Indian Ocean Destination Guide
The place
Swaying palms, deserted white sand beaches, aqua-marine blue seas, paradise…..descriptions which fit everyone’s dream of the perfect, “get-away-from-it-all” destination. And if that’s what you are looking for, then the Indian Ocean is the place for you. Whether it’s one of the superb island resorts in the Maldives, the granite and coral islands of the Seychelles or the lush and tropical island of Mauritius, peace and tranquillity awaits you amidst the warm, turquoise seas of the Indian Ocean.
The Maldives
The Maldives are one of the least spoilt areas in the world today and are home to some of the best kept secrets of the Indian Ocean. Deep down in the depths of its vast blue ocean lie the psychedelic reef formations surrounding the islands - alive with a multitude of marine life! Its small islands are lush with tropical vegetation which give shade from the sun. The beaches are powder white and their sandy softness invites along with the blue lagoons that stretch for seemingly endless crystal-clear miles. Of the 2,000 islands, which make up the Maldives, only 200 are inhabited including those selected few which have been made into holiday resorts. Each island comprises one hotel and its own facilities and nothing more.
Mauritius
Imagine miles of white coral sand beaches fringed by the tranquil, blue waters of the Indian Ocean and an interior of verdant forests and mountain peaks and you are picturing the island of Mauritius. Exotic and colourful orchids and frangipani thrive in the tropical climate and the coastline, protected by coral reefs, is blue and calm. Sea sightseeing trips are a wonderful way to admire the coastline and the mountainous backdrop. The east coast offers the finest beaches on the island, but there are limited facilities in the immediate vicinity of the hotels. Renowned as one of friendliest places on earth, it’s so relaxed and laid back as to be almost falling over!
The Seychelles
Over 115 granite and coral islands in the shimmering waters of the Indian Ocean make up the Seychelles. A thousand miles from anywhere, by day, this is a nature-lovers paradise – a gentle world where nothing is harmful, but rare birds, plants, giant tortoises, turtles and tropical fish abound and by night, drink in the sweet smell of frangipani as you delight in the violet and orange sunset. Swaying palm-fringed beaches is an over-used description, but it is absolutely accurate for the Seychelles.
Sri Lanka
An island full of surprises, which comprises far more than you could ever have imagined. Glorious beaches and fascinating sightseeing in one neat package! Romantically christened the "tear drop of India", Sri Lanka offers the visitor history spanning 3,000 event filled years and culture of unbelievable depth and diversity. Set amongst lush, green and picturesque mountains lined with tea plantations and alongside golden, sandy beaches, the setting is spectacular and makes for a holiday to be remembered forever.
For more information and maps of our destinations in the Indian Ocean, select an option from the "Find out more" menu.
