Seychelles

by Lyn Mair, Lynnath Beckley

This new sixth edition of Bradt's Seychelles has been fully updated and remains the most comprehensive English-language guide to the country, with information on the biodiversity of the islands and updates on the conservation efforts (over 40% of the Seychelles' land is under environmental protection), presented in an easy-to-read format. New for this edition are expanded details of the many accommodation options, from many hotels that have recently been refurbished to higher standards and Félicités luxurious resort, to the growing number of B&Bs and small guest houses that offer a more authentic Seychellois experience. New places covered include the Outer Islands of Alphonse, Astove and Cosmoledo, while new practical information covers all the latest updates on getting around and details the significant increase in Marine Protected Areas.With plants and animals historically linked to Africa, Madagascar and Asia, and marine life native to the tropical Indo-Pacific region, the Seychelles is a haven for those interested in natural history. The authors provide fascinating coverage of the islands' fauna and flora, from mangroves and turtles to birds and nature reserves. Updated throughout, the guide reveals the islands many secrets, from coco de mer palm forests and bird sanctuaries to local markets and Creole cuisine. This new edition not only provides up-to-date details of where to stay, eat and relax, but also where the to find the world's tiniest tree frog and how to visit Bird Island to see the world's largest tortoise.Beaches, snorkelling and diving among the coral reefs, wildlife, sailing, festivals, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Vallee de Mai and hiking in the mountains. all are covered in Bradt's Seychelles, making it an ideal companion for a dream holiday.

457 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 1, 2001

Reviews

[Doug Walsh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I know a thing or two about writing a guidebook, having written over a hundred of them, and this is a textbook example of how not to do it. As thorough as a Wikipedia entry combined with your Aunt's vacation slideshow, the book isn't short on information. It's actually quite informative.

Sadly, when it comes to organization, the book lacks all but the most top-level organization. Maps are scarce and what would normally be a "Things to Do" section comes in the form of endless pages of text with hotels, restaurants, and attractions merged together, often in the same paragraph, with numerous buildings that would be of no interest to the traveler. The author was tremendously thorough -- to a fault, and the book is in dire need of an editor and layout designer willing to wade in and find a way to present it in a manner useful to the reader.

[Jonas Lindmark · Rating 3 out of 5]

More interesting now that we are here on the Seychelles, and actually travel the roads described. At home it was disappointing, mainly long lists of facts and few opinions. Only black & white pages makes it dull compared to most other guides.

Also it has not aged well, at present in December 2024 prices have increased (a lot), some rental places have closed and others opened, restaurants have changed quality, etcetera.

I have also read Lonely Planet covering Mauritius and Reunion together with the Seychelles, and it gives more colour and opinions, but is (of course) less detailed. Help comparing the 3 similar options is valuable before choosing your destination.

[Karin Lindmark · Rating 3 out of 5]

Full of facto but rather uninspiring as it focuses on hotels and restaurants by naming them all in the narrative.