Seychelles where are which country. Seychelles: where are they? Visa regime for Russia

Seychelles can be safely called a real fairy tale for a tourist. Mirages that sparkle with bright colors, delicate Creole aroma and crystal clear water with white sand will delight the eye of absolutely any vacationer. In addition, the Seychelles are famous for the most modern, exotic vacation spots, wonderful climate and delicious gourmet cuisine.

Seychelles on the world map in Russian

Seychelles are located in the region of East Africa. It will not be difficult to find the Seychelles on the world map, since the most famous and noticeable landmarks are Africa, Madagascar, the equator and, in fact, the Indian Ocean. The Seychelles constitute one large archipelago, in which 115 islands have managed to settle, each of which is a separate cozy place for a quiet, relaxing holiday without the noise of cars and the bustle of city life.

Detailed map of Seychelles with cities and islands in Russian

Almost all of the Seychelles on the map are suitable for human settlement. There are only a few islands where it will be difficult to locate your home due to the coral origin.

Wealth of Seychelles

The largest granite island is Mahe. It is here that you can contemplate the greatest relief of the mountains, the highest point of which is about 900 meters, and dense greenery enveloping the entire area. The capital of Seychelles is Victoria, which has the status of the smallest capital in the world.

The main city provides quite unusual opportunities:

• see the mini tower Big Ben;
• try non-standard food and walk along the only street in the city.

In this resort place you can find a lot of unique corals and shells, as well as, not far from Mahe, a reserve has recently been created, where thousands of visitors come with excursions to admire the variety of aquatic inhabitants, meet huge turtles, a jellyfish that looks like a tree, snakes that will never bite the guest, and much more. Here, a person will not feel far from civilization, but at the same time he can plunge headlong into all the delights of the exotic atmosphere of the tropics.

Note! From the island of Mahe, you can quickly get to anywhere through the services of the international airport.

Main town Victoria

The next one is Silhouette Island, which will be appreciated by lovers of dense and wild nature. There are no roads for cars to drive, there are only a couple of trails that lead the tourist into the untouched jungle. This place breathes with freshness and tranquility, there is no greater pleasure than being in contact with juicy, bright, emerald and rather unusual trees for a common man. According to legend, it was in these dense forests that Gene Hodoul hid his treasures. Siluet has all the conditions for tourists who love comfort and wild greenery at the same time. Hotel Labriz Silhouette is able to envelop even the most demanding visitor with its comfort.

The Seychelles on the map has another wonderful island that should be honored with your attention, called Denis. This place is loved by famous personalities and movie stars of France. In addition, if a tourist has at least minimal knowledge about fishing, then a big catch awaits him here, because marlin and tuna live on this island in huge numbers. In addition to fishing, there are many activities such as diving, windsurfing or hiking among the splendor and riot of thicket.

Note! In addition to those listed above, there are many other holiday destinations in Seychelles, for example, the islands: Praslin, Frigate, La Digue, Saint Anne, Bird, Desroches, Cousin, Cerf and Felicite. At each of them, the tourist can find something to do and relax in the Seychelles atmosphere.

Places for rest

Seychelles resorts and beaches on the map

If you are tired of excursions and you want a real rest, then the Seychelles on the world map have saved wonderful sandy beaches and exquisite resorts. All beaches are located in the so-called bays (fraz. Anse) and have some features that distinguish them from the usual resorts. For example, on all beaches, people are allowed to sit on sun loungers and use an umbrella absolutely free. And this is the first indicator that all guests are equal in actions, regardless of the level of the hotel in which they live. Of course, if there is a desire to be in a less dense environment of people, then before flying to the Seychelles, it is recommended to book accommodation away from the active population. In this case, the resort will have the number of people accommodated in the same hotel.

On the world map, Seychelles are distinguished by the following beaches and resorts:

• Anse Intendance. One of the most beautiful beaches in the island state, located on the southwest side.
• Port Lawn. Perfect for a good holiday with children, as this resort has a lot of entertainment for both adults and children.
• Anse Lazio. It is believed to be the largest and most popular tourist beach in the north. Thoughtful tourists come here on weekdays so as not to hustle with a bunch of other people.
• Cat d'Or. Also an interesting vacation spot located in the east of the island.
• Anse-Consolation. A resort for those who wish to retire and spend time with their soulmate.
• Source d'Arzhan. A magnificent beach famous for its granite boulders and wonderful sunsets.
• If you want romance, then you should visit the beaches of Anse Petite, Anse Grand or Anse Cocos, because it is on them that you can see, touch and lie on the unusual pink sand.

Yandex and Google maps of Seychelles

There are two most common types of satellite map presentation of the island state of Seychelles: Google Maps and Yandex.

If you look at the overall picture, which develops when viewed from a height, then the difference is not noticeable. But, if you look closer at such an interactive map, then with the naked eye you can see that Google's data transfer is noticeably higher in quality and the interface is more intuitive. In addition, for Russian citizens, Google will automatically detect their native language and translate all requested streets, cities and any other geographic object into Russian.

So even using satellite maps, you can admire the views of the Seychelles: dense jungle and blue Indian Ocean.

Seychelles map with neighboring states

In order to better understand where the Seychelles with certain island states are located on the map, you can follow the link to Google maps goo.gl

The advantages and disadvantages of the geographic location of the state for the development of tourism

Seychelles is a fairly convenient and comfortable option for relaxing on the island. There is a predominantly warm climate here, bright sun rays will warm every tourist who wants to swim in the transparent water of the ocean.

Note!

Seychelles is a stunning archipelago of beauty, a real lost paradise in the waters of the Indian Ocean. Amazingly beautiful landscapes, white fine sand, ocean, unique flora and, of course, "branded" palms of the archipelago - all these are the Seychelles.

Location of Seychelles

The exotic archipelago is spread over an area of \u200b\u200b455 square kilometers in East Africa. In such a small area there are 115 islets, but only 30 of them are inhabited by people. The islands are located 1600 kilometers from the mainland Africa, and almost 1000 kilometers north of the notorious Madagascar. The capital of the island is the largest city of Victoria (Mahe Island).

Seychelles International Airport (Seychelles International Airport / Aуroport International de Seychelles - Pointe Larue) with three terminals is located 10 kilometers southeast of the capital. The islands are home to approximately 90,000 people.

Seychelles is a former French and British colony.

Holidays in the Seychelles

The wonderful Seychelles archipelago is undoubtedly an almost ideal place for an unforgettable and truly paradise vacation, as they say, the most natural "bounty". A tropical fairy tale is separated from the ideal in the classical sense by one “almost” - the price. The cost of rest will cost the price of a decent car. But the coin has two sides, so such a vacation will be unforgettable in all respects. Moreover, you do not need a visa to travel to "paradise" if the stay is less than 30 days.

The path to the Seychelles, as is already obvious, is not close, and is about 7000 kilometers. Travel time is from 13 to 15 hours. All connecting flights are usually in Paris (Air France), Doha (Qatar Airways), Dubai (Emirates). There is no time difference with Moscow.

The most popular "tourist" islands are the main Mahe, Praslin, La Digue. Also interesting are the islands of St. Anne, Desroches, Cerf, Silhouette, Frigate, Denise.

Seychelles was named after the French Minister of Finance (XVII-XVIII centuries) - Moreau de Sechelle.

The most popular entertainment for tourists is diving and boat trips. It is also recommended to visit National Parks, for example, Morne Seychelles. The island has been isolated for a long time, so there are quite a lot of endemic flora and fauna.

The islands are very popular not only among very wealthy segments of the population, but also among newlyweds. Exotic island weddings are gaining more and more popularity, and in this segment, Seychelles rivals the Maldives and Mauritius.

Today, Russian tourists are more choosy, so they try to choose the most exotic and attractive places for recreation. One of these places is the Seychelles, which are becoming more and more popular. And if until recently many Russians did not even know where the Seychelles were located, now most Russian tourists will easily show them on the world map.

Where are they located?

Many peoples on earth have legends about a once-existed paradise on earth. Some of them can be considered completely fictitious, but some are still worth paying attention to. Especially when it comes to some regions located closer to the equator, where people have not yet ruled much. This is the place where the Seychelles are, which are often called “Paradise on Earth”.

When the word "Seychelles" is used, it should be borne in mind that this is actually not one island, but a whole archipelago, which is located in the vast ocean expanses.

In words, it will be rather difficult to describe their location, because the Indian Ocean is quite large. It is best to pick up a visual aid and see where the Seychelles are located on the world map - she will be the best assistant in solving this issue.

Generally speaking, we can immediately say that these islands located in the Indian Ocean closer to the equator... To be more precise, this is the western part of this ocean, about 1600 km from the eastern part of the African continent, from Kenya. The next most significant landmark is the large island of Madagascar, located a little further south. Relatively close to the Seychelles, there are significant sites such as the islands of Mauritius and Reunyuk, which are located further to the south. Further to the southwest are the Comoros, and to the northeast -.

What are the Seychelles?

Seychelles is a republic of 115 islandshaving different areas. For those tourists who wish to become modern Robinsons for a while, there is an opportunity to fulfill their dream, because among all the Seychelles, only 33 of them are inhabited and have a granite structure. They have many mountains and hills. All the others have long been known, but no one lives on them, so there you can become one with nature, settling for the entire period of your vacation, or at least for a few days. They are small coral atolls; some of them are completely deserted, and some are covered with tropical vegetation.

The area of \u200b\u200ball these islands is 455 km². There are both small coral islands and quite large ones. The largest island of this archipelago is Mahe. Its area is 142 km² and is home to the capital, Victoria. Due to its large size, the island also has an international airport. Other large islands include:

• Silhouette,
• Praslin,
• Aldabra
• La Digue.

Some researchers believe that in fact the largest island is not Mahe, but Aldabra. The population of the Seychelles is not very large, only about 90 thousand people.

What attracts tourists to the Seychelles?

Many people who find out where the Seychelles are located wish to visit here. And this is just not surprising, since visiting a resort where the sun shines almost all year round and you can swim in the ocean is a dream of any tourist. Here is an exotic nature that cannot be found in any region on the planet. Travelers from all over the world come here; and not only from Europe or America, but also from Asia.

Due to the beautiful natural landscape with rather exotic flora and fauna, the Seychelles occupy a leading position among all the other islands in the world.

The most remarkable plants that are quite common in the archipelago are the Seychelles palm and sea coconut - its fruits can weigh up to 20 kg. One of the best is Silhouette Island, so many tourists prefer to choose it for their holidays. This choice is influenced by the fact that here the natural landscape has practically not suffered at the hands of man and it can be assumed that people here live completely far from the benefits of civilization.

These islands are especially attractive for divers, because here you can find some of the most beautiful underwater lagoons. Here the water is so clear that even at a distance of several tens of meters from the coastal strip, you can clearly see the seabed. Fish here are not at all afraid of a person immersed in the water, so during such dives you can admire hundreds of different types of fish, corals, and bizarre seaweed. There is a very wonderful cuisine here that can amaze any gourmet.

How can you get to the Seychelles?

Those Russian tourists who find out where the Seychelles are located, immediately try to figure out which way to get there. There is no direct flight to the Seychelles from Moscow or any other Russian city. In most cases, tourists first fly to:

• Zurich

and from there they take a ticket for one of the flights of national airlines. This is the only way to get to the island of Mahe, where the main airport of the country is located.

If you need to get to any other large island of this archipelago, you need to book a local airline ticket. But you can also get to the islands by ferry - here you need to buy a ticket only upon arrival at Mahe. There is another rather interesting option to get to the resort located on one of the islands - by helicopter.

In order not to waste your time as much as possible looking for the necessary air carrier, you should buy tickets in advance. Moreover, to the very destination, as it will be cheaper. Moreover, it is best to draw up the entire route, where you should indicate not only significant destinations, but also the time of arrival and departure, as well as all dates. Only in this way it will be possible not to waste time on the road.

When is the best time to relax in the Seychelles

You can relax here all year round, because due to the proximity of the equator and the surrounding water on all sides, the climate on all islands is very mild and warm. Although tropical countries are characterized by stifling heat and high humidity, such negative factors are absent in the Seychelles. The climate here can be called not just tropical, but monsoon, so the sun shines here almost all year round.

There are 2 seasons in this resort. The first one is from May to September. At this time, coolness is felt and the humidity subsides. At this time, it rarely rains and the average temperature is +25 degrees Celsius. The second season is from November and is distinguished by a period of monsoons that come from the northeast. At this time, it rains, but the air temperature rises to +30 degrees. If you choose the most convenient time for rest, then these will be the months of May and October.... During these two months it rains very rarely, the ocean becomes calm and a weak warm wind blows.

Where are Seychelles located on the world map. Detailed map of Seychelles in Russian online. Satellite map of Seychelles with cities and resorts. Seychelles on the world map is a group of islands located in the Indian Ocean, which are considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

The archipelago is located 960 km from the island of Madagascar. The Seshelovs comprise about 115 islands, of which only 46 are inhabited. The largest island is Mahe Island. It is believed that the Seychelles belong to Lemuria - a continent that has long disappeared from the face of the earth. The capital of the islands is Victoria. The official languages \u200b\u200bare French, English and Creole.

Seychelles map in Russian:

Seychelles - Wikipedia:

Seychelles population - 94,228 people (2016)
Capital of the Seychelles - Victoria
Seychelles dialing code - 248
Seychelles internet domains - .sc
Languages \u200b\u200bspoken in Seychelles- English, Seychelles Creole, French

Seychelles nature characterized by beautiful beaches covered with white sand, the richest underwater world, as well as a variety of vegetation.

Climatic conditions in the Seychellesare unique, as the islands are constantly summer. The average annual temperature fluctuates between +26 ... + 31 C. During the summer months, there is practically no rain, and the sun is constantly shining, which creates excellent conditions for a beach holiday.

Seychelles called an earthly paradise or paradise. The main attractions of the islands are nature. On the islands, you can watch rare wild birds, see the most beautiful coral reefs and swim in the clear, crystal clear waters of the ocean. True traditions have also been preserved in the Seychelles. You can hear traditional music and see national dances in any of the many clubs.

Tourism in the Seychelles is actively developing, attracting more and more tourists every year. You can not only come here to relax on the beach and shop in the sea, but also to go diving and sailing. There are a lot of resort areas in the Seychelles. There are more than 70 beaches on Mahe Island alone with a developed tourist and entertainment infrastructure.

What to see in the Seychelles:

Market Street, Parc Vallee-de-Mae, Clock Tower, Morne Blanc Mountain, Gran Anse Village, Mont Fleury Botanical Garden, St. Anna, Museum of Natural History, Top of the Mountain "Three Brothers", Hindu Temple, Market. Sir Selwyn Clarke, Union Estate Park, Crafts Village, Source d'Arjan Cove, Cape Barbie.

Highlights

Seychelles consists of 115 islands, of which 43 are internal and 72 external islands, located between 4 and 10 ° south latitude and between 46 and 54 ° east longitude. Their total area is only 455 km², they are located on the 1,400,000 km² of the Indian Ocean. Only 30 are inhabited, where about 92 thousand people live. The Inner Islands, which include Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, are located about 1600 km east of Africa. These are the oldest oceanic islands in the world, about 750 million years old, and the only islands that were not formed as a result of the action of underwater volcanoes or the life of corals.

Despite its small territory, the sunny archipelago remains a favorite vacation spot for tourists from different countries, including Russians. At the same time, not everyone can afford a vacation in the Seychelles, given that in comparison with many other world resorts, staying here cannot be called cheap. However, such peace and idyll reign in the Seychelles that travelers are ready to pay even big money, just to be away from the centers of civilization, where vanity and sometimes exhausting rhythm of life dominate.

Lovers of relaxation and exclusive beach holidays are not the only category of tourists choosing the Seychelles for recreation. Among those who came here on vacation, one can single out people who are in love with the ocean, because there are many beautiful diving sites around the archipelago, and its coast is washed by waves of any size, which surfers appreciate very much. Lovers of yachting and sea fishing are also drawn to exotic islands with all their hearts. We will not specify that they are all, at least, wealthy people.

So, Seychelles is a focus of peace and tranquility, incredibly beautiful landscapes and excellent service. In a word, everything that is ideal for a good rest both in body and soul. And on these paradise islands ... they start a new life. We mean family: holding romantic wedding ceremonies in the picturesque tropics, lost in the ocean waters, has become a good tradition. And very fashionable. Couples in love, who have decided to seal their relationship with the bonds of Hymen, flock here like moths all year round. Paradise booths are expensive, but after all, there is one wedding for the whole life - why can't you do it for the sake of great and bright love?

It is difficult to find words to convey all the beauty of this truly divine corner on our restless planet. The islands covered with greenery, the magnificent coastline and the underwater world teeming with various animals, the amazing landscape, exotic fruits and delicious national cuisine - you can appreciate all the exclusivity and uniqueness of rest in these places only when you get here. And do not forget to take your camera with you: after all, the beaches of the Seychelles are the most photographed in the world!

Geography and climate

The Seychelles are located east of Africa and north of Madagascar. The equator line runs higher, so the small resort republic belongs to the southern hemisphere. The most famous and at the same time the largest island of the archipelago is Mahe. Smaller: Praslin, La Digue, Desroche, Silhouette, Saint Anne, Bird, Denis and others. Geologically, the islands are subdivided into granite and coral. The first group includes 42 islands, all of which are only 50-70 kilometers away from Mahe. Most of the country's settlements are concentrated on their coast and the main economic activity is carried out. In the inner regions of "granites" there are forests where tree ferns, rare species of palms, and pandanuses grow. But the coral islands are flat atolls, rising above sea level by only 4-8 meters. They consist of limestone, but practically do not retain moisture, therefore droughts are frequent in this part of the Seychelles. Limestone soils are considered shallow, so nothing other than coconut trees grows here.

The climate is significantly influenced by the fact that cyclones do not pass through the islands. Thanks to this, the Seychelles is not only one of the most favorable, but also the safest places for recreation on the planet, and all year round. Wet and dry seasons alternate here without significant temperature fluctuations, and the average humidity is rarely below 80%.

From December to April, the country is dominated by the rainy season. Showers are frequent at this time, often very strong, but they pass quickly. January is considered the rainiest. Most of the precipitation falls in the mountainous regions of the Mahe and Silhouette islands. At the same time, the northwestern monsoons are blowing, the air temperature rises to 30 degrees with a plus sign.

The dry season begins in June and lasts until October. This is not to say that there is no rain at all during this period, only the humidity level is still noticeably lower. The average air temperature is kept at +25 ° C. There are winds, but southeast. The sea at this time is restless, although the wind strength, if it exceeds 6 points, is rare. The driest months of the year are July and August.

You can travel to the resorts of the Seychelles all year round, but only two months are considered the most favorable for a good rest - May and October. Why are they so remarkable? Those that do not belong to any of the local seasons, representing a kind of off-season. May and October weather is pleasantly warm, the ocean is so calm that it seems to have dozed off. The wind blows weakly, and if it rains, it ends quickly. Tourists interested in ornithology should definitely visit the Kuzin and Ptichiy islands in May, when countless flocks of birds flock to them.

Seychelles nature

Seychelles is mainly covered with tropical forests, the local flora and fauna are represented mainly by endemic plant and animal species. The sustainable tourism policy has resulted in the Seychelles being able to preserve its natural heritage. The archipelago is home to many national parks that are protected by UNESCO, as well as a number of protected areas. Although the latter do not have the status of a reserve in the traditional sense, this does not mean at all that tourists can behave here as they please. During your vacation - even if you are outside the territory of a national park - you need to be prepared for the fact that you will encounter many prohibitions that may even seem strange, but they cannot be ignored.

One of these prohibitions applies on the island of Mahe: here you cannot fish, and also collect shells and corals. If the restrictions associated with fishing can somehow be understood, then how to explain the taboo on collecting coral and shells? Such a prohibition seems ridiculous to many. But Kuzin Island is so carefully guarded by the International Committee for the Conservation of Birds that it is forbidden to visit it without a guide. Rare species of birds nest right on the paths, and there is a risk that lone tourists could harm them. The deserted beaches of the island have long been chosen by sea turtles that lay their eggs here. For this reason, it is very difficult to visit not only Kuzin, but also other uninhabited regions of the country.

Even entire islands are national parks. For example, Praslin is the second largest in the Seychelles. At its center is the Vallee de Mae Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has become home to dozens of endemic species of local flora and fauna. It is here that the black parrot, the Bul-Bul nightingale, the fruit pigeon live - the three rarest species of birds in the world. Here, in the reserve, you can also see the exotic palm tree Coco de mer, or sea nut, which has become recognizable thanks to its unusual fruits. This unique endemic is a symbol of the Seychelles and is under state protection.

The best example of a secluded tropical paradise is Aldabra. It is the largest coral atoll in the world and is home to over 150,000 giant turtles that thrive on these inhospitable shores. Here lives the last flightless bird of the Indian Ocean - shepherd cuvier. Aldabra is home to the world's second largest frigate colony. Flamingos nest on the atoll, as well as a dozen endemic bird species. Sea turtles, rays, sharks and many exotic fish swim among the reefs. Over 2000 turtles lay their eggs on the beaches of Aldabra. Since 2001, dugongs have been seen here four times - previously, these sea cows were considered extinct. Sea and terrestrial turtles, birds and millions of fish live and breed in peace in the 34 km² lagoon. Even now, there are almost no people on the island - a few scientists, a caretaker and his assistants come here. They live in small houses, collect data and protect this unique corner of the earth. Aldabra is the most remote and most rarely visited island in the Seychelles archipelago. The only footprints that can be seen on the white beaches are the footprints of birds and turtles.

Seychelles are working hard to keep the ocean and islands clean. In the Seychelles capital, Victoria, you won't see garbage anywhere. Wherever you go - the famous beaches of Anse Lazio on Praslin, Anse Source d'Argens on La Digue or some unnamed cove - you won't find a single can or plastic bottle, not even in the trash can. those who relax on the Seychelles beaches take all the trash with them, leaving the coast exactly as nature created it.

Interesting fact: the famous director Roman Polanski in 1986 released a film called "Pirates", which was highly appreciated by film critics. This painting was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Costume Design. The second prize, the César Prize, was for costumes and set design. If not for the magnificent natural landscape of the Seychelles, where Polanski carried out on location, the film would hardly have received a second award.

Seychelles history

Seychelles was originally part of the Indian-Eurasian continent. A strong suboceanic current separated this part of the continent, and it ended up in the middle of the ocean. Back then, the Seychelles was a lifeless granite rock about the size of Great Britain. Over millions of years, water and wind have divided the rock into many islands. Due to the rise in sea level and the weight of the carbonate platform supporting the coral reefs, today the granite cliffs are just over 110 km², or a thousandth of their original size.

But the decline in sea level, which occurred several thousand years ago, exposed the outer coral islands. Sandbanks appeared, forming bizarre coral islands with internal lagoons. At low tide, the lagoons become almost completely shallow, and the fish can be collected by hand.

Lazing under the gentle sun and listening in half asleep to the pacifying whisper of the ocean, it is hard to believe that such an idyll did not always reign in the Seychelles. The islands have such a turbulent past that it could form the basis of the plot of more than one adventure film.

The first to notice the archipelago was the expedition of the famous navigator Vasco da Gama, who visited this area back in 1502. He was an admiral in rank, so he called the islands he found Admiral. The island of Mahe, which was then called Ilya Ganaa, was first plotted on compass maps of the Portuguese. Evidence has survived to this day that the Seychelles was visited earlier by Arab navigators. The rock inscriptions on the Frigate and the graves of the 9th-10th centuries on Silhouette Island serve as confirmation. In those early days, the archipelago was uninhabited. Then it was made their haven by pirates, who ruled here for more than two centuries.

The very first Europeans to land here were the ubiquitous British. In 1609, the expedition of Captain A. Sharpey not only examined the Seychelles in detail, but also made a detailed description of them. The first settlements on a permanent basis on the islands of Mahe and Praslin were founded by the French. They had a predominantly economic interest: beginning in 1756, the colonialists set up entire plantations to grow cinnamon, vanilla and cloves. Then the islands got their current name - by the name of Jean Moreau de Sechel, the French finance minister of the times of Louis XIV. Slaves imported from Madagascar and the eastern regions of mainland Africa were used as cheap labor.

And the British, apparently, could not come to terms with the fact that the French were able to intercept the strategic initiative from them, the pioneers, and in 1794 became the new masters of the archipelago. The policy of the British in the mid-19th century, after slavery was abolished in 1835, was to encourage the migration of Indians to the Seychelles from among the workers of coconut plantations, as well as those involved in trade. From the point of view of the then international law, the presence of the British in the archipelago was regarded as an occupation: after all, it belonged to the French East India Company. However, in 1814, under the terms of the Treaty of Paris, Great Britain officially became the owner of the Seychelles. In 1840, they officially became part of another British colony in the Indian Ocean - Mauritius, from which representatives of the Chinese ethnic group began to move to the archipelago. In 1903, the Seychelles received a new administrative status - a separate crown domain. Around the same time, settlers from the Arabian Peninsula began to appear on the islands.

In 1965, islands such as Desroches, Aldabra, Farquhar and some others were removed from the administration of the Seychelles and turned by Great Britain into independent possessions in the Indian Ocean. On June 28, 1976, the United Kingdom granted independence to the Seychelles. In the same year, the country's first parliamentary elections were held, in which the Democratic Party won the majority. The post of the first prime minister of the newly independent state was received by James Manch.

A year later, an armed coup took place in the Seychelles, as a result of which the opposition United People's Party came to power, which shared the Marxist and socialist ideology. In 1978, this political force was renamed the Popular Progressive Front (PPF), and the same socialism remained at the heart of its ideology. Under the 1979 Constitution, a one-party system was established in the republic. Agricultural lands were requisitioned from their owners, and agricultural and fishing collective farms were created on their basis.

During the entire existence of the independent Republic of Seychelles, many more attempts were made to change power by force. In the first two and a half years of independence alone, three such attempts were thwarted. Opponents of the regime took similar actions in 1981-1982 and 1986-1987. In 1991, the ruler of Seychelles, France-Albert Rene, who has been permanent since 1977, and his Popular Progressive Front party agreed to hold free democratic elections and proclaimed a rejection of Marxism. Two years later, a new Constitution of the republic was adopted, which officially formalized the departure from the previous policy, a multi-party system, a market economy, privatization and offshore companies. In 2004, President René voluntarily stepped down from office, handing over the reins to Vice President James Michel. The latter was re-elected as head of state in 2006 and 2011.

Cities and resorts

When planning a vacation in the Seychelles, you must decide where to camp. The 18 islands offer eco-friendly accommodation - both the granite islands of Mahe, Praslin and La Digue, and the coral atolls of the distant islands, which are ideal for lovers of nature, sea and romance.

The capital Victoria is the only city in the country in the usual sense. It is located on the island of Mahe and immediately attracts attention with its colonial architecture, dispersed in cozy streets. The heart of the city is Market Street and Long Pier, where all the capital's attractions are located, from a miniature copy of London's Big Ben to the very neat St Paul's Cathedral, which looks like a big toy. The best hotels are located on the first coastline of Victoria, and a little further away there are modest "kopecks".

Mahe

In addition to the capital, on the largest island of the archipelago, Mahé, you can hike in the fog-shrouded mountains of the Morne Seychellois National Park, shopping and excellent beaches, of which there are about 70. The most visited, where there is simply no place to step in the high season, is Beau Vallon ... Life on the beach is in full swing not only during the day but also at night. Well, the tourist infrastructure is at the highest level in terms of its development. Vacationers who do not tolerate the hustle and bustle should go for relaxation to the western coast of the island, where it is not so crowded.

Another popular beach on the main island is Grand Anse. Surfing enthusiasts claim that this place is unique for activities, fueled by great waves. For diving, the beaches of Anse Forban and Anse Royal are great. Divers get an indescribable impression from the crystal clear and calm waters of the Indian Ocean - it seems that there are no such inviting beaches anywhere else. The most beautiful beach of Mahe is Anse Intendance. Everything here is like on the cover of a glossy magazine or in an advertisement for "Bounty": gentle sun, turquoise water, white sand and coconut trees.

Praslin

On Praslin, you can imagine yourself as a real Robinson Crusoe on the best beaches in the world or take a fascinating walk through the mysterious forest, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The island is the second not only in size, but also in terms of attendance. It is famous for the fact that only here the national symbol of the Seychelles grows - the coconut Coco de mer. The territory of Praslin is small, you can get around it in just a few hours. On the ocean side, the island is surrounded by coral reefs. The most popular beaches are Anse Lazio and Cote d'Or.

La Digue

Tourists at first glance are fascinated by the small island of La Digue, most of which is Mount Ni d'Egle. On the island, you can ride a bike or a bull-cart in the jungle. Or you can just indulge in a mindless beach vacation. Source d'Argens Bay is the main tourist area of \u200b\u200bLa Diga. Interestingly, in the morning it turns pink, and in the evenings, when the sun goes down, fiery red. This play of color is possible only thanks to the granite rocks. Travelers also visit another bay - Coconut, as well as two beaches: Grand and Batat. The sand on them, thanks to the same granite boulders, has a pink tint. There are breadfruit trees and coconut plantations on the island. Paradise flycatchers and giant turtles can be seen.

Silhouette

The third largest granite island in the archipelago is Silhouette, located about 20 km from Mahé. This is a real gem of the Seychelles - an uncut emerald. Wild nature reigns on the island, not influenced by civilization. For ecotourists, these places become a real paradise. There are no roads here, and there are no cars themselves. You can get around either on foot or by bike.

The hallmark of the Silhouette is a huge equatorial forest, which remains an incomprehensible mystery not only for travelers, but also for scientists conducting research here. The inhabitants of a small village keep order on the island, where the five-star Hilton Seychelles Labriz hotel is located. Local attractions include the Dobanov family crypt, a turtle farm and an old planter's house.

Frigate

Fregat Island, which is only 2 km long and 1 km wide, is home to the frigate bird that gave the island its name. This is the ideal place to immerse yourself in a calm and measured holiday, reunited with nature. The island is privately owned and was opened to holidaymakers just a few years ago. There is a hotel here where every guest is welcome: they will welcome you warmly, cordially and in a family-like manner.

According to an old legend, pirates buried looted treasures on the Frigate. If you like adventure, you can try to find this treasure, and suddenly luck will smile at you - what the hell is not joking!

Curiosity

Curieuse Island is located just 2 km northeast of Praslin and is home to endemic birds and hundreds of turtles brought from the Aldabra Atoll. It got its name in honor of the ship that first moored on its shores. The curiosity is favored by diving enthusiasts, which is favored by the enormous wealth of the seabed.

Arid

The small granite island of Arid attracts travelers with considerable wealth, but already lying on the surface - gardenia gardens and citrus forests. Here you can meet the world's largest pink terns and an incredible number of various reptiles, which do not need to be afraid of, since they do not pose any danger to humans.

Gigolo

The most remote island in the Seychelles, located in the southern part of the archipelago, is Alphonse. He, like the Frigate, is a private property, but is open to tourists. Those who want to completely disconnect from the bustle of the city, and people prone to stress and depression rush here. The absence of cars in this context is perceived as a great advantage; an alternative to them is bicycles. For a good rest, there is everything your heart desires: a tennis court, a fishing school, a yacht club and paradise beaches stretching for more than 3 km.

Desroches

If you want to completely forget about civilization, go to Desroches. Here you can feel like a time traveler. On the island you can see how coconuts are harvested and copra is harvested in the traditional way. Desroches is 6 km long and only 1 km wide. There is only one Desroches Island Resort on the island with twenty suites. Desroches is called "a gem in a tropical setting".

Aldabra

The world's largest coral atoll, Aldabra, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. This is one of the few places on our planet where giant turtles are found, which dominate the terrestrial fauna. Entry to this unique nature reserve is tightly controlled. About the flora and fauna of the atoll, the Czech documentary Aldabra. Journey to the Mysterious Island ”.

Recreation and entertainment

One of the most favorite pastimes of tourists in the Seychelles is, of course, diving. And it is impossible not to dwell on it in more detail.

Even those who have never thought about it before strive to plunge into the ocean depths. It is simply impossible to refuse such an opportunity when the water is so clear that the visibility in it reaches about 30 m, and the temperature for diving is more than comfortable! The seabed is generally a separate world, from whose wonders the eyes literally run up. Either some unusual fish will swim in front of you, then a snow-white shell will sparkle like a diamond. Or pinch the heel of an unprecedented coral color. Acquaintances with manta rays, turtle, white shark will never be forgotten. Almost all Seychelles dive sites are located at least 10, maximum 40 minutes from the coast. There are two seasons per year for diving: September-October and April-May. The best diving site is the UNESCO-protected island of Aldabra. A "visit" to the ocean depths is not a free pleasure: the cost, taking into account the equipment, is 800-850 Seychelles rupees. A training course for beginner divers costs between Rs 6500-7000.

While some tourists conquer the depths of the sea, others are happy to tame the board - they go surfing. The period from November to April is considered the best season for surfing, as the surf can be dangerous during the summer months due to the very large waves. The islands of Mahe and Praslin are considered the most suitable for surfing. We have already named the beach Grand Anse, which is located in the northwest of Mahe, and Anse Lazio on Praslin. The list of beaches that are popular among "dobochnik" is by no means limited to them. We will also name such as Carana Beach, Anse Bougainville, Barbaron, Anse Royal, Misfeet Bay, Anse Gulette and Bel Ombre. On average, a surfing lesson with an instructor will cost a tourist 1,200 rupees, and a board rental will cost 500 rupees per day.

Lovers of quiet hunting, that is, fishermen, will not be left idle either. For them, fishing in the Seychelles itself is the ultimate dream! After all, it is not some crucian or perch that are caught here, but exotic tuna, barracuda, mako shark, tiger shark, which, before arriving in the Seychelles, could only be seen on TV. The most coveted trophy for experienced fishermen is the blue swordfish, also known as the blue marlin. The weight of this marine life exceeds 400 kg! The best time for fishing is early morning, when you need to have time to dig up worms and get to deep water in order to catch small fish - in fact, real prey is lured into it. The best season for fishing in the Seychelles is October-April. Avid fishermen can book a boat in remote areas, for example, to the atolls of Cosmoledo and Farquhar. The boat is usually designed to carry several people, and you can rent it from morning to lunch or for the whole day. The rental price depends on the comfort. A speedboat will cost from 9,000 to 20,000 Seychelles rupees, including the cost of a full set of equipment. A trip with a fishing rod on a vessel with more modest characteristics will cost Rs 2,000. And what to do with the catch, you ask? On board or in a restaurant on the shore, your trophies will be turned into real gastronomic masterpieces - you will lick your fingers!

So, the underwater world has been explored, the board has been tamed, a big fish has been caught, and now the evening has come imperceptibly. Is it really just to go to bed? What about the nightlife? In the Seychelles, of course, it is not as tumultuous as in many European or Thai resorts, so those who like to have fun after dusk will be somewhat disappointed. However, those tourists who are not looking for adventure, but simply would like to relax and have fun, will be satisfied. There are several nightclubs on Mahe Island, the most popular of which are the Lovant Club in the center of the capital and the Catiolo disco, which looks like the famous hut from Ethel Lilian Voynich's story about Uncle Tom. The village disco with music from the 80s and 90s, a small “Club 369” and an inexpensive establishment “Barrel” (in everyday life - “Bochka”) are not left without visitors. In the latter, mainly the local public likes to relax. There are also casinos on the island of Mahe, there are only three of them: the first is Berjaya Beau Vallon, the second is in the Plantation Club hotel, and the third is Eden, which was recently opened, but has already gained popularity among gamblers. There is a casino on the Praslin island, it is the only one here, in the Lemuria Resort.

Seychelles love to gather and dance folk dances to showcase the island's folk culture. On the beach of Beau Vallon, dances are held on Wednesdays after sunset, and on Sundays around six in the evening. On weekends, local musician Keven Valentin performs at the Kaz Kreole restaurant. If you're in the Seychelles in October, don't miss the Creole Festival. The festival of music, culture, food and street parties lasts a whole week. Many events are held in hotels.

The busiest restaurant on Beau Vallon is The Boat House. Every evening tourists and locals gather here for a Creole buffet at a fixed price of Rs 450. The Pirates Arms Restaurant & Bar in Victoria is very popular. It is worth coming here to listen to musicians performing modern and traditional Seychelles music.

Your hotel may host themed nights, but you will most likely be entertained by local musicians who occasionally dance sega dances. Such dances are quite common in the western Indian Ocean. The dancers shuffle their feet and sway their hips to the accompaniment of electric guitars and drums, while the singer recounts everything that happened during the day. Depending on the enthusiasm of the audience, you may be invited to take part in the dance.

National cuisine

Gourmets consider the Seychelles a real paradise - especially for those who love fish. Wherever you go, you'll be served morning fish with herbs and spices, wonderful curries and delicious fruits and vegetables like you've never seen before.

The local cuisine is based on the traditional recipes of the islanders, over time adjusted under the influence of European, and above all French, culinary traditions. Indians also had a certain influence on the gastronomic preferences of the Seychelles. The local Creole cuisine is somewhat reminiscent of the Mediterranean, as rice and seafood are widely used in the preparation of dishes. And only the use of coconuts and curries, which also form the basis of traditional dishes, allows us to speak of Seychelles cuisine as something original.

One of the most popular foods in the Seychelles is fish and rice called "pwason ek diri". The funny name "tek-tek" hides an original and very tasty sea shell soup. “Saint-Jacques” is bananas, they are stewed here in the French style, and “kat-kat” is a pudding made from coconuts and bananas, one of the most delicious local desserts. You will also love the stewed breadfruit. The unique taste of the bat stew will be appreciated only by extreme gourmets who are not afraid of culinary impromptu.

Seychelles, as we have already said, is an expensive resort, but even here you can find establishments where you can dine without much damage to your wallet, for example, in small cafes serving national cuisine, and Indian restaurants and pizzerias. A full meal will cost you SCR 300-500 per person. You can also have a snack on the beaches, which will be even cheaper. The so-called street food - octopus salad or a serving of grilled fish - costs only Rs 75-100 here. Wealthy tourists prefer exclusively fashionable restaurants overlooking the ocean, where dinner for one person costs 800 rupees and more. Tipping is not expected from you in the Seychelles, since the service in most establishments is already included in the bill, but if you want to further thank the staff, they will be only happy about it. Please note that restaurants often only accept orders until 22:00. After that, you will have to finish what you have ordered. At best, you can have more drinks. Many restaurants close after 10 pm. Exceptions are bars that are open until late at night.

Culture

Seychelles are multinational islands. Descendants of African and Malagash slaves, French settlers, British colonialists and Asian immigrants live here. They are united by a short history dating back only 250 years, and a special Seychelles identity that manifests itself in music, language, folklore and traditions. With a surprisingly diverse ethnic composition, the Seychelles are much closer to the western way of life than other islands in the region. However, Westernization did not lead to the destruction of the unique local culture. A free lifestyle, absence of racial tensions, political stability, low crime rates and picturesque nature - all this makes tourists return to the Seychelles again and again.

music and dancing

Seychelles love to sing and dance. They are equally happy to go to modern nightclubs and dance traditional dances around bonfires right on the beaches. The Mutya dance combines African and Malagasy rhythms. This erotic dance is performed both just like that and at organized performances. During such performances, you can hear traditional stringed musical instruments - zez, bonm or makalapo. However, the drum is still the main instrument. Curious dances of masks and kossez are original variations of waltz and square dance. Apparently, they come from the dances of the first French settlers.

Language

Seychelles has three official languages \u200b\u200b- English, French and Creole. Many speak and understand English well. This language is widely used in business. Although French is also common, most Seychellois prefer to speak English with tourists and among themselves in Creole. The Creole language has its roots in French. It was the language of the masters, which the African and Malgash slaves adapted for themselves. Since 1981, it has been the official language of the Seychelles and is treated with the same respect as English and French. English-speaking tourists have no difficulty in shopping, hotels, banks and restaurants. But a few Creole expressions will still be helpful. If you know French, you can learn some words and phrases. However, the Creole language is quite accessible to anyone. French J became Creole Z, French gender rules do not apply, French accent is unnecessary. Words are pronounced the way they are written.

Folklore and legends

Over the years, superstition and folklore have been closely intertwined. Myths now envelop the rituals of black magic - gri-gris. Black magic was brought to the Seychelles by African slaves who always dreamed of love or revenge. Although black magic rituals were banned in 1958, they are still practiced today. Old people still consult not with doctors, but with bonhomn dibwa - local shamans.

The slaves were well aware of the properties of herbs and plants. This knowledge was passed down from generation to generation. Even today, on those islands where there are no hospitals, people rely on nature. Lemon sorghum can help relieve stomach pain, while other herbs treat liver, sore throat, and headache. Even the harmless palm spider finds application in folk medicine. Any Seychelles will not hesitate to tear off his legs and throw the little body into some unappetizing but very healing brew!

National character

To meet the people of the Seychelles and experience their inherent joie de vivre, head to the Labrin market, which is open on Wednesdays and on the last Saturday of the month in Beau Vallon. Here you can feel the symbolism of the national flag, the stripes on which correspond to the Seychelles character. Blue is the color of the sky and the sea, yellow is the color of the sun, which gives light and life, red symbolizes the willingness of the people to work for the future, unity and love, white - social justice and harmony, green - the land and nature of the islands.

Money

The official currency in the Seychelles is the Seychelles rupee, which is divided into 100 cents. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 10, 25, 50, 100 and 500 rupees and coins in denominations of 5, 10 and 25 cents, 1 and 5 rupees. As of 2017, one Seychelles rupee is approximately equal to 4.5 Russian rubles.

There are enough ATMs in the country, instructions are given in English. Most restaurants and shops accept major credit cards - MasterCard and Visa, but it's better to check in advance.

Transport

Since Seychelles is an island state, the most convenient way to travel between different regions is by air. Domestic flights are operated by Air Seychelles. You can fly, for example, from Praslin to Mahe in just 20 minutes, spending 102 euros on a one-way ticket. Another local air carrier, ZilAir, offers its customers, including foreign ones, sightseeing air tours around the country and exciting helicopter tours. In addition, those who wish can use the services of an individual transfer between the islands offered by this company.

Communication between the islands of the archipelago, including the most remote ones, is also provided by ferries and schooners, of which there are a lot. Ferry travel is usually included in the tour price, or you can buy the ticket yourself. You can get acquainted with the schedule of ferries and prices by clicking on the link.

It may seem strange to some, but the bus network is quite well developed in the Seychelles - as you know, not between the islands, but within them. For example, regular passenger services are carried out on Mahe and Praslin. Buses start operating on both islands at 5:30 am. Only on the first flights are carried out until 20:30, on the second - until 18:20. Buses usually leave every 15 minutes, but sometimes it happens that you have to wait for your flight for half an hour or an hour. The toll is charged by the driver, so it's best to have a change with you. Traveling any distance costs 7 rupees. You need to remember that buses are designed for the needs of local residents, not for the convenience of tourists. Minibuses run between Victoria and the airport. This transfer will cost you only 3 rupees.

All over the world, wealthy, business and simply busy people usually do not like using public transport and prefer taxis. There are checkered cars in the Seychelles, namely on Praslin and Mahe. Local taxis are comfortable, but quite expensive. For a trip lasting 10 minutes, be prepared to pay around 15 euros. A transfer from the airport to the popular resort of Beau Vallon will cost about 50-60 euros. However, you can bargain, it is quite possible to drop the price by 10-20 percent.

Many tourists reject not only passenger transport, but also taxis. They prefer to travel in a rented car, prices for which start from 40 euros per day. To be entrusted with a car in Seychelles, you must be at least 21 years old, have a national or international driver's license, and have at least 3 years of driving experience. "Just?" - perhaps, one of our readers thought now. But do not rush to rejoice. Before renting a car, consider the pros and cons. First, it should be taken into account that the movement here is left-hand, which may seem inconvenient to someone. Secondly, there are many mountain roads in the Seychelles, the quality of which cannot be talked about, and if you do not have experience in driving in such difficult conditions, then it is better not to risk it. In order to make a study trip around an island, it is better (and safer!) To bargain with any taxi driver. As practice shows, this is not too expensive. And, most importantly, there are no risks.

Well, if you all have already decided to travel on your own, then rent a jeep - this vehicle is the best suited for local roads. But it's better not to experiment with speed. Within the city limits, the maximum speed can only be up to 40 km per hour, outside settlements the maximum permissible speed is 60 km per hour. If you are driving on the highway leading to the airport, you are allowed to race at a speed of 65 km per hour. Most Seychelles drive slowly, although some bus drivers imagine themselves on narrow roads as if they were on a track. Always give way to buses. Where can I refuel? If you rent a car on Mahe Island, there are only 6 gas stations at your service. There is even less choice on Praslin - there are only 2 gas stations.

And one more thing: a good alternative to a taxi and a rented car is a regular bicycle. There are many rental points in the Seychelles where you can pick up a suitable "iron horse". Sometimes there are so many people who want to get a two-wheeled friend - after all, this is the most convenient means of transportation in the conditions of this archipelago - that there are often not enough bicycles for everyone.

Connectivity and Wi-Fi

For many Russian tourists, especially those traveling to the Seychelles for the first time, this piece of paradise, literally woven of the sun, heat and beaches, is perceived almost as "the end of the world." It is quite natural that our compatriots worry about how they will call home and, in general, stay in touch with the rest of the world.

The international code for Seychelles is 248. You can call abroad and send faxes by any phone in the Seychelles. Even the outer islands have satellite communications. Be prepared for high rates, especially when calling from hotels.

For calls within Seychelles and Internet access, it is most profitable to buy SIM cards from mobile operators such as Cable & Wireless and AirTel. You can buy them both in branded points of sale and in souvenir shops. They are also sold in hotels, moreover, with a surcharge. Some tariff plans include free domestic calls. For international calls, AirTel offers special vouchers worth between Rs 30 and 100. Communication with Russia will cost the subscriber 5.99 rupees per minute of conversation. Cable & Wireless services are somewhat more expensive: the starter package costs 100 rupees, calls abroad, including to the Russian Federation - 9.50 rupees per minute.

Local post offices and newsstands sell magnetic payphone calling cards. The latter are installed on the streets of local settlements. Some of them can call without a card, just drop a coin: a three-minute conversation with a local subscriber will cost 1 rupee. If you need to call abroad, a card is required. International calls are priced at 17 SCR / min. Nightly rates are cheaper.

As for the World Wide Web itself, it is poorly developed here. Free Wi-Fi hotspots are available in Victoria and other parts of the country's main island. Some travelers are frankly upset by the lack of an accessible Internet, while others are happy to have a break from virtual, which, and this has already been proven by scientists, often causes pathological addiction.

Shopping

There are no supermarkets and large shopping centers in the Seychelles, which are always very noisy due to a large crowd of people. However, the absence of our usual shops does not mean at all that you will go home empty-handed. There are a lot of souvenir kiosks and galleries in the Seychelles, and in them you can buy a large number of exclusive things as a keepsake. By the way, a special piquancy to shopping on the islands is given by the fact that they often trade here right in the open air.

The main shops of the sunny archipelago are in Victoria. There are also several shops on the islands of Praslin and La Digue. Local outlets usually open at 8 am and work until 5 pm, with a lunch break from noon to 1 pm. On Saturdays, shops are open only until lunchtime, weekends - Sundays and days of major holidays. Souvenir shops, which are understandably tourist-oriented, fall outside this general rule. Many of them work all Saturday, and some are open on Sundays.

The most popular souvenir that tourists bring from the Seychelles is the Coco de mer, whose unusual shape and size invariably delight travelers. You can buy this nut in specialized stores and shops, and only in them. Why? It's all about the presence of a certificate available in these outlets and giving official permission to export the Seychelles symbol outside the country. Depending on the weight, the cost of this local palm fruit will range from $ 200 to $ 250. To many, such a purchase may seem expensive, but there is always an alternative: if you cannot or don’t want to buy the coconut itself, buy products from its shell. Some tourists are trying to cheat in order to save money: they buy coconut from private traders who do not ask for it dearly. But it is better not to risk it, because such "savings" will come out sideways. At the airport, you will be required to have a certificate permitting export, and if you do not have one, you will have to pay a fine.

We recommend buying aromatic soaps and toiletries made with local essential oils, handmade beachwear, baskets and bags, tea and spice bags. Expensive souvenirs are not produced in the Seychelles, but in South Africa and other countries of the world: pay attention to diamonds and precious stones, bags from Melvil & Moon and hats from Panama.

Typical Seychelles souvenirs are colorful paintings and prints that can be bought from artists. Check out the work of Michael Adams, Egbert Murdey, Colbert Nurris, and Barbara Jenson. Interesting works by Les and Sharon Masterson - tropical birds and fish from colored glass. Tom Bauer will offer you bronze sculptures.

Check out the Camion Hall tourist arcade on Albert Street, Victoria. There are souvenir shops and bookshops here. Interesting souvenirs can be bought at Fiennes Esplanade next to Francis Rachel Street. Wander the streets near the market where you can buy interesting T-shirts and dresses, vanilla, cinnamon, curry spices, unusual wooden turtle figurines and even a rosary, as well as shell jewelry. Prices in stores are fixed, but you can get a small discount when bargaining with street vendors.

Hotels and accommodation

The hotel chain covers all major islands, but local hotels do not have an official classification. Tour operators themselves assign them a conditional number of "stars" - as they say, by eye. But small bungalows, the level of comfort of which are also not the same, are common mainly on small islands of the coral group. But rest assured: regardless of whether you are staying in a hotel, bungalow or lodge (Lodge), the service corresponding to world standards will be guaranteed to you. For those who do not know what lodges are: these are specially equipped places for tourists in the wilderness, sometimes called ethno-hotels.

The most budgetary options for living are guesthouses and apartments. In the capital of the Seychelles, such housing can be rented for only 1,150 rupees per day. A room for two in a three-star Victoria hotel will cost from 1630 SCR, and in a luxury five-star hotel - at least 3400 rupees per night. For comparison: a double room in a guesthouse on Praslin island costs 815 rupees, and in a fashionable lodge - at least 3000 rupees per night. A similar "kopeck piece" on the island of La Digue will cost tourists 1,000 SCR. Of course, you can rent a three-story villa with a private pool, but then you have to pay 13,000 rupees per day. Well, a one-day vacation on the Fregate - it is often called the island hotel - will ease your wallet by 50 thousand rupees.

If money does not bother you at all, and you have dreamed of your own island all your life, then 18 such islands are at your service. They work according to the "one island - one hotel" system. All of them are privately owned and designed for a very limited number of guests (the only exception is Sainte Anne Island Resort, where there are more than 80 villas). Here you can always meet representatives of royal families, movie stars, football players and famous industrialists.

There are very few large hotels in the Seychelles. By Seychelles standards, if a hotel has more than 25 rooms, it is already a large hotel. Small hotels are always well equipped and not always cheap. The rooms have air conditioning, private terraces, TVs and telephones. Some hotels are designed for those who appreciate a home environment.

Accommodation in mid-range hotels meets high standards. The staff are hospitable and always ready to help.

Less official hotels have a 1960s vibe, although they are also gradually being renovated. These hotels do not have many restaurants, a smaller pool, less spacious grounds, and no room service. But you can always count on a great beach, comfortable room with hairdryer, electric shaver socket, telephone, TV, air conditioning, kettle with a set of tea and coffee. Perhaps there will be Internet access. Larger hotels offer babysitting services, and children have their own pools.

Another option is to charter a yacht and spend the entire vacation on board. The cost of the freight can be split across the group, making it less expensive than traveling alone.

There are no campsites in the Seychelles - this is prohibited.

The voltage in the local power supply is 240 volts, the socket for connecting electrical appliances complies with the British standard, that is, it is equipped with three square plates. If you have taken a domestic kettle, iron, hairdryer or other electrical appliance with you, ask the receptionist for an adapter. Otherwise, you will not be able to connect them to the network.

Opening hours

Offices are open: Mon-Fri 8.00-16.00, some are open Sat 8.00-12.00.

Banks are open: Mon-Fri 8.30-14.00, Sat 8.30-11.00.

Shops are open: Mon-Fri 8.00-17.00, Sat 8.00-12.00.

Passports and visas

If you are a citizen of the Russian Federation and plan to stay in the country for no more than 30 days, then a visa is not required. You need to obtain a 30-day residence permit, which you must carry with you at all times and present to the immigration office upon departure. Tourists must have a valid passport, return ticket, accommodation documents and sufficient funds.

Time

Time in the Seychelles is one hour ahead of Moscow time. When it is noon in the Seychelles, it is 8.00 in London, 3.00 in New York, 4.00 in Montreal, 20.00 in Sydney, 21.00 in Wellington and 22.00 in Cape Town.

Health and safety

Nothing threatens your health in the Seychelles. There is no malaria, yellow fever, cholera or other tropical diseases here. Vaccinations are not needed unless you have been in a country with yellow fever for the past six days. Visitors from South America or Africa (excluding South Africa) will need a certificate of vaccination.

Tap water is drinkable. Mineral water is sold in shops, hotels and restaurants. Hygiene standards in hotels and restaurants are in line with Western requirements. Use common sense as you are at home and your stay in the Seychelles will go smoothly. The main danger is sunstroke, overheating and indigestion. Avoid spending too much time in the sun, use sunscreen, drink plenty of water, and always wash fruits and vegetables before eating.

Many medicines can be found in a private pharmacy in Victoria, but under different names. Hospitals and health centers have their own pharmacies. All medicines are prescription drugs. If you are taking any medications, bring an adequate supply with you. The contacts of doctors and dentists are listed in the telephone directories. The pay is reasonable and the service is usually good. The hotel will help you contact a specialist.

The Seychelles has a low crime rate. However, things left unattended, especially on the beach, can be stolen. Beau Vallon Beach has a black currency market. It is illegal and the detainees face heavy fines.

How to get there

There are several air harbors in the Seychelles, but only one airport serves international flights - Pointe Larue, located on the island of Mahe near the country's capital, Victoria.

The cheapest way to get from Moscow is with two transfers, but this is not entirely convenient. Air Serbia and Etihad Airways fly from the Russian capital to the Seychelles. Departure from Sheremetyevo, connections are made in Belgrade and Abu Dhabi. You will spend a total of 25.5 hours on the way. Aeroflot and Turkish Airlines depart from Vnukovo, flights are carried out with 1 change in Istanbul. The flight will take 13.5 hours, but it will cost more.

Flights from Moscow to the Seychelles are carried out by Qatar Airlines, and also with a transfer. Departure from Domodedovo, fly less, only 19.5 hours, via Doha. The fastest connecting flights through the capital of the Russian Federation are carried out by the Emirates air carrier: passengers will spend only 12 hours and 50 minutes in the air. Transfer in Dubai.

It is more economical to fly from St. Petersburg with one connection: Turkish Airlines operates a flight through Istanbul, the travel time is 18 hours and 40 minutes. But faster, again, the already mentioned Emirates, which departs from Pulkovo and arrives at Mahe in 12 hours 45 minutes. The change is also in Dubai. With two connections, Qatar Airlines and Es Seven are delivered from the northern capital. It will take 27 hours to fly, or even more, via Moscow and Doha. But the ticket is cheaper. But "Russia" and "Turkish Airlines" will fly you from St. Petersburg in 17.5 hours (via Moscow and Istanbul).