Money :
The Seychelles currency is the Rupee (SCR), divided into 100 cents. The country's foreign exchange regulations require visitors to pay for all services provided by hotels, guesthouses and self-catering enterprises, as well as things like car hire, entrance fees to parks and reserves, scuba diving and boat charter, in major foreign currency notes (Euros are the most widely used) or by credit card. Taxis and restaurant bills (not connected to hotels) are payable in foreign or Seychelles Rupees. Rupees can only be used in local shops, markets, and bars. Credit cards are widely welcomed throughout the Seychelles. Money can be exchanged at banks and the airport on Mahé, or at hotels, and banks process travellers cheques. To change Rupees back into foreign currency on departure requires the official receipt from the initial transaction. ATMs are available at major banks on Mahé, Praslin and La Digue.
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.
Health :
A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry by those arriving from an infected area within six days. 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 are advised to 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 World Health Organisation standards, but most visitors prefer to drink bottled water, which is widely available. Fruit and vegetables should be 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 :
Violent crime is unlikely and most visits are trouble-free, but there have recently been some incidents of theft and assault in the Seychelles, 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.
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.
Duty Free :
Travellers to the Seychelles over 18 years do not have to pay duty on 400 cigarettes or 500g tobacco; 2 litres alcohol; 200ml perfume or eau de toilette; sporting equipment to the value of SR500; jewellery and precious metals to the value of SR500; and all other goods for personal consumption to the value of SR3,000. For the import of video cameras and other cameras, musical instruments, sports equipment, portable electronic or electric goods and other leisure items, a deposit in Seychelles rupees may be charged and then refunded in rupees on re-export provided it is within six months of the arrival date. There are also restrictions on tea, seeds, plants, meat and meat products, flowers, fruits and vegetables. 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.
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.
Contacts :
Emergencies: 999
