let’s face it. The internet is relentless. Between the constant barrage of emails, the never-ending scrolling and the pressure of organizing an entire 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 gem-rich archipelago located in the Indian Ocean.
Seychelles is not your typical beach holiday. Sure, there are stretches of sand so white they practically glow under the constant sun and turquoise waters that sparkle like liquid emeralds. But beyond the postcard perfection lies a sense of peace – an almost tangible peace that washes over you like warm waves on the shore.
My haven within this haven was the Waldorf Astoria Platte Island. Reachable only by a short plane ride, this private island resort is where luxury meets barefoot chic. Think thatched-roof villas amidst lush greenery, private infinity pools overlooking the infinite horizon, and a palpable sense of solitude that allows you to truly disconnect and reconnect with yourself and the breathtaking natural world. Allows.
But enough about the stunning views (although trust me, it deserves its own sonnet). Let’s get to the heart of this paradise: the food and drink scene at the Waldorf Astoria Platte Island. Because let’s be honest, a digital detox is all well and good, but no one can live in peace alone (especially not a tired food writer like me).
Gone are the days of typical buffets and predictable resort fare. Platte Island features six different restaurants and bars, each with its own unique personality and culinary focus. It’s like having the Michelin-starred food court you want, without the pretentiousness.
My morning started at La Perle, a lively Mediterranean brasserie overlooking the turquoise expanse. As I savored the freshly squeezed juice and perfectly cooked omelette, sunlight streamed in through the open air, the faint sound of cutlery providing the only soundtrack. This is the kind of breakfast that sets the tone for a day of blissful relaxation.
la perle
The afternoon was a blissful dance between poolside indulgence and culinary exploration. Torti, with its light and airy pavilion, was my favorite for casual dining – think fresh sushi rolls and poke bowls filled with vibrant colors that disappeared faster than you could say “hangry.” But for a taste for adventure, Moulin beckoned. This is the resort’s signature restaurant, where the magic of “garden-to-table” truly comes alive. Here, the chef de cuisine creates a daily five-course tasting menu that showcases the island’s eclectic-like living art. Each dish was a revelation, a fusion of seasonal ingredients.
moulin
As the sun dipped below the horizon, lighting up the sky in orange and pink hues, 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, lighting the sky ablaze with orange and pink, the ethereal atmosphere of Lalín and the gentle lapping of the waves created the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable cocktail. I sipped a glass of bubbly while enjoying the breathtaking views, and felt like I had been transported to a world of pure magic.
Lalin
Afterwards, I headed to the resort’s Creole-Latin fusion restaurant, Maison des Epices, where a culinary adventure was waiting to begin. The air was thick with the tantalizing aroma of hot platters of marinated seafood, their spices dancing in the air. I couldn’t resist enjoying the spicy curry, its spicy flavor was a delightful contrast to the creamy coconut milk. And let’s not forget the vibrant salads, brimming with tropical fruits and fresh herbs, a symphony of colors and textures that delighted my senses. The atmosphere was electric, live music set the mood and there was an infectious energy that kept the room buzzing. It was a feast for both the palate and the soul, a night I will never forget.
maison des epices
maison des epices
By the end of my stay, I was not only disconnected from the digital world, I was genuinely refreshed. So, the next time you find yourself endlessly scrolling 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 enjoy delicious food. Because after all, life is too short for boring food.
