Seychelles

Seychelles has a dreamlike setting and is a paradise for birds -and for those who love to watch them -and for divers too, who revel in the underwater world bursting with colour and sea life.

When you tire of your villa-style room with its million-dollar sea view, the exquisite slivers of white sand lapped by topaz waters, backed by lush hills and big glacis boulders, you can venture inland on jungle trails, indulge in fine dining or simply enjoy the sublime laid-back tempo.

Just watch out for the falling 'cokker nutts' (coconuts) and the thriving population of giant land tortoises.

Flying time: 10 hours.

Time difference: GMT +4 hrs.

Getting there: Direct services to Mahe with Air Seychelles. Additional services with other carriers, such as Emirates, via Dubai, or Qatar Airways via Doha.

Currency: Seychelles Rupee (travellers must pay hotel bills in foreign currency).

Vaccinations: Precautions for tetanus, typhoid, diphtheria and hepatitis A are recommended - please contact your doctor for up-to-date information.

Visas: British passport holders do not require a visa. All other nationals please check visa requirements with the embassy.

Best time to visit: The Seychelles receive monsoon rains from November to April and this hot and humid season gives way to a period of cooler weather, although the temperature rarely falls below 28°C, however, you tend to get rougher seas during May to October, so sea-swimming can be dangerous.