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PRASLIN ISLAND - SEYCHELLES - PEOPLE AND CULTURE

Unlike so many tropical islands around the world, the Seychelles do not boast any indigenous cultures, as the islands were devoid of human inhabitants until French colonists settled in the 1700s. The country's present-day culture, however, does reflect the many ethnic groups that call the Seychelles home. The African slaves, which were imported from the mainland, brought their music, dance and religion. In fact, much of the country's traditional music can be traced back to the slaves' prayers, which were turned into work chants and are now expressed as songs, accompanied by dance. The most well-known, the sombre moutia, is a slow repetitive participatory dance that also displays a Malagasy component, as Madagascar is just a few hundred miles south.

Another cultural trait left over from the slaves is the belief in supernatural spirits. Even among the majority Catholic population, these magical gris are believed to exert magic as well as spells of good and bad luck. Though the government outlawed "sorcery" nearly fifty years ago, these beliefs remain strong, as the presence of spirit practitioners called bonhommes and bonfemmes will attest. These priests and priestesses concoct potions that are used to bring good luck or love to many Seychellois.

Language in the Seychelles is a cultural marker as well. Though most people speak French and/or English, French Creole, locally known as kreol seselwa, is the most popular language spoken on the streets. Interestingly, the Creole spoken here is different from that spoken in the Reunion Islands, though it is quite similar to the creole of Mauritius. In the last twenty years, Creole has become more socially accepted and is now printed in newspapers and literature. In addition, the government has recently created a music school and national dance troupe to promote their Seychellois culture.

Local music is a fascinating blend of African, European, Indian, Chinese and Arabic styles, combining European instruments such as violins, accordions and banjos with native instruments such as African skin drums, the sitar-like zez and the stringed makalapo.

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