Communication: Victoria

Local Connectivity

Airtel Seychelles and Cable & Wireless Seychelles are the main providers.

SIM Card Acquisition

Purchase at Seychelles International Airport (SEZ).
Find SIMs at official stores in Victoria.
Passport needed for registration.

Internet Access

Most hotels and guesthouses offer Wi-Fi, often free for guests.

Wi-Fi Availability

Some cafes and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi.
Public Wi-Fi limited outside tourist spots.
3G/4G coverage across Mahé.

Language niceties

Official languages are Creole (Seselwa), English, and French.

Language Use

English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
French is also widely understood.
A few Creole phrases appreciated.

Postal Services

The main post office is in Victoria.

Mail Services

Send postcards and parcels.
Standard postal services available.
International shipping.

Creole Phrases

Basic Greetings

Hello: Bonzour (bon-zhoor)
Goodbye: Orevwar (o-rev-wahr)
Please: Silvouple (sil-voo-play)
Thank you: Mersi (mer-see)

Responses

Yes: Wi (wee)
No: Non (non)
How are you?: Ki dir? (kee deer)
Delicious: Bon Gou (bon goo)

Staying Connected

Consider an eSIM from Airalo for easy data access or a portable Wi-Fi device from Solis Wi-Fi for multiple devices. For language learning, Rosetta Stone is a great option.

Business Hours & Schedules

Understand typical operating hours in Seychelles.

Bank Hours

Generally Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM. Some open Saturday mornings.

Shop Hours Victoria

Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM; Saturday, 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM. Many shops close for lunch.

Supermarket Hours

Longer hours, often until 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM daily.

Financial Access

ATMs are available in Victoria, at the airport, and in major tourist areas.

Major Banks

Absa Bank (Seychelles).
Nouvobanq.
Seychelles Commercial Bank.

Holiday Impacts

Seychelles observes Christian, Muslim, and national public holidays.

Service Changes

Banks and government offices may close.
Some shops may have limited hours.
Plan activities around these dates.

Public Holidays

Early Year Holidays

New Year's Day (Jan 1-2).
Good Friday.
Easter Monday.

Mid-Year Holidays

Labour Day (May 1).
Liberation Day (June 5).
National Day (June 18).

Travel Note

Tourist businesses generally operate year-round. Smaller guesthouses may close for maintenance during low season periods. Always check specific opening times for attractions.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Respect local customs and traditions.

Local Greetings

A friendly "Bonzour," "Good morning," or "Bonjour" is common.

Social Norms

Handshakes customary when meeting new people.
Smile and make eye contact.
Politeness is well-received.

Dress Considerations

Lightweight, casual clothing is fine for general wear.

Specific Settings

Dress respectfully for religious sites (shoulders/knees covered).
Smart casual for upscale dining.
Swimwear for beaches only.

Dining & Tipping

Tipping is not required as a service charge is often included.

Meal Practices

Small additional tips for excellent service are appreciated.
Dining pace is relaxed.
Locals use takeaways.

Photography Ethics

Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially children.

Photo Guidelines

Be respectful in religious sites.
Avoid military or government buildings.
Generally, people are friendly.

Cultural Awareness

Sensitive Topics

Avoid discussing local politics unless invited.
Public displays of affection are discreet.
Respect privacy in residential areas.

Inclusivity Notes

Generally tolerant society.
Tourist areas more open to LGBTQ+ visitors.
Homosexuality decriminalized in 2016.

Traveler Guidance

Airport Access

For comfortable waiting, Priority Pass access airport lounges globally.
Check eligibility and benefits for your travel needs.
Relax before or after your flight.

Flight Protections

If your flight is delayed or cancelled, Compensair assists with compensation claims.
Support available for denied boarding situations.
Know your passenger rights.

Local Sensitivity

Local customs are part of the charm of Seychelles.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges may find Seychelles' infrastructure difficult.

Infrastructure Challenges

Seychelles' natural landscape and older infrastructure present challenges for mobility impairments.

Terrain Notes

Hilly terrain and narrow roads.
Sandy beaches.
Uneven sidewalks in Victoria.

Attractions & Transport

Newer, luxury resorts often have accessible rooms and facilities.

Mobility Tips

Public buses are not wheelchair accessible.
Taxis are a main transport option.
Many nature trails are not accessible.

Sensory Support

Specific services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Assistance Guidance

Rely on assistance from travel companions.
Pre-arrange tour guides.
Communicate needs clearly.

Information Resources

Contact the Seychelles Tourism Board for updated information.

Contact Options

Reach out to specialized travel agents.
Seek specific accessibility details.
Plan in advance for specific needs.

Further Planning

Mobility Needs

Some main attractions may be partially accessible.
Many historical sites may not be fully accessible.
Enjoy accessible areas where possible.

Accessibility Resources

Contact the Seychelles Tourism Board directly.
Work with specialized travel agents.
Seek updated accessibility information.

Important Accessibility Note

Due to varied terrain and older infrastructure, travelers with mobility limitations may face challenges. Pre-booking accessible services and accommodation is highly recommended.

Communication