Praslin, The Jewel of Seychelles

• HelloBonzour
  [bon-zoh]
• GoodbyeOrevwar
  [oh-rev-wah]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [nohn]
• Please/You're welcomeSilvouple
  [seel-voo-play]
• Thank youMersi
  [mehr-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskize mwa
  [es-kee-zay mwah]
• How are you?Ki manyer?
  [kee man-yeh]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [bee-en. eh oo?]
• Do you speak English?Ou pale Angle?
  [oo pah-lay ahn-glay]
• I don't understandMwan pa konpran
  [mwahn pah kohn-prahn]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMontr mwa meni, silvouple
  [mohn-truh mwah meh-nee, seel-voo-play]
• I don't eat meatMwan manze karn
  [mwahn mahn-zeh kahrn]
• Cheers!Sente
  [sen-teh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMonn peye, silvouple
  [mohn pay-yeh, seel-voo-play]

• Help!Aid
  [ayd]
• Go away!Al lew
  [ahl loo]
• Call the Police!Sey lapolis!
  [say lah-poh-leece]
• Call a doctor!Sey dokter!
  [say dohk-tehr]
• I'm lostMwan perdi
  [mwahn peh-dee]
• I'm illMwan malad
  [mwahn mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Monn anvi achte...
  [mohn ahn-vee ahkt]
• I'm just lookingMwan pe sime
  [mwahn pay see-meh]
• How much is it?Konbyen li koute?
  [kohn-byen lee koot]
• That's too expensiveSa tro dispendye
  [sah troh dees-pen-dyeh]
• Can you lower the price?Ou kapab redwi pri?
  [oo kah-pahb reh-dwee pree]

• What time is it?Ki ler li ye?
  [kee lair lee yeh]
• It's one o'clockLi enn ler
  [lee enn lair]
• Half past (10)Demi-diz
  [deh-mee deez]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-tehn]
• AfternoonApremidi
  [ah-preh-mee-dee]
• EveningAswar
  [ah-swah]
• YesterdayZouryerdizour
  [zoo-ree-yehr-dee-zoor]
• TodayZordi
  [zor-dee]
• TomorrowDemenn
  [deh-mehn]
• 1Enn
  [enn]
• 2De
  [day]
• 3Troa
  [twa]
• 4Kat
  [kaht]
• 5Sank
  [sahnk]
• 6Sis
  [sees]
• 7Set
  [seht]
• 8Uit
  [weet]
• 9Nef
  [nef]
• 10Dis
  [dees]

• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...?
  [kee koh-teh]
• What's the address?Ki adres?
  [kee ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwa (sou lap)
  [oo kah-pahb mohn-truh mwah (soo lah-puh)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kan prochen (bis)?
  [kahn proh-shen (bees)]
• A ticket (to ....)En billet (vers ....)
  [enn bee-yay (vehr)]

The island of Praslin, the second largest island in the Seychelles archipelago, was first sighted by Europeans in 1744. It was named 'Isle de Palmes' by the French explorer Lazare Picault due to its lush palm trees. Despite its early discovery, the island remained largely uninhabited and unexplored until the late 18th century.

In 1768, Praslin was officially claimed by the French, who began to develop the island's agricultural potential. The French established plantations of coconut, vanilla, and other crops. After the Treaty of Paris in 1814, control of the Seychelles, including Praslin, was ceded to the British, who continued to develop the agricultural sector while introducing new administrative structures.

One of Praslin's most significant historical events was the discovery of the Vallée de Mai in the mid-19th century. This ancient forest, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the rare Coco de Mer palm, which produces the largest seed in the plant kingdom. The unique biodiversity of Vallée de Mai has made it a focal point of conservation efforts and a key tourist attraction.

During World War II, Praslin, like the other islands in Seychelles, played a strategic role due to its location in the Indian Ocean. The British used the island as a base to monitor and protect maritime routes against Axis powers. The presence of military installations and personnel left a lasting impact on the island's infrastructure and local economy.

Seychelles gained independence from British colonial rule on June 29, 1976. Since independence, Praslin has seen significant development, particularly in the tourism sector. The island has become renowned for its beautiful beaches, such as Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, and its luxury resorts, which have contributed to its status as a world-class travel destination.

Praslin's culture is a vibrant blend of African, European, and Asian influences. The Creole language, cuisine, and festivals reflect this rich cultural heritage. Today, Praslin is celebrated for its harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its unique charm and history.

Praslin, the second-largest island in Seychelles, is accessible primarily by air and sea. The island has its own airport, Praslin Island Airport (Ile de Praslin Airport), where daily flights from Mahé, the main island, are operated by Air Seychelles. The flight duration is approximately 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a high-speed ferry from Mahé to Praslin, which takes about an hour and is operated by companies like Cat Cocos and Inter Island Ferry.

Getting around Praslin is convenient, with various transportation options available. Taxis are readily accessible and can be hailed or booked in advance. Car rentals are also an option for those who prefer to explore the island at their own pace. Additionally, there is a reliable bus service that operates regularly and covers most parts of the island. Bicycles can be rented for a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore Praslin.

The official currency of Seychelles is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available on the island, and currency exchange services can be found at banks and major hotels.

Praslin is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach and be cautious when walking alone at night in secluded areas. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is recommended.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services. Praslin has a hospital, Baie Ste Anne Hospital, which provides medical care. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available on the island where over-the-counter medications can be purchased.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing swimwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local religious customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be polite and considerate of other passengers. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour.' A handshake is also a common greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole cuisine and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Praslin like a local, visit the Vallée de Mai Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its coco de mer palms. Spend time at the local markets where you can purchase fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share insights about their culture and traditions. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Anse Lazio and Anse Georgette, two of the most beautiful beaches on the island.