUES DOWN1. Photographic apparatus (6)

2. Major problems (6)

3. Eggs are produced this way (4)

4. Dustbins (old name) (3-4)

5. Push this with your foot (5)

6. Cut yourself and you will do this (5)

8. Facial disguise (4)

9. Encountered (3)

12. Did away with (3)

13. An important Saint (5)

15. Directors sit on this (5)

18. Lean end of neck of mutton (5)

19. Green vegetable (3)

20. Vase (3)

21. Important person at a wedding (4,3)

22. Japanese unit of currency (3)

23. Substance (6)

24. Singing voice (4)

25. European fish (6)

26. Cowboys are here (5)

27. Abrupt (5)

28. Place (3)

30. Young males (4)

Answers across1. Cancel 7. All’s well 8. Mimi 10. Erased 11. Scrape 14. Set 16. Ailed 17. Asks 19. Pound 21. Bears 22. Yearn 23. Mart 26. Rates 28. Pal 29. Agents 30. Butter 31. Otto 32. Castaway 33. Sprint

Answers down1. Camera 2. Crises 3. Laid 4. Ash-cans 5. Pedal 6. Bleed 8. Mask 9. Met 12. Rid 13. Peter 15. Board 18. Scrag19. Pea 20. Urn 21. Best man 22. Yen 23. Matter 24. Alto 25. Turbot 26. Ranch 27. Terse 28. Put 30. Boys

Place a number from 1 to 9 in every empty cell so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains all the numbers from 1 to 9. No number can appear twice in a row, column or 3x3 box. Do not guess – you can work it out by a process of elimination. Good luck!

Take time and relax ...have some fun testing your wit!

Sudoku

We aim to keep Silhouette as interesting and informative as possible to a wide cross-section of readers. Please let us have your views on the contents of this magazine. What do you like about it? Is there anything that you do not like? Are there any topics that you would like to see more of? With your feedback we can make the magazine even better in future.

Please drop a line to the publishers: Camerapix Magazines Ltd.Email: [email protected] or [email protected] you.

Rukhsana Haq, Editorial Director

WE WANT YOUR VIEWS!

14 15

18

16

19

21

17

22 23 24 25

20

27 28

30

26

29

31

32

33

11 12 13

9

61 2 3 4 5

7

8

10

5

2 41

6

67

7

9

69

54

3

1

7

1

4

45

9

13

7 82

5 6

33

Crossword & Sudoku


80

Prior to 1893, communication between

Seychelles and the outside world was solely via

ships. However, in that same year, an undersea

telegraph cable was laid by the founding

company of Cable and Wireless (The Eastern

Telegraph Company) connecting Seychelles to

Zanzibar and, ultimately, the rest of the world.

A telegraph from the submarine cable financier,

Sir John Pender, on 12th November 1893 stated,

‘let us hope that this may be instrumental

in developing and promoting the interests of

Seychelles...’ Indeed, business with the outside

world picked up pace and development in tourism,

fisheries and trade, among others, increased.

For 120 years Cable and Wireless has led the

telecommunication evolution in Seychelles. The

first submarine cable, which was laid on 11th

November 1893, telegraphed up to only 15 words

per minute through Zanzibar. Another cable was

laid from Aden to Colombo via Seychelles which

provided an important link from East Africa to

Singapore and the Far East.

Later there followed High Frequency radio links

with the outside world in the 1960s through

Nairobi and subsequently through Bahrain.

Geo-stationery satellites were installed about

a decade after and they brought a tremendous

improvement in the quality and efficiency of

the international telecommunications services

in mainly telephone and telex. Since 2012, we

have been back on cable, yet this time at faster

speeds, after the laying of Seychelles’ first fibre

optic cable.

CWS has spearheaded Telecoms in the country,

subsequently moving from telegraph, to telefax

and telephone and now to mobile phones

Cable & Wireless120 Years in the Lead

(first introduced by the company in 1995) and

broadband internet. The latter, along with fibre

optic technology, is opening avenues for more

services to be introduced for customers’ convenience

and improved experience.

‘From businesses to residents, we have revolutionised

technologies to improve customer experience and

offer better services,’ says Chief Executive Officer,

Charles Hammond. ‘We remain devoted to providing

world-class services and solutions where people

work, play and have fun. With each innovation,

especially the most recent ones: mobile phones,

3G internet and fibre optic technology, customers’

experience is kept at the heart of all that we do.’

The celebration of the milestone remained true

to this statement with various activities held

for customers on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.

Among them was a corporate cocktail at Eden Plaza

held in gratitude of the top 100 customers, where

Mr. Hammond commended the company’s ‘valued

customers’ in his speech: ‘You are the reason why

we are here and we thank you for your loyalty’.

To retrace CWS’ history and emphasise the

company’s achievements and values, various

activities were held, including sports events to

support the development of the same, fundraising

for charities, music events (Cable Gigs) promoting

and supporting local artists, daily radio quizzes on

the history of CWS, and a customer lottery with a

Hyundai Eon as the star prize.

‘We keep moving in the right direction, along a path

where we bring more development in Seychelles

through telecommunications, keep improving

customer experience to meet their expectations,

and work closer with the community to bring

assistance where it matters,’ stated Mr. Hammond.

CWS employee, Mr. Patrick Gopal gives generously to Cancer Concern

Jaden is rewarded for his interest and talent in golf

Mr. Omath receives his car keys from Charles Hammond

NGOs and Charities

Regatta Beach Volley Ball Tournament

SilhouetteNews

For all your communication needs

BlackBerry®Roaming Mobile 3G+ Mobile Internet

Wireless Internet HotspotsPrepaid Calling CardsCorporate SolutionsLandlines

No one knows Seychelles better

Cable & Wireless (Seychelles) Ltd. Francis Rachel Street, Victoria, Mahé.

Tel: (+248) 428 4000 Fax: (+248) 432 2777 www.cwseychelles.com

For your ideal Roaming experience Select C&W SEY

C&W SEY ددحWählen Sie C&W SEY

Sélectionnez C&W SEY

Selezionare C&W SEY

выбирать C&W SEY

选择 C&W SEY

facebook.com/CableAndWirelessSeychelles @CWSeychelles

8391-C EIDC_Expl_Silhou_BckC 11/25/13 3:27 PM Page 2

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