Why Seychelles Felt So Different from Mauritius

I visited Seychelles after Mauritius expecting another Indian Ocean island holiday. Instead, the two trips felt surprisingly different.

Before visiting Seychelles, I had already travelled around Mauritius. On a map they are both Indian Ocean island destinations, so it is easy to imagine that the experience will be similar. For me, it wasn't.

Mauritius gave me a car

In Mauritius, I collected a rental car at the airport. That car became a major part of the trip. I drove into Port Louis, followed coastal roads, travelled to Chamarel and eventually drove into the hills towards Ganga Talao. I felt independent. If I saw something interesting, I could stop.

Seychelles slowed everything down

Seychelles began differently. I had arranged a taxi from the airport to my apartment in Mahe. After that, we often used local buses. Instead of concentrating on driving, I could sit near the window and simply watch Mahe go past. The accommodation also felt different. My apartment was spacious and comfortable and became a proper little base for the trip.

The cost difference was noticeable

Seychelles also felt more expensive to me. Coming directly from the experience of Mauritius made the difference more obvious. It wasn't something that spoiled the trip, but it changed how I thought about transport, food and everyday spending.

Then came La Digue

The biggest difference was probably the island experience itself. In Mauritius, many of my strongest memories involve driving. In Seychelles, one of my strongest memories involves leaving the main island completely. Our day at La Digue—being around the sea, fishing, having a barbecue and eventually returning by speedboat—is still the experience that comes to mind first.

Which one did I prefer?

I don't think I need to choose. Mauritius gave me roads, markets, waterfalls, tortoises, temples and the freedom of having my own car. Seychelles gave me buses, a comfortable apartment in Mahe, Victoria's market, smaller islands and an entire day built around the sea. They were two different trips. And I'm glad they were.