Credit cards
American Express and Visa are widely accepted, while MasterCard
and Diners Club have more limited use, here.
Travelers cheques
Are accepted in most hotels, guest-houses, restaurants and
shops. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers
are advised to take travelers cheques in US Dollars or Pounds
Sterling.
Banking Hours
Most banks are open from 0815 to 1600hrs, Monday to Friday.
Currency
The official currency is the Seychelles Rupee. Paper notes
are in denominations of 10, 25, 50 and 100 SR. Coins are 1
and 5 SR as well as 1, 5, 10 and 25 cents. There also are
some silver and gold coins, but they are not in general circulation.
There are no restrictions on the importation of local or foreign
currency.
Shopping & Duty Free
Shops are open from Mondays to Fridays, between 8 a.m. and
5 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 noon. Local stalls
and small grocery stores are open every day until late in
evening.
In general, you could bargain in the local markets or even
get discounts on car rentals. But, prices in the stops are
are seldom negotiable.
For the airport Duty-free store, only foreign currency is
accepted.
Tipping
Tipping is welcomed, but not obligatory. A 10% service charge
is added to your bill in hotels and restaurants.
Marriage
It is possible to arrange a wedding at Seychelles, most travel
agents will be happy to assist you. Contact the local Seychelles
Tourist Office, fr more information. The wedding is recognised
within most European countries.
Bathing Ethics
Swimming is safe. In certain season, some beaches are not
suitable for swimming due to strong underwater currents. There
is no danger from sharks and no Great Whites around the main
islands. Covered shoes are recommended while swimming or snorkeling,
to protect from coral or Stone Fish. Naked and topless sun
bathing or swimming are strictly forbidden, a fine can be
imposed if caught.
Visa and Passport
Visa is not required by any nationalities. But a passport
valid for at least six months beyond the date of departure
is required by all. Upon arrival a 30 days permit will be
granted and this permit may be extended at the Immigration
Office. You may need a proof of sufficient funds and a pre-booked
accommodation.
How to get there and getting around
By Air:
Seychelles is becoming a favourite tourist island, so there
might be high chance of getting a direct flight to this exotic
island. If you are from Australia, you can travel to Seychelles
via Singapore. Flight should not be any problem for travelers
from Africa and Mauritius; departures from London is thru
a direct flight. Travelers from the Continental Europe can
also fly direct.
By Sea:
Cruise and cargo ships stopover at Mah�, but there are no
scheduled services. Also, cruises do pass Victoria, the capital
city.
Getting Around:
By Air:
There are domestic flight that runs regularly to Praslin,
Fr�gate, Desroches, Bird and Denis Island, and are able to
charter to other islands. Helicopters also fly tourists to
some of the islands.
By Sea:
Ferries run regularly between Mah�, Praslin and la Digue -
You will need to charter a boat for other island destinations.
By Road:
An extensive local bus services operate throughout Mah� island,
and a limited service on Praslin. Rent a car to get around
an island. The roads are safe. Cab services run on Mah�, Praslin
and La Digue, and the fares are standardize rate set by the
government. Ride the bicycle for a tour on the smaller island.
Or simply walk- get the most around the islands. The traffic
is light, short distances, plus a beautiful scenary.
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