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By Gisele Abrahão
As a mother, there’s nothing I want more than to raise children who are aware—of themselves, of others, and of the beautiful, fragile world around them. I want Giovanna and Thomas to live with open hearts, curious minds, and deep respect for life in all its forms. That’s my biggest mission. And every time we travel, I see how much that mission is unfolding—especially during our unforgettable spring break journey to Seychelles in 2025.
This trip was not just a pause. It was a perspective shift. After losing my father in January, something in me awakened with even more urgency. We only have so much time. The “later” we so often rely on doesn’t always come. So we said yes now—and gifted ourselves the space to just be. And what happened on those islands? Transformation.
For me, and even more powerfully, for them.
The journey to North Island itself was a lesson in respect. As Giovanna so beautifully observed, the absence of a dock wasn’t an oversight—it was an act of love toward marine life. “That level of care and intentionality changed the way I see the world,” she wrote. At just 10 years old, her soul absorbed a value some adults never do: living in harmony with nature instead of dominating it.
North Island was raw, wild elegance. Giant tortoises roamed freely – living symbols of endurance and peace. Our villa was surrounded by trees and sky, blending luxury with grounded simplicity. And yes, we had butlers—Kiki and Douglas—who became extended family by the end.
The highlights? Watching sea turtles hatch and make their impossible journey to the sea. Morning yoga under gray skies. Feeding tortoises who stretched their necks like wise old sages. Laughing in our plunge pool under the stars as flying foxes soared above. These were more than moments. They were imprints.
Thomas, who turned 12 this year, surprised me with his reflections. He noticed the island’s resilience—the way it had been rescued from invasive species and ecological damage. He admired the owner’s decision to say no to big hotel chains, in favor of sustainability and preservation. He marveled at the night sky, saying he’d never seen so many stars. “It felt like we were the only ones on Earth,” he said. I know exactly what he meant.
Then came Praslin—a softer island, but equally rich in magic. Our home at Raffles was nestled into the hills, with sweeping views of the sea. Here, we began each day with intention—floating breakfasts in the pool, walks through palm-covered sanctuaries, and unforgettable lessons from nature.
In Vallée de Mai, Derek, our passionate guide, introduced us to the famed coco de mer, whose symbolic beauty left an impression on both kids. Giovanna joked that “nature doesn’t lie,” comparing the shapes of male and female palms to real-life dynamics. But beneath her giggle was insight—a growing awareness of how nature holds wisdom if we’re willing to see it.
Thomas was fascinated by how Praslin balances protection with experience. He planted trees, learned about endemic species, and reflected on long-term impact. “In 20 or 30 years, we’ll come back and see coconuts growing,” he said, eyes wide with hope. That’s the seed I want to plant in them: legacy.
Even humor had its place. The tortoise mating rituals were a soap opera of their own, and we couldn’t stop laughing. But that, too, was part of it—real life, raw and unfiltered.
And finally, Alphonse. A remote coral atoll, reachable only by tiny plane. To me, this island felt like a love letter to nature—every detail thought through, every guest encouraged to slow down and see.
We explored on bikes. We snorkeled with sea turtles. We joined conservation talks that sparked big thoughts in small hearts. The manta ray talk left Giovanna moved—and a little angry—at the injustice of “medicines” that threaten these majestic creatures. Thomas soaked in the scientific aspects—learning how animals are tagged and tracked to better understand their behaviors. He saw the value of research, of action, of being informed.
We kayaked through crystal waters, shared a magical flats lunch ankle-deep in the ocean, and ended one evening lying on the airport runway staring at the stars. “We named shooting stars,” Giovanna whispered to me afterward. “It was the coolest thing I’ve ever done.”
On our last day, I went with Giovanna for the Blue Safari expedition, while Thomas fished with Chris. She was silent at first, then turned to me and said, “I don’t even know how to describe this. I think this trip changed me.” My heart burst. That’s all I ever wanted.
Traveling with my children is not about escape—it’s about evolution. I want them to see life not just from their own lens, but from the world’s. To understand different cultures. To respect all beings. To ask questions. To fall in love with this planet—and feel responsible for it.
I’m endlessly proud of who they are becoming. Of how they showed up on this journey. Open, thoughtful, engaged. Their reflections became my greatest reward.
This trip to Seychelles reminded me that while the world can feel heavy, complicated, and noisy, we still have the power to choose. To step away. To reconnect. To live a life of purpose, love, and presence.
And as a mother, there is nothing more powerful than seeing your children live wide awake—hearts open, eyes bright, and souls grounded.
That’s the kind of life I want them to keep saying yes to.
And I will always, always be by their side cheering them on.
Forever a student of the world 🌍💚
A special thank you to Turkish Airlines for making our trip to Seychelles comfortable and smooth. With efficient connections from North and South America, Turkish offers one of the most practical and enjoyable ways to reach this remote paradise.
The layover at Istanbul Airport was a highlight in itself—modern, spacious, and full of amenities perfect for both short and long connections. Flying with Turkish was more than just transportation—it was the start of our journey, with hospitality, ease, and care from the boarding gate onward.
We are also extremely grateful to Creole Travel Services, the local team that ensured all transfers and ground arrangements in Seychelles were seamless, safe, and enjoyable. From ferry connections and ground transportation to warm welcomes at every stop, Creole Travel brought efficiency, local knowledge, and Seychellois hospitality in every detail.
Together, Turkish Airlines and Creole Travel Services made sure our experience was effortless from start to finish—and every moment in between.
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