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You know what the hardest thing about the Seychelles is? It's not deciding between turquoise water and another turquoise water. No, it's getting out of your deckchair to discover that, behind the postcards and the cocktails with unpronounceable names, the archipelago is leading a small green revolution. I went there to 'check it out' (i.e. to test the comfort levels of the certified sustainable hotels - purely out of journalistic duty, of course). What did I discover? A network of enthusiasts, hoteliers, restaurateurs and guides who have decided that preserving their paradise is not just a pretty slogan, but an official commitment. And to back it all up: the Recognition and certification of sustainable Seychelles - a long name, but one that smacks of seriousness... with a hint of the salty ocean.
Recognition, certification... and coconut trees in a suit and tie
How does it work? You don't get a 'sustainable' stamp just because you recycle two plastic bottles or serve bamboo straws. No, here you have to earn it! The programme distinguishes between several levels: Blue, Bronze, Silverand the Holy Grail: the Sustainable Seychelles certification. To obtain this precious seal of approval, you need to demonstrate genuine ecological management (goodbye to air conditioners running on empty), get involved in the community (hello local fishermen) and prove that your business is not living beyond the planet's means. The most motivated get full certification, which gives them both an impeccable image and a little marketing boost. Believe me: eco-friendly tourists are quick to spot an official label... and they book up just as quickly as they slather on mineral sunscreen.
The champions of sustainability
At the ceremony last April, 42 tourism partners were honoured. I saw proud faces, flowery shirts and even a hotelier holding up his plaque as if it were a World Cup trophy (except here, the cup is made of recycled coconut). Among the most famous names: Constance Ephelia, Hilton Northolme, Four Seasons Desrochesbut also little marvels such as L'Ilot Beach Chalets or Villa Kordia. What do I like about it? The label isn't just for hotel giants: even family-run B&Bs can get involved. And between you and me, spending the night in a driftwood bungalow, lulled by the sound of the waves, knowing that you're helping to preserve the beach... it's almost better than a pineapple cocktail (I said almost).
A dream with an action plan
This programme doesn't just hand out diplomas and take photos. Teams from the Ministry of Tourism provide support for each establishment, with audits, advice, practical information sheets and even coaching on how to move up the recognition levels. A hotel that starts at level Blue can, with a little determination (and a few solar panels), reach Silveror even full certification. And then, every two years, there's a reassessment. I like the idea: it keeps everyone on their toes, like a lifeguard watching over the beach... except that in this case, it's the planet we're saving.
Travelling with a conscience (and a smile)
As a tourist, you feel part of this mission. By choosing a certified establishment, you become a link in this great chain that connects the immaculate beach, the fish market with its intoxicating smells, the thick forests where the birds whistle, and the family that runs the little guesthouse on the corner. Sustainable travel in the Seychelles is like drinking a good rum: it leaves a pleasant taste, it warms you up, and it makes you want to come back. So the next time you're dreaming of white sand and lagoons, think of the green label too. Because preserving paradise starts with the way you sleep, eat and explore.
The green pearls of the Seychelles
If you thought 'sustainable' only meant 'tent and mosquito net', think again. Here's a selection of places where you can sip a mango juice and admire the ocean, and saving a bit of the planet in the process.
The big names that make dreams come true : Constance Ephelia Resort - Constance Lemuria Resort - Hilton Seychelles Labriz Resort & Spa - Hilton Seychelles Northolme Resort & Spa - Four Seasons Resort Seychelles - Four Seasons Resort Seychelles at Desroches Island - Raffles Seychelles - Kempinski Seychelles Resort - MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa - Le Meridien Fisherman's Cove - AVANI Seychelles Barbarons Resort & Spa - STORY Seychelles - Paradise Sun Hotel - Hotel L'Archipel - Berjaya Beau Vallon Bay Resort & Casino - Coral Strand Hotel
Small wonders on a human scale: Heliconia Grove - Cote D'Or Footprints - Hanneman Holiday Residence - Chalets D'Anse Forbans - Acajou Beach Resort - La Cigale Estate - L'Ilot Beach Chalets - Villa Kordia - Villa De Mer - Villa Batista Beach Bungalow - Tropical Hideaway - Sun Bird Villa - Pirogue Lodge - Les Villas D'Or - Hibiscus House - Karibou Villa - Forest Lodge - Colibri Guest House - Chez Julie - Chalets Côte Mer - Beryl Guesthouse - Beach Cove - A Peace in Paradise
Gourmet and friendly addresses : Lo Brizan Restaurant - Mabuya Beach Restaurant - Marengo House - Fish Trap - Oasis Hotel and Restaurant
