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WELCOME TO PRASLIN ISLAND SEYCHELLES

The Seychelles are a group of about 115 islands scattered over the west Indian Ocean. Their beautiful beaches attract many visitors, making the tourist trade an important part of the economy.

The country consists of two distinct island groups: the Mahé group in the north and the low-lying coral islands stretching to the south. The 32 islands of the Mahé group are formed of granitic rocks and have hilly interiors rising to elevations greater than 900 m (greater than 2,950 ft). All the country's principal islands belong to this group; they include Mahé Island (the largest), Praslin, Silhouette, and La Digue. The 83 coral islands are largely without water resources, and most are uninhabited. The population of the Seychelles (2001 estimate) is 79,715. The capital, principal city, and leading port is Victoria (population, 1990 estimate, greater city 35,000), on Mahé Island. About 90 percent of the country's population lives on Mahé. Most people are of mixed French and African descent; Indian and Chinese minorities are also present. The official languages are Creole (a patois based on French), English, and French. Some 98 percent of the population is Christian, most of them Roman Catholics.

Tourism, agriculture, and fishing are the principal sectors of the economy. Receipts from tourism were $30 million in 1997, when 125,000 tourists visited the country. Trade is dominated by the importation and reexport of petroleum; other exports include fish, copra, and cinnamon bark. Various fruits are grown for domestic consumption, however, the staple food, rice, must be imported. Since the completion of the international airport at Victoria in 1971, tourism has expanded rapidly. Guano is the only mineral product. In 1998 the national budget included $262 million in revenue and $366 in expenditure. The unit of currency is the Seychelles rupee (5.34 rupees equal U.S.$1; 1999 average).

Under the 1993 constitution, executive power is held by a president, who is popularly elected for a five-year term. The president appoints a council of ministers to act as an advisory body. Legislative power is vested in the National Assembly, which has 25 popularly elected members and 9 members selected on a proportional basis. The Seychelles People's Progressive Front (SPPF) is the leading political group; opposition parties were legalized in 1991.

Praslin island has a decent bus service as well as the usual taxis. A taxi ride from the airport to Anse Volbert will set you back Rs 125.

A car is a great way to see Praslin island. Most travel agents and hotels will assist you if you want to hire a car.

You can also hire bikes from your hotel or from Côte d’Or Bicycle Hire (232071) in Anse Volbert for 50 Rs per day.

Hopping around the small islands off Praslin is done by chartered boat; trips are usually organised through the hotels or tour operators.

Praslin Island - Seychelles - Another world - Perfect vacation for everyone

Quick useful information:

- We recommend tourists to visit Pearl Farm; - A very good restaurant where you can try local food specialties is Bonbon Plume, situated in Anse Lazio; - Don't forget to visit Plaisir Mountain.