Seychelles is that unspoiled tropical paradise thousands of miles from anywhere. This island nation boasts palm-fringed beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and forested wilderness filled with interesting wildlife. However, Seychelles is not a budget destination.
The Seychelles Archipelago occupies 400,000 square km (150,000 square miles) of the Indian Ocean northeast of Madagascar and contains 115 islands and islets. Various European and African airlines fly into the international airport located on the main island, Mahe. Enjoying the islands from the luxury of a cruise ship is a popular option. The domestic airline or a variety of charter flights make it easy to move between the islands, as do regular helicopter flights and schooner ferries. Roads on the islands are limited and narrow but generally in a good condition; drive on the left. On Mahe, public bus service operates with efficiency.
The communications infrastructure in Seychelles is ultra-modern compared to some countries on mainland Africa. Most services (local, long-distance, mobile and satellite telephone services, Internet cafes, fax services and postal services) are available, but charges to use these services can be expensive. Credit cards are widely accepted and foreign currency and traveler's checks can be exchanged with ease. The local currency is not widely used in the tourist trade.
The islands lie outside the cyclone belt but receive monsoon rains from November to February with northwest trade winds. January is the wettest month and July is the driest. The temperature can be described as hot and humid.
African cultural origins have survived throughout the years. The influence of the former colonizing countries, Britain and France, is also fairly evident. This mixture allows the country to foster a Creole cultural identity and tradition. Most Seychellois are Catholic, but there is a widespread belief in the supernatural. English, French and Seselwa are the official languages, and most people speak them all, although French Crole is the lingua franca. Seychelles' political birth in the early sixties led to two political parties that dueled it out in elections throughout the sixties and seventies. However, in 1977 Albert Ren and his Seychelles People's United Party carried out an almost bloodless coup. Ren has been in power ever since, serving as the country's president.
Even though the crime rates in Seychelles are considered low, the petty crime that exists is frequently directed at tourists. Political rallies and street demonstrations occur occasionally and should be avoided. Swimming alone at isolated beaches, especially after dark, is considered dangerous not primarily because of crime, but due to the strong currents in the region.
For a free map of Seychelles and more detailed information, be sure to click on the Destination Brief above.
Please note: the situation in the Seychelles can be dynamic. You are encouraged to purchase an Intelligence Brief ($7.50) or Destination Tracker ($25) for complete, up-to-the-minute information on the Country, Security and Health, Local Travel Alerts, Entry/exit requirements, Transportation, Communications/Technology, Legal and Financial situation, Environmental concerns and Language in the Seychelles.