Seychelles ( ( listen) say-SHELZ; French: [seʃɛl]), officially the Republic of Seychelles (French: République des Seychelles; Creole: Repiblik Sesel), is an archipelago and country in the Indian Ocean. The 115-island country, whose capital is Victoria, lies 1,500 kilometres (932 mi) east of mainland East Africa. Other nearby island countries and territories include Comoros, Mayotte (region of France), Madagascar, Réunion (region of France) and Mauritius to the south. With a population of roughly 94,228, it has the smallest population of any sovereign African country; however, it does have a larger population than the British overseas territory Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha.
Seychelles is a member of the African Union, the Southern African Development Community, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the United Nations. After proclamation of independence from the United Kingdom in 1976, Seychelles has developed from a largely agricultural society to a market-based diversified economy, with agriculture being supplanted by rapidly rising service and public sectors as well as tourism. Since 1976, nominal GDP output has increased nearly sevenfold and the purchasing power parity nearly sixteenfold. In recent years, the government has encouraged foreign investment in order to upgrade these sectors. Today, Seychelles boasts the highest nominal per capita GDP in Africa, excluding the French regions. It is one of only a handful of countries in Africa with a high Human Development Index. Despite the country's newfound economic prosperity, poverty remains widespread due to a high level of income inequality, one of the highest in the world, and unequal wealth distribution.
A lengthy struggle between France and Great Britain for the islands ended in 1814, when they were ceded to the latter. Independence came in 1976. Socialist rule was brought to a close with a new constitution and free elections in 1993. President France-Albert RENE, who had served since 1977, was re-elected in 2001, but stepped down in 2004. Vice President James MICHEL took over the presidency and in July 2006 was elected to a new five-year term; he was reelected in May 2011..
Seychelles is located in archipelago in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar.
When you travel to Seychelles remember that the climate is tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May).
A Taste of Seychelles - Travel Seychelles for Vacation, Tours and HolidayThe Seychelles consist of 115 islands, of which only a few are inhabited, situated in the Indian Ocean. Positioned off the east coast of Africa and to the northeast of Madagascar, they have an almost dreamlike setting with their palm-fringed beaches and warm waters. The Seychelles are a popular destination for people seeking a romantic honeymoon, and it must be said, that few locations in the world can match them in that regard. In recent years, an increasing number of guesthouses and 2 and 3 star hotels have opened up alongside the 5 star resorts, opening them up to people of all budgets.
When to Visit the SeychellesThe Seychelles has two distinct seasons, which are the cool southeast monsson which lasts from May to September, and the hot northwest monsoon which lasts between October and April. People heading for the Seychelles to go diving will perhaps want to avoid the cool season, whereas the hot season can bring some heavy rains. The high season is July and August, as well as the Christmas/New Years break, although due to its tropical climate, warm weather can be guaranteed throughout the year.
Things to See and Do in the SeychellesBeaches – The Seychelles have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and its warm tropical waters are perfect for anyone that wants to go fishing, snorkelling, diving and kayaking. Don't like the beach on your island for some reason or fancy a change? Try 'island hopping' and spend some time on one of the other islands using water taxis or an organised trip.
Nature – See nature at her unspoiled best. There are few places on earth where you can see a giant tortoise up close and personal, and bird lovers will be amazed at the variety of species flying about the islands. The best place to watch them is Cousin Island, which has more than 300,000 birds in an area of less than 0.6 miles in diameter. Hikers will have the chance to see some more of the natural wonders of the Seychelles if they choose to take one of the hiking routes on the main island of Mahe.
Land Activity's – Many people concentrate on the watersports on the islands, without realising that there are numerous land based sports and activity's that they can also enjoy. Golf, horseback riding tennis and badminton are all sports that can be played for a few hours every day if so desired, and renting a bicycle is a great way to see some of the smaller islands such as La Digue.
Travel information and tips: Seychelles
Terrain is: Mahe Group is granitic, narrow coastal strip, rocky, hilly; others are coral, flat, elevated reefs.
Be careful of natural hazards like: lies outside the cyclone belt, so severe storms are rare; occasional short droughts.
Religions in Seychelles are Roman Catholic 82.3%, Protestant 7.5% (Anglican 6.4%, Seventh-Day Adventist 1.1%), other Christian 3.4%, Hindu 2.1%, Muslim 1.1%, other non-Christian 1.5%, unspecified 1.5%, none 0.6% (2002 census).
Ethnic Groups: mixed French, African, Indian, Chinese, and Arab.
Most popular languages in Seychelles are:
English 3.8% (official),
French 1.3% (official).
The capital of Seychelles is Victoria.
Other largest cities and towns in Seychelles that are actually worth visiting:
Population of Seychelles is about 77,000 people.
If you plan a short trip or vacation in Seychelles in the future, make sure you add Mayotte
, British Indian Ocean Territory
to your list.
Electrical Plug/Outlet and Voltage Informations in Seychelles
Voltage: 240V, Frequency: 50Hz
Seychelles uses electrical sockets (outlets): G
Emergency Phone Numbers
Common emergency phone number: 999
Country calling code: 232
Read more about travel expenses, prices, health care and safety
Seychelles currency is Seychellois rupee (SCR)
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