2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 4 9 Church of Nativity, Bethlehem On Christmas Eve, the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem will arrive in Manger Square about 2:30pm and make his solemn entry into the Basilica of the Nativity. Throughout the day and evening, there is always a lot of excitement as people prepare for the joyful Midnight Mass in St. Catherine’s Church (the Catholic section of the Basilica). Tickets for actual church service are limited, so book early by contacting the Christian Information Centre at +972-(0)2-627-2697 or [email protected] Sites to visit for midnight mass in Jerusalem and Bethlehem Shepherds Fields, Beit Sahour Spend Christmas Eve at Shepherds’ Field in Beit Sahour. According to the Gospel of Luke (Luke 2:8-15), this is the location where the angel appeared to the shepherds and announced the birth of the Saviour in the City of David. Throughout the night, Holy Masses will be said in all languages in the many grottoes and chapels that lie beneath the same open sky from where the angel appeared to the shepherds more than 2,000 years ago. Dormition Abbey, Mount Zion Dormition Abbey stands majestically on Mount Zion in the Old City’s southwest corner. The liturgy is nearly fully celebrated in German and the Midnight Mass there is always filled with interested Israelis. The Benedictine Monks have grown so accustomed to their regular Israeli visits that they now incorporate a number of Hebrew explanations into the evening. Benedictine Monastery, Abu Ghosh The 12th century crusader church in Abu Ghosh is without a doubt a highlight, with its stunning antique frescoes and Gregorian singing in French and Latin. The acoustics are outstanding, and the songs of the brothers provide a spiritual high like no other. Reservations are strongly encouraged because there are only 200 seats available. Culture
50/Silhouette/october-december 2023 St. Stephen’s Basilica for French Speakers St. Stephen’s Basilica (on the site of the École Biblique) in the Old City, near Damascus Gate, is the destination for French Speakers, where the French Dominicans perform Christmas Eve Mass with great grandeur and beauty. Christ Church for Protestants For Protestants, the Christ Church, just inside the Old City, is the location where visitors may look forward to a warm welcome beginning in the courtyard with coffee, pastries and biscuits, along with some carol singing and an opportunity for fellowship and debate. This will last until the Christmas service at 10:30pm in the church, scheduled to stretch until well beyond midnight. Notre Dame of Jerusalem Centre This 19th century Catholic guesthouse is run by the Legionaries of Christ and is located directly across from the Old City walls at 3 HaTsanhanim Street in Jerusalem. Carols begin at 11:30pm and Mass (in English) begins at midnight. It is recommended to arrive half an hour early. Culture
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 5 1 Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Jerusalem This is part of the Evangelical Church in Germany in the Holy Land. Arrive as early as possible to obtain free tickets for midnight Mass. Beit Jamal Monastery, Beit Shemesh On Christmas Eve, the Sisters of Bethlehem pray at the Beit Jamal Monastery in Beit Shemesh during midnight Mass. Beit Jamal is a Salesian-run Catholic monastery near Beit Shemesh, Israel. The site is associated with the Byzantine town of Caphargamala, and it is thought that a cave there may have housed St. Stephen’s tomb. Latrun Trappist Monastery, Ramla The Trappist monks are a French monastic order who believe that ‘the spoken word’ is holy and only speak in prayer. They have taken oaths of silence. Midnight Mass in French is usually celebrated here, next to the Israel Defense Forces History Museum. The sandstone monastery complex has beautiful archways, cathedral-style windows, and floral gardens. Culture Flight information: www.airseychelles.com
52/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Nature WORDS: TAHIR SHAH Stunts of nature T he growing of Bonsai, beautiful miniature trees, is considered an art form in Japan, but anyone with patience and care can pursue this increasingly popular hobby – and enjoy the results. 1
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 5 3 Nature The art of Bonsai, growing miniature versions of great trees and bushes often only inches high, is taken seriously in Japan, a society where space is precious. Bonsai developed as a recreation which anyone can enjoy, even in the most confined circumstances. The goal is to grow beautiful miniature trees in harmony with natural forces. It is believed such cultivation gives the practitioner insight into the dynamics of perfection, a perception which can then be applied to life’s more mundane tasks. It takes years of painstaking dedication to become a true master of Bonsai. But anybody with elementary knowledge can foster tiny trees, and reap the artistic and therapeutic benefits of this increasingly popular recreation. Bonsai rules define each stage of plant development. The artist begins his miniature tree by planting a sapling, or seed, in a small Bonsai vessel. The grower focuses on five principal areas – roots, trunk, branches, leaves and core – each of which, while being self-sufficient, has to find harmony with the plant as a whole. Bonsai masters are able to grow magnificent trees from a simple seed. But for inexperienced cultivators, saplings are a suitable way to begin. Pines are especially popular but there are many thousands of suitable species in Europe, Asia, America, Australia and Africa which are perfect for Bonsai. The initial transplant into a pot is critical and requires the utmost attention. Spring is the time when the Bonsai master gently digs up the tree, severing diagonally the roots that are too deeply embedded. Set in a flowerpot, the sapling is shaded by a reed screen for a month or so and watered regularly. New roots and new leaves are trimmed before they grow to any length. Finally, after several months, usually in late autumn, the sapling is replanted ceremoniously into a true Bonsai pot, honbachi. 2 3
54/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Nature A good pot contains only enough soil to keep the tree alive. It is important to find the right soil. One tree will thrive in soil fatal to another. If in doubt, take a sample from where the sapling was grown. Avoid fertilizers as large amounts will kill saplings. After two years or so, depending on the species, the plant needs repotting, which is the time to check the roots for disease. The single, most important activity is training the tree to grow in a particular way. Indeed, the more artistic the form, the better. For Bonsai is the joint effort of man and nature. True masters perform near miracles when training a tree in the desired way. With dozens of techniques at their disposal, the greatest exponents seek inspiration from wild trees whose stately magnificence has caught their eye. Others find illumination in the work of painters and sculptors. Whether the inspiration, the master has a perfect understanding of the relationship between the plant’s roots, leaves and branches. Roots as well as branches have to be pruned, particularly the taproot which governs size. Wire braces and jacks and leavers shape or straighten branches. Hanging heavy stones from branches also produces curved and bent limbs. The roots need to be immoveable. The trunk should be well-tapered with a thick base and enveloped in an aura of great age. Gnarled and seemingly prehistoric bark, known as sabi-miki and shari-miki, is favoured. The branches should grow thickly on all sides but with the largest ones extruding from the viewing side. For it is around this that the plant’s aesthetic characteristics are based. Painstaking attention is needed to ensure that all leaves are small and densely clustered. Such leaves, himesho or yatsubusho, are extremely important to the general make-up of a Bonsai plant. But it is in the core 1. Roan Mountain is a multispecies saikei with Shimpaku juniper and Zakura azalea. 2. This Bonsai specimen has extensive wiring. 3. This juniper makes great use of both jin (deadwood branches) and shari (trunk deadwood). 4. Plant cuttings can be rooted and cultivated as potential Bonsai. 5. An uprooted Bonsai, ready for repotting. 6. A Bonsai pot with the Yamaaki kiln’s seal stamped on the underside. 4 5 6
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 5 5 Nature area – the upper part of the tree known as jin, meaning ‘god’ – to which most attention is paid. Bonsai masters can deliberate for months, even years sometimes, to achieve success. If the central portion is damaged the plant earns nothing but scorn; but if withered with age naturally, it wins praise. Many tree species are used and there are countless presentations. For instance, in one simple representation, Chokkan, branches grow out of the straight trunk alternately from left to right. Fostered carefully in this way, such species as the common Ezo spruce live for 200 years or more. The wide variety of other trunks can differ considerably from the chokkan. The trunk of the shakan leans left or right, while the spiral trunk of the Bankan is testimony to the grower’s meticulous dedication and the plant’s natural vitality. A single tree with two trunks which complement each other perfectly is known as Sokan. When trees grow together in the same pot they are known as Kabudachi. Great care goes into nurturing odd members of the tree. When several plants are grown together in one vessel to give the appearance of a forest or small wood, the arrangement is known as Yoseue. And if the tree grows around a stone, with its roots embracing the stone, it is Ishizuki. Another form of Bonsai, which complements the perfectly formed miniature trees, is the choice of small, exquisite rocks and stones with natural but symbolic markings. Patterns which suggest floral displays are favoured with chrysanthemum impressions, the top choice in Japan. Equally important are the pots. These are central to Bonsai, admired almost as much as Bonsai themselves. The two main groups are Japanese and Chinese. Those from China look smooth and soft and allow drainage as well as holding water. One of the most precious Chinese pots was made 200 years ago. Shinwatari and Chuwatari, exported to Japan early this century, are also popular. But their scarcity has led to the development of a number of similar Japanese Bonsai vessels. They come in rectangular, oval, circular, square, hexagonal, and octagonal shapes to suit the tree. For instance, a straight or leaning tree with a distinct countenance looks best in a deep rectangular pot. Trees with double trunks are set off well in an oval pot, and a shallow, circular pot is ideal for a gathering of trunks. The pot’s colour is equally important to achieve harmony with nature. Somber-coloured, red or purple earthenware pots are perfect for conifer trees. Plants that flower require a pot that complements the shape and colour of the blossoms. An apricot’s white blossoms look good in a light yellow or willow green pot. 7 8
56/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Nature IMAGES COURTESY OF UNSPLASH.COM + FLICKR.COM + WIKIMEDIA Bonsai is now popular throughout the world. Over fourteen hundred books on Bonsai and related arts are accessible in at least 28 languages in over hundred and ten nations and territories. A few dozen periodicals are available in over 13 languages. There are several hundred club newsletters available online, as well as at least that many discussion forums and blogs. There are at least a hundred thousand enthusiasts in over a hundred organisations and groups around the world, as well as over five million unrelated hobbyists. Plant material from all over the world is being trained into Bonsai and shown to enthusiasts and the general public in local, regional, national, and international conferences and exhibitions. Around the world, there are Bonsai exhibitions, displays, and contests. The best examples, however, are said to be in Japan. There are various private and public Bonsai museums in Japan, including the Shunka-en Bonsai Garden in Tokyo and the Omiya Bonsai Museum in Saitama. 7. Assorted Bonsai pots. 8. Shunka-en Bonsai Garden, Tokyo. 9. Omiya Bonsai Museum, Saitama. 10. Winter Korean hornbeam (Carpinus turczaninovii), winner of the 97th Kokufu-ten Bonsai exhibition in Tokyo in 2023. 10 9
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 5 7 Receive access to our Premium Lounge before departure. Recline and relax whilst enjoying our in-flight streaming service. Savour a blend of local cuisine and internationally-inspired dishes and experience the convenience of our Dine on Demand service. Journey in Style Business Class on our A320neo Book your ticket on airseychelles.com or download our app
58/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Adventure WORDS: RICHARD HOLMES Discovering the deep south There is certainly no shortage of beautiful roads on the island of Mauritius. And yet few can compete with the coastal route wending its way along the island’s southern edge; a corner of Ile Maurice few travellers take the time to explore.
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 5 9 ‘West is best’ goes the old Mauritian holiday cliché, suggesting that all you need for a good island break is a sandy beach with a good sunset. And yet, the southern reaches of the island promise, and deliver, so much more. While it’s true that this coast catches more of the southeasterly trade winds – that’s a boon for the kite surfers that flock here – that is simply part of the untamed charm that comes with this wilder, less developed part of the island. And, with its location close to the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, it means less time spent in a transfer vehicle on arrival and departure. And in fact, one of the most attractive corners of the island lies just offshore from the runway, where the Blue Bay Marine Park conserves 353 hectares of fragile coastline. The park is famous for its diversity of marine life, from 38 different types of coral to more than 70 species of fish. Along with mangrove forests and beds of sea grass, it’s one of the few relatively pristine marine ecosystems left within the coastline around Mauritius. And it’s as remarkable above water as it is below. An important habitat for bird life has seen the Blue Bay Marine Park designated as a Ramsar site; a wetland area of global importance. While it’s easy for day visitors to enjoy the park on escorted boat tours and snorkelling adventures, it’s worth spending a few nights soaking up the tranquillity of the landscape. Shandrani Beachcomber Resort & Spa is set on a private peninsula overlooking the park, with three beaches offering easy access for self-guided snorkelling or gentle afternoons on glass-bottomed pedal boats. It’s a wonderful immersion in this remarkably untouched corner of the island. Underwater Blue Bay Marine Park Blue Bay Marine Park Adventure
60/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Adventure But soon enough you’ll want to explore further afield, so hop in a hire car and take the south coast road. After lush landscapes of sugar cane fields and small farms, at Saint Aubin take a turn into La Vanille Nature Park, which is home to the world’s largest captive population of Aldabra tortoises. In his bid to save these long-lived reptiles from extinction on other islands, it was the celebrated naturalist Charles Darwin who first sent Aldabra tortoises to Mauritius, and since 1985 they have thrived in this important breeding facility. Today you’ll find around a thousand tortoises here, including the centuryold Domino who is perhaps the star of the show. The reserve also has ponds home to hundreds of Nile crocodiles, and the daily feeding show is always a highlight. After a stop at the Le Domaine de Saint Aubin to learn of their lauded rhum agricole, the A9 road heads for the coastline and the laid-back town of Souillac. First established in the late-1700s, it’s the largest settlement on the south coast of the island and the town’s seafront is usually lined with fishing boats and their skippers watching the weather. In days past it was also a key port for moving sugar cane north to Port Louis, with twin-masted barge boats known as côtiers – built of indigenous bois de natte and tambalacoque trees – braving the hazardous journey along the coast. Today that history is remembered in the wonderful seaside eatery Le Batelage, which is housed in the old stone sugar cane warehouse. Souillac is also host to the compact Robert Edward Hart Museum; an old coral-stone cottage gifted to the famed Mauritian poet when his home was destroyed in a cyclone. Today it houses a collection of writing memorabilia Robert Edward Hart Museum Nile crocodiles Le Domaine de Saint Aubin Aldabra tortoises
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 6 1 Adventure and well-known works. It’s also conveniently right on the road you’ll need to reach Gris Gris, a spectacular rocky promontory offering views along the coastline and down to white sandy beaches. If time allows, it’s well worth seeking out the forested track that leads to the viewpoint of Roche Qui Pleure. The ‘rock that weeps’ may seem an odd name for a craggy basalt outcrop, but soon becomes obvious as breaking waves run in rivulets back into the sea. Less than a kilometre further you’ll reach Cascade Mamzelle, a glorious waterfall with a small pool at the foot for taking a dip on warm summery days. Leaving Souillac and heading west the (now renamed) B9 road travels a beautiful route along the coastline, the sea all but lapping the sidewalk to a soundtrack of whispering casuarina trees. If the weather’s fine and you have the time, stop for a swim at the public beaches of Pomponette or Saint Félix. Unless you’re there on a weekend, chances are you’ll have them all to yourself. Word of advice? Wear reef shoes to protect your feet from sharp coral rocks. Shortly after the picnic spots of Baie-de-Jacotet, overlooking the postagestamp island of Ilot Sancho, your next stop should be the marvellous Bel Ombre Nature Reserve. This private reserve falls within the Black River Gorges-Bel Ombre Biosphere Reserve, an 8,500-hectare site designated by UNESCO for its unique ecological importance. The reserve offers an array of opportunities to get out into nature, from 4x4 rides into the forested hills, to five-hour walking treks. In the company of an experienced guide, it’s the ideal way to delve into the biodiversity of the coast, with the chance to spot monkeys and birds en route. But if that sounds like altogether too much hard work, simply book one of the family-friendly picnic pods. These contemporary pods are hidden away in the indigenous forest near the Frédérica waterfalls, offering an idyllic way to relax with a basket of traditional Mauritian fare. Bordering the reserve, you’ll also find the expansive Heritage estate, which plays host to both private homes and luxurious hotels overlooking one of the most respected golf courses on the island. And in December 2023 the golf offering on the south coast takes a giant leap forward, with the opening of La Réserve Golf Links at Heritage Golf Club. Designed by Open Champion Louis Oosthuizen, alongside acclaimed architect Peter Matkovich, La Réserve’s 18 holes offer the first and only contemporary links course in the Indian Ocean. “La Réserve Golf Links is everything I dreamed it would be – a dramatic, challenging golf course in an extraordinary setting overlooking the Indian Ocean,” says Matkovich. “The landscape and environment are second to none and we’ve worked so hard to create a course that captures the spirit of links golf, the purest form of golf, while using native grasses and sensitive design to ensure it remains authentic to the land around us.” With its elevated tees, infinity greens and spectacular views over the southern coastline, it’s a remarkable new addition to this corner of the island, that is sure to bring an influx of curious tourists down south. And it is curiosity that should lead you further along the coastal road. Past the traditional fishing village at Baie du Cap – stop by in the afternoon to see the day’s catch being landed – and on to the Matthew Flinders Memorial, laid out to commemorate the famed English navigator. Flinders is most famous for mapping, and naming, the continent of Australia, but is locally known for being captured by the French and held prisoner on the island for six years. Balck River Gorges-Bel Ombre Biosphere Reserve
62/Silhouette/october-december 2023 IMAGES COURTESY OF UNSPLASH.COM + FLICKR.COM Adventure Flinders no doubt took in the views from Macondé, at the end of the village, with its panoramas across the inlet of Baie du Cap and across to lush hillsides and empty beaches. In the distance; the looming mountain of Le Morne Brabant bookends the southern coast, and the end of your journey. It’s a fine goal, but one not worth rushing to. In the south, slow down, take your time, and soak up all that this wild corner of Mauritius has to offer. Baie du Cap Clear beaches Flight information: www.airseychelles.com
2 0 2 3 j u l y - s e p t e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 6 3 Plush, Spacious & Relaxing. Enjoy the comfort of Salon Vallée De Mai, the Air Seychelles Premium Lounge designed for our Business Class and frequent flyer guests*. To find out more, visit airseychelles.com Terms & Conditions apply. Economy Class guests can access the lounge at our published rate of USD 50. *Please confirm your eligibility with your Frequent Flyer Programme.
64/Silhouette/october-december 2023
2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 6 5 Inside Air Seychelles Global offices Route network Our fleet Travel tips News and information Inside Air Seychelles
66/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Inside Air Seychelles NEW SERVICE TO COLOMBO Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles successfully launched its new service to the vibrant capital city of Colombo. The inaugural flight arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport in the early hours of Wednesday, 21 June 2023, after departing Mahé the night before at 2205 hrs. on a short four-hour flight. A celebratory water cannon salute greeted the aircraft, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony to officially mark the start of the new partnership. The Sri Lankan Tourism Board organised a lavish greeting for the passengers, including a welcome token of their renowned tea and a traditional Kandyan performance by a local cultural dance troupe. The airline’s Airbus A320 aircraft ‘Veuve’ was commanded by Captain Christophe Larue and First Officer Balaji Naidoo. The flight carried a total of 110 passengers. The plane stayed on the ground for over an hour after landing before returning home with nearly NATIONAL DELEGATION TO IOIG 2023 Air Seychelles is honoured to have been chosen as the preferred airline to transport the country's sporting delegation to Antananarivo, Madagascar, for the Indian Ocean Island Games 2023. 2.5 tonnes of cargo on board, half of which was bound for Tel Aviv. Captain Sandy Benoiton, Chief Executive Officer of Air Seychelles said, “Colombo is one of the largest markets in our region that is not served by a nonstop flight.” Seychellois visit Sri Lanka for a variety of reasons, the most common of which being tourism and medical care. Furthermore, there are a big number of Sri Lankans working in Seychelles, primarily in the hotel and construction industries, who all want quicker access to their home country. Our nonstop flight is approximately 4 hours. To raise awareness among Seychellois travellers about Sri Lanka as a tourist destination, the Sri Lankan Tourism Board will organise a familiarisation tour for Seychelles trade and media partners, as well as to develop the respective bilateral and business partnerships between both islands. In the evening, a travel trade event and dinner reception were hosted in collaboration with Tourism Seychelles, which included top travel agencies from Sri Lanka, South Africa, and the Seychelles, as well as representatives and owners from the country’s hospitality and medical industries. This created an ideal setting for networking and forming new relationships to support the new service. The Chief Executive Officer also took the opportunity while in Colombo to officially launch the Air Seychelles Office in downtown Colombo, with Mr. Robert Douglas, the newly appointed GSA for Sri Lanka. The office will be open six days a week and is located at 377A/1 Galle Road, Colombo 3. Air Seychelles will operate twice-weekly flights to Colombo, departing on Tuesdays and Saturdays and returning on Wednesdays and Sundays. This follows the signing of a charter agreement on behalf of the National Sports Council on 24 July 2023 by Captain Sandy Benoiton, Chief Executive Officer of Air Seychelles, and Principal Secretary, Mr. Ralph Jean-Louis. Over the course of two days, three chartered flights took a total of 477 participants and officials, including the President of the Republic, Mr. Wavel Ramkalawan, First Lady, Mrs. Linda Ramkalawan, and Minister for Youth, Sports and Family, Mrs. Marie-Celine Zialorn to the games. The Indian Ocean Island Games are a multi-sport tournament conducted every four years for athletes from the Indian Ocean Islands, in which Seychelles will compete in 15 of 19 sports. Air Seychelles brought the team back home from Madagascar on 4, 5 and 6 September 2023.
Inside Air Seychelles HANDING OVER SENSORY ROOM On Friday 14 July 2023, members of the Air Seychelles Tourism Club handed over the keys to a sensory room they had put together to the Headteacher, Mrs. Heidi Francourt, in a brief ceremony at the School for the Exceptional Child. The event was held to commemorate the first anniversary of the school’s adoption by the national airline as part of the Tourism Department’s Lospitalite Lafyerte Sesel initiative. The sensory room’s aim is to provide a therapeutic environment for children with autism and other special needs, with a variety of equipment that may be utilised to develop a number of physical and cognitive skills. Students who have behaviour difficulties will also benefit from the calm environment. The Air Seychelles choir performed a vibrant performance and a wonderful song of appreciation from the school. Captain Sandy Benoiton, Chief Executive Officer of Air Seychelles and Mrs. Francourt officially opened the room after cutting the specially crafted ribbon made by the school’s more artsy students. This donation was made possible partly through funds raised by the airline’s staff at the recent fundraising bazaar organised by Air Seychelles for the school on 7 July, but also with the assistance of some partners such as WePrint, SmartLiving, NeuroSey, and Woodworks Unlimited, as well as through the airline’s staff’s volunteerism. AIR SEYCHELLES ACHIEVES A PROFIT Air Seychelles, the national carrier of the Republic of Seychelles announces a profit of USD 8.4 million for the year 2022. This was Air Seychelles’ first profitable year since 2016, when it posted a small profit of USD 425,000. After posting a loss of USD 22.7 million in 2021 and beginning the year 2022 with a negative net asset position of USD 100.6 million, Air Seychelles saw an exceptional recovery in 2022. Prior to the start of 2022, the airline faced the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, which included the shutting down of important routes and a reduction in revenue streams. Air Seychelles paid the agreed settlement of USD 28.16 million payable to Bondholders in May 2022 through the company reorganisation (administration) process. This payment was made with the help of a USD 16.5 million bank loan from Nouvobanq and USD 11.7 million from Air Seychelles’ cash reserves. This marked an incredible achievement 2 0 2 3 o c t o b e r - d e c e m b e r / S i l h o u e t t e / 6 7 as it closed the chapter on the USD 71.5 million debt burden that the company had been carrying since 2015/16. Air Seychelles successfully exited the company reorganisation in November 2022, ending the year with a USD 19 million positive net asset position. This is a USD 104 million improvement from its negative USD 85 million net asset position at the outset of the company reorganisation process. This remarkable restructuring success was backed up by a significant improvement in the company’s operational and ongoing financial performance. Overall revenue had returned to 93% of 2019 levels for the year, and in the fourth quarter of 2022, it had even surpassed 2019 levels. The international jet aircraft fleet was nearly entirely utilised by the company, with one aircraft dedicated to ACMI activities and the other operating commercial scheduled flight operations. With borders reopened, scheduled flights to Johannesburg, Tel Aviv, Mauritius and Mumbai were resumed, with a seasonal Almaty operation launched in December. By the end of 2022, the company had achieved an overall profit of USD 119.6 million and a profit of USD 8.4 million after removing debt write-off advantages from debt discounts during the company reorganisation process. This profit enabled Air Seychelles to make repayments on its debt obligations. The Board of Directors and the CEO would like to thank all of its employees, the Government of Seychelles, the administrators, the creditors, its legal counsels, and the general public for their contributions and support in achieving one of the greatest positive turnarounds in Air Seychelles’ history.
The best way to Island hop Book your ticket on airseychelles.com or download our app Make the most of your holiday with a trip to Praslin. On the short 15 minutes flight from Mahé, you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Seychelles beautiful inner islands. With over 20 daily departures, getting there and back has never been easier. Charter services are also available.
India Capital: New Delhi Languages: Hindi, English Currency: Indian Rupee Area: 3,287,590 km2 Population: 1,263,830,000 Air Seychelles destination: Mumbai Bird Group Ltd 204, 2nd Floor A Wing Kanakia Wall Street 400093 Mumbai Tel: +91 959 4013686 Email: [email protected] [email protected] Israel Capital: Jerusalem Language: Hebrew Currency: Israel Shekel Area: 20,770 km2 Population: 9,085,610 Air Seychelles destination: Tel Aviv AIRLINES GSA 3 Gilboa St Airport City 7019900 Tel Aviv Tel: +972 3 5160598 Email: [email protected] Maldives Capital: Malé Languages: Dhivehi, English Currency: Maldivian rufiyaa Area: 300 km2 Population: 579,330 Air Seychelles destination: Malé Universal Travel Services Pvt Ltd 39 Orchid Magu PO Box 2015 Malé 20-02 Republic of Maldives Tel: +960 3332231 Email: [email protected] Mauritius Capital: Port Louis Languages: French, English, Creole Currency: Rupees Area: 2,040 km2 Population: 1,243,000 Air Seychelles destination: Port Louis Rogers Aviation (Mauritius) Ltd The Gardens Bagatelle Office Park Moka, Mauritius Tel: +230 2026697 Email: [email protected] Seychelles Capital: Victoria Languages: Seychellois Creole, English Currency: Seychelles Rupee Area: 456 km2 Population: 95,235 Air Seychelles destination: Mahé & Praslin Air Seychelles Ltd Seychelles International Airport PO Box 386 Mahé Tel: +248 4391000 Email: [email protected] South Africa Capital: Pretoria Languages: English, Afrikaans (11 official languages) Currency: South African Rand Area: 1,221,037 km2 Population: 45,919,000 Air Seychelles destination: Johannesburg Rogers Aviation 3A Riley Rd, Building 11 Bedfordview Office Park, Bedfordview Johannesburg Tel: +27 11 326 4440 Email: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Sri Lanka Capital: Colombo Languages: Sinhala, Tamil Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee Area: 456 km2 Population: 22.16 million Air Seychelles destination: Colombo Air Park (Pvt) Ltd 377A/1 Galle Road, Colombo 03 Sri Lanka Tel: +94 (0) 11 237 2870 Email: [email protected] Air Seychelles global offices Inside Air Seychelles 2 0 2 3 O C T O B E R - D E C E M B E R / S i l h o u e t t e / 7 1
72/Silhouette/october-december 2023 Airport Seychelles International Airport is the main airport on the main island of Mahé. There are two terminals for International and Domestic. Information There is a tourist information/ hotel booking desk in Arrivals. There are ATMs, a Bank and a Bureau de Change at the airport. Time Seychelles is four hours ahead of GMT and three hours ahead of Central European Time. Electric supply The power sockets are of type G. The standard voltage is 240V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. Language Creole, English and French are the official languages of the Seychelles. Important Information These simple exercises will help to relieve the tiredness and stiffness associated with flying. Check with your doctor first if you have any health conditions which might be adversely affected by exercise. Place the pillow at the hollow of your back. Sit tall in your seat to avoid compressing your spine. Do not cross your legs. Instead, try to sit with your weight evenly balanced. Sit up straight Sit tall in your seat, and place the pillow under your thigh, just above the knee. Keep your weight even as you circle your foot around, keeping the whole foot as still as possible. Ankle circles Sit tall and move forward in your seat. Bring your shoulders up towards your ears, then circle back downwards. Reverse the exercise by lifting your shoulders towards your ears and drop them back. Shoulder circles Sit back in your seat and flatten the headrest. Gently and slowly roll your neck to one side, then back through the centre towards the other side. Try keeping the back of your neck extended. Neck rolls t le e r es iques nge à e. s n ale nt, tre es sont s edi ndi eduTANT EXERCISE / EXERCICE These simple exercises will help to relieve the tiredness and stiffness associated with flying. Ces exercices simples vous aideront à de soulager la fatigue et la raideur associé à Ying fl. Place the pillow at the hollow of your back. Sit tall in your seat to avoid compressing your spine. Do not cross your legs. Instead, try to sit with your weight evenly balanced. SIT UP STRAIGHT Sit tall in your seat, and place the pillow under your thigh, just above the knee. Keep your weight even as you circle your foot around, keeping the whole foot as still as possible. ANKLE CIRCLES Placez l’oreiller au creux de votre dos. Assoyez-vous dans votre siège pour éviter de comprimer votre colonne vertébrale. Ne croisez pas vos jambes. Au lieu de cela, essayez de vous asseoir avec votre poids équilibré uniformément. SE REDRESSER Assoyez-vous dans votre siège, et placez le coussin sous votre cuisse, juste au-dessus du genou. Gardez votre poids même si vous entourez votre pied autour, en gardant l’ensemble du pied aussi immobile que possible. CERCLES DE LA CHEVILLE ps / Astuces de Voyage ] est le pale our ns des matiques hange à s Time. t les es. a tion ionale ndant, oit être t. Les ge sont t les és. ndredi lundi fête du ration our ur de gue re), embre), PORT s par pour port doit jour dans le laire. es litéduORTANT EXERCISE / EXERCICE These simple exercises will help to relieve the tiredness and stiffness associated with flying. Ces exercices simples vous aideront à de soulager la fatigue et la raideur associé à Ying fl. Place the pillow at the hollow of your back. Sit tall in your seat to avoid compressing your spine. Do not cross your legs. Instead, try to sit with your weight evenly balanced. SIT UP STRAIGHT Sit tall in your seat, and place the pillow under your thigh, just above the knee. Keep your weight even as you circle your foot around, keeping the whole foot as still as possible. ANKLE CIRCLES Placez l’oreiller au creux de votre dos. Assoyez-vous dans votre siège pour éviter de comprimer votre colonne vertébrale. Ne croisez pas vos jambes. Au lieu de cela, essayez de vous asseoir avec votre poids équilibré uniformément. SE REDRESSER Sit tall and move forward in your seat. Bring your shoulders up towards your ears, then circle back downwards. Reverse the exercise by lifting your shoulders towards your ears and drop them back. SHOULDER CIRCLES CERCLES ÉPAULETTES Assoyez-vous dans votre siège, et placez le coussin sous votre cuisse, juste au-dessus du genou. Gardez votre poids même si vous entourez votre pied autour, en gardant l’ensemble du pied aussi immobile que possible. CERCLES DE LA CHEVILLE Sit back in your seat and flatten the headrest. Gently and slowly roll your neck to one side, then back through the centre towards the other side. Try keeping the back of your neck extended. NECK ROLLS COU ROLLS Tips / Astuces de Voyage ] Currency The Seychelles Rupee. There is no restriction on the import and export of domestic and foreign currency in the country. However, anything over SCR 50,000 or foreign currency equivalent in any form should be declared on arrival or departure. Banks and Bureaux de Change are authorised dealers in foreign currency. Credit cards Most credit cards and travellers’ cheques are accepted. Banking Banking hours are generally Monday-Friday 0830hrs-1430hrs. Public holidays 2023 • New Year 1 Jan Holiday 2 & 3 Jan • Good Friday 7 April • Easter Sunday 9 April • Easter Monday 10 April • Labour Day 1 May • Corpus Christi 8 June • Constitution Day 18 June Holiday 19 June • National Day 29 June • Assumption Day 15 Aug • All Saints Day 1 Nov • Immaculate Conception 8 Dec • Christmas Day 25 Dec Passport requirement Valid passports or other travel documents recognised by Seychelles are required for entry into Seychelles. The passport MUST be valid for the period of the intended stay. Visa requirement Visa is not required for entry into the Republic of Seychelles regardless of the nationality of the passport holder. A copy of valid return ticket and proof of confirmed accomodation is required. www.ics.gov.sc Ground transport Driving in Seychelles is on the left side of the road. You can rent cars on Mahé and Praslin. There are several car hire counters outside the arrivals hall at Mahé International Airport. Taxi service Taxi service is safe and reliable and you can get one from the International Airport or call for one from your hotel. Tourist information office The Seychelles Tourist Office is located in Independence House, Victoria, Mahé. Seychelles is welcoming visitors from across the globe, irrespective of their vaccination status. PCR test is no longer required for visitors to the Seychelles. Although no visa is required for entry into Seychelles, all visitors must complete the mandatory Seychelles Travel Authorisation (STA) at seychelles.govtas.com prior to arriving at the airport. The STA document is essential for travel and will be required at check-in counters. Visitors failing to provide the approved STA document will not be allowed to board for Seychelles. Valid travel and health insurance cover is required for potential COVID-19 related costs. Visitors may be subject to routine health screening on arrival. Note: All individuals arriving in Seychelles are advised to report any symptoms they develop, that may be associated with COVID-19 to their nearest health centre. Travel Facts
TO THE ISLAND IN ALL OF US DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE THIS CONTENT IS NOT TO BE SHARED TO INDIVIDUALS BELOW THE AGE OF 18 YEARS DRINK RESPONSIBLY NOT FOR SALE TO PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 18 EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF THE ISLAND LOCAL, AWARD WINNING BEER INFUSED WITH THE SPONTANEOUS NATURE OF OUR PEOPLE