7 tips for budget travel to Seychelles
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As a traveler, I am constantly asked what country I would like to visit again. And, regardless of how I usually feel about other things (answers), the answer to this question (90% of the time) is the Seychelles. I sincerely want to visit the island one more time in my lifetime.
Many of you are probably wondering why I would ever visit a country that is known to be so expensive again. Well, yes, when I visited the Seychelles back in 2018, I was appalled by the expensive accommodations, food, and rental cars. But, hey, it was our honeymoon and I really didn’t mind the expensive Airbnb we stayed at.
Whenever my partner and I revisit the country, we now know and have an idea of how to make it a budget trip, at least as cheaply as possible. Because the harsh reality is that Seychelles cannot be traveled on a tight budget, no matter how hard you try and compromise. The trip would still be more expensive than normal budget travel standards.
If you are planning a trip to Seychelles, below are some tips for budget travel to Seychelles.
1. Travel in the shoulder season
Although you can enjoy the Seychelles at any time of the year, the best time to visit the tropical paradise is during the shoulder season, April to May and October to November. Flights and accommodation are relatively cheaper. However, make sure you book your flights in advance to get the best deals/offers.
I visited the island nation in January, one of the busiest months of the year. Therefore, the trip was an expensive affair for me. But hey, every euro spent on honeymoon is fair. All I can say is that my honeymoon could not have been better.
Good to know. During the shoulder seasons, the water temperature is ideal for swimming, which gives an extra incentive to dive.
2. Choose Budget Accommodation One of the best tips for budget travel to Seychelles
Luxury resorts and Airbnb in the Seychelles are quite expensive, ranging from €150-€300 per night. Search for guest houses, hostels or cheap apartments. However, you still need to pay at least €60-100 for decent budget accommodation. Just remember to read the reviews of the property you plan to park. If you research and book well in advance, you can get a nice Airbnb property for a decent price. I mean, I paid about €80 a night for an ocean view apartment in Praslin that my husband booked 40 days ago.
Good to know. There are not many guest houses and hostels. So try to book them as early as possible. In addition, these options are often cumbersome and not very aesthetically pleasing. So choose the one that appeals to you the most.
3. Visit supermarkets as often as necessary
If you are a pure vegetarian, you will have a hard time finding good vegetarian food on any of the islands. There are options to eat, but it gets boring a few times. I managed to find a good Indian restaurant, Le Relax Hotel and Restaurant, but it turned out to be too expensive, €20 for 3 tandoori rotis and 1 dal. Yes, you read that right.
Supermarkets will become the ultimate salvation. Stock up on some instant cup noodles, snacks and chocolates and you’re sorted. Also, bring prepared food like noodles, poha, apma, khichdi, pasta, etc. from home It will save you more euros than you can imagine.
If you are non-vegetarian, you can always opt for local eateries and street food stalls instead of high-end restaurants.
Good to know. Since tap water is not potable in the Seychelles, you must rely on bottled water. Avoid buying a 1 liter or 2 liter bottle. Buy a 5 liter container instead, as it is much cheaper. It’s also handy to keep in your rental car. You can continue to fill your water bottles from that can.
Good to know. Alcoholic drinks can be quite expensive in the Seychelles. You can enjoy a few pints of beer though as they are available in supermarkets.
4. Use public transport, one of the best tips for budget travel to Seychelles
Renting a car in Seychelles is the best way to explore the island. Taxis are expensive in Seychelles. Just a few days ago, I was sorting through my travel stuff, bills and souvenirs when I came across an invoice from a car rental company in Praslin (one of the most beautiful islands in the Seychelles). And the amount was 100 euros for 2 days. Yes, it is expensive. But if I were to hire a taxi for the whole day, it would be around 150-180 euros per day. So of course we chose to drive. And walking around the island is such a pleasure. We absolutely loved it!
Now the money saving part. next time we visit seychelles we would prefer to use the public buses to get around the islands.
Research the bus schedule in advance and plan your route accordingly. Buses provide a more budget-friendly option. If the climate is good, walking around the island will make you feel pure bliss, soaking in the beauty at every turn. Cycling in La Digue is the only option you have.
Good to know. In Mahe, there is a large public car park near Victoria Market behind the Bank of Baroda. Ask your rental car provider if they have a monthly parking pass. You can save a few euros.
5. Shop local markets
Don’t go into boutique stores with attractive displays. In fact, the most local you can go to in the Seychelles is the Victoria Market in Mahé. I’m not saying you can enjoy cheap shopping there, but the prices here will be much better than any other market/store.
Bargain hard with vendors, but do so politely. Although haggling is common in the Seychelles, speaking politely to the locals will help you get better priced products.
Good to know. I would advise you to refrain from buying the popular vanilla tea from the market, as you can get the same packet for less than half the price in supermarkets, including those in Praslin and La Digue.
Good to know. Avoid buying flavored jams like guava, papaya etc. They are not like the usual jams that we eat. Honestly, they don’t taste good.
6. Do free activities in Seychelles
After sorting out the budget options for flight, accommodation, food etc. There are many attractions and activities in the Seychelles that you can enjoy for free.
The exotic haven offers many natural attractions that you can enjoy without breaking the bank. Visit public beaches, go hiking in national parks, and explore local markets and cultural sites that often have no entrance fees.
You can also research beforehand if some places have free guided tours/walks. Many future guides (in many countries) do this to learn on the job or to improve their communication skills. You can probably pay a small tip at the end of the tour.
Good to know. Vallee De Mai Nature Reserve is Praslin’s most popular tourist attraction. The entrance fee is about 20 euros per person. If you want to make an excursion, the amount is about 35(20+15) euros per person. However, you can always save €15 by visiting the reserve between 9am and 2pm, where they offer free guided tours.
7. Bring your own snorkeling gear
Now that can go a long way in saving money, especially if you love it and plan to go underwater often. Who wouldn’t want to explore the mesmerizing marine world of the Seychelles?
By owning your own snorkels, you can avoid rental fees or the need to purchase expensive gear. Additionally, using equipment you are familiar with and properly fitted increases your comfort and overall snorkeling experience.
Conclusion
These were some tips for budget travel to Seychelles. By keeping your costs in mind and making smart choices, you can enjoy the beauty of Seychelles while keeping your budget intact.
So embrace the allure of the Seychelles and start planning your visit to paradise today!
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