Plane Reservation

Island holidays are the stuff that dreams are made of. Imagine getting on a plane and disembarking on foreign soil to be greeted with a floral wreath and an icy-cold cocktail. Next you book into your suite, don your bathing suit and head out to the beach. Next? well, that part is left up to you.

If you are anything like me, lying on the beach for hours on end is not quite what you have in mind. Island packages normally come inclusive of accommodation, meals and a few basic resort activities, but if you want to make the most of your time in the Seychelles you will have to do some research beforehand and be sure to budget for a few extra excursions to round out your trip.

To make things easier, here is a list of the top five activities to enjoy as part of your Seychelles package:

1.Wetter is better:

The Seychelles is a haven for watersport enthusiasts. Here you can enjoy everything from sailing and windsurfing to scuba diving, snorkelling and fishing - all in the crystal clear waters the island is renowned for. It is not recommended that you head out on your own - certain parts of the ocean have been named marine parks and you could get fined heavily if you venture into these protected areas unaccompanied. Rather team up with a reputable activity provider who knows the region. Upon making your reservations at the hotel or resort of your choice you may ask if they have any affiliated providers who offer their services at a reduced cost.

2.Terra Firma:

More comfortable with your feet on the ground? Not to worry, there are a whole bunch of activities that make provision for those who prefer to keep dry. Think horseback riding, tennis, golf, biking and hiking. The Seychelles offer a spectacular setting for hiking and biking adventures that will allow you to explore the island while getting some exercise. Being on holiday doesn't mean you have to let your handicap suffer, so round up the boys and head out for a friendly game of golf in one

of the most marvellous places on earth.

3.Night-time pursuits:

Although most hotels and resorts have their own restaurants and entertainment options, you may wish to venture out of the confines of your chosen accommodation venue to soak up some of the local culture. In this case you will have your pick of ethnic eateries where you may enjoy indigenous cuisine, as well as discos, casinos and pubs where you may meet up with locals.

4.Shopping:

You simply cannot visit a foreign country without burning some plastic and the Seychelles will not disappoint in terms of curio shopping. Simply venture to any local market and you will be overrun by merchants peddling their exotic wares. Be sure to read up on local bartering practices beforehand - in some instances trying to bring the price of an item down may be misconstrued as an insult. Alternatively, check with the information desk at your hotel before going shopping.

5.Taking it easy:

Visiting a foreign country is very exciting and the temptation to experience as much of the culture as possible sometimes leads to fast-paced itineraries that have you racing from one location to another every single day. Keep in mind that this is supposed to be a holiday and spending your leisure time in such a rushed fashion will leave you more worn out after your island holiday than you were before you left. Leave time in your itinerary for chilling by the pool and lounging in a hammock with a good book. You'll be glad that you did.

These are just a few of the things that you can enjoy as part of your Seychelles package. Do your homework and make the very best of your island holiday - you deserve it!