Bahamas vs Seychelles : which one should you pick?

The Bahamas and Seychelles are two of the most beautiful and exotic outdoor destinations in the world. Both countries have gained immense popularity among tourists who seek to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of pristine beaches, crystal clear waters and lush tropical rainforests. But what sets these two destinations apart from each other? We will compare and contrast the unique characteristics, geographic locations, and cultural aspects of Bahamas and Seychelles, giving you a comprehensive guide that will help you decide which of the two destinations is perfect for your next vacation. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into this exciting journey to explore the many wonders of these two island paradises.

What is the best time to visit? Seychelles vs Bahamas

Best time to visit the Seychelles

Seychelles, located just a few degrees south of the Equator, is blessed with a year-round sunny climate. However, the best time to visit Seychelles is during the shoulder seasons of April, May, October, and November. These months offer a perfect balance of warm and dry weather, making them ideal for exploring the beautiful and pristine beaches of Seychelles. During these periods, the sea is calm, making it perfect for water activities such as diving, snorkelling, and sailing. Additionally, these months are also less populated with tourists, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty of Seychelles in peace. It’s also the best time for wildlife enthusiasts to witness the hatching of giant tortoise eggs, as well as the breeding season of various bird species.

Best time to visit the Bahamas

The Bahamas is one of the most desirable tourist destinations in the world, and for a good reason. This Caribbean archipelago is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, tropical landscapes, and crystal clear waters that create a perfect setting for a relaxing holiday. The best time to visit the Bahamas is undoubtedly between November and April, when the temperatures are mild, and the waters are calm. During this period, the rainy season comes to an end, and the hurricane risk lowers significantly, which means that you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about severe weather disruptions. Additionally, the peak tourist season is between December and March, making it an ideal time to soak in the sun and indulge in water sports activities without crowds.

WI verdict: Seychelles and Bahamas are perfectly complementary

The verdict given by WI highlights the perfect complementarity between Seychelles and Bahamas. These two countries have much in common, particularly with regards to their impressive marine ecosystems. Seychelles boasts of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, along with its famous giant tortoises and bird sanctuaries.

The Bahamas, on the other hand, has an immense archipelago, encompassing over 700 islands and cays, which are home to a wide range of marine life and beautiful beaches. Both Seychelles and Bahamas have taken concrete steps towards the conservation of their marine heritage. Seychelles is a leader in marine protected areas, with almost 30% of its waters already being protected, and is working towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14 on marine conservation. The Bahamas, on the other hand, has set up marine parks and sanctuaries, and has created regulations on fishing and boating in sensitive areas.

Bahamas vs Seychelles: location and access

Bahamas is easily accessed from the US and the rest of America

The stunning archipelago of the Bahamas is incredibly accessible from the United States and other parts of the Americas. Located just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, the Bahamas is an easily reached Caribbean destination that has been a popular vacation hotspot for many years. With year-round direct flights from major cities, such as Miami, New York, and Atlanta, the Bahamas is an ideal location for a quick getaway or extended vacation. Furthermore, visitors from any country can enter the Bahamas without a visa, provided they have a passport valid for at least six months from their date of arrival. Upon arrival, you can enjoy world-class resorts, beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an array of outdoor activities that will provide for an unforgettable Caribbean holiday experience.

The Seychelles are very remote in the Indian Ocean

The Seychelles is an archipelago consisting of 115 islands located in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa. It is situated about 1,500 kilometres to the east of Kenya and Tanzania. Despite being a popular tourist destination, the Seychelles is still considered very remote due to its geographic isolation. These stunning islands have been isolated for millions of years, which has resulted in a unique blend of flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth. The Seychelles is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Anse Source d’Argent, which has been described as the most photographed beach in the world. Moreover, the Seychelles is characterized by crystal clear waters, coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life. The remoteness of the Seychelles has allowed it to maintain its pristine natural environment, attracting nature lovers and adventure-seekers from all over the world.

Flights from the US and Europe to the Seychelles are serviced by the Seychelles International Airport (SEZ), which is located on the northeast coast of the main island of Mahe. From the US, flights typically transit through destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha, with airlines such as Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways offering convenient connections. From Europe, airlines such as British Airways, Air France and Lufthansa provide regular direct flights to the Seychelles, while other carriers like Turkish Airlines and Ethiopian Airlines offer alternative options for travellers.

WI verdict: Bahamas is a clear winner

When it comes to comparing Seychelles and Bahamas, it’s clear that Bahamas is the superior choice. While both destinations offer beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, Bahamas offers much more in terms of variety and cultural experiences. For example, its capital city of Nassau boasts vibrant street art, a bustling straw market, and an array of historical landmarks such as the Queen’s Staircase. Additionally, the Bahamas is known for its rich musical heritage, particularly in the Junkanoo festival, which celebrates the country’s African roots and is a lively and colourful event that takes place every Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Seychelles, on the other hand, while stunning, is somewhat more limited in terms of activities and cultural experiences.

Spoken in languages in Seychelles vs Bahamas

English and bahamian creole are the most spoken languages in the Bahamas

English and Bahamian Creole are widely spoken in The Bahamas. English is the official language of the country and is spoken by nearly everyone. It is the primary language used in government, education, and business. However, Bahamian Creole is also a popular language spoken by locals. It is a unique language that has evolved over the years with a mixture of African, English, and other Caribbean languages.

English, French and Seychellois Creole are spoken in Seychelles

Seychelles is a multilingual country with several languages spoken by its diverse population. The official languages of Seychelles are English, French and Seychellois Creole, also known as Kreol. English is the main language used in government, education, business and administrative contexts. French is also widely spoken and is commonly used in tourism, trade and communication with neighbouring French-speaking countries. Seychellois Creole is the most widely spoken language amongst the local population and is used in daily communication between Seychellois people. It is a unique language that evolved from a blend of European languages, mainly French and African languages.

Bahamas vs Seychelles: landscapes and beaches

Long white sandy beaches in the Bahamas

The Bahamas is home to some of the most beautiful long white sandy beaches in the world. The pristine beaches are known for their powdered sand, crystal clear waters and abundant sunshine. The beaches are adorned with swaying palm trees and colourful parasols which offer a picturesque view. The waters are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving, with schools of colourful fish and coral reefs. The Bahamas is also famous for its waves and attracts surfers from around the world. The long coastline offers plenty of opportunities for taking long walks, soaking up the sun, or simply enjoying the spectacular sunset views. In addition to their natural beauty, the beaches in the Bahamas offer a range of activities such as beach volleyball, beach football and parasailing.

Here are some of the most beautiful beaches in the Seychelles:

Anse Source d’Argent – Located on La Digue island, Anse Source d’Argent is one of the most photographed beaches in the world. With its strikingly beautiful boulders, crystal-clear waters and soft white sand, it’s no wonder why this beach is so popular.
Beau Vallon – Just north of the capital, Victoria, is the stunning Beau Vallon beach, the most famous beach on Mahe island. With its long stretch of white sand, crystal clear waters, and plenty of activities such as snorkelling, jet skiing, and windsurfing, Beau Vallon is one of the top destinations in Seychelles.
Anse Lazio – Located on the island of Praslin, Anse Lazio is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Seychelles. Surrounded by granite rocks and lush greenery, the beach boasts crystal-clear turquoise water and soft white sand.
Petite Anse – is situated on the island of Mahe and is renowned for its picturesque surroundings, turquoise waters, and white sandy beaches. The beach is surrounded by lush tropical forest and is a perfect spot to unwind and relax.
Intendance Beach – One of the most beautiful beaches in Seychelles, Intendance Beach is situated on the southern coast of Mahe island and is perfect for surfing and swimming. The beach offers stunning views of granite boulders, lush greenery, and azure blue waters.

A true diverse archipelago in the Seychelles

What makes this island nation truly unique is its diverse flora and fauna that have evolved over millions of years in isolation from the rest of the world.

The Seychelles is home to over 250 species of plants and animals that are found nowhere else on earth. These species are known as endemic and have evolved over millions of years in isolation on the islands, resulting in distinctive genetic and physical characteristics. Among them are the Jellyfish Tree, an endangered species that is only found on one island, as well as the Aldabra giant tortoise, the world’s largest tortoise species. In addition, the Seychelles is home to a wide range of endemic bird species, including the Seychelles warbler, the Seychelles magpie robin, and the Seychelles paradise flycatcher.

The presence of these endemic species is a testament to the Seychelles’ importance as a global biodiversity hotspot and underscores the need to protect these fragile ecosystems.

Here are some of the most beautiful beaches in the Bahamas:

Pink Sand Beach, Harbour Island
As its name suggests, this beach boasts a rosy hue that gives the sand a unique and spectacular appearance. The pink hue is due to the broken shells of microscopic marine creatures called foraminifera that mix with the sand, creating a remarkable effect. This beach covers over three miles and is perfect for strolling, sunbathing, and swimming.
Gold Rock Beach, Lucayan National Park
This beach is famous for its clear blue water and white sand dunes. It’s located within the Lucayan National Park and boasts crystal clear waters, making it an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving. The stunning waters and picturesque landscapes of this beach make it a popular filming location for Hollywood movies.
Treasure Cay Beach, Abaco Islands
This beach is frequently ranked as one of the best beaches in the Bahamas due to its picture-perfect scenery. It’s notable for its powdery white sand and crystal clear blue waters, creating a stunningly beautiful contrast. The beach spreads over three and a half miles, providing plenty of spaces for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Tropic of Cancer Beach, Little Exuma Island
This beach is located on a remote island and is named after the latitude line that intersects it. The Tropic of Cancer beach features pure white sand, clear blue waters, and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a must-see spot for tourists who enjoy some peace and quiet. The beach is also home to some unique rock formations that add to its charm and character.
Cabbage Beach, Paradise Island
Cabbage Beach is renowned for its soft, powdery sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s one of the most popular beaches in the Bahamas; located next to the iconic Atlantis resort, it offers excellent amenities for tourists like water sports and beach parties. Although it can get crowded during peak tourist season, it’s still a perfect spot for a day out by the ocean.

WI verdict: Seychelles has more to offer than the Bahamas

After carefully weighing the landscape of both the Seychelles and the Bahamas, our verdict is that the Seychelles has more to offer. The Seychelles, consisting of 115 islands, boasts some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, from lush tropical forests to granite boulders that loom over white sandy beaches. The Bahamas, on the other hand, although it has a beautiful coastline, predominantly consists of flat coral islands. Moreover, the Seychelles are home to a vast array of unique and rare species of flora and fauna, including giant tortoises and the Coco de Mer palm tree, which can only be found here. The Bahamas, on the other hand, lacks such unique biodiversity. In terms of activities, the Seychelles offers unparalleled snorkelling and diving experiences due to its coral reefs and abundant marine life, as well as hiking trails that lead to breathtaking views of the islands. The Bahamas, although also offering similar activities, is overshadowed by the Seychelles’ wealth of options.

Seychelles vs Bahamas Culture

Seychelles culture is closer to Asian culture

Seychelles culture bears a discernible resemblance to that of Asian cultures, particularly those in the Indian subcontinent. The country’s cuisine and traditional clothing, for example, are notably influenced by Asian styles and tastes. Seychellois dishes often include a mix of sharp and tangy spices which are reminiscent of Indian curries, and many of their traditional costumes feature colourful and intricately patterned sarongs, similar to those worn in other parts of Asia. Most of the population is Christian, but there are also significant groups of Hindus and Muslims.

Bahamas culture is a mix of many influences

The Bahamas, a picturesque archipelago nation in the Caribbean, boasts of a rich and diverse culture that has been shaped by a multitude of influences. The country’s cultural heritage is a fascinating fusion of African, European, and native Amerindian traditions that have evolved over centuries. The indigenous culture of the Arawak people was prominent before the arrival of the European explorers, followed by the enslavement of Africans during the colonial era. The influence of these different cultures is reflected in the variety of food, music, dance, art, and religious customs that exist in the Bahamas today. Bahamian music, for instance, is a captivating blend of calypso, reggae, junkanoo, and rake ‘n’ scrape, which has been recognized as one of the UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Similarly, the country’s cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors influenced by African and European cooking, such as conch fritters, guava duff, and johnnycake. The Junkanoo festival, a carnival-like celebration with colorful costumes and rhythmic beats, is a popular event that showcases the country’s vibrant and lively culture.

Seychelles vs Bahamas food

Seychelles food is a blend of French, Chinese and Indian cuisine

What people often overlook is the rich gastronomic culture that the country harbours. Seychellois cuisine is a product of the country’s rich blend of cultures, namely French, Chinese and Indian, which creates a unique culinary experience. For instance, the use of fragrant and bold spices in Indian cuisine has influenced dishes such as the famous curry, which is made with fresh coconut cream and a plethora of spices. Meanwhile, the incorporation of steamed, fried and braised dishes of Cantonese cuisine is visible in the preparation of seafood. Seychellois also love to pair their meals with an exquisite French wine, which highlights their refined taste in wine pairings.

Bahamas food is closer to its Caribbean counterparts

The Bahamas, being situated in the Caribbean region, has a cuisine that is heavily influenced by the culture and culinary traditions of its neighbouring islands. Bahamas food, characterized by its bold and spicy flavours, primarily features seafood as its central ingredient owing to the country’s proximity to the ocean. One of the most iconic dishes of Bahamas’ cuisine is the ‘conch salad’, which is made using raw conch marinated in lime juice, onions, peppers, and tomatoes. Another popular dish is the ‘guava duff’, which is a sweet dessert made with dried guava pulp and served with a warm butter rum sauce.

Activities in the Bahamas vs in the Seychelles

Both the Bahamas and the Seychelles are worldclass diving destinations

The Bahamas and the Seychelles are renowned for being some of the best diving destinations in the world. These picturesque locations boast crystal-clear waters and pristine coral reefs, inviting divers from all over the globe to explore the underwater marvels. The Bahamas, comprising over 700 islands, provide an incredibly diverse range of diving experiences. From exploring the massive Andros Barrier Reef, which extends over 190 miles, to swimming with the sharks in Bimini, there is no shortage of thrilling adventures to be had. The vibrant marine life found in these turquoise waters includes vibrantly coloured fish, stingrays, turtles and the elusive Hammerhead Shark. The Seychelles, a secluded archipelago situated in the Indian Ocean, is home to some of the world’s most exotic marine species. The coral reef formations, which span across various depths, offer divers the opportunity to witness majestic creatures like sea turtles and starfish up close. The country’s many islands harbor a number of stunning dive spots, including Anse Source d’Argent, which is known for its unique rock formations and abundant sea life.

Both the Seychelles and the Bahamas offer a lot of water activities

Both the Seychelles and the Bahamas are renowned for their stunning landscapes and breathtakingly beautiful beaches. But what truly sets them apart from other coastal destinations is the incredible range of water activities on offer. The crystal-clear waters of the Seychelles are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and scuba-diving, with an abundance of colourful underwater flora and fauna just waiting to be discovered. In contrast, the Bahamas is famous for its thrilling water sports, including jet skiing, water skiing and parasailing. With year-round sunshine and warm waters, both destinations offer an unbeatable combination of outdoor adventure and natural beauty, making them ideal vacation spots for those seeking a little excitement and a lot of fun in the sun.

Hiking: a lot more opportunities in the Seychelles

The Seychelles offer an extraordinary hiking experience with stunning landscapes. This archipelago is celebrated for its natural beauty, with miles of pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waterfalls, and rugged terrain covered in lush vegetation. There are many hiking trails scattered throughout the islands, some offering an easy stroll, while others require a bit more experience and fitness. Take for example the Morne Seychellois National Park, located on Mahé island, which offers an abundance of hiking opportunities from short walks to multi-day treks. The park boasts several trails that take hikers through the islands’ dense forests, up steep peaks, and down flowing rivers. Another popular hiking option is the Vallee de Mai Nature Reserve on Praslin island, home to the iconic Coco de Mer palm tree.

Partying in Seychelles vs the Bahamas: a clear win for the Seychelles

Finally, the Seychelles offer a more diverse range of activities beyond partying. Visitors can explore the beautiful beaches, go on hikes in the lush rainforests, and enjoy water sports like scuba diving and snorkelling. Meanwhile, the Bahamas are more limited in their offerings, with partying and beach activities being the primary draws.

Bahamas vs Seychelles: which one is the most kid-friendly?

Bahamas has a lot of kid-friendly resorts and activities

The Bahamas offers a myriad of kid-friendly resorts and activities. If you’re planning a family vacation, you’ll love the various options for kids of all ages. From water parks, to pirate-themed adventures, to exploring natural wonders, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Bahamas with your little ones.

If you’re looking for more adventure, take your kids to Blue Lagoon Island where they can swim with dolphins or go on a snorkeling excursion. For something more educational, visit the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park where kids can explore the diverse marine life and learn about conservation efforts. And for a truly magical experience, head to the Lucayan National Park on Grand Bahama Island where kids can walk through the world’s longest underground cave system and see stunning blue holes and crystal-clear waters.

Seychelles is a quieter destination perfect for family time

Seychelles is an ideal vacation spot for families seeking tranquility and relaxation amidst nature’s pristine beauty. The archipelago’s serene beaches offer a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, and family-friendly activities abound. The white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, colourful marine life, and lush tropical forests are just some of the picturesque sights that Seychelles has in store for families. Families can indulge in snorkelling, diving, hiking, wildlife watching, and a plethora of other activities to keep themselves engaged. Furthermore, Seychelles is home to numerous family resorts, offering a range of amenities that will keep parents and children entertained. Kids can enjoy numerous activities designed just for them, such as treasure hunting, crafting, and island discovery tours, while parents can indulge in spa treatments or private dinners under the stars.

Seychelles vs Bahamas: which one to pick for a honeymoon?

Seychelles are a popular remote and luxurious honeymoon destination

Seychelles is one of the leading honeymoon destinations where couples can have a perfect romantic escape in the midst of nature. Its breathtaking beauty, pristine beaches, clear turquoise waters, and awe-inspiring coral reefs make it an ideal paradise for lovebirds. Seychelles has a plethora of luxurious resorts and hotels that offer an unmatched service. It also boasts of some of the world’s best beaches like Anse Source d’Argent and Anse Lazio. Apart from relaxing on the beach, couples can indulge in various activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the lush green forests. The island is also home to rare flora and fauna species, including Aldabra Giant Tortoise and coconut crabs.

Bahamas can be a very convenient honeymoon destination

The Bahamas are an idyllic location for couples looking for a romantic getaway. With crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and year-round sunshine, it’s no wonder why the Bahamas are known as a popular honeymoon destination. The islands offer a truly luxurious experience with countless resorts to choose from, offering everything from exclusive spa treatments to fine dining experiences. Additionally, the Bahamas is home to some of the world’s most stunning natural wonders, such as the Blue Hole or Andros Barrier Reef. Couples can enjoy a range of water sports and activities, including snorkeling, swimming with pigs, and exploring the lush tropical jungles.

Seychelles vs Bahamas: cost of living

Seychelles and Bahamas are two top tourist destinations that are famous for their natural beauty. However, when it comes to the cost of living, there is a considerable difference between these two places. Seychelles is known for being one of the most expensive countries in the world, with higher prices for goods and services than most countries. On the other hand, although the Bahamas is one of the most expensive Caribbean countries, the cost of living is still significantly less compared to Seychelles. With a lower cost of living, Bahamas is more feasible for budget-conscious travellers. While both places have unique attractions and natural scenery, the cost of living is a critical factor to consider for travellers planning their holiday budget. Therefore, those who want to spend less money on their trip may decide to choose the Bahamas over Seychelles.

Yachting in the Bahamas vs in the Seychelles

Yachting in the Seychelles is a true remote adventure

Yachting in the Seychelles is an experience that cannot be easily described in words. Of those islands, only a few have human settlements, leaving the rest as uninhabited paradises. Yacht enthusiasts can truly become one with nature in the Seychelles, where the ocean is crystal clear, and the beaches are pristine. The rich marine life includes reef sharks, endemic turtles, dolphins, and whale sharks, among many other species. The granite boulders, which dot many of the islands, create a unique and stunning landscape that is best experienced from the deck of a yacht. Sailing around the Seychelles is like discovering a hidden treasure trove filled with rare and exotic gems. The remoteness of the islands and lack of mass tourism mean that yachting in the Seychelles is a remote adventure that offers tranquility and seclusion.

Yacht for charter in the Seychelles, Lagoon Seventy 7 MANE NOCTE

Charter MANE NOCTE Lagoon 77 in Seychelles is a luxurious cruising experience that offers unparalleled comfort and style amidst the natural splendour of Seychelles. The yacht is equipped with state-of-the-art amenities to ensure a smooth sailing experience, including air conditioning, water makers, and high-end entertainment systems. The interior consists of three beautifully designed cabins that can accommodate up to six guests, each with its ensuite bathroom. The open-plan saloon and dining area provide a spacious and relaxing atmosphere to kick back and enjoy the stunning vistas. The yacht is operated by a highly experienced and professional crew that is dedicated to providing top-notch service and unforgettable memories. With its breathtaking sunsets and turquoise waters, Seychelles is the perfect backdrop to explore aboard the charter MANE NOCTE Lagoon 77.

Yachting in the Bahamas is very convenient for shorter sailing trips

Yachting in the Bahamas is an absolute delight and one of the most sought-after experiences among sailors. With its close proximity to the United States, the Bahamas is a convenient destination for shorter sailing trips. The crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and stunning coral reefs make for an exceptional cruising experience. The weather in the Bahamas is ideal for yachting, with calm waters and favorable winds that allow for safe and enjoyable sailing. Additionally, the Bahamas has a vast chain of islands, which presents an excellent opportunity for island hopping and exploring. The marinas in the Bahamas are world-class, and the facilities are well-maintained, providing comfortable docking sites for yachts of all shapes and sizes.

Enjoy a luxury motoryacht for your vacation in the Bahamas

The charter HIGHLANDER Feadship luxurious motoryacht is a haven of indulgence and luxury, perfectly situated for a relaxing getaway in the picturesque surroundings of the Bahamas. This vessel combines charm and sophistication, offering state-of-the-art facilities and breathtaking ocean views from every angle. With a length of 49 meters, the yacht boasts a spacious and comfortable interior with 5 luxurious cabins that can accommodate up to 10 guests. Fully equipped with cutting-edge technology, this yacht comes with a wide range of exciting water sports, outdoor activities and world-class services. With attentive and friendly staff at your disposal, every detail of your journey will be meticulously taken care of. Ideal for any discerning traveler looking for an unforgettable experience on the high seas.

Conclusion

Visit the Seychelles in Spring/Summer and the Bahamas in winter

One must consider the Seychelles when planning a vacation in Spring or Summer. With pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests, this tropical paradise boasts countless natural wonders to explore.

On the other hand, the Bahamas should be on one’s list for a winter getaway. This Caribbean destination is known for its warm climate, turquoise waters, and stunning coral reefs.

All our luxury yachts available in Seychelles here

Pick the Bahamas for convenience, short trips and wonderful sandy beaches

If you’re after a sun-soaked escape that’s easily accessible and perfect for short trips, the Bahamas should be high up on your list. The convenience factor is undeniable too, with the Bahamas just a short flight from many US destinations. But there’s more to this tropical paradise than just sunshine and sea – delve deeper and you’ll discover a fascinating culture and history, not to mention amazing wildlife and marine life.

All our luxury yachts available in the Bahamas here

Pick the Seychelles for adventure, seclusion, diversity and culture

The Seychelles is a unique destination that offers adventure, seclusion, diversity and culture to its visitors. For adventure seekers, there are ample opportunities for hiking, diving, snorkelling and even zip-lining. The islands offer a range of accommodation options that cater to varying budgets and preferences, from luxury resorts to eco-friendly lodges. Despite its small size, Seychelles boasts a vibrant culture that is influenced by its African, European and Asian heritage.