THE QUINTESSENTIAL ISLAND PARADISE

Whether you feel the need to simply relax following a few weeks of Southern African exploration or you're looking for that all-out Robinson Crusoe adventure, the Seychelles are the place. The first recorded European encounter with the 115 islands that make up this Indian Ocean archipelago was in 1502. Since then, the West's love affair with the Seychelles has only grown. Despite its popularity, dozens of pristine and uncrowded beaches still await the fortunate visitor, as do a rich variety of cultural experiences, wildlife, architecture, art, and tasty local cuisine. For those in favor of pure, unadulterated relaxation, allow us ferry you to remote and unbelievably beautiful beaches (only 16 of the islands offer accommodation), or view the underwater treasures from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. Despite its popularity, the people (and government) of this island nation take their ecological gifts seriously and keep their jungles and powdery-white beaches pristine: The Seychelles is a world leader in environmental tourism. Interestingly, it has the smallest population of any African country or territory but the largest per capita GDP, making it the wealthiest territory in Africa.