About Seychelles

So you finally decided to go to the famous vacation place Seychelles, but the question is do you know the important facts about Seychelles for you to be able to prepare and to enjoy your stay there?  Below are the things you should know before starting your trip:

*The local time in Seychelles is GMT +4.

*Creole, French, and English are the languages spoken in the islands

*As for important health information, if you come from an infected place and reach Seychelles, you first have to undergo yellow fever shots within six days.  It is also advisable to have immunization from typhoid and Hepatitis A.  You also should not forget to bring your own medicine bag with the following contents: diarrhea medication (you’ll never know when you’ll have traveler’s diarrhea), insect repellent, sun block, etc.  You may be able those stuff in Seychelles but they might be more costly and might not be in stock.

*You should be extra cautious if you arrive in Seychelles during rainy season because there is a higher risk of obtaining the Chikungunya virus and dengue fever from mosquito bites.  Never walk bare foot because there is a risk of getting leptospirosis.

*In terms of water, tap water in Seychelles is safe as it meets WHO standards but most vacationers prefer to drink bottled water which is all over the shops.  Seychelles vegetables and fruits should be peeled before you eat them and as for the meat in Seychelles, that should be well cooked.

*As for clinics and hospitals in Seychelles, they are limited.  You will find a hospital in Victoria though as well as a few private clinics.

*Seychelles safety information shows that crime is not common and staying in the islands are normally free of trouble.  Just make sure to be vigilant after dark specifically in the city of Victoria and other isolated places.  Do not bring your valuables to the beaches because those would be the target of petty thieves.  It is also advisable for the women not to walk alone in the beaches.

*As for the customs in Seychelles, visitors can sun bathe topless on some beaches but being fully nude is prohibited.  Wearing camouflage clothes is illegal and homosexuality is not accepted.

It is best to remember and follow all these tips to have a hassle free vacation in Seychelles.  In any trip, you should be prepared and knowledgeable about your destination.

Dubai Culture

A brief history about the culture of Dubai would be very helpful before entering this beautiful place. Dubai is deeply rooted in its Islamic traditions and a good proof of it is the UAE (United Arab Emirates) National’s lifestyles. But, you need not worry since UAE tolerates, actually welcomes foreigners who are not Islamic in religion to enter their country. Emigrants are free to exercise their own religion.

Alcoholic beverages are served in all Dubai hotels and restaurants so it won’t be a problem traveling with your friends or someone special. There are minimal dress codes, and that means no need to adjust to their culture. But, it’s also fun to live the way they do to have a wonderful experience. Buy some clothes they sell and use them while strolling to their historical spots.

Aside from having minimal dress codes, discrimination towards women is not an issue in Dubai. People respect women as they respect others because courtesy and hospitability are few of their many virtues.

The culture of Dubai is pretty much preserved because of the rulers who are keen in maintaining them, practicing numerous traditional events such as sporting events, falconry, camel racing, and dhow sailing. Falconry is a game using trained birds to hunt. It is also known as “hawking”. Camel racing is also a big part of their regular events since UAE are known for camels. It also stands as a tourist attraction just like horse racing in other countries while dhow sailing is another tourist attraction made for riding boats.

If you are worrying on how to communicate with them, don’t fret. The official language of Dubai is Arabic but most people know English so there is no need to using those calculators when bargaining on their products. But, bringing would be better to be sure. The road signs and other significant signs are also written in both English and Arabic so having a map is enough. And since the people in Dubai are hospitable enough, asking would be hassle-free.

Seychelles Islands

For the island hopping aficionados, one of the best destinations would be Seychelles because of the fact that it is composed of around 115 islands that lie about 1600km off the eastern coast of Africa.  The following are the islands that island lovers should never forget to visit during their Seychelles travel.

Mahe – this is the largest island in the city and is said to be the “transportation hub” for an island hopping activity as well as an excursion to other islands within Seychelles.

Praslin – if you are a beach lover, then never miss out on visiting the island of Praslin as it is proud of having a number of amazing beaches like Anse Lazio, Anse Boudin, Anse Possession, Anse Kerlan, Anse La Farine, and a lot more.

La Digue – this is the home to the rare black paradise fly catcher as well as a number of legendary beaches an example of which is the Anse ource d’Argent.

Aride Island – if you are into unspoilt islands, then the Aride Island will fascinate you.  Here in this island you will find rare species of plants or flora such as the Wright Gardenia.  The waters of the island are also bursting with fish life such as Dolphins.  So if you want to go Dolphin Watching stay on Aride Island.

Bird Island – sparkling white sand beaches, crystal clear waters, etc. make up Bird Island.  You’ll have to get on a 30-minite flight from Mahe to reach this Island where you can spend the night in the Bird Island Lodge.

Cerf Island – this is the island for those who love to snorkel and to swim.  This is the closest island to Mahe Island and is located within the Ste. Anne Marine National Park.

Cousin Island – bird watchers will surely love it in Cousin Island where the rares bird in the islands, the Seycheller Bush Warbler is found as well as the Seychelles Magpie Robin.

Curieuse Island – they say to never leave Seychelles without getting a coco de mer which you should have a permit to take home to your native land.  You can find the coco de mer in Curieuse Island as well as the giant land tortoise and different mangrove species for the nature lovers.

These are just a few of the islands that you can visit in the Seychelles.  The Seychelles islands not only boast of great beaches but also of great flora and fauna that are a joy to view. Take a look at the best Seychelles hotels, and plan your perfect vacation to the paradise!

Seychelles Vacation

The Seychelles islands have become a favorite destination for people all over the world who would like to relax, enjoy and spend their vacation in.  You’ll be glad to know that Seychelles is a place where making your own travel plans or arrangements would be a breeze.

If you have decided to plan your trip without asking help from a travel agency, also for you to save up on expenses, you should first get documentation and necessary information from the Seychelles Tourist Office or even from Air Seychelles.   The first thing you would need to know is the cost of air tickets to Seychelles which you may choose to buy from Air Seychelles or the travel agency of your choice.  Then you have to rent a car as your modes of transportation in Seychelles (aside from the boats or yachts) and of course, never forget your accommodation.  A bungalow, a guest house, hotels, etc. – there are a number of choices for you in Seychelles but you have to book in advance to ensure that you arrive in the islands with a place to stay in.

Feel free to visit the website of the Seychelles Tourism Marketing Authority or STMA to find out about all the information you need regarding where to go in Seychelles, activities that you can participate in, and a lot more.

In terms of accommodation choices, Seychelles hotels are normally the most popular choice for travelers. You may take travel agency brochures for you to know the different hotels available in Seychelles.  Compare not only their prices but also the amenities they would offer you.  Most of the hotels in Seychelles have really beautiful views and are just a short walk from the beach.  Take note though that there are a few islands that only have a single hotel such as Denis Island, Bird Island, Silhoutte, D’Arros, Desroches, Frigate, etc.

Another type of accommodation you can stay in would be guest-houses, in other words apartments, bungalows, and bed-sitters that offer you very reasonable rates so if you are on a tight budget, choose these over hotels.  This just means that a Seychelles trip is not only for the wealthy but also for the middle-class vacationers.  The newer guesthouses normally offer you comfort and are completely furnished for you not to worry about anything during your vacation in Seychelles.  Camping is illegal in Seychelles so you have to choose among the two accommodation options.

Dubai Activities

Food is a must and having them good will make the trip worthwhile. There are hotels that have restaurants and coffee shops, but if you want them served in other places or if you want to travel and go to other places and try something new. Here are some of the good restaurants Dubai could offer. 25th Restaurant, Afandi Lebanses Bistro, Akbar Joojeh, Al Baiq, Al Boom Dhow, Al Dahleez, and many other. Try their street food as well. The vendors that sell original shawarmas are, well, of course need not to say a must-try when going to Dubai or any part of UAE.

Dubai offer parks as well like Al Mumzar Beach Park that offers beach facilities with over a hundred chalets being rented out daily. This cozy beach park also offers swimming pools, large green area for picnics from the cafeteria, a pretty much different experience. Therefore, I must say, a must try as well. When traveling with kids, a trip to Children’s City would be very memorable because it offers gift shops, coffee shops for the parents who’ll wait for their children, first aid rooms, prayer room, 28 touch screen, 121 computers, 220 exhibits and more. Well, not all places could offer such a wonderful place.

Are cable cars, Ice World, and other stuff your trips? Here is the place for you. It’s still a park and is located in Bur Dubai, between Al Maktoum and Al Gharoud Bridge. The Creekside Park offers both architectural and natural designs combined. The recreational facilities, cable cars and the Ice World is a good trip as well. Restaurants are everywhere as well after those long and crazy laughs and giggles.

Now now, is dolphin shows your thing? Do you love dolphins? Dubai Dolphinarium at Dubai Creek Park offer three shows daily. Its good when you have plans to go to Dubai Creek Park, it is almost there! For schedules, they are posted at their websites of simple e-mail them for further inquiries.

There are other beach parks around like Jumeirah Beach Park and Jumeirah Open Beach Park. You could play beach volleyball, children games, there are also barbecue areas, a Sports Facilities area, and a helipad if you have a helicopter from your country. Just kidding, but there is one honesty.

Dubai zoo is located in Bur Dubai, on Jumeirah Beach Road if you or your kids enjoy watch different animals. This is good for those educational trips since there are Arabian species and exotic ones like the endangered royal Bengal tiger, and the beautiful axis deer. Drop by!

Dubai Nightlife

Do you enjoy malls? Will you be buying gift for the people back home? There are shopping center as well like Abraj Center, Abu Hail Shopping Centre, Al Bustan Centre, and Al Dhiyafah Centre, and many other.

If you are lucky or if you are still planning, planning in the dates where there are events would be a good idea. Most shows are on automobiles, techie stuff and gadgets, hotel shows, cityscape exhibitions, and others. The events in Dubai are mostly industrial, and if business is not your line and travel is all you want.

Let us proceed..
The nightlife in Dubai is also worth trying especially if you are a night person. Dubai has famous nightlife scenes because of its large choices of the bars and clubs for you to choose from. You could enjoy there, but taking note of course that alcoholic beverages are strictly served only in hotels. Though, there are also a few exceptions. You will be home by three in the morning since Dubai’s few laws covers clubs be closed at three am, a person may drink if he or she is at least 21 in years, 25 to enter a nightclub, and the most interesting of all is that people are not allowed by law to refuse entrance to anyone, including non-members of the club.
A beautiful bar to go to is the Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa. Yes, it is a bar and is more of a bar than any other. It is popular for locals, and is very accommodating especially during weekends from 10:30 or 11:00 in the evening onwards. More of an expat crowd, and quite a few Asian girls. The live music and a small area for dancing is also a sight when the night starts to fall.

Another worth noting is the Atlantis right next door to the Hard Rock Café. This is a disco popular especially during midnight to morning. Performing dancing girls and drum masters go wild as the lively music and atmosphere drives the night away. Ladies night on Sunday, Tuesday, and Thursday are the schedules for the crowd in young and hippy style.

The Carter’s is a very stylish restaurant and a bar as well. It is located inside the Pyramid complex at Wafi city. It opens for lunch and closes at around two or three on Thursdays. As the evening darkens, restaurants slowly transforms into one of the hottest bars in the city, and the DJ completes it starting at ten in the evening onwards.

Getting in Seychelles

Why do people love to go to Seychelles?  Well, because of the good weather and the great beaches and the lovely islands in that city.  Want to know a fact? Seychelles was actually deserted until the 17th century when a ship (British East India ship) decided to use the islands as a base.  After 12 years, the French made claim to the islands and French setters started moving in to Seychelles and started planting and growing crops such as sweet potatoes, sugar cane, coffee, maize, etc.  The British then became interested during the 18th century and it was only after the Napoleonic Wars that they were able to take control of the islands.  French however still was used as the language and the culture of the French remained as well.  Enough about history, the question for those interested would be how to get to Seychelles.

You’ll be glad to know that a lot of airlines are now making flights to Seychelles so you may check with your travel agency on which direct flight you can take to go there.  Sample flights are the following:  direct flight from London, flights from Australia through Singapore, flights from Africa and Mauritius, etc.  You may also take a cruise through Victoria.  Take note of the $20.00 departure tax though.

The Seychelles planes called “Air Seychelles” have regular flights to Bird and Denis Island, Fregate, Praslin, and Deroches.  Charters may also be the modes of transportation to fly to other islands.  Travelers may also take the ferries between La Digue, Praslin, and Mahe.  Other islands not mentioned would mean that you have to charter a boat to get there.

Once you are on the islands, you should know of the other modes of transportation to get around the place.  There are buses all throughout Mahe.  Praslin has buses but those are only limited.  You may also rent cars on Praslin and Mahe as well as taxis but taxi drivers do not normally use their taxi meters and instead would like to haggle as to how much you’ll pay for riding their transport.  In La Digue, you may choose to cycle by hiring bicycles (there are a lot) or you may opt to walk for some exercise.

Take note that having a Visa is not a requirement to be able to visit Seychelles islands but what you would need would be an onward ticket, enough funds throughout your stay and a booked accommodation.  You should also have a Visitor’s Permit.