Victoria: The Jewel of Seychelles

• HelloBonzour
  [bon-zoor]
• GoodbyeOrevwar
  [oh-rev-wahr]
• YesWi
  [wee]
• NoNon
  [non]
• Please/You're welcomeSi ou plé
  [see oo pleh]
• Thank youMersi
  [mer-see]
• Excuse me/SorryEskiz mwa
  [ess-keez mwa]
• How are you?Ki mannyer ou?
  [kee man-yer oo]
• Fine. And you?Byen. E ou?
  [byen. ey oo]
• Do you speak English?Ou koz angle?
  [oo koz ahng-gleh]
• I don't understandMwan pa konpran
  [mwan pa kon-pran]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMwan vwar meni silvouple
  [mwan vwar me-nee see-voo-play]
• I don't eat meatMwan pa manz karn
  [mwan pa manz karn]
• Cheers!Sa sante
  [sah san-tay]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMwan anvi pe silvouple
  [mwan an-vee pay see-voo-play]

• Help!Sekour!
  [seh-koor]
• Go away!Al loen!
  [ahl loh-en]
• Call the Police!Reklam Lasanble!
  [reh-klaam lah-sahn-bleh]
• Call a doctor!Reklam dokter!
  [reh-klaam dohk-tehr]
• I'm lostMwan perdi
  [mwan pehr-dee]
• I'm illMwan malad
  [mwan mah-lahd]

• I'd like to buy...Mwan anvi aste...
  [mwan an-vee ahs-tay]
• I'm just lookingMwan zis gade
  [mwan zees gahd]
• How much is it?Kantite li kout?
  [kan-tee-tay lee koo]
• That's too expensiveSa tro cher
  [sah troh shay]
• 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 en ler
  [lee ahn lair]
• Half past (10)Demin ou dis
  [deh-men oo dees]
• MorningMaten
  [mah-ten]
• AfternoonDiven
  [dee-vehn]
• EveningSwar
  [swahr]
• YesterdayZouryerman
  [zoo-ree-yer-mahn]
• TodayZordi
  [zor-dee]
• TomorrowDemenn
  [deh-men]
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• 22
  [2]
• 33
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• 44
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• 55
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• 66
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• 77
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• 88
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• 99
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• 1010
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• Where's a/the...?Ki kote...
  [kee koh-tey]
• What's the address?Ki adres la?
  [kee ah-drehs lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ou kapab montre mwan (sou kat la)?
  [oo kah-pahb mon-truh mwan soo kaht lah]
• When's the next (bus)?Ki leprosenn...
  [kee le-proh-senn]
• A ticket (to ....)1 billet (vers ...)
  [ahn bee-yay (vayrs)]

Victoria, the capital city of the Seychelles, was originally settled by the French in 1778. The city, named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom, has a rich colonial history that is evident in its architecture and cultural heritage.

Following the initial French settlement, the Seychelles were ceded to Britain in 1814 after the Treaty of Paris. During the British colonial period, Victoria developed as an administrative and economic hub. Key landmarks such as the Clock Tower were constructed during this era, reflecting British influence.

The Seychelles National Botanical Gardens in Victoria were established in 1901. The gardens feature a variety of endemic and exotic plants, offering a glimpse into the island's rich biodiversity. The gardens have become an important site for conservation and education over the years.

During World War II, Victoria played a strategic role due to its position in the Indian Ocean. The city's infrastructure was utilized by Allied forces, and the Victoria Harbour became an essential supply point. This period brought significant military activity to the region.

Seychelles gained independence from Britain on June 29, 1976. Victoria was at the heart of the celebrations and transition to self-governance. The city's political landscape underwent significant changes, with new governmental buildings and institutions being established.

Victoria is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals, such as the annual Carnaval International de Victoria. These events celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of the Seychelles, showcasing music, dance, and traditional crafts from various ethnic communities.

In recent decades, Victoria has seen substantial economic growth, driven by tourism and the offshore financial sector. The city has modernized while preserving its historical charm, with new developments complementing the colonial-era architecture.

Victoria serves as a gateway to the Seychelles' two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Aldabra Atoll and the Vallée de Mai. These sites highlight the natural beauty and ecological significance of the islands, attracting researchers and tourists alike.

Victoria, the capital city of Seychelles, is primarily accessed via the Seychelles International Airport (SEZ) located on Mahé Island. Direct flights are available from major international hubs such as Dubai, Doha, and Johannesburg. From the airport, Victoria is just a short 10-15 minute drive, and taxis or pre-arranged hotel transfers are readily available.

Victoria is a compact city and easily navigable on foot. For longer distances, taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked through your hotel. Public buses operated by the Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) are affordable and connect Victoria with other parts of Mahé Island. Car rentals are also an option for those looking to explore the island at their own pace. Driving is on the left side of the road.

The official currency is the Seychellois Rupee (SCR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are available throughout Victoria, and money exchange services can be found at the airport and in the city.

Victoria is generally a safe city for tourists, but standard precautions should always be taken. Avoid carrying large sums of money and keep your valuables secure. Be cautious when walking alone at night, especially in less populated areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Victoria Hospital is the main medical facility and is equipped to handle most emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing swimwear outside of the beach areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering religious buildings. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'bonjour'. A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Creole cuisine and be open to trying new dishes. Don’t refuse food or drink offered by locals as it is considered impolite.

To experience Victoria like a local, visit the Sir Selwyn Selwyn-Clarke Market early in the morning for fresh produce and fish. Engage with shopkeepers and locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories. Take a walk through the Botanical Gardens to see native plants and giant tortoises. For a unique culinary experience, try street food like banana fritters and grilled fish from local vendors.