Travellers to the Seychelles jumped ten per cent last year as visitors from western Europe and South Africa rediscovered the beauty of the Indian Ocean.
In response to the islands' increasing popularity and in order to preserve its unique environment, the Seychelles government has announced it is to cap tourist numbers to the archipelago in three years' time, reports Reuters.
After 2010, no more than 200,000 foreigners will be allowed to visit the islands a year as the local authorities aim to create a tourist market that is sustainable in the long-term and will keep its appeal for future generations.
Vice-president and minister of tourism Joseph Belmont, told the news agency: "Seychelles plans to attract more tourists whilst ensuring that the sustainability of the industry is not compromised.
"One of our main aims is to safeguard an environment that is attractive to both the visitors and Seychellois."
The Seychelles is widely regarded as having some of the best scuba diving sites in the world, not far from its uncrowded white sanded beaches. For backpackers, island hopping between the country's 16 islets offering accommodation is a major draw, as are their golf and horse riding facilities.
For those aged under 36 who are off on an extended trip,
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