A Managing Director's Insight: The Seychelles

In October 2024, our Managing Director Ryan Johnston travelled with his wife and two young daughters to the Seychelles, a place often described as paradise but somehow - according to Ryan - even better in reality. Splitting their stay between Constance Ephelia on Mahé and Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa on Silhouette Island, they discovered a world of dazzling white beaches, jungle-cloaked mountains, and waters so blue they looked almost surreal.

From dolphins crashing a snorkelling session to unexpectedly having whole stretches of sand to themselves, he shares the moments that made this trip unforgettable – and why the Seychelles might just be the ultimate luxury escape.

What was your first impression of the Seychelles when you arrived?

The Seychelles is instantly captivating. It’s surrounded by brilliant turquoise waters, the purest white sands you’ve ever seen, and soaring green mountains. The warm and sincere welcome from the locals really set the tone for our stay – it made us very excited for what was to come. 

Can you describe a memorable moment or experience you had while exploring the islands?

One of the most unforgettable and out-of-this-world experiences happened during a boat trip, when we were unexpectedly surrounded by a pod of dolphins while snorkelling. The sheer wonder on my daughter’s faces was a moment I’ll remember and cherish forever – it’s the type of experience that’s down to pure chance, and we felt so incredibly lucky to have witnessed it.

How would you describe the natural beauty of the Seychelles compared to other destinations you’ve visited?

The Seychelles is so unique, it’s unlike any other destination I’ve visited before. The islands are a rare blend of untouched beaches and thriving jungles which, to me, combines the best of the Maldives’ castaway-style islands with the lush landscapes of Mauritius – but I’ve never seen waters like those surrounding the Seychelles before!

You stayed at Constance Ephelia and Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa – did these resorts live up to the idea of the ultimate escape?

Absolutely – but in completely different ways. Constance Ephelia is the kind of place that just knows how to balance indulgence with adventure. It’s set right between two beautiful beaches, so it felt like its own little world – endless space to explore, exceptional dining, and the kind of spa that almost makes you forget what day it is... It’s great for families, with so much to do like zip-lining through the trees and paddling through the mangroves.

Hilton Seychelles Labriz, on the other hand, was a different level of escape. It’s sat on Silhouette Island where nature still reigns supreme, so it had this castaway-luxury feel that was just magical – that’s the only way to describe it. Waking up to the sound of nothing but waves and birdsong was the kind of tranquillity I didn't realise I needed until I was there. The villas are lovely, those with private pools are a dream, and the service was warm and intuitive and everything you'd wish for on holiday. It’s one of those places where you arrive and immediately feel your shoulders drop.

So did they deliver the ultimate luxury escape? Without a doubt. But more importantly, they gave us two very different experiences – one full of energy and adventure, the other pure, off-the-grid relaxation. And for me, that's what the Seychelles was all about.

Which activities or excursions would you recommend for someone visiting Seychelles for the first time?

For first-time visitors, I’d have to recommend exploring multiple islands in one trip. That way you really do experience the full charm of Seychelles and get a feel for how the islands differ. Mahé is made up of larger resorts and plenty to do, while quieter islands like Silhouette, with its picture-perfect granite rock formations, are packed with hidden gems to discover and lots of natural beauty. There really is just so much to do and see, a stay on one island won’t feel like enough. 

How did you find the local cuisine? What dishes should visitors absolutely try?

Don’t sleep on Creole cuisine. In the Seychelles it is so beautifully done and so fresh. I'm a pescetarian and the options were endless, but one of our favourites was a meal of fresh fish and ‘Bringel’, which is spiced aubergine. It’s a cuisine you don’t often find at home and there’s no better place to eat fish than on an island.

From your perspective, what makes the Seychelles the best luxury holiday destination?

What makes the Seychelles so special is its tranquillity and its exclusivity. Even in the midsts of the UK school half term we often had entire beaches to ourselves. As well as that, the warm and generous people, exceptional service and completely unhurried pace made it feel like a real escape from the everyday. We’re all guilty of rushing around perhaps a little too much in day to day life, and this was the very best reminder to slow down and take in the moment.

Finally, what was the one thing about the Seychelles that surprised you the most?

The ease of island-hopping. Before visiting it’s something I thought would be a lengthy and far-too-intricate process to navigate with two children in tow. The reality? It couldn't be easier. The transfers are seamless. That and the sheer beauty of each new island – that exceeded all expectations. I knew the landscapes were going to be spectacular, but every single corner of the Seychelles offered something new and completely delightful. 

Like Ryan, our Personal Travel Concierges have tried and tested the Seychelles. If you're wanting to visit this beautiful region of the world, call us today, or click below to explore our offers.

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