The Basics

Time

Local time is GMT +4.

Electricity

Electrical current is 220-240 volts AC, 50 Hz. Plugs are of the English type, with three square pins.

Language

Creole, English and French are all spoken in the Seychelles.

Travel Health

Health regulations in the Seychelles require that travellers from areas infected by yellow fever have a vaccination certificate. Immunisation against hepatitis A and typhoid are highly recommended. Visitors are advised to bring their own medication to avert the risk of travellers' diarrhoea, as well as sun block and insect repellent, local supplies being erratic and costly. During the rainy season in particular visitors should take precautions against mosquito bites due to the risk of dengue fever and the Chikungunya virus spread by bites. There is a risk of leptospirosis, and walking barefoot should be avoided on roads and paths. Tap water meets WHO standards, but most visitors prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available. Fruit and vegetables should be washed and peeled, and meat well cooked, before being eaten. Medical facilities on the islands are limited, but there is a government hospital in Victoria and some private clinics. Medical insurance with full evacuation cover is necessary.

Tipping

Charges for most services include a service charge of between 5 and 10%, so tipping is therefore not obligatory. If service has been exceptional a small tip on top of that would be warmly welcomed.

Safety Information

Safety is not generally an issue in the Seychelles; violent crime is unlikely and most visits are trouble-free. There have been some incidents of theft and assault, but these are targeted mainly at residents. Visitors should be vigilant, particularly after dark in Victoria and in isolated areas. Avoid taking valuables to the beach, where they could be pilfered by petty thieves. Women should avoid walking alone on isolated beaches.

Local Customs

Homosexuality is illegal. Topless bathing is accepted on many, but not all, beaches but nudism is unacceptable. Wearing camouflage clothing is prohibited.

Business

In the Seychelles, business is conducted relatively informally. Men and women are not required to wear formal suits although a smart appearance is advised. Business is usually conducted in English or French. Business hours are generally 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday.

Communications

The international dialling code for Seychelles is +248. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0044 for the United Kingdom). Direct lines to most countries are available at most hotels. There is excellent GSM 900/1800 coverage for mobile telephones, and most hotels offer a postal service, email and Internet connection. There are Internet cafes in Victoria.

Duty Free

Travellers to the Seychelles over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars or 225g of tobacco; 1 litre of spirits/wine; a reasonable amount of perfume for personal use. Prohibited items include drugs, narcotics, firearms and spear-fishing equipment. It is forbidden to export unprocessed coco de mer, shells, fish and live tortoises. A permit is required for processed coco de mer.