Join our journey from Mauritius to Madagascar via Seychelles. From budget flights to an overnight airport layover!
Table of Contents
Main Journey
Leaving Mauritius: Finding the Cheapest Flight Route
Flights between Mauritius, Madagascar, and South Africa were among the most difficult to book. Direct flights were expensive, so the most affordable option involved layovers in Seychelles.
Our itinerary was set:
- Mauritius → Seychelles → Madagascar
- Madagascar → Seychelles → Johannesburg
Even though this was the cheapest choice, it was still costly compared to other flights we had taken.
Flying with Air Seychelles
After a long day, we finally settled into our seats on Air Seychelles. Sweetie, as always, was fascinated by the safety card and kept repeating, “Uncle got hurt!” We had no idea what she meant, but she was very serious about it.
The airline provided a children’s activity pack, which included a puzzle, a coloring book with crayons, and wildlife-themed cards. It was almost identical to what Air Mauritius had given before, but Sweetie was thrilled to receive it.
A Last Look at Mauritius
As the plane took off, we saw the coastline of Mauritius, with waves forming a clear line where the shallow coral reef met the deep ocean. It was a breathtaking farewell view.
Sweetie was completely content, playing with her new toys and enjoying the excitement of the journey.
In-Flight Meal and Sunset Above the Clouds
Dinner was served with a choice between vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals. We chose the non-vegetarian option, which consisted of a chicken omelet, bread with butter, and chocolate pudding. The meal tasted surprisingly good, though it might have been the beer making it better.
As we flew, we experienced something unforgettable: watching the sunset from above the clouds and then again below them as the plane descended. Seeing the sunset from two different perspectives in a single flight was a unique moment.
Landing in Seychelles and Preparing for an Overnight Stay
As the plane lowered altitude, one of Seychelles’ many islands came into view. The airport was small and relaxed, fitting the tropical island atmosphere.
Our connecting flight to Madagascar was scheduled for 10:05 AM the next day, which meant spending the night at the airport.
Events
Transit Passenger Procedures in Seychelles
Unlike most layovers where both boarding passes are issued at the first airport, Seychelles required a separate check-in.
We only received our Mauritius to Seychelles boarding pass at the beginning. Once in Seychelles, we had to check in again for the Seychelles to Madagascar flight. However, our luggage was automatically transferred to Madagascar. It was an unusual system, but we followed the process.
Choosing Between an Airport Lounge and Sleeping in the Transit Hall
Before arriving, we had researched an airport lounge that was advertised at 200 Seychelles Rupees per person, which seemed reasonable for an overnight stay. However, when we got there, we were told the actual price was $50 per person.
With hotels near the airport costing over $150 per night, we decided to sleep in the transit area instead. The seating looked comfortable enough, and it was the most practical option.
A Quiet Night in the Empty Transit Hall
By late evening, most passengers had left, and we were the only ones remaining in the transit area.
Sweetie watched the planes take off for a while but soon fell asleep. We pushed three chairs together to form a makeshift bed and settled in for the night. The transit hall was completely secure, as no one could enter or leave without a boarding pass.
It had been a long day, but at least we had a quiet place to rest.
Tips for Traveling with a Baby
Expect Unexpected Transit Procedures
Some airports require passengers to check in again during layovers, even if the ticket was booked as a single itinerary. It is always best to check transit policies in advance to avoid surprises.
Keep a Child Entertained During Flights
Sweetie stayed occupied with the airline’s activity pack, snacks, and watching the planes take off and land. Having small activities ready can make long travel days much easier.
Consider Sleeping at the Airport if Necessary
If layover hotels are too expensive, check whether the airport has comfortable seating areas. Some airports, like Seychelles, have well-maintained waiting areas where sleeping overnight is possible.
Local Travel Tips
Check Layover Policies in Advance
Not all airports issue both boarding passes at the start of a journey. In Seychelles, we had to check in again for the connecting flight, which was unexpected.
Research Airport Lounge Prices Carefully
Online information about airport lounges can sometimes be outdated. It is best to confirm the price in advance or have a backup plan in case the cost is higher than expected.
Find the Best Spots for an Airport Overnight Stay
If sleeping in the airport is necessary, look for reclining seats or quiet corners. Transit areas are often more secure, as access is restricted to ticketed passengers.
Travel Reflections
This journey was more complicated than most.
Leaving Mauritius felt like saying goodbye to a place we had truly connected with. Watching the sunset from two different heights was a surreal experience. Spending the night in an airport transit hall was not ideal, but it was an adventure in itself.
As we lay down on our makeshift bed, Sweetie sound asleep beside us, I thought about how much of the world we were seeing—one airport, one country at a time.
Tomorrow, we would finally arrive in Madagascar. But for now, this quiet night at Seychelles airport was part of the journey.
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