The Seychelles, 115 outstandingly beautiful granite and coral islands fringed by sparkling white sandy beaches and encircled by coral reefs teeming with fish, lies in the Indian Ocean a few degrees south of the Equator. The archipelago comprises the main islands of Mahé, Praslin and La Digue; the inner, granitic resort islands, including Sainte Anne, North, Frégate, Denis, Bird and Anonyme; and the outer coral islands, of which Desroches is one of the most popular.

Uninhabited until the arrival of French planters in the late 18th century, they remain sanctuaries for unique flora and fauna - the coco de mer palm, the insect-eating pitcher plant, giant tortoises and flying foxes - and are a haven for holidaymakers too. The islands' resorts and hotels offer high standards of accommodation, facilities and services, yet have been considerately developed to ensure protection of the indigenous animals and birds, the colourful marine life, and the exceptional natural beauty of the forests, beaches and mountains.

The Seychellois, predominantly of Créole and European origin, display an easygoing friendliness. English and French are the official languages, but the vast majority speak Créole, a local patois based on French. Seychellois food is even more eclectic, based on a blend of French, Indian and Chinese influences.

Because the Seychelles remained uninhabited for so long, a unique assembly of plants and animals developed on these tiny fragments of land. As a result, the islands are of immense botanical and zoological interest and conservation is a high priority, with all development carefully regulated and controlled. Seychelles is also home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Aldabra, the world's largest raised coral atoll and Praslin's Vallée de Mai, once believed to be the original site of the Garden of Eden.

For visitors who can rear themselves away from the beaches and water sports, the Seychelles offers a wide variety of other things to see and do.

There are great walks on Mahé Island, where the interior has mountains rising to nearly 1,000 metres, their slopes rich with tropical foliage; you can try your luck at the casino at Beau Vallon; there is excellent shopping for handicrafts, curios and original art in dozens of little shops and galleries; or you can sample the tasty local cuisine in a typical Seychellois restaurant.

Add to all this, the warm, genuine hospitality of the people and it is easy to see why the Seychelles attract discerning visitors from around the world.

Dubai – this cosmopolitan city is unquestionably the entertainment,

Island-hopping tours and cruises: Explore Seychelles on one of our fantastic island hopping tours that cover a combination of inner and outer islands, or on one of our catamaran cruises that visit many of the inner islands.

Sightseeing: Seychelles is renowned for the careful conservation of the environment and the beauty of its national parks.

Accommodation: The islands' wide range of resorts offers everything from sophisticated luxury and romantic getaways, to good three-star accommodation with activities for families. Visitors also have the option of staying in cosy little family-run bungalows or guest houses on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue. Sainte Anne, North, Frégate, Denis, Bird, Anonyme and Desroches Islands each have just one resort.

Family activities: Some resorts offer activities catering to children aged four years and above. Children and adults, will be fascinated by the giant tortoises that have lived for hundreds of years on these paradise islands. Attractive walking trails are found on most islands and the magnificent beaches make idyllic picnic spots.

Shopping: Local crafts, curios and beach wear are available in the gift shops of most resorts.

Sports and leisure: Water sports - snorkelling, scuba diving, sailing, deep sea fishing and boat cruising; golf, trekking and bird watching. Washed up seaweed can hinder swimming at certain times of the year.

Honeymoon: The islands are perfect for a honeymoon - and are ideal for any romantic couple!