Reconnect with Roots: A Family Adventure in La Digue

Island Escapes and Culinary Delights

Today was a beautiful blend of exploration and relaxation, perfectly capturing the essence of island life. From venturing out to neighboring islands to indulging in the local cuisine, every moment felt like a step deeper into the heart of the Seychelles. I'm so excited to share the details of our day, filled with sun-kissed adventures and delectable flavors that made it truly unforgettable.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Fiesta. It’s funny, back in Bonn, breakfast is usually a quick affair – a slice of bread, maybe some cheese. But here, breakfast is a celebration of flavors. I savored every bite, knowing it was the perfect fuel for our island-hopping adventure.

After breakfast, Hans and I made our way to the harbor to embark on a boat tour to Round Island and Sainte Anne Island. The turquoise water shimmered under the morning sun, and the gentle breeze carried the scent of salt and tropical flowers. It was the kind of day that made you feel grateful for every little thing.

As the boat sliced through the waves, I couldn't help but think of my childhood in Anse Boileau. Back then, these waters were my playground. I remember spending countless hours swimming, fishing, and exploring the hidden coves along the coast. Sharing this with Hans felt incredibly special, like I was giving him a piece of my heart.

Our first stop was Round Island. This small, verdant islet is a gem of tranquility. We strolled along the beach, admiring the unique rock formations and the lush vegetation that seemed to explode with life. I learned that Round Island was once home to the Coco-de-Mer before the palms were cut down to make way for a coconut plantation. The waters around Round Island are renowned for excellent snorkeling, and I could see why – the clarity was incredible.


Discover Round Island: A serene escape in the Seychelles, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Next, we set sail for Sainte Anne Island, which is part of the Sainte Anne Marine National Park, the oldest protected ocean region of the Seychelles Archipelago. Sainte Anne is much larger than Round Island, offering a diverse landscape of beaches, hiking trails, and lush forests. We spent a few hours exploring the island, marveling at the vibrant marine life and the stunning coral reefs. I was particularly excited to spot a few sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water.


Explore the pristine beaches and vibrant marine life of Sainte Anne Island, a tropical paradise in Seychelles that promises relaxation and adventure.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

The history of Sainte Anne Island is also fascinating. It was the site of the first French settlement in Seychelles in 1770. Today, it’s a haven for tourists and locals alike, with resorts and eco-lodges dotting the landscape.

After our island adventures, we returned to La Digue, feeling sun-kissed and invigorated. For lunch, we decided to try Kapatya Restaurant, known for its authentic Seychellois cuisine. I ordered grilled fish with Creole sauce, while Hans opted for a seafood curry. The flavors were incredible – a perfect blend of spices and fresh ingredients. As we ate, we chatted with the friendly staff, learning about their families and their lives on the island. It’s these small interactions that make traveling so rewarding.


Experience authentic Seychellois cuisine at Kapatya Restaurant on Mahe Island—where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views.

In the late afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll along the beach, watching the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the clouds with hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a breathtaking sight, one that I knew I would cherish forever.

For dinner, we chose Julianas Villas Café, a charming spot known for its takeout options and local flavors. I decided on a selection of Creole snacks, while Hans went for a hearty fish burger. We found a quiet spot by the sea and enjoyed our meal under the stars. The gentle sound of the waves and the cool ocean breeze created a magical atmosphere.


Discover culinary delights at Julianas Villas Café – your go-to takeout spot on E Coast Rd offering fresh local flavors.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Gecko Bar. The bar was lively with music and laughter, and we quickly found a cozy corner to settle into. I ordered a tropical cocktail, while Hans went for a local Seybrew beer. We sipped our drinks, listening to the music and watching the locals and tourists mingle. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful flavors at Gecko Bar in Beau Vallon, Seychelles – a perfect blend of relaxation and fun in paradise.

As I reflect on today, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it’s been a journey of rediscovery. I’m reconnecting with my roots, sharing my heritage with Hans, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And I'm realizing just how much I've missed the simple joys of island life.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Vanille-Plantagen and Anse aux Cedres. I’m excited to explore more of La Digue and uncover its hidden gems. I’ve heard that Vanille-Plantagen is a beautiful spice plantation where we can learn about the cultivation of vanilla and other spices. Anse aux Cedres, on the other hand, is a secluded beach known for its pristine beauty and tranquility. I can't wait to see what tomorrow holds!

Before I turn in, I wanted to share a funny moment from today. As we were exploring Sainte Anne Island, Hans, ever the curious one, decided to climb a coconut tree. Now, Hans is a software developer, not exactly known for his tree-climbing skills. He managed to get a few feet off the ground before realizing it was a bad idea. I couldn’t help but laugh as he awkwardly climbed back down, covered in leaves and looking slightly sheepish. It was a reminder that even in paradise, there are moments of hilarity and humility.

And speaking of funny moments, I almost forgot to mention our encounter with a giant tortoise! As we were walking along a trail on Sainte Anne Island, we came across one of these magnificent creatures. It was enormous, with a shell that must have been at least four feet long. We watched in awe as it slowly munched on some leaves, completely unfazed by our presence. It was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity of the Seychelles and the importance of protecting these amazing animals.

I’m also struck by the warmth and hospitality of the Seychellois people. Everywhere we go, we’re greeted with smiles and genuine kindness. It’s a refreshing contrast to the hustle and bustle of city life in Bonn. I find myself feeling more relaxed and at peace here than I have in a long time.

As I drift off to sleep, I’m already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures. La Digue has captured my heart, and I can’t wait to see what other treasures it holds. Goodnight from paradise!

Oh, and one more thing! I almost forgot to mention that I ran into an old friend from Anse Boileau today. Her name is Marie-Ange, and we used to play together as kids. It was such a pleasant surprise to see her here on La Digue. We spent a few minutes catching up, reminiscing about our childhood adventures and sharing stories about our lives. It’s amazing how small the world can feel sometimes, especially when you’re back in your homeland.

Marie-Ange told me about a local event happening next week – a traditional Moutya dance performance at Grand Anse Beach. Moutya has been added to UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage and holds deep significance in Seychelles culture. This traditional dance and music form carries the soulful beats of drums and lyrics that chant stories from the past—tales of joy, struggle, and the resilience of the Seychellois people. I’m definitely planning to attend, as I'd love to immerse myself even further in Seychellois culture.

Before I completely sign off, I must mention how much Hans is enjoying the local Seybrew beer. He’s become quite the connoisseur, sampling different varieties and comparing notes. He says it’s the perfect drink for a tropical island vacation – light, refreshing, and full of flavor. I have to agree; it’s the perfect complement to the warm weather and stunning scenery.

And now, I really must get some sleep. Tomorrow is another day of exploration and discovery, and I want to be well-rested and ready for whatever adventures await. Until then, sweet dreams from La Digue!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention that I did miss one essential item when packing – insect repellent! The mosquitoes here can be quite persistent, especially in the evenings. I’ll definitely be making a trip to the local shop tomorrow to stock up. Lesson learned: always pack insect repellent when visiting a tropical island!

I also realized I forgot my extra pair of sunglasses. The sun here is so strong, and I’m constantly switching between my regular glasses and sunglasses. It would be nice to have a backup pair, just in case. Oh well, another item for the shopping list!

Alright, now I’m really done. Goodnight, everyone!

One final thought before I close my eyes: I’m so grateful for Hans’s adventurous spirit. He’s always up for trying new things and exploring new places. It makes traveling with him so much fun and so rewarding. I feel lucky to have him by my side on this journey of rediscovery.