The International Writers Magazine: Indian Ocean Vacations

How to do The Seychelles on a Budget • Danielle Caldron When most people think of the Seychelles, they immediately conjure up images of honeymoon couples and package luxury holidays. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! The Seychelles can be an affordable holiday destination for solo travelers with the right planning.

Here are some suggestions on how you can do the Seychelles on a budget.
Stay on La Digue. All three main islands of Mahe and Praslin and La Digue have several idyllic white beaches fringed with lush greenery. However, Mahe and Praslin are both large enough to make renting a car a necessity. A one week car rental can set you back roughly 285 Euros (as of April, 2014). La Digue offers an alternative. The island is small enough for visitors to get around by bicycle or on foot. Hiring a bicycle for one week is easy. There are several places around the island that offer rentals. Lionel’s near the jetty is a solid choice. Rentals cost about 7 Euros per day.

Do some exploring on your own. Spend a day beach hopping along the road heading north from the jetty. Anse Severe and Anse Formis are particularly worth a visit. Heading south-east will take you to Grand Anse. From here you can park up your bicycle and enjoy a pleasant twenty minute walk on a clearly marked trail to Petit Anse and Anse Cocos. For those feeling more adventurous Robert Agnes of Nature Trails Adventure Tours (www.seychelles-tourguide.com) offers full day hiking excursions to the remote southern part of the island. A guided group tour costs 35 Euros.

Overlooking Anse Marron: Photograph by Danielle Caldron

Bring your own gear. Snorkeling and diving are two of the most popular activities on the island. Snorkeling daytrips are available to Coco Island for 50 Euros for half day and 100 Euros for a full day, including beach barbeque. Several companies located along the jetty offer this service. Belle Petra (petra@seychelles.sc) is particularly worth a mention.

However, if you are comfortable striking out on your own, a plethora of snorkeling sites abound on La Digue. All you need is a bicycle and snorkel gear and you can experience the diversity of marine life that the Seychelles has to offer without digging into your wallet.

Consider self-catering or staying in a guesthouse. The DIY meal plan is an excellent way to save some money. There is a well-stocked wholesale market directly across from the jetty. For those who prefer eating out, guesthouses are another option. Pension Hibiscus (www.hibiscusladigue.com) is a top choice. Benjamine Guest House(www.benjamineguesthouse.com/ ) and Kot Babi (www.kotbabi.sc/) are also recommended. All three are a good value: 60 Euros including breakfast. More lodgings here

Dine at local eateries. Most of up-market hotels and resorts have restaurants with fresh delicious Creole cuisine. However, more often than not you will pay over the odds. Higher end meals range from 25-50 Euros. Try some of the family run places along the north coast for something different. Chez Jules (4234287) is highly recommended. This unassuming modest beach side restaurant just across from Anse Banane has reasonably prices meals that range between 10-20 Euros. Book ahead for dinner, as this popular restaurant has limited space. © Danielle Caldron May 2014 danielle.caldron@yahoo.com

Airlines that fly to Seychelles

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