Let's face it. The internet is relentless. Between the constant barrage of emails, the never-ending scroll, and the pressure to curate the perfect online life, sometimes you just need to hit the eject button. That's exactly what I did when I escaped for a digital detox to the Seychelles, a jewel-toned archipelago nestled in the Indian Ocean.
The Seychelles isn't your typical beach vacation. Sure, there are stretches of sand so white they practically glow under the relentless sun and turquoise waters that shimmer like liquid emeralds. But beyond the postcard perfection lies a sense of serenity - an almost tangible peace that washes over you like the warm waves lapping at the shore.
My haven within this haven was the Waldorf Astoria Platte Island. Accessible only by a short plane ride, this private island resort is where luxury meets barefoot chic. Think thatched-roof villas nestled amongst lush greenery, private infinity pools overlooking the endless horizon, and a palpable sense of seclusion that allows you to truly disconnect and reconnect - with yourself and the breathtaking natural world.
But enough about the stunning scenery (although trust me, it deserves its own sonnet). Let's delve into the heart of this paradise: the food and beverage scene at Waldorf Astoria Platte Island. Because let's be honest, a digital detox is all well and good, but one can't live on serenity alone (especially not a jaded food writer like myself).
Gone are the days of generic buffets and predictable resort fare. Platte Island boasts six distinct restaurants and bars, each with its own unique personality and culinary focus. It's like having a Michelin-starred food court at your beck and call, minus the pretentiousness.
My mornings began at La Perle, a vibrant Mediterranean brasserie overlooking the turquoise expanse. Sunlight streamed through the open-air space as I savoured fresh-squeezed juices and perfectly cooked omelettes, the gentle clatter of cutlery providing the only soundtrack. This is the kind of breakfast that sets the tone for a day of blissful relaxation.
La Perle
Noontime was a delightful dance between poolside indulgence and culinary exploration. Torti, with its light and airy pavilion, was my go-to for casual fare - think fresh sushi rolls and poke bowls brimming with vibrant colours that disappeared faster than you can say "hangry." But for a taste of adventure, Moulin beckoned. It's the resort's signature restaurant, where the magic of "garden-to-table" truly comes alive. Here, Chef de Cuisine creates a daily five-course tasting menu that showcases the island's bounty-like living art. Each dish was a revelation, a marriage of seasonal ingredients.
Moulin
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the sky in a fiery palette of oranges and pinks, the resort came alive with a different kind of energy. I decided to start my evening with a pre-dinner cocktail at Lalin. This dream-like champagne bar, suspended between Heaven and Earth, is a sensory experience unlike any other. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the sky in a fiery palette of oranges and pinks, Lalin's ethereal ambience and the gentle lapping of waves created the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable cocktail. I sipped on a glass of bubbly while taking in the breathtaking views, feeling transported to a world of pure enchantment.
Lalin
Afterwards, I made my way to Mason Des Epices, the resort's Creole-Latin fusion restaurant, a culinary adventure waiting to be unravelled. The air was thick with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling platters of jerk-marinated seafood, their spices dancing on the breeze. I couldn't resist indulging in a fiery curry, its tangy flavours a delightful contrast to the creamy coconut milk. And let's not forget the vibrant salads, bursting with tropical fruits and fresh herbs, a symphony of colours and textures that delighted my senses. The atmosphere was electric, with live music setting the mood and a contagious energy that kept the room buzzing. It was a feast for both the palate and the soul, a night I'll never forget.
Mason Des Epices
Mason Des Epices
By the end of my stay, I wasn't just disconnected from the digital world, I was truly rejuvenated. So, the next time you find yourself scrolling endlessly through your social media feed, remember: there's a world of wonder waiting for you beyond the screen. And if you're lucky enough to find yourself on a tropical island like Platte Island, don't forget to indulge in the delicious food. Because after all, life is too short for boring meals.
About Shubham BhatnagarYou can often find Shubham at a small authentic Chinese or Italian restaurant sampling exotic foods and sipping a glass of wine, but he will wolf down a plate of piping hot samosas with equal gusto. However, his love for homemade food trumps all.