As travelers, we are always shown and exposed to the big things. The big destinations, the larger-than-life monuments, the exorbitant prices of travel, the immensity of mountains and the enormity of hotels, but with the world shrinking with the power of technology and connection; have you ever wondered what the smallest places to travel could be? If so, you came to the right place. We explore one of the world’s smallest capitals; Victoria in Seychelles.

Victoria is the capital and largest city of the Republic of the Seychelles, situated on the north-eastern side of Mahé island, the archipelago's main island. The city was first established as the seat of the British colonial government. In 2010, the population of Greater Victoria was 26,450 (26.66%) out of the country's total population of 99,202.

Built on land reclaimed from the sea, Seychelles' tiny capital city can't get any bigger – but with a vibrant culture and fascinating history, it doesn't need to.

There are other capitals around the world with smaller populations: San Marino or Vatican City, for example; or a handful of tiny Pacific Island cities. Even so, Victoria's population of around 30,000 is modest by the standards of most seats of national power.

Victoria may not fulfil your typical fantasies of a tropical paradise, but the town does well as the vibrant, bustling hub of Seychelles, especially when you scratch beneath its surface. With about a third of the population residing in this town, this would be the place to observe local Seychellois life.

See the clock tower, a silver-painted copy of that on London’s Vauxhall Bridge Road, which came to Mahé in 1903. Wander around rows of attractive and colourful Creole-style buildings, through markets and manicured gardens. For a little history, visit the excellent National Museum of History. Look out for the town’s impressive backdrop of towering granite mountains as you stroll around.

On top of that, one of the most famous island markets can be found in Victoria, known as the Sir Selwyn Clarke Market, and more commonly as the Victoria Market. The market’s liveliness marks it as the true heart of the capital and shows a harmonious blend of the old and new Seychellois way of life. Seychellois love to share their enthusiasm for local Creole food and culture – don’t be afraid to ask questions as you dip in and out of stalls. Souvenir stalls are also scattered throughout the market with sarongs, flavoured oils and art.

So what are you waiting for? Leave the big behind and go smaller. This is your sign to start planning your island trip.