10 TIPS TO PLAN YOUR TRIP BETTER
GETTING THERE: Located in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles are served by their national carrier and only a few other airlines. It may take an extra hop or two, but you get there. VISA ON ARRIVAL — AND IT’S FREE:
Finally a country has the sense to offer visa on arrival, and not charge any fee. I still can’t figure why countries charge high amounts for visas — the money saved is likely to be spent in the country anyway and would encourage more travellers.
CURRENCY: The local currency is the Seychelles Rupee, and pegged at about 13 Rupees to a US dollar. The exchange rate is more or less the same no matter where you change money. However, US Dollars and Euros are widely accepted everywhere.
GETTING AROUND: Getting around in the Seychelles is quaintly easy. Best and cheapest way to get around is to hire a car — taxis can be expensive but you can rent cars starting about 40 Euros a day. You can also rent a bicycle, a bullock cart, a motorcycle or a scooter. Get your hands on the limited supply of the legendary Mini Moke car — but it might not pack in enough horsepower to take you up steep terrains. Give it a push, sweat it and cool off with a drink after that. You can take a bus (at least in Mahe and Praslin), ferries between islands or just walk it. You will never lose your way — even if you do, you will not mind being away from civilisation for a while. On islands like La Digue, you can simply walk to every place. It is just 5 km X 3 km, has about 65 guest houses and hotels, a population
of just under 3,000,
around 35 motorised vehicles, an ox cart and innumerable bicycles and boats. You cannot rent a self-drive car there. ACCOMMODATION: There is an option for all budgets — especially those looking at mid to luxury segments. Pick up a self-catering apartment or villa starting at a hundred dollars usually.
ITINERARY AND ACTIVITIES: While there are lots more to explore, you can plan an itinerary with two days each in Mahe, La Digue and Praslin islands. There are a wide range of activities that you can book with local operators, even at the last minute. Prices are quite similar, and most offer a high quality of service. A package from a tour operator might work out cheaper overall though and you will be taken care of through your stay. PACK FOR SUMMERS:
Temperatures range from 30-32 degrees Celsius all year round, so pack accordingly. It can be quite humid — you may want to shower more than once a day. Do carry sun protection, hats, shades etc. at all times. BUY LOCAL SIM FOR DATA AND CALLS: Pick one when you land to stay connected through your stay. DON’T WORRY ABOUT SAFETY:
Crime and thefts are almost unknown in Seychelles — you will rarely see any cops around. You will always feel safe there. 10 ENJOY THE FOOD: Seychelles are a delight for foodies — there is something for everyone. And usually with views of the seas and mountains while you eat.