Firstly I would like to start with saying that Seychelles is lovely.
The hotel coco Der mer is nice, however, it definitely lacks that 5 star experience. The rooms are a good size and the air conditions works a treat in the hot heat. We had our 1 year old daughter in our room and the hotel provided a cot, with a pillow and blanket. The staff were great with our daughter. The resort is quite steep so its possible that if you have a Buggy you're going to be carrying it up and down concrete stairs. Its not really pram friendly as there is a lot of stairs within the entire resort, however, I guess this is the way the Seychelles is built? What lets the room down is how clean it is. The sinks look to be blocked so water drains slow, we also found multiple hairs in places such as in the shower and near the toilet. But the worst thing we saw was a dirty cotton ear bud behind the one of the 2 sinks in the bathroom, which is very disgusting. Views from the room are great and general equipment like a hairdryer, safe and tv are provided.
The resort itself is good, but lacks a few things. Firstly we wanted snorkels and masks, but the resort only had masks, which were quite old and we had to pay for these, there was often sand in the pools and the kids pool wasn't great. If it was raining on the evening the sunbed and chair mats were not taken in and as a result were often damp the following day, which again, isn't comfortable if you're trying to stay dry. There is a podium that comes off the resort where an infinity pool sits and its VERY good. Great views, its kept somewhat tidy and you don't have to fight for a space as you'll get a spot on it. There is nice breeze so it was great to have our child on given how hot it was, shade is also provided. Its important to keep and eye on them though as it could be easy for them to slip and fall. Its disappointing that you're not allowed food on the podium as wait times for food were very long. 45mins/1 hour for our meals, I'd rather be sat by the pool then in the restaurant. Especially with a curious 1 year old.
Most staff were good and very accommodating and few staff memebers did just not care or felt like they didn't care and this is unfortunate as I will remember the negative Experiences with staff, travelling so far (from the UK) the attitude towards guests with 1 or 2 staff memebers was very poor - they'll know who they are.
The food is ok. just ok. Its nothing better than what we have in the UK and it is quite expensive, I can understand why it is expensive as everything is imported, but in regards to what is on offer I just expected more flavours and varieties. The drinks are good and as you would expect - again a little pricey, but its understandable. The breakfast is good, however it does miss a few things which I'm surprised about, almost every day we was there, we had no bananas. The bread was quite stale and the eggs didn't taste too great. The quality of food was that of a 3 star hotel in the UK. The general selection is good though, but after a week you'd probably get bored.
The buffet is good, lots of variety, but is quite expensive. we did try the lobster, which was amazing! This helps make up for the average breakfast.
Overall, its a good hotel and I would give it a 3.7 / 5. For what you pay in relation to Seychelles prices, I think its quite good. I would recommend someone to stay here. However, the hotel could definitely be improved...
Read moreBooked a late deal here and had an excellent stay for a week. The hotel is located a short ride from the ferry or local airport (we flew seycheles air) along a quiet road, some would consider this to be isolated but Praslin is a sleepy island so that's not an issue. We had upgraded to the Black Parrot and had a comfortable room with sea view. The room was pleasant and regularly serviced, wifi worked well considering your in the middle of an ocean. We had use of the more upstairs private pool with bar although you could use the other pool or sea water infinity pool situated on the ship like pier.Felt we had our own private barmaid as it was generally quiet. Water-sports are also provided for the more adventurous. Going in July we expected mixed weather and apart from an odd rain shower and a breeze it was pleasantly warm. You could swim from the beach at the hotel, other island beaches you might need to be aware of strong waves but those we visited were good. Seaweed does wash up but there is still plenty of space, the staff cleaned it away in the morning. From our arrival the staff were the most friendly we've encountered at any hotel, everybody smiled and was happy to talk to you. A welcome drink and cold towel whilst they checked you in and delivered your luggage. I played golf and they booked me a tee, arranged car hire with the local Creole rep, cheaper in Praslin than booking ahead (odd). You probably need a car for a couple of days unless your eating out or beach hopping to see the island. There is a local island bus service from outside the hotel. Stayed half board buffet breakfast and evening meal. Both buffets were excellent with a multitude of choice. The evening buffet had local creole food as well as more traditional choices. Plenty of fish dishes, curries rice, vegetables etc. Chef did starter and main specials and everyday the choice was different. Breakfast was also the same, choice of English fare and creole curry etc, eggs cooked to order, plenty of fruit and cereals. No chance of going hungry. Drink prices quite reasonable, only local beer, extensive cocktail menu again reasonable. The waiters and chefs were brilliant, quick to help, happy to explain what the dishes were took time to talk, tell you where they were from and other stuff which makes it pleasant. Visited La Digue, short ferry trip bit too touristy for us, mad people on bikes an poseurs on the beach. Valley de Mai is worth a trip to see the coco de mer trees and their giant seeds. Paid extra for the guided tour (1000R) but felt this worth the money. Praslin has few tourist type shops, not a lot of choice for souvenirs. There are plenty of small stores and a clothes shop past the airport, a liquor store and a souvenir shop for T shirts etc. Nice golf course, not cheap but worth a round. We had an excellent stay so happy to recommend the Coco de Mer for a quiet...
Read moreCoco de Mer and Black Parrot Suites hotel is situated on Praslin Island, a short drive away from major urban areas, and with limited nearby shops or amenities. It's advisable to be prepared for this if you plan to venture outside the hotel.
The surroundings are peaceful, and nature is in close proximity. Adjacent to the hotel is a small mountain, and the hotel offers complimentary guided tours a few times a week. We highly recommend participating; the guide is friendly and incredibly knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna. If you decide to join the tour, make sure to bring plenty of water, as it can be a sweaty experience!
The hotel's pricing is reasonably good, and dining at the restaurant is affordable—a pleasant surprise.
Upon our early morning arrival, Ahmed welcomed us and provided information about the hotel and its services. We also received welcome drinks and refreshing towels. After about an hour of waiting, we were given our room ahead of the official check-in time, which was fantastic.
Our room, a Black Parrot Suites room, had a good view and was clean. Our luggage was brought to the room promptly. While the room wasn't the newest, it was entirely satisfactory. We were introduced to our room, and all the functions and essentials were explained. The only drawback was the bathroom's ceiling fan grilles, through which a gecko entered. Unfortunately, the gecko died soon after we noticed it, apparently caught in the fan blade. The air conditioning lacked a clear "night mode" with a lower fan speed for the nighttime, which would have been beneficial.
The service at the hotel is excellent; the staff is always ready to assist, clearly aiming to ensure a successful vacation. Special thanks to Ahmed, who took care of many things for us. Taisha from Black Parrot deserves special praise; her helpfulness and friendliness, along with engaging conversations about Seychelles and its culture, left a lasting impression. My wife was particularly grateful for Taisha's assistance with sunburn relief. By the pool, Taisha was always around to help us and other guests.
In the restaurant, we consistently received excellent service, and the staff, notably Babar, was always cheerful and ready to serve. The food was delicious with a good variety, and the drinks were reasonably priced, boasting an extensive beverage menu. Breakfast was satisfying, catering to everyone's preferences.
Overall, we wholeheartedly recommend this hotel. It embodies the spirit of Seychelles—a relaxed and friendly atmosphere that makes your vacation unforgettable. The hotel is tranquil and unhurried, precisely what you seek on a vacation. The level of service is excellent. The hotel also organizes practically all the tours and services you might need, making it easy to relax and avoid unnecessary concerns during...
Read more