Port Glaud: A Hidden Gem in Seychelles

• HelloAllo
  [ah-loh]
• GoodbyeA dieu
  [ah dyoo]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeSilvouple/Zot i byenveni
  [seel-voo-play/zot ee byen-veh-nee]
• Thank youMersi
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwa/Desole
  [es-kee-zay mwah/deh-soh-lay]
• How are you?Ki manyer ou?
  [kee mah-nyehr oo]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ay oo]
• Do you speak English?Ou pal parle angle?
  [oo pahl parl ahn-gleh]
• I don't understandMwan pa konpran
  [mwahn pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwan i er poz menu, silvouple
  [mwahn ee ay pohz meh-noo, seel-voo-play]
• I don't eat meatMwan pa manze la vyann
  [mwahn pah mahnz lah vee-ahn]
• Cheers!Sante!
  [sahn-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwan i er peye, silvouple
  [mwahn ee ay peh-yeh, seel-voo-play]

• Help!Ed!
  [ayd]
• Go away!Al manz ou!
  [ahl mahnz oo]
• Call the Police!Apel Lasans
  [ah-pehl lah-sahn]
• Call a doctor!Apel en dokter
  [ah-pehl en dohk-tehr]
• I'm lostMwan perdi
  [mwahn pehr-dee]
• I'm illMwan malad
  [mwahn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwan i er aste...
  [mwahn ee ay ah-steh...]
• I'm just lookingMwan zwir kozman
  [mwahn zweer kohz-mahn]
• How much is it?Kombien sa koute?
  [kohm-byen sah koot]
• That's too expensiveSa tro dispen
  [sah troh dees-pehn]
• Can you lower the price?Ou kapab less pri?
  [oo kah-pahb lehs pree]

• What time is it?Ki lezr i ete?
  [kee lehz-ay ee ay-teh]
• It's one o'clockI ete en
  [ee ay-teh ehn]
• Half past (10)Demi (10)
  [deh-mee (deez)]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-pre-mee-dee]
• EveningSwar
  [swahr]
• YesterdayYer
  [yehr]
• TodayZourdyi
  [zoor-dyee]
• TomorrowDemenn
  [deh-mehn]
• 1En
  [ehn]
• 2De
  [deh]
• 3Toa
  [toh-ah]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Sis
  [sees]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Set
  [seht]
• 8Wit
  [weet]
• 9Nef
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote i en...?
  [kee koh-tay ee ehn]
• What's the address?Ki adrès i ete?
  [kee ah-dreh eeh ay-teh]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwa (sou lap)
  [oo kah-pahb mohn-tray mwah (soo lah-p)]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki lezr i vini (bis)?
  [kee lehz-ay ee vee-nee (bees)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billet (pour ....)
  [ehn bee-leh (poor)]

Port Glaud, like much of Seychelles, saw its first settlers arriving in the late 18th century. French colonists and African slaves were among the earliest inhabitants. The region was primarily used for agricultural purposes, growing crops such as coconut and cinnamon. The French influence is still evident in the architecture and cultural practices seen in the area today.

During the early 19th century, Seychelles, including Port Glaud, came under British control following the Napoleonic Wars. This period saw significant changes in governance, legal structures, and economic activities. The British influence introduced new agricultural methods and a different administrative framework, which shaped the development of Port Glaud.

Seychelles gained independence from British rule in 1976. Since then, Port Glaud has seen considerable development, transitioning from a primarily agricultural community to a more diversified economy. Efforts to improve infrastructure, promote tourism, and preserve natural beauty have been central to the town's growth.

Port Glaud is renowned for its vibrant Creole culture, a blend of African, French, and British influences. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine are integral to the community. Festivals and local markets offer a glimpse into the unique cultural fabric of the area, making it a rich experience for visitors.

The natural environment of Port Glaud has always been a significant part of its identity. The area is home to several protected areas, including the Morne Seychellois National Park. Conservation efforts have been pivotal in maintaining the pristine beaches, lush forests, and unique wildlife that attract tourists from around the world.

Port Glaud is located on the northwest coast of Mahé, the largest island in the Seychelles. The nearest international gateway is Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) in the capital city of Victoria. From the airport, you can reach Port Glaud by taxi, rental car, or pre-arranged shuttle services. The drive from the airport to Port Glaud takes about 30-40 minutes. Public buses also operate from Victoria to Port Glaud, but they are less frequent and may take longer.

Once in Port Glaud, the best way to get around is by rental car, which gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Taxis are also available, but they can be expensive. Alternatively, the local bus service is a more budget-friendly option, though schedules can be irregular and routes limited. For shorter distances, bicycles are a viable option, and some accommodations provide them for guests.

The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in Victoria and other major areas, but they are sparse in Port Glaud, so it's advisable to withdraw sufficient cash before heading there.

Port Glaud is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach or in cars. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so keep an eye on your belongings. Emergency numbers are 999 for police and ambulance services. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Port Glaud, but remain vigilant, especially after dark.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest medical facility is in Victoria, about a 30-40 minute drive from Port Glaud. Pharmacies are also available in Victoria for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest police station and embassy if applicable.

Fashion: Do wear light, breathable clothing suitable for a tropical climate. Beachwear is acceptable on beaches but not in towns or restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be courteous and greet the driver when boarding the bus. Don't expect air conditioning on public buses. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Bonsoir'. A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Port Glaud like a local, visit the Port Glaud waterfall and take a dip in the natural pool. Engage with local fishermen and learn about their trade. Try the local Creole dishes at family-run restaurants. Participate in community events and festivals that may be happening during your visit. For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the nearby Morne Seychellois National Park to explore its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.