Key Facts About the Seychelles

Country name Republic of the Seychelles

Location Indian Ocean about 1600km east of Kenya and north-east of the island of Madagascar.

Area 455 sq km

Population 82,000

Capital city Victoria (population 71,500)

Government Republic since 1976; gained independence from the UK in 1975

Language Creole, English and French.

Useful phrases Try these Creole phrases: Bonzour – ‘hello’; Orecwar – ‘goodbye’; koman sava – ‘How are you?’; Mon byen mersi – ‘I'm fine thanks’; Mersi –‘thanks’; Silvouple – ‘please’; wi – ‘yes’; Non – ‘no’.

Climate Tropical. The annual temperature ranges between 24˚C and 31˚C, with humidity around 80 per cent. The dry season lasts from May and September, when the high temperatures are cooled by sea breezes. The hottest time of year is between October and April while July and August are the driest months. The rainy season lasts from mid-November until mid-February, with short, heavy showers.

Currency Seychelles rupee (SCR)

Time Zone Six hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time; four hours behind Australian Western Standard Time; GMT/UTC +4 hours

Electricity 240 volts, 50hz; English-style three pin plugs

Religions Mainly Roman Catholic with Muslim, Baha’i and other minorities

Dialling code +248

Tipping Not obligatory as a service charge of between 5 and 10 per cent is included for most services. However, if service is exceptional then a small tip is warmly welcomed.

Local etiquette Visitors are requested not to offend local sensibilities. Topless bathing is accepted on many, but not all, beaches. Swimwear should only be worn on the beaches. Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting and a gift is acceptable if invited to someone’s home.

Tip Hats and sunscreen are a must and sneakers or sandals are advisable for walking and swimming around coral. If you cut yourself on coral pour lemon or lime juice over the wound to relieve the pain, or use hydrogen peroxide.

Did you know? Creole is a language adapted from 17th century French.