For a taste of Creole cuisine and Seychellois hospitality, not to mention never-ending brilliant blue waters of the Indian Ocean, head to Praslin (Prah-lane), the second largest island in Seychelles with a land mass of only 38sq km (just a little smaller than Singapore).
This sleepy town is home to some of the most exquisite resort hotels Seychelles has to offer such as Raffles Praslin Seychelles situated on the northeast tip of the island – the perfect honeymoon destination for couples seeking complete peace and privacy.
Each of the 86 villas is sea-facing and has a private plunge pool, with 24-hour dedicated butler service. From the pool deck of each unit, couples can catch a glimpse of the magnificent sunrise while tucking into breakfast ordered from the in-villa dining menu.
When the sun sets, head to the resort's restaurants. Curieuse offers an extensive range of fresh seafood and grilled prime cuts; Takamaka Terrace offers signature cocktails and shisha pipes under the stars; and Rise serves up a European breakfast buffet spread and French eats for dinner.
Beach lovers will love the sand strips in Praslin as they are longer and wider, offering ample space and privacy. Among the best beaches with unobstructed views of the Indian Ocean are Anse Georgette, Grand Anse and Anse Lazio, often voted the world's best beaches by travel publications and websites.
Couples wanting some privacy on a secluded beach or looking to charter a yacht need only ask their butlers to make the arrangements. They can also opt to go diving, snorkelling or simply enjoy island-hopping trips. The resort's beach, Anse Takamaka, offers 500m of powder-soft white sand, palm trees and dramatic boulder formations.
After an exciting day of tours and activities, head to the Raffles Spa for some restorative pampering. Equipped with 13 treatment pavilions, six of which are open air, couples can enjoy a range of treatments to soothe aching muscles. Two of the suites feature steam showers, Japanese soaking tubs and observation decks where guests can enjoy stunning vistas in privacy. Additional spa facilities include steam room, sauna and a spa garden for yoga and Pilates enthusiasts. Gym buffs can also check out the complimentary state-of-the art gym that is just a stone's throw away.
Those looking to immerse themselves in Seychellois (Sey-shell-wah) culture, can check out quaint clothing shops and souvenir stations at Cote D'Or Village which is just a 10-minute drive from Raffles Praslin, or visit the grand old Casino Des Isles, fashioned after a big white Georgian mansion. When the sun sets at 5pm, most of the restaurants and café would have closed, so couples can retreat to their hotels to enjoy a nightcap.
Special thanks to Seychelles Tourism Board, Air Seychelles, Raffles Praslin Seychelles, 7°South Tour Operator, and Amical Charters.
