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Capital:
Victoria |
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It is very typical in the Seychellois culture to greet everyone even if you don’t know them. Some people would simply acknowledge your presence with a nod or a hand wave. It is still very much of an important thing for the elderly and some people consider it impolite not to greet. Depending on the level of relationship or friendship some people would greet with a kiss or a hug. |
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There are no formal dress codes as such in the Seychelles. We do have a cultural dress sense however. People tend to keep up to date with contemporary fashion. People are generally free to choose their dressing style as long as it does not offend anyone. |
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USE OF ALCOHOL |
It is not obligatory to use alcohol, but a lot of people would socialize over a drink. It is common to have party celebrations and that would usually include alcohols. Some people like to go out for a drink or two over the weekend. However, responsible drinking is recommended. It is illegal to sell or serve alcohol to a minor which is usually under 18 years of age |
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EATING STYLE |
Western civilization being a very strong influence on us, the eating style is very much European. People would usually use a spoon and fork; most of the time only a spoon to eat with. Each religion might have their own eating style. There’s no restriction as much on how to eat but people expect you to follow general table manners for instance, you speak with your mouth full or excuse yourself when leaving the table. Our cuisine derives from various cultures, therefore different cuisine offer different countries. |
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CONVERSATION STYLE |
It is often considered rude to interrupt when somebody else is speaking, especially during official events. Some Seychellois people are very curious and would tend to ask a lot of questions. But of course a lot of it is got to do with personality |
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SENSE OF HUMOR |
We’ve been told that we are very friendly; some of us are loud and always seem to be laughing, whereas others would always be cracking jokes. Some people really do go out of their way to have fun and make jokes as long as they don’t hurt anyone! But again, this depends from person to person! |
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DANCING |
Dancing has always been a big part of the Seychellois culture. There is no restriction as such as to how to dance. But of course people are expected to do it orderly. It is very common for young people in the Seychelles to go out dancing especially during the weekend. |
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RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY |
People are expected to have respect for the establishments of the state. As in any country, some of us don’t. But coming from a very small country, we’ve always been told to be preservative of our heritage. If we have a complaint some people would usually make their voices be heard. Some Seychellois people can be very critical but this depends from person to person. |
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PUBLIC DISPLAY OF AFFECTION |
If you kiss in public, people would probably look at you twice. Some might take offence, others won’t bother. However, holding hands or sign of affection in public is generally acceptable. Some people won’t even notice it. |
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CONCEPT OF TIME |
To be on time
is usually seen as important virtue. People are generally expected to be on
Time but it is not widely respected by everyone. There is a big tendency for
some people to be a few minutes late. Some people would find it very annoying
and disrespectful but you’re not going to be killed for it as long as you
don’t show up way too late |
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INFLUENCE OF RELIGION |
The Seychelles is mainly a catholic country. In fact about 86% of the populations are baptized catholic, but not everyone practices it. However we are now a multi-denominational society and people are generally free to practice their faith. |
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RELATIONSHIP/SEXUALITY |
A few years back, people were expected to live inside wedlock, because it would earn them more respect, especially with the pressure of the church and parents. With time that has changed! Couples are generally free to decide how they want to have their relationships. It’s fair to say that there is equality between the sexes. Men and Women are generally treated the same. As for gay and lesbians; Seychelles being a small country, does not make it easy to be gay. Most people hide the fact that they are and only confide in close friends. But that does not stop them from practicing their sexual preferences. Moreover, people are becoming more tolerant of gay people. |
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OTHERS |
The
Seychelles is a very small nation with a lot of external influence. It is
fair to say that we are culturally diverse and can easily embrace and
appreciate other cultures. Some would do it with more charm whereas others
would take more time to appreciate and connect |
©
2007 Ship for World Youth Alumni Association