Customs and traditions
According to Abbreviationfinder, the Seychelles have a strong storytelling tradition. Through storytelling, fables, speeches and songs, traditions have been maintained and customs passed on through the generations.
The story goes again in the music and dance style moutia (see also Culture). During the slave period, after the end of the work week, people gathered around a fire, drummed and shouted complaints and comments while dancers answered and danced at an ever-increasing pace. Moutia appears as a mysterious and erotic dance, accompanied by drums and with the character of protest song. The form of expression is nurtured as a cultural heritage.
- Countryaah: Overview of the capital city of Seychelles, including information about its population, economy, geography, history and map.
Like other Africans, many Seychelles have retained customs and rites related to traditional beliefs. Magic and magic are key elements. You seek guidance in life through divination, at a bonhomme de bois or a bonne femme de bois. Amulets are used for protection against diseases and accidents. If the purpose is instead to cause an enemy injury, they are called pig-pig.
Health is usually done by shaking hands. The Seychelles are happy to welcome guests. Those who visit someone in the home often bring a small gift.
Western attire dominates. The women wear cotton dresses and sandals, and many wear straw hats to protect the sun. Some wear African sarong. The men also wear hats, and usually dress in loose, short-sleeved shirts and trousers. Both men and women can wear shorts in informal contexts.
The food also reflects the multicultural heritage, with features especially of French, Indian, English, Chinese and African cuisine. Fish, seafood and rice are basic foods. Coconut milk and breadfruit are common elements in the dishes, which are often spicy. You also eat a lot of chicken as well as fruits and fresh vegetables. Turtle meat is called “Seychelles steak”. Also some bats are eaten. A common starter is soup of bread (tomatoes, onions and lettuce leaves). Salted, dried fish (pwason) is often used as a spice in, for example, pots and stews. Beer and palm wine (calou) are produced locally, as is bacca, which is made from sugar cane and which is drunk on ceremonial occasions.
In October each year, the so-called Creole Festival, a cultural event with plenty of music, art, food and dance.
According to Countryaah, the Seychelles celebrate the liberation day on June 5 and Independence Day on June 29. New Year’s Day and May 1 are other secular holidays. The rest has a Christian background; one celebrates Easter and Christmas as well as Mary’s Day on August 15, all Saints’ Day November 1, and the spotless birth day December 8.
Communications
The road network is relatively well developed. Ferries connect Victoria, the country’s most important port, with the islands of Praslin and La Digue.
The country’s international airport, Point Larue on the main island of Mahé, was expanded and renovated in 2006. Airport is also located at Praslin. There are also runways on several other islands. Air Seychelles airline is 60 percent owned by the state and 40 percent by Etihad Airways (United Arab Emirates). Seychelles has flight connections with a number of destinations in Europe, Asia and Africa. In 2015, Air Seychelles and Air Madagascar entered into a collaboration aimed at strengthening tourism in both countries.
There are plans for a modernization of the port of Mahé, and a new road between the capital and the airport.