The main attraction on Praslin (prounounced, Pra-lin) is the Vallee de Mai, a UNESCO World Heritage site that's home to the endemic coco-de-mer palms that produce the world's largest nuts—they can weigh as much as 40 lb/18 kg.
The nuts got their name—sea coconut—hundreds of years ago when they washed up on the shores of Africa and Asia. When its outer shell is removed, the nut looks amazingly like a woman's pelvis, both fore and aft, which explains the nut's status as a collector's item. (The "male" part of the tree looks appropriately male, leading to predictable iconography to signify ladies' and men's restrooms.)
Located 30 mi/50 km northeast of Mahe, Praslin is also home to some of the world's rarest birds, such as the black parrot, fruit pigeon and Seychelles bulbul. Take the self-guided walking trail to tour the Vallee de Mai in the south-central part of the island, allowing at least two hours for the stroll—it can take a full half-day if you walk every trail.
The island's best beach, exquisite Anse Lazio, is picture-perfect—worth the hilly walk to reach it.
Cruise ships dock at Praslin but so far have not managed to spoil the island's tranquil charm. There is a casino in Cote d'Or. There's a good selection of small hotels, guesthouses and self-catering apartments on Praslin, but luxury hotels are present as well, including one built around an 18-hole Marc Farry golf course.
The airport at Amitie was built in Creole style with palms, sculptures and water features. A fast catamaran service keeps the journey time from Mahe to approximately one hour. A regular schooner service plies to La Digue.
The people on Praslin are friendly, and the slow pace of life is appealing. A stay of at least three nights.
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