The islands lie outside the cyclone belt but receive monsoon rains from November to February with the northwest trade winds. This hot and humid season gives way to a period of cooler weather, though the temperature rarely falls below 23°C, and rougher seas when the trade winds blow from the southeast (May to September).

Temperatures are relatively stable throughout the year. Through the winter months of July and August, average highs hover around 82 degrees Fahrenheit. April generally brings highs around 87. Although the mercury can soar well into the 90s, temperatures haven't reached the triple digits in the last 20 years.

Lows are usually around 76 in the winter months and 79 through summer. Relative humidity remains high year round, averaging around 85 percent during the morning hours and 75 percent by afternoon.

Rainfall is frequent here. These islands get about 92 inches on the average. That's twice the amount of most cities in the Eastern U.S. Mahé and Silhouette have the most rainfall. June through August get three to four inches per month, with an average of seven to nine days of wet weather. December and January are the wettest, with 13 to 15 inches and 15 days of rain each month.

The weather threat to the islands comes in the form of monsoon seasons. There are two: The southeast monsoon, from May through October, and the northwest monsoon, which spans November through April. Drought can also be a concern.

The best month to visit this island paradise is April, which is generally dry and pleasant. July through September offer pleasant weather as well, but strong winds can make beaches and water sports unfriendly. December and January are the rainiest months.

The only town in this country is Mahé's capital city of Victoria. The courthouse and main post office date back to colonial times, but after being rebuilt over the last 20 years, the rest of the area has a more modern look.

While you're here, visit the Natural History Museum and the Seychelles People's United Party Museum.

Try Silhouette Island for mystical beauty. This island of granite boasts three magical peaks and many mysterious caves. Its beaches are a protected reef ready for exploration by curious snorkelers.

Beau Vallon is one of the largest and most popular beaches on Mahé. For a quieter experience, try Île Souris or Anse Soleil.

Although the island of Moyenne is only accessible by tour, it offers superior snorkeling. It's known for buried treasure and ghosts, and it is here where you'll find the House of Dogs, a house built at the turn of the century as a home for stray dogs.

The single major non-religious festival is Festival Kreol, devoted to preserving Creole culture. Held every year around the end of October, this week-long celebration is an explosion of Creole cuisine, fashion, art, music and dance. Exotic fish are just a splash away.