Seychelles
The Seychelles, located in the Indian Ocean, are considered one of the most beautiful places on earth, a paradise on earth. The official languages are Creole, French, and English. The national currency is the Seychellois rupee, but it’s best to have dollars with you. They can be used for transactions, but it is still recommended to exchange some for local currency. Currency exchange is best done at official exchange points, as the rates at hotels and shopping centers are usually not very favorable.
Seasonality of Recreation:
You can relax on these islands throughout the year, as the weather is warm here. The average air temperature ranges from 28 to 35 degrees Celsius, and the sea temperature is about +27 degrees Celsius. The most favorable months for relaxation are considered to be April-May and October-December. January is considered the rainy month, when the highest amount of rainfall occurs.
Visa Regime:
You can obtain a visa for free upon arrival in the country for a period of up to 30 days. However, when departing from the Seychelles, you must pay an airport fee of $40. Documents required include a passport (valid at the time of leaving the country), plane tickets, a voucher, and insurance.
Etiquette and Country Specifics:
For safe movement away from the beaches, we recommend taking sturdy yet lightweight footwear, as you may encounter coral fragments and sharp rocks. It’s essential to seek permission before photographing locals. Don’t forget to bring insect repellent and high SPF sunscreen, as the sun can be intense here.
National Cuisine:
Try “Poisson aux Diris,” a dish of fish and rice. The local preparation of Bourgeois fish is exceptional. Taste the “Touloulou crabs,” which are served in sauce. Another seafood delicacy worth trying is the “Zourite,” octopus in curry sauce. Don’t miss the coconut milk chicken curry and bat stew. For beverages, sample the fermented coconut sap called “Kalou,” and the lemon mint liqueur known as “Dityé Zitronel.”
Interesting Places to Visit:
The Morne National Park on Mahe Island offers volcanic mountains covered in tropical forests. At the summit of Morne Blanc, you can visit a tea plantation and taste various tea varieties. Silver Beach Bay on La Digue Island is accessible by boat or yacht and offers the opportunity to see a variety of marine life such as dolphins, seals, and whales in the waters of the distant Reunion Bay. Frégate Island, formerly a pirate refuge, now attracts tourists with its tropical forest, breadfruit trees, latanier palms, and cabbage palms.
What to Bring Back:
Coco-de-mer (sea coconut or love nut). Purchase only from licensed shops that can provide an export permit. It costs around $200 and can also be made into liqueur. Seychelles palm products. Coral jewelry.
