The Seychelles is one of those dream destinations in the Indian Ocean, just north of Madagascar. The Seychelles are actually 115 islands and offer lush rain forests, gorgeous beaches, and are surrounded by unrivaled marine life.

The Four Seasons Resort Seychelles will celebrate its one-year anniversary this February. Despite its secluded location on the southwest coast of the main island of Mahe, it’s still close to the international airport as well as the capital of Victoria (a 30-minute drive).

This is the type of place you’d be crazy to pass up. The 67 villas and suites are more than spacious and all villas have their own private plunge pools, outdoor showers, and sunset views of the bay. There are two restaurants and bars, spa, fitness and recreation center as well as meeting/banquet facilities.

During 2010 Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is offering an excellent deal on lodging here: its stay longer promotion, which is valid from:

January 10 – March 31, 2010
May 11 – June 30, 2010
September 16 – October 31, 2010
December 1 – 18, 2010

Enjoy a complimentary 4th night for 3 consecutive nights stay
Enjoy a complimentary 6th and 7th night for 5 consecutive nights stay

The promotion is valid for individual bookings only and not for groups.

For reservations, call Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at 248-393-333; fax: 248-393-331; or send an e-mail to reservations.sey@fourseasons.com.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Seychelles

Four Seasons Explorer

This past September, the 128-foot Four Seasons Explorer 11-cabin, three-deck catamaran was refurbished for three-, four-, and seven-night excursions around the Maldives in the Indian Ocean. While the vessel usually draws those interested in diving and snorkeling, even those who aren’t natural water babies enjoy seeing the Maldives from this intimate ship that caters to just 22 passengers.

Accommodations are what you’d expect at any land-based Four Season resort and feature 10 staterooms and one Explorer Suite. The suite includes a king bed, a daybed, an indoor dining area, couch, writing desk, bar, DVD/CD player, telephone, and in-cabin safe. The bathroom features a full bath tub, and separate shower. Regular staterooms can be outfitted with either a king bed or two twins. Staterooms also feature a sofa, desk, DVD/CD player, bar, phone, and safe. These bathrooms have a tub/shower combo.

The catamaran promotes a casual atmosphere and shorts and sundresses are acceptable attire, even during dinner. The casual vibe doesn’t skimp on service though…the entire boat is air-conditioned and you’ll find an onboard masseuse and a PADI dive center with Nitrox. Laundry service is also available.

As of the first of October 2009, Four Seasons Explorer began weekly itineraries. The first part explores the northern atolls of Baa and Raa and includes a stopover at the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru. The second part of the cruise expolores the southern regions, which may include Rasdhoo, North Ari, South and North Male atolls.

During the cruise, you’ll enjoy water activities like diving, snorkeling, windsurfing, kayaking, waterskiing, and fishing. Other activities include visits to local villages and other island excursions.

Four Seasons Explorer video footage:

Four Seasons Explorer sails until December 20, 2009 and then she goes into dry-dock. She’ll be back on the water as of June 8, 2010.

For more information, talk with your travel agent or contact Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa or Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru.

—Andrea M. Rotondo for LuxurySafariExperts.com

Photo courtesy of Four Seasons

“We want every guest to have the opportunity to play the course at Four Seasons Mauritius,” says Andrew Harrison, general manager of the Resort. “Ernie Els has created a championship course that is a challenge for experienced golfers, but also encourages play at all levels, so families can golf together.”

“Intricately woven into the scenery, the course is designed with a close eye on preserving the coastline’s natural beauty,” says Ernie Els. “The way we have routed the course means it moves in and out of the trees, along the water and back, giving players great variety—including spectacular rocky outcrops, large native trees and jaw-dropping views of the mountains and Indian Ocean.”