SEYCHELLES

Overview
Seychelles offers a holiday experience that is as unique as it is varied, drawing on the amazing diversity of 115 pristine islands to ensure that every visitor goes back with his or her very personal memories. Natural purity with an authentic touch is the cornerstone of a philosophy that echoes the needs of today’s discerning travellers for a tranquil yet vibrant destination, unspoiled by commercialism, where they can feel secure and rediscover their inner needs for simplicity, authenticity and innocence. It is equally a statement of our intention to safeguard our precious island home and its exceptional environment, taking great pains to assure that tourism development is both ecologically sustainable and in the best interests of the local community. For these reasons we take pride in the new momentum being given to Seychelles tourism by a variety of exciting new products.

They represent not only affordable exclusivity but also offer unique benefits that set them apart from those of other tropical destinations and provide the visitor with a refreshing individually-tailored tropical island experience that is welcoming, fulfilling

This isolated island paradise offers fine beaches, turquoise seas and warm weather. As a result of its extraordinary history, the Seychelles is also rich in rare plants which flourish nowhere else on the planet. No less than 81 species are unique survivors from the luxuriant tropical forests that covered the islands until humanity belated arrival two centuries ago. Outstanding amongst these plant species are the coco-de-mer (sea coconut), native to Praslin, which grows in the Vallee de Mai. Its seed is the largest in nature. The Seychelles are also a major attraction for birdwatchers. Close to two million sooty terns nest on Bird Island.

The cosmopolitan Seychellois are a colorful and harmonious blend of different races which stem from African, European and Asian roots, all of whom have brought something of their own customs and way of life to the islands. The result is a charming Creole culture enriched from many continents. Despite being a British colony, the original early French influence remained strong. African slaves were brought in to work the land and after the abolition of slavery they were liberated.

The broad range of Creole cuisine is an eloquent reflection of the diverse ethnic mix of the islands. It features the subtleties and nuances of French cooking, the exoticism of Indian dishes and the piquant flavors of the Orient. Grilled fish marinated in a sauce of crushed chili, ginger and garlic is a favorite as are octopus and chicken curries prepared with coconut milk.

A dazzling array of fresh fish is readily available and is easily transformed into a wide selection of succulent dishes with the help of condiments, fruit spices and herbs on sale in the local markets. Many hotels and restaurants offer various forms of Creole cuisine and international dishes. Creole cuisine is resourceful, echoing a time before supermarkets. Chatinis, made from grated green fruits offer a tasty accompaniment to fish or meat dishes while mangoes, golden apples, and coconut products, heart of palm, tubers and local delicacies such as octopus and fruit-bat form an impressive culinary array.

The Festival Kreol, is held annually at the end of October. It is a manifestation of Seychellois and Creole identity and a celebration of the culture of the islands as experienced through music, dance, arts, crafts and cuisine. True to the Creole spirit of sharing and of openness, it offers a fascinating week filled with color, sounds, flavors and fragrances from a corner of the kreole world that treasures its traditions.

We present two unique islands Mahe and Praslin.
Mahe is the largest island at the Seychelles. It’s approximately 32 by 8 kilometers and is the most populated with 90% of Seychelles population. It is home to the Capital, Victoria, the main port and international Airport.

The spectacular island is dominated by huge mountains (Morne Seychellois reaches a height of 905 meters) and is covered by lush tropical vegetation. Seventy five beaches with beautiful soft sand are scattered around the Island.

Praslin: Praslin is the second largest island and home to Vallee de Mai, an imposing 45 acre valley that was baptized as the Garden of Eden by General Gordon of Khartoum – fame. It is also the only place on earth where one can find the intriguing Coco-de-Mer palms, which may live for more than 200 years. Huge shaped rocks alternate with beaches all around the island. This island lies approximately two and half hours by schooner, one hour by fast ferry or 15 minutes by air from Mahe.

General Information about Seychelles

Immigration / Visas
There are no Visa requirements. A visitor’s permit valid for 02 weeks is issued on arrival. Extensions to this may be given by the immigration authority from the immigration and civil status division P.O Box 430, Independence House, Victoria Mahe’ in Seychelles tel no. +248 2253 33.
Health
Seychelles is currently free from Malaria and Tropical diseases. No vaccinations are required except yellow fever vaccination for visitor from Africa or those who have passed through Africa and South Africa.
Language
English and French are widely spoken in Seychelles. Creole is the Native language.
Clothing

Mainly light all year round. It is advisable to carry along a hut, sun glasses and sun cream to protect your self from the Tropical heat typical of Seychelles. Men are requested by most beach resorts and restaurants to wear long trousers in the evening.

Seychelles Money
The Seychelles Rupee is divided into 100 cents. Exchange rates are published regularly in the local paper. There is a bureau de change and agencies of local banks at the Airport. These are always open when there are incoming and outgoing flights. Visitors have to pay for most services provided in Seychelles using foreign currency; normally the US $ and the EURO €.

Food
Most hotels and restaurants serve local Seychellois food and international cuisine as well.
Time
Seychelles time is GMT + 4 hrs

Electricity
Local supply is under 240 Volts a.c, (50 HZ). Standard outlet is a three pin electric socket.