(Seychelles News Agency) - Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair began 2016 in the island paradise of Seychelles, joining countless other Europeans who leave their often-blustery continent in winter to enjoy the island nation’s sunshine and white sand.

The Blair family lunched over the weekend at the Fish Trap Restaurant & Bar on La Digue, the nation’s fourth-biggest island, restaurant owner Carl Mills said.

“I felt very honoured and I am astonished how he is a down-to-earth, simple person. He only wanted to taste something local,” Mills told SNA. “He said he will be back in a year or so.”

The visit is not the first for Britain’s former prime minister. Blair first visited in 1999, in the early years of his decade-long run as the head of her majesty’s government.

Blair even said during his weekend trip that he recognized some Seychellois residents from his previous time there, Mills said.

La Digue is well known for its serene atmosphere and a laid-back pace of life. The island has been gaining attention in recent years as it transforms into the eco-capital of Seychelles, an archipelago in the west of the Indian Ocean. 

According to The Guardian, during his 1999 stay on La Digue Blair and his bodyguard rescued a Danish tourist having trouble with the strong currents from drowning.

La Digue remains one of Seychelles’ most popular destinations for visitors seeking peace and quiet. Visitors can experience riding in ox carts and go swimming at the beautiful Anse Source D’Argent beach.