Travel Guides: All Countries / Africa / Seychelles
 |  | Fact File : Seychelles |
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| | | Seychelles | | Did you know?
The world's largest tortoise lives on Bird Island - Esmeralda weighs in at 320kg.
Language
French Creole; French and English
Visas
It's not necessary to have a visa, just a return or onward ticket and enough money to cover your stay.
Getting there
More airlines are flying direct to the Seychelles from the UK, though some still stop over in continental Europe, in Mauritius, or Singapore. The international airport is on Mahe, the largest island.
Flying time from London
13 hours.
Getting around
Air Seychelles has regular flights between the larger islands; small turbo-prop aircraft serve the outer islands and atolls. Ferries run between Mahe, Praslin and La Digue. An extensive bus service operates on Mahe and limited buses on Praslin. Mini Mokes can be hired but are neither cheap nor reliable. Rent bikes on Praslin and La Digue, or just walk.
Currency
Seychelles rupee.
Costs
Bottle of beer £1.50; roll of film £5; moderate restaurant meal £15; litre of petrol 80p; four-mile taxi ride £4-£5. All prices may vary.
Weather
Constantly pleasant throughout the year, between 75-88F (24-32C). Though there is a monsoon season, with most rain in December and January, the Seychelles lie outside the cyclone zone and are a fairly safe bet even in the wetter months.
Time difference
Four hours ahead of GMT, three hours in UK summer.
International dialling code from the UK
00 248
Voltage
240V, 50Hz AC
Opening hours
Shops open between 8.30am and 5pm and close for lunch from noon-1pm.
Health - Before you go
The Seychelles are free from tropical diseases and no vaccinations are necessary, though it is advisable to keep tetanus and polio up to date. Take out adequate health insurance to cover healthcare costs.
Health - When you are there
The emergency number is 999. Not many health hazards aside from bad drivers, but take care in the equatorial sun. There are hospitals on Mahe, Praslin and La Digue.
Warnings
The islands are generally very safe but petty theft is common. Don't leave belongings unattended on the beach and deposit valuables in the hotel safe.
Emergency
The emergency number is 999. British Embassy, PO Box 161 Victoria House, Victoria. Tel. 225225.
Customs
It's said that anybody who eats a tropical breadfruit will one day return to the Seychelles. You have been warned...
Pets
Animals would be subject to quarantine on return to the UK, though the Seychelles is currently under consideration for inclusion in the PETS travel scheme. Check with the PETS helpline for the latest news. Tel. 0870 241 1710.
Tipping
It's welcome but not obligatory; a 10% service charge is usually added to the bill in hotels and restaurants.
Tourist office
Seychelles Tourism Office, Aviareps House, Gatwick Road, Crawley, W. Sussex, RH10 9RB. Tel: 01293 596648.
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