After an ominous, post-independence start which included a coup, an invasion by mercenaries, an abortive army mutiny and several coup attempts, the Seychelles have attained stability and prosperity.
Today the Indian Ocean archipelago enjoys a high per capita income, good health care and education.
The former British colony's economy depends heavily on the fishing industry and upmarket tourism.
It features in the 2017 leak dubbed the Paradise Papers, which reveal the financial dealings of politicians, celebrities, corporate giants and business leaders.
Seychelles also is home to an array of wildlife, including giant tortoises and sea turtles. Much of the land is protected as part of nature reserves.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14093816